Zurich, Switzerland: Where to go, stay & explore

From scenic strolls to boutique stays, here’s your ultimate guide on things to do in Zurich.

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Things to do after the buzz of Salone del Mobile 2025? A scenic escape to Zurich. This city wraps you in old-town charm, fuels you with world-class coffee, and tempts you with Swiss chocolate at every turn. Between scenic strolls, boutique shopping, and a deep dive into history, this city makes sure you leave with a full heart, and an even fuller suitcase!

Photograph courtesy Unsplash, John Disandolo

Don’t know what to do in Zurich? Start here.

  1. Kunsthaus Zürich: Home to one of Switzerland’s most significant art collections, this museum is a must for any art lover.
  2. Lindt Home of Chocolate: A paradise for chocolate enthusiasts, because Swiss chocolate is always a good idea.
  3. Bahnhofstrasse: One of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, perfect for both splurging and strolling.
  4. Zurich West: Where Zurich’s industrial past meets its creative present, with former factories transformed into buzzing hubs of art, design, dining, and nightlife.
Photograph courtesy Unsplash, Ilia Bronskiy
Photograph courtesy KINDLI Hotel - Zürich

Morning person or not, waking up here is something special. Quiet streets, crisp air, and the city ready to explore. Check in here:

Mandarin Oriental Savoy 

Zurich’s oldest grand hotel, dating back to 1838, emerges with a refined new look. Housed in a historic landmark, now newly renovated, it bridges past and present with effortless sophistication.

The Dolder Grand

Where art, architecture, and alpine serenity converge. This hilltop retreat blends its historic grandeur with Sir Norman Foster’s sleek 2008 redesign. A sanctuary of modern luxury, it offers world-class wellness, Michelin-starred dining, and panoramic views over Zurich.

Widder Hotel 

A masterpiece of contrasts, this boutique retreat weaves together nine medieval townhouses, seamlessly blending historic frescoes and 15th-century beams with contemporary luxury. Home to the Michelin-starred Widder Restaurant, it’s where heritage meets haute hospitality

Photograph courtesy Pexels, Magda Ehlers
Photograph courtesy Unsplash, Ales Krivec

La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich

A lakeside retreat reimagined by Philippe Starck, this storied hotel blends over a century of heritage with avant-garde design. With panoramic water views, a rooftop bar, and a refined culinary experience, it offers an intimate yet bold take on luxury.

Baur au Lac 

A lakeside icon since 1844, this family-owned retreat is synonymous with understated luxury and impeccable service. Surrounded by private gardens, it offers a tranquil escape with world-class hospitality.

Central Plaza Hotel

Family-owned since 1909, this historic hotel pairs its 19th-century charm with contemporary sophistication. Its unrivaled location on the Limmat River, next to the main railway station, offers effortless access to the city.

 

Photograph courtesy Unsplash, Mael Gouyet
Photograph courtesy Unsplash, Claudio Schwarz

Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich

With 150 years of hospitality, this landmark hotel combines tradition with convenience. Steps from the train station and key attractions, it offers an unmatched stay in the heart of the city.

KINDLI Hotel – Zürich

One of the city’s oldest inns, this storied retreat has welcomed guests since the 15th century. Standing on foundations over 2,000 years old, it carries a rich legacy where wine was poured centuries before it became a gathering place for travelers.

B2 Hotel Zurich 

Housed in a former brewery, this design-forward hotel transforms industrial heritage into a unique stay. Its standout feature is the Library Lounge that boasts over 33,000 books, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for guests to unwind.

Photograph courtesy Unsplash, Kseniia Zapiatkina
Photograph courtesy Unsplash, Henrique Ferreira

Neues Schloss Privat Hotel Zurich, Autograph Collection

Defined by its Art Deco architecture, this boutique hotel offers an intimate retreat near the lakeside. Its Mediterranean restaurant brings southern European flavors to the heart of the city, creating a warm and sophisticated dining experience.

Martgasse Hotel

Set within a meticulously restored 15th-century building, this boutique hotel marries historic craftsmanship with contemporary elegance. Its culinary offerings are a true highlight. IGNIV Zurich by Andreas Caminada, a two-Michelin-starred gem, redefines fine dining with a sharing concept, while Delish – La Pinseria serves up artisanal Roman-style pinsa in a relaxed setting.

 

How to get there: 

10 trains daily from Milan to Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland (279 kms from Milan)

Milan Centrale → Zurich HB (3hr 17min)

 

Photograph courtesy Pexels, Triemli
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