Zürich is the largest city in Switzerland. The city is known for its picturesque landscapes, neutral history and lively culture. Zürich is home to remarkable monuments that highlight the narratives of its past and present. The natural and cultural highlights in Zürich is an overview of places you can admire and visit while visiting this amazing green city.

Swiss National museum

The Swiss National Museum is also known as the Landesmuseum Zürich. It is an essential destination if you are interested in the Swiss history and culture. The museum was established in 1898. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece. It has several neo-Gothic designs that pay tribute to various periods of Swiss history. From its exterior you can observe elements from the Middle Ages like Renaissance and Baroque styles. All styles are seamlessly integrated into a singular and amazing structure.

Visitors are welcomed by an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight Switzerland’s cultural heritage. The museum has a broad array of topics, including art, Swiss history and cultural traditions. The special exhibitions are organized throughout the year, providing returning visitors with fresh and engaging experiences. A notable aspect of the Swiss National Museum is its impressive collection of historical artifacts. From ancient Roman coins to medieval weapons and armor. The museum presents a diverse array of objects that offer valuable insights into various periods of Swiss history.

Grossmünster

The Grossmünster is among the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Zurich. It overlooks the banks of the Limmat River. You can easily recognize the two towers that highlight the sky. What many may not realize is that this church has long history that dates back over 1,000 years. According to legend, the Grossmünster was founded by Charlemagne after he experienced a vision of three martyrs: Felix, Regula and Exuperantius. The first two were buried at the site. This legend is illustrated in the stained glass windows in the church.

Regardless of the reliability of this legend, historical records indicate that the Grossmünster was constructed by Louis the German. He is the grandson of Charlemagne and lived in the 9th century. The churched originally served as a Benedictine monastery. It became an important pilgrimage site during medieval times.

The church has a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The design has elements like the pointed arches, ribbed vaults and sculptures decorating it’s façade. The interior is equally impressive with stunning frescoes and stained glass windows. The iconic towers were added in the 15th century. These twin towers are now recognized as symbols of Zurich and are visible from numerous locations throughout the city.

Rechberggarten

The Rechberggarten in Zurich is a secret place and frequently overlooked by tourists. It’s an ideal location to read a book, have lunch or just to relax. The students of the University of Zurich are well aware with the oasis between the university buildings and the Kunsthaus Zurich. For many the Rechberggarten is a little insider tip. The beautiful baroque garden is not immediately visible from the street. If you get off at the Neumarkt stop, you will find the entrance to the park just a few steps up the slope. Now you have a view of the stunning gardens that lead out to terraces.

The garden was designed in 1790. The overall layout of the courtyard, ground floor and terraces, as well as the walls, fountains and the orangery, have all been preserved. What makes the park special are the lovely seasonal planting. But also the graffiti ‘Undine’ on the façade of the German Seminar. This is the work of Harald Nägeli. He caused mischief in the late seventies and can be seen as the Swiss precursor to Banksy. Today it’s a monumental piece.

Reading tip: Beginners travel guide to Switzerland

Lindenhof

The Lindenhof is a historical sight situated in the heart of Zurich. It is situated on top of a small hill overlooking the Limmat River. From here you have breathtaking views of the old town and the surrounding hills. This location has been inhabited for thousands of years, contributing to its history and cultural significance.

One of the primary attractions of Lindenhof is the Roman castle ruins. They date back to 200 AD. Beyond its ancient origins Lindenhof has also played a crucial role in shaping modern Switzerland. In the 9th century, it was as a royal palace for King Ludwig II. And by the 13th century it had become the seat of government for the city of Zurich.

Auf dem Lindenhof is a popular park for both locals and tourists. From here you can take some beautiful pictures of the old town. Many visitors come to relax, enjoy a picnic  or admire the amazing view.

St. Peter church

The history of St. Peter Church in Zurich can be traced back to the 9th century. A small chapel was dedicated to Saint Peter and constructed on the site. Over the centuries the church has undergone numerous renovations and expansions. You can admire the evolving architectural styles and religious practices of the time.

A significant event in the church’s history was its transition from a Catholic to a Protestant church during the Swiss Reformation in the 16th century. This transformation had a profound impact on both the architecture and functionality of the church. Many ornate Catholic decorations were removed or replaced with simpler Protestant elements.

Architecture of St. Peter Church

St. Peter Church is recognized for its distinctive architectural style, which mixes both Romanesque and Gothic influences. The church tower is 52 meters and a prominent feature of Zurich’s skyline. Inside you can appreciate the stunning stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings and detailed wood carvings. One of the church’s most impressive features is its expansive clock. The clock is 8.7 meters in diameter and it’s one of the largest church clocks in Europe. The church was once used as a storage facility for gunpowder during the Reformation. Another interesting fact is that the iconic tower of St. Peter Church served as a lighthouse to guide vessels on Lake Zurich. Renowned Swiss writer and poet, Gottfried Keller, was baptized in St. Peter Church in 1819.

Fraumünster church

The Fraumünster church is known for the striking blue spire. The church was established in 853 by King Ludwig the German as a Benedictine convent. The name “Fraumünster,” which translates to “Women’s Minster,” reflects its original purpose as a residence for a community of noblewomen.

Throughout the centuries, Fraumünster has played an important role in Zurich’s historical narrative. It served as a site of worship for the royal family and functioned as a political meeting venue during tumultuous periods. A significant moment in the church’s history occurred in 1350, when it underwent extensive renovations that transformed it into a Gothic-style structure. The iconic blue spire visible today was added during this renovation.

Architecture

The Fraumünster church is celebrated for its exceptional architecture. The design harmoniously blends styles from various historical periods. The exterior shows elements of both Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The interior predominantly reflects Romanesque design.

Among the church’s most remarkable architectural features are its stained glass windows. The windows were created by the renowned artist Marc Chagall in the mid-20th century. They show various scenes from the Bible. The choir stalls are dating back to the 14th century. They are carved from oak and decorated with detailed sculptures. It gives an insight into the craftsmanship of that time.

Reading tip: Beginners guide to architecture

Opernhaus

The Zürich Opera House is officially known as the Opernhaus Zürich. The structure is a remarkable example of neoclassical architecture. The Opera House was constructed in 1834 by architect Franz Heinrich Gips and named the Aktientheater. They faced financial difficulties and they were forced to sell it three years later. In 1890 the opera house underwent a significant reconstruction led by respected architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer. They designed its current outlook. The magnificent façade has Corinthian columns and statues of distinguished composers such as Mozart and Wagner.

Over the years, the Zürich Opera House has hosted some of the world’s most celebrated operas, ballets and orchestras. Numerous illustrious musicians like Gustav Mahler and Herbert von Karajan have performed here. During World War II the opera house suffered severe damage from bombings but was promptly restored to its former grandeur after the conflict. It is recognized as one of Europe’s premier opera houses. The Operahouse attracts visitors from around the globe with its exceptional performances and exquisite architecture.

Stroll along the historic Quais am Zürisee

Quais am Zürisee is also known as Zurich’s lakeside promenade. The history of this picturesque area traces back to the 19th century when it was originally constructed as a space for leisurely strolls and relaxation. Over time the Quais am Zürisee has transformed into a lively hub of activity.

A notable aspect of Quais am Zürisee is its unique architecture. The promenade has a blend of traditional Swiss-style houses and modern structures. It is resulting in a charming yet contemporary ambiance. As you stroll along the promenade you can admire various statues and sculptures. These artistic displays enrich the cultural landscape of Quais am Zürisee. making It’s an excellent location for those interested in history and art.

In addition to its architectural beauty, Quais am Zürisee has stunning views of Lake Zurich. It is a picturesque landscape. Especially on sunny days. Over the years the area is a popular venue for various events and festivals. From open-air concerts to food markets. There is a continuous collection of activities taking place along the promenade.

Chinagarten

The Chinagarten was established in 1994 by Chinese landscape architects. An important feature of the architecture is the traditional Chinese entrance gate, known as a paifang. This gate is decorated with carvings and vibrant red paint. It symbolizes good fortune and prosperity according to Chinese tradition.

When you visit the garden you can admire several pavilions, or “ting”. These pavilions are strategically placed throughout the space. They serve as areas for relaxation and contemplation and is typical in Chinese gardens. The pavilions within the Chinagarten are constructed using traditional Chinese architectural techniques. The interlocking wooden beams are setup without the use of nails.

Botanischer Garten der Universitat Zürich

The Botanischer Garten der Universität Zürich or in English the Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich. The botanical gardens are used as a research facility, educational institution and public space for visitors to enjoy.

History and development

The gardens are established in 1833 by Professor Carl Schröter. He started with an initial collection of just 600 plants. Since than the garden has experienced significant growth and now has over 8,000 plant species from various parts of the globe. The garden has undergone several developments and expansions. Including the addition of a modern glasshouse in 1977 and a new Alpine Garden in 2009.

Plant collections

The Botanischer Garten has a wide collection of plants from diverse climate zones, including tropical, subtropical, Mediterranean and alpine regions. This rich diversity allows visitors to explore a wide variety of plant species in a single location. The garden is home to specialized collections, such as medicinal plants, aquatic plants and succulents.

Research and education

As an integral part of the University of Zurich’s Institute of Systematic Botany the garden is as a vital site for research and education. It contains various greenhouses and laboratories where students and researchers can study and conduct experiments on different plant species.

Visiting the garden

The Botanischer Garten is open to the public free of charge. It’s a popular place to visit. Particularly during the spring and summer months when the garden is in full bloom. The garden has a gift shop where visitors can purchase plants, seeds and other souvenirs. And there is a café.

Hiking to Loorenkopf

If you are looking for a hike around Zurich, I can recommend hiking to Loorenkopf. It is certainly worth considering. This 9.5km roundtrip trail provides breathtaking views of the city and it’s surrounding landscapes. A nice spot to start your hike is at Park Sonnenberg. This park is a small vineyard and from here you have a nice view of the city. From Sonnenberg you go through the forest before reaching the Loorenkopf mountain. Along the way you will find several water points. Around the mountain are several lookout points where you can pause and appreciate the stunning views of Lake Zurich and on a clear day the Swiss Alps.

Üetliberg

Üetliberg is the highest point of Zurich. The mountain is situated just 20 minutes from the city centre. From here you have stunning views of the city. And on clear days also on the Swiss Alps and even the Black Forest in Germany.

How to get there

By train

One of the most efficient ways of reaching Üetliberg is via train. There are direct trains from Zurich main station to Üetliberg station, taking just 20 minutes. Trains operate every half hour.

Hiking

For those who prefer a more physically engaging approach, hiking to Üetliberg is an excellent option. Numerous trails lead to the peak, with routes available for various skill levels. You can choose to combine your hike with a visit to Felsenegg, another beautiful viewpoint in the vicinity. Or hike the opposite direction to Schlieren. See next paragraph.

By car

You can also drive to Üetliberg. A large parking facility is available at the summit. Please be aware that it can become crowded during peak seasons and weekends. There is an entrance fee for vehicles.

Other modes of transport

For those considering alternative methods of transportation, Üetliberg is also accessible by bike or electric scooter. Both options offer a fun and unique way to explore the area while enjoying the breathtaking views along the route.

Hike from Üetliberg to Schlieren

Hiking from Üetliberg to Schlieren is a well-regarded and excellent trail that provides stunning views. This 12-kilometer hike takes you through forests, picturesque villages and charming landscapes.

After visiting Üetliberg you follow the paths north west of Üetliberg . The initial segment of the hike is relatively straightforward. The trail has well-marked paths that allow you to fully appreciate the tranquillity of nature. Just follow the signs to Schlieren. As you progress, the terrain is more challenging. It has some steeper inclines and rocky paths. The further you get the less people you will see. So it’s a perfect hike if you like to get away from the busy city and the crowds.

Alter Botanischer Garten

The Alter Botanischer Garten was originally established in 1837 as part of the University of Zurich. It has functioned as a teaching and research garden for botany students. While it continues to fulfil its educational mission, it’s now also as a peaceful garden that is open to the public.

There are over 9,000 plant species from around the globe. From trees to colourful flowers, there are always new and beautiful discoveries to be made. The garden also includes a small pond, a greenhouse and a bee house.

Monumental highlights in Europe

If you are considering a trip to Europe, there are numerous great destinations to include in your itinerary. Strasbourg is situated in eastern France. The city is renowned for its exquisite architecture and Middle Ages centre. Another great place to visit is Metz, also in eastern France. Metz is known for the Gothic architecture and a long history that dates back to Roman times.

Though Luxembourg City may be small, it offers a delightful blend of a picturesque old town and a modern city centre. When making your way north you can also stop by Maastricht in the Netherlands.