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Switzerland Holidays

It may be Switzerland’s largest, industrious city, but with its peaceful riverside setting, complete with historical landmarks and a vivacious art scene, Zurich resembles a picturesque postcard you just want to step into. On Zurich holidays you’ll be torn between old town rustic moments and a modern infectious vibe. You’ll soon find yourself taking snaps against eye-catching churches on cobblestone alleys, spotting fine art in modern museums, enjoying fondue along a quaint marina and be it market finds or luxury labels, shopping till you drop.

And that’s all before you’ve had an unexpected taste of the frothy beers at the Zurich beer festival and the wild nightlife, that might involve a cool cocktail amid fairy-lit shipping containers, just saying.

With scenic lake cruises on your doorstep and ski resorts just an hour away, there’s no end of fresh air and fun against the swaggering views of this Swiss city that sparkles with life. 

General Information

Time Difference
Time zones difference between Zurich and the UK is +1 hour.

Currency
Swiss Franc
Currency can be changed at currency exchange offices, banks, as well as at the post office. In the resort areas both Visa and Mastercard cards and CHF in cash are accepted for payment.
When exchanging money, please note that currency exchange offices may charge a commission for each transaction.

Capital
Bern

Population
8,981,565

Language
German, French, Italian, Romansh

Flight duration
1 hour and 40 minutes from Gatwick

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on the experience you’re looking for. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices. Spring brings blooming flowers, lush green landscapes, and comfortable temperatures (10–20°C), making it perfect for hiking in the Swiss Alps and exploring cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva. Autumn, on the other hand, offers stunning fall colours, especially in the vineyards of Lavaux and the scenic train routes like the Glacier Express. Both seasons provide a quieter atmosphere compared to the peak summer and winter months.
For those interested in skiing and winter sports, December to February is the best time to visit. Switzerland’s famous ski resorts, such as Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier, offer world-class slopes and breathtaking snowy landscapes. The festive atmosphere in cities like Zurich and Basel, with their Christmas markets and cosy alpine lodges, makes winter a magical time to visit. Meanwhile, summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with warm temperatures (18–30°C) perfect for hiking, lake activities, and scenic train rides. However, summer also attracts the most tourists, leading to higher prices and crowded attractions.

Top 5 Things To Do

Explore Altstadt

Fancy a tour through Zurich's Old Town? Dive into a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with quirky boutiques, quaint cafes, and centuries-old buildings steeped in history. Keep an eye out for hidden gems like tucked-away courtyards and charming fountains. Pop into a traditional Swiss bakery for a nibble of fresh pastries, or sip on a frothy pint at a cosy pub. Don't forget to snap a selfie by the iconic Grossmünster church or take a stroll along the Limmat riverbank.

Cultural Adventure Calling

Swing by Kunsthaus for a dose of artistic sunshine! This top-notch art museum is a treasure trove of masterpieces, boasting everything from avant-garde sculptures to jaw-dropping contemporary canvases. Tour across different galleries and be dazzled by creativity from renowned artists like Picasso and Chagall. We recommend grabbing an audio guide for a journey through art history. Don't be shy while striking a pose with your favourite masterpiece for a picture-perfect holiday moment.

A Swiss POV

Marvel at the grandeur of Grossmünster Church, this architectural gem not only boasts breathtaking beauty but also holds a pivotal role in Swiss history and religious heritage. Take note of its elaborate stained-glass windows, and don't miss the chance to admire the intricate Romanesque sculptures and mesmerising carvings nestled within the cloisters. Make sure you climb to the summit of the twin towers, where a panoramic vista of Zurich awaits to steal your breath away! 

Go On A Shopping Spree

Get ready to shop, dine, and delight along the captivating Bahnhofstrasse! Here you'll find a delightful mix of upscale stores like Prada and Chanel with little Swiss boutiques selling handmade crafts. To immerse yourself in Zurich’s vibrant cultural scene head to a hidden gem, the neoclassical Schauspielhaus Theatre for a play. And when hunger strikes, a delectable array of restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafés await to tantalise your taste buds nearby.

Visit Lindt Home Of Chocolate

Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and your wanderlust at Lindt Home of Chocolate! It's a Willy Wonka-esque adventure into the heart of chocolate heaven! Dive deep into the origins of cocoa, witness master chocolatiers weaving their delicious spells, and surrender to sensory overload in the Chocolate Tasting Room. And the cherry on top? You can unleash your inner chocolatier and craft your very own personalized chocolate bar! A delectable memento of your trip through the land of chocolate dreams. 

Weather

The climate of the country isn’t the same in different regions and varies depending on the location. In winter the tourists tend to flock to the Canary Islands , where the temperatures remain high or take in the culture of Barcelona and Madrid on a short city break. The beach season on the sunny coast of Spain lasts from May to October, with the temperature staying at about 28°C during the summer.