Zurich Hotels and City Guide

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The beautiful city of Zurich has quickly become a favorite for those who love the European charm. The winding Limmat River, historic buildings, beautiful lake, quaint boutiques and cobblestone streets all help create this place in being a unique city to visit. And with the snowy Alps as a backdrop, what more could you ask for? The 19th century feel of the city makes it a relaxing place to go explore and yet it thrives as being one of the world’s financial centers. Zurich is a bustling city with business people going to and from work and tourists making their way throughout the city.

The Limmat River divides the city into two sections – the left, or west bank, and the right, or east bank. The most popular place in the west end is the stunning Bahnhofstrasse. Built on the site where the city walls once stood, this amazing shopping district is one of the best in all of Europe. Shopping here might require you to open a Swiss bank account and ask for a loan. And you’ll have no problems finding a bank since this street is also a major vein in the finance world. In fact, there are vaults located underneath this street. Although you won’t be able to ‘shop’ in them, there are plenty of stores to entertain you. Another important place here is the Bahnhofplatz, the center of rail connections. There’s also a beautiful path, located along the river, that’s perfect for hiking and biking and gives you a great view of the city.

Located on both sides of the river is the charming Altstadt, the Old Town. This city center dates back to the 13th century and is one of Europe’s finest quarters. Some of the homes here date back to the 1100s. The narrow alleys and cobblestone streets lead you to quaint restaurants, galleries, fountains, bustling markets and unique boutiques.

The right bank, or east side is filled with historic buildings. The oldest parish in Zurich is the St. Peterskirche, St. Peter's Church. Dating back to the 9th century, the church still provides fantastic classical concerts and has the largest church clock face in all of Europe. You should make time for it… get it? Time? It’s an amazing site to see. The Fraumünster, Church of Our Lady, is a well-known landmark in Zurich due to its stunning architecture. Its spires can be seen from miles around and when you get closer you’ll notice its stunning stained glass windows. On the opposite side stands the Grossmünster, where Ulrich Zwingli, leader of the Swiss Reformation, was once a pastor. Because of his beliefs, the church isn’t that ornate and yet it still stands as a fantastic building with its twin towers and stained glass windows. If you’re able to, make your way to the top and get a fantastic view of the city. Another historic building found on the left side is the Rathouse, the town hall. Completed in 1689, its one of Zurich’s richly decorated buildings. For a great evening out, stroll through Niederdorf, the lower village where you’ll find a wealth trendy restaurants and stores.

As with most European cities, Zurich has many fantastic museums but if you only have time for a few, make your way to the Kunsthaus and the Swiss National Museum. The Kunsthaus is a wonderful Fine Arts Museum devoted to 19th and 29th century art and is considered one of the most sophisticated museums throughout the world. The Swiss National Museum, which is near impossible to say correctly in German – the Schweizerisches Landesmuseum, is filled with Swiss history and culture with some of its art dating back to the 9th century.

Its fascinating museums, stunning buildings, amazing shops and fine dining make Zurich a great place to visit. Whether you choose to stay on the east side or the west, park yourself at the lake or at a café in Old Town, you’ll enjoy everything this charming city has to offer.