One Day Zurich on a Shoestring Budget

  • 9:00AM: Bahnhofstrasse
    15 minutes (1.5 km) from Zurich Main Station

    Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich's most famous shopping street, filled with luxury boutiques and department stores. Window shopping here is a must, even if you can't afford to buy anything.

  • 11:00AM: Grossmünster
    10 minutes (800m) from Bahnhofstrasse

    The Grossmünster is a Protestant church and one of Zurich's most recognizable landmarks. Climb the 187 steps to the top of one of the towers for a stunning view of the city.

  • 12:30PM: Confiserie Sprüngli
    10 minutes (800m) from Grossmünster

    A trip to Zurich is not complete without sampling Swiss chocolate. Confiserie Sprüngli has been making chocolates and pralines since 1836.

  • 2:00PM: Lindenhof
    15 minutes (1.2 km) from Confiserie Sprüngli

    Lindenhof is a small park on a hill in the heart of Zurich's old town. From here, you can see views of the Limmat river and the city. This is a great spot for a picnic or just to relax.

  • 4:00PM: Swiss National Museum
    10 minutes (800m) from Lindenhof

    The Swiss National Museum is home to exhibits on the history and culture of Switzerland. Admission is free with a Zurich Card.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Bahnhofstrasse (1-2 hours, free)
  • Grossmünster (30-45 minutes, free)
  • Confiserie Sprüngli (30-45 minutes, CHF 10-20)
  • Lindenhof (1-2 hours, free)
  • Swiss National Museum (2-3 hours, CHF 10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: CHF 10-30

Transportation

Zurich is a walkable city, and the best way to see it is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on walking around all day. If you have to take public transportation, a day ticket for zones 110 and 121 costs CHF 8.80 and is valid for 24 hours.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Fraumünster church and the Kunsthaus Zurich. If you have less time, skip the Swiss National Museum and spend more time exploring the old town.

Airports

Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the largest airport in Switzerland and is located 13km north of Zurich. The easiest way to get to the city centre is to take the train, which takes about 10-15 minutes and costs around CHF 6-12.

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