3-Day Zurich Itinerary - June 3-5, 2024

Monday, June 3: Exploring Zurich

Start your day by visiting the beautiful Lake Zurich. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the scenic views and tranquility. In the afternoon, head to the Old Town, also known as Altstadt, and get lost in its narrow cobblestone streets. Visit the famous Grossmünster Church and Fraumünster Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows created by Marc Chagall. In the evening, indulge in Swiss cuisine at a local restaurant or explore the vibrant nightlife in Zurich's lively entertainment district.

• Lake Zurich: Free, 2-3 hours
• Old Town (Altstadt): Free, 3-4 hours
• Grossmünster Church: Free, 1 hour
• Fraumünster Church: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Cafe Schober, located in the heart of Zurich's Old Town. Indulge in freshly baked pastries and traditional Swiss dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 20 CHF per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, visit Zeughauskeller, a historic restaurant known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy ambiance. Enjoy specialties like sausage and rosti while immersing yourself in the rich history of the building. Average cost for a meal is about 35 CHF per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at Frau Gerolds Garten, a trendy outdoor restaurant set in a unique urban garden. Experience a mix of international flavors with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 40 CHF per person.

Tuesday, June 4: Rhine Falls Day Trip

Embark on a day trip to the magnificent Rhine Falls, located just outside Zurich. Start your morning by taking a train to Schaffhausen, where the falls are located. Explore the scenic surroundings and get up close to the roaring falls by taking a boat tour. Afterward, visit the medieval Laufen Castle and enjoy breathtaking views from its observation deck. In the afternoon, venture back to Zurich and spend the rest of the day exploring the trendy district of Zurich West, known for its art galleries, cafes, and open-air markets.

• Train to Schaffhausen: $15-20 (round trip), 1.5 hours each way
• Boat tour at Rhine Falls: $10-15, 1 hour
• Laufen Castle: $5-10, 1-2 hours
• Zurich West: Free, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, June 5: Museums and Shopping

Spend your last day in Zurich exploring its world-class museums. Start with the Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland's most important art museums, housing an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. In the afternoon, visit the Swiss National Museum, located in a historic castle, and learn about the country's rich history and cultural heritage. End your day by indulging in some shopping at the renowned Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich's upscale shopping street, where you'll find luxury boutiques, department stores, and Swiss chocolate shops.

• Kunsthaus Zurich: $15-20, 2-3 hours
• Swiss National Museum: $10-15, 2-3 hours
• Bahnhofstrasse shopping: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Zurich, be sure to visit the quirky Viadukt, an old railway viaduct transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination. Explore its hip boutiques, specialty food shops, and enjoy some delicious international cuisine. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Polyterrasse, a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city and the Swiss Alps. It's the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of Zurich. If you're interested in contemporary art, visit the Haus Konstruktiv, a museum showcasing innovative and abstract artworks. These hidden gems provide unique experiences and insights into local culture.