Weekend Getaway in Zürich: Your Perfect 48-Hour Guide

Whenever I have friends visiting, I try to give them a balanced tour of what this great city has to offer. With this guide, I want to give you a glimpse of the places I would visit as a local, from bars to museums, shops to brunch spots. You will be all set to make the most of your 48 hours in this enchanting destination! Enjoy your trip!

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Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or have a layover in Zürich, this charming city has plenty to offer. From cozy cafés to stunning sights and delectable dining options, here’s my curated list of places to visit, eat, and stay during your 48 hours in lovely Zurich!

Cafés

Nude

Nude

@estayhilton

Nestled right on the banks of the Limmat river, Nude is an oasis for coffee lovers. With a menu that includes bagels, cocktails, and expertly brewed coffee, it's the perfect spot to unwind. Enjoy the sun under the cheerful yellow umbrellas, and don't miss out on trying the refreshing Paloma cocktail!

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Monocle Café & Shop

The Monocle Shop & Café Zurich

@estayhilton

Located in the peaceful Seefeld neighborhood, Monocle Café & Shop offers a cosmopolitan vibe. Enjoy a good cup of coffee while browsing the latest international magazines, and don’t forget to check out the unique items and Monocle merchandise available in the shop. The café also features radio sessions, which are being recorded live for Monocle Radio next door.

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WIM Bakery

WIM Bakery

@estayhilton

A newly opened gem in the Wipkingen neighborhood, WIM Bakery boasts a cozy vibe and offers fresh croissants, sourdough bread, and various lunch options, cooked right in the open air kitchen next doors. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, it's easily accessible by tram and by foot, walking along the river Limmat. It's also dog-friendly!

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Places to Visit

Villa Patumbah

Heimatschutzzentrum in der Villa Patumbah

@estayhilton

Discover Villa Patumbah, a stunning villa complex set that is a prime example of how many villas used to look in previous years in Zurich. The spacious park and beautiful garden are public and being a historic site, the villa is architecturally significant and at the same time, a perfect place to relax.

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ZHdK & Museum für Gestaltung

Toni-Areal (ZHdK)

@estayhilton

Explore the artistic side of Zürich at ZHdK (Zurich University of the Arts) located in Toni-Areal, a former yogurt factory. The Museum für Gestaltung Zürich, situated within the same building, showcases design and visual communication, with exciting exhibitions to explore. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop with panoramic views!

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Museum für Gestaltung Zürich

@estayhilton

The original Museum für Gestaltung is located here, while the second outlet is located in the Toni-Areal. Both are worth a visit, depending on which current exhibition spark more interest for you.

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Viadukt Markthalle

Markthalle IM VIADUKT

@estayhilton

A food lover’s paradise, Viadukt Markthalle features various regional vendors offering fresh specialties ranging from tapas to hand-made pasta. This unique market hall is located beneath a railway viaduct, adding to its charm.

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Hotels

Motel One

Hotel Motel One Zürich

@estayhilton

$$ Stay centrally at Motel One, conveniently located in walking distance of Bahnhofstrasse, Paradeplatz, and Lake Zürich. The hotel features a stylish bar and well-designed areas for relaxation.

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25hours Hotel

25hours Hotel Zürich Langstrasse

@estayhilton

Experience the vibrant energy of 25hours Zurich Langstrasse, set in the heart of the city where bars, clubs, and restaurants abound. Just a 10-minute walk from the main train station, it’s perfect for those arriving from the airport and want to experience Zürich's nightlife straight-away.

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Mandarin Oriental Savoy

Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich

@estayhilton

$$$$ The Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich is a luxurious 5-star hotel offering world-class accommodations and impeccable service. Nestled in the heart of Zurich on Paradeplatz, this iconic hotel combines timeless elegance with modern amenities. Guests can indulge in exquisite Michelin-star dining experiences, or simply admire the stunning city views from their room or the rooftop bar.

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Brunch Spots

Café des Amis

Café des Amis

@estayhilton

Indulge in a lavish weekend brunch at Cafe des Amis, a local favorite known for its expansive summer terrace. Reservations are recommended to ensure you don’t miss out on this delightful experience (it is quite popular).

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The Bite

The Bite

@estayhilton

Located near Langstrasse, The Bite offers a laid-back atmosphere and a mouthwatering weekend brunch menu, featuring everything from French Toast to burgers and cocktails.

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Restaurants/Bars

Schnupf

Schnupf Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

@estayhilton

A beloved local eatery, Schnupf features a simple yet delicious menu that highlights dishes and cocktails sure to please every palate. Reservations are recommended for this cozy spot, especially during the summer when you can enjoy the garden terrace.

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Frau Gerolds Garten

Frau Gerolds Garten

@estayhilton

Adjacent to Hardbrücke train station, Frau Gerolds Garten is a feel-good oasis with a large garden and plenty of seating. Whether you're looking for a meal, snack, ice cream, or drinks, this vibrant spot is perfect for a summer outing and to meet during sunset hour. It is very popular with young locals, who work in the surrounding area. It also features shops from local independent brands, perfect for unique souvenirs.

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Bar Lupo

Bar Lupo

@estayhilton

Renowned for its excellent pasta, Bar Lupo also offers a fantastic selection of cocktails and wines in a cozy, intimate setting. While you can’t make reservations, the wait is worth it to savor their delightful drinks.

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Gamper

Gamper Bar

@estayhilton

If you’re in the mood for a culinary adventure, Gamper is a restaurant & bar that presents dishes as stunning as they are delicious, as well as cocktails and wines that bring all the drinks lovers here regularly.

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Stores

The New New

The New New

@estayhilton

Explore New New, a trendy second-hand store showcasing a curated selection of fashion and accessories. It has two locations in the city and most pieces come from locals, reflecting Zürich's vibrant sense of style.

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Love me Two Times

Love Me Two Times

@estayhilton

Vintage lovers will adore Love me Two Times, a haven brimming with carefully curated vintage clothing, accessories, and home décor items that evoke nostalgia.

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Die Macherei

DIE MACHEREI

@estayhilton

A creative hub, Die Macherei features a diverse range of products from local artisans, making it an ideal spot to find unique gifts for yourself or friends.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Offir

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Hi everyone! I'm Offir, your passport-stamping, airplane-loving, and city-guide crafting travel enthusiast. As your dedicated travel content writer, I'm on a mission to turn your vacations into unforgettable journeys. Having an international upbringing, I love nothing more than discovering new cultures, while enjoying food, drinks and finding the hidden spots only the locals know. Ready to explore cities like never before? I have curated lists of a few places I think everyone should have on their bucket list. Also, get in touch with me for: - Personalized itineraries - Curated recommendations

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