Experiences

Free Activities to Do in Zurich

Lake Zurich, Uetliberg Mountain, Old Town (Altstadt), Bahnhofstrasse, Lindenhof, Great Minster (Grossmunster), Botanical Garden, Focus Terra, Belvoir Park and Aviary & Bird Sanctuary.

Visiting one of the world’s most expensive cities on a budget? As impossible as that sounds, you will be amazed by the sheer choice of free things to do in Zurich. Normally one doesn’t associate anything free or even economical with this Swiss city but dig deeper and you have endless things to do that are free and full of surprises here.

The top 10 free things to do in Zurich include world-famous attractions and experiences that cost nothing to visit. Right from experiencing the romantic old-world charm of its ‘straight from the storybook-like’ Old Town area, to taking a troll in the gardens and parks landscaped amidst meadows housing thousands of exotic plants & flowers, and wildlife parks housing near-extinct animal species, the choices are endless. To make the most of your Swiss adventure, consider exploring these attractions as part of Europe tour packages, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Where else can you educate yourself on the history of the planet and its inhabitants, see fossils dating back to millions of years, and even experience a simulated grade-8 earthquake, without shelling a single penny? Take a respite from the crowds and head over to one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland.

Follow the fascinating ‘Path of the Planets’ at Zurich’s own mountain as you hike, bike, and soak in surreal views of the majestic Alps and the city skyline- all for free! Read on to plan your Zurich trip without worrying about breaking your wallet!

Here are some of the best free things to do in Zurich:

01

Lake Zurich

Counted amongst the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland, Lake Zurich not only has an unsurpassed natural beauty but is also a haven for those looking to escape into the quietude of nature. You can spend hours under the sun surrounded by a balmy breeze as you relax and soak in the beauty of the place away from the noise and crowds.

In summers, the lake has plenty of sailing boats, which are interesting to watch too. The lake’s promenades are great to take long walks and if you are a runner, to take a jog around. Round off the day by visiting shopping places like Deer Park Town Centre and Ice House Mall and Village Shops to indulge in window-shopping.

Location: The Lake is located in the southeastern part of Zurich.

Timings: The Lake can be visited anytime.

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02

Bahnhofstrasse

You can’t leave Zurich without visiting the most glamorous, expensive, and exclusive shopping street in the world, even if it's for window shopping! This is where high-end brands like Dior, Armani, Chanel, Cartier, etc. display their best. It’s quite a sight looking at these glitzy outlets standing on medieval cobbled streets amidst centuries-old architecture.

Don’t miss to visit Confiserie Sprungli that’s a 180-year-old chocolatier located here. This street houses some of the most iconic Swiss watch and jewellery brands like Victorinox, Charriol, Baume & Mercier, Bucherer, etc. This is a place where you can spend hours surrounded by classy glamour and glitter like nowhere else in the world.

Location: The Street starts at Bahnhofplatz and stretches till Bürkliplatz.

Timings: Every day from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.

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03

Uetliberg Mountain

Known as Zurich's own mountain, Mount Uetliberg stands at a height of around 2,800 ft. above sea level. One of the best free things to do in Zurich is to spend a day exploring this amazing natural attraction. One of the most interesting things to do here, without shelling a penny, is to follow the ‘Path of the Planets’.

This is a 2- hour trail that mimics the distances between the planets where each kilometre represents 1 million kilometres. You can also spend time hiking and mountain biking here at the numerous rugged trails surrounding the mountain.

The summit of the mountain offers stunning views of the city framed by the majestic Alps and soaking in these views surrounded by silence and wisps of clear & crisp breeze is a great way to spend time here.

Location: The Mountain is located on Zurich’s western side.

Timings: The Mountain can be visited anytime.

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04

Old Town (Altstadt)

Wandering in this remarkable place is one of the most amazing free things to do in Zurich as you understand the culture, history, and the pulse that makes Switzerland what it is. Its cobbled roads, medieval houses & cellars, and the ancient town hall coexist with clubs, high-end boutiques, and of course the most exclusive shopping destination in the world, Bahnhofstrasse.

Other interesting things to explore here are Peter’s Church, that houses Europe’s largest clock face, the world-famous Chagall and Giacometti stained glass paintings at the Fraumunster, and the majestic Grossmunster (Great Minster).

The Old Town area, edging around both sides of the River Limmat, has many river-facing vantage points and promenades that are great for soaking in the vibrant buzz of the place, views of the setting sun, and the glimmering skyline of the city.

Location: Niederdorfstrasse 19, 8001 Zurich

Timings: Every day from 7:00 am to midnight.

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05

Lindenhof

Visiting the historical Lindenhof is quite an experience! This is the site of a 4th-century Roman Fort and later the Charlemagne Fort in the 19th-century. This is where the Helvetic Constitution was solemnised in 1798. And now, this is where people gather to soak in the peace and solitude that comes naturally with lush green surroundings.

This thickly tree-lined place lets you switch off from the world and soak in stunning views of the Limmat River, the city, and the Alps in the background. Make new friends as you indulge in a game of chess at the giant chessboard.

Location: The Park is located at the Lindenhof Hill.

Timings: The Park is accessible at all times.

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06

Great Minster (Grossmunster)

One of the most popular landmarks of not only Zurich but also in the entire country, Great Minster is an ancient 11th-century Protestant Church. With its twin towers piercing the city’s skyline, it’s impossible to miss this building, even from miles away. Seeing the church’s interesting Romanesque and neo-Gothic architecture is one of the top free things to do in Zurich.

Its majestic building has bronze doors with Bible engravings built by Otto Munch, carved columns with figurines of angels on top, humongous arches, and stone walls. Don’t miss to see the fascinating stained glass windows by Augusto Giacometti.

When here, take a 180-stair flight to the roof to see panoramic views of the city and the mountains. It is interesting to note that the church is always in a state of architectural reconstruction as none of the structures here belong to the same year and still look like a beautiful singular structure.

Location: Kreis 1, Old Town Area, Zurich.

Timings:
- March to October: Weekdays- 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

- November to February: Weekdays- 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

- Sundays: After the service ends.

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07

Botanical Garden

For people who find joy in nature, visiting the Botanical Gardens to see the sheer virgin beauty of nature in all its glory is one of the top free things to do in Zurich. Established in 1978, the garden has over 7,000 varieties of plants and flowers from almost all the continents of the world.

You will see a huge variety of palms, ferns, orchids, and cacti from climatic zones like the Mediterranean, Wadi, Savannah, etc. There are greenhouses that look straight out of a sci-fi movie here, which are a must-visit to see the futuristic technology used to maintain flora from around the world.

In the midst of the green meadow-like expanses of the Garden, there is a beautiful pond full of singing frogs, a great spot to enjoy the luxuries of nature.

Location: University of Zurich, Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zurich.

Timings:

1. Garden:
March to September-
- Weekdays: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

- Weekends & public holidays: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

October to February-
- Weekdays: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

- Weekends & public holidays: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

2. Tropical greenhouses:

March to September- Every day from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

October to February:
- Weekdays- 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

- Weekends & public holidays- 9:30 am to 4:45 pm

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08

Belvoir Park

Known as one of the most beautifully landscaped parks in Zurich, Belvoir Park is a must-visit. A visit here will let you soak in a slice of the magnificent natural beauty that Switzerland is famous for. Stroll amidst the lush emerald-green meadows, shimmering water pools, flower patches, and thickets of ancient trees.

It’s quite an experience breathing in air perfumed by thousands of irises and lilies and the only sounds that you will hear here are birdsong. Spend time soaking in the views of the Zurich Lake, the city’s skyline, and the snow-capped Alps in the background from the numerous viewpoints at the park.

Location: Seestrasse 141, 8002 Zurich.

Timings: The Park is accessible at all times.

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09

Langenberg Wildlife Park

One of the most exciting free things to do in Zurich for wildlife & nature enthusiasts is to visit this wildlife park. This is where you can see native and exotic animals like lynx, wolves, wild boars, marmots, elks, Przewalski horses, roaming freely in a huge 80-hectare lush green space.

The most famous residents of the wildlife park are the wisents and forest horses that are now almost extinct in Switzerland. Since the animals are not caged, this is one of the best places to see them in their natural behaviour as they mate, play, and rear their young ones, making for fascinating encounters and experiences.

Location: 8135 Langnau am Albis, Switzerland.

Timings:
- 28th October to 20th March 2020- Every day from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

- 21st March to 25th October- Every day from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

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10

Sukkulenten-Sammlung

Zurich has the most number of succulent plants in the world and this garden, which mimics this ecosystem, has been attracting visitors from all over the world since 1931. Strolling amongst hundreds of species of cacti, aloe vera, pennyworts, and agaves planted over acres of lush landscaped gardens is one of the best free things to do in Zurich.

There is a beautiful outdoor rockery and 7 greenhouses that are a must-see to know more about the cultivation of these fascinating plants.

Location: Mythenquai 88, 8002 Zurich.

Timings: Every day from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.

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11

Paleontological Museum

Priding itself as an important interface between biology and earth sciences, a visit to the University of Zurich’s Paleontological Museum is one of the most fun things to do while in Zurich. Here you will see well-preserved fossil collections of marine reptile animals dating back to around 245 million years from the Triassic era when Switzerland was still submerged under the oceans.

The museum also has great photographs, books, films, and documents that trace the history of the evolution of native Swiss trees, birds, and animals. You will see how the birds used to look like millions of years ago, what caused their evolution and why did they get extinct.

There are life-size skeletal remains and stuffed figures of marine and land dinosaurs, woolly mammoths, etc. There are sandpits for children to do mini excavations and solve giant animal puzzles.

Location: University of Zurich, Karl Schmid Strasse 4, 8006, Zurich.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (Monday closed): 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

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12

Focus Terra

Ranked amongst the top 10 free things to do in Zurich, a visit to this museum will introduce you to the fascinating dynamics, history, and the state of constant evolution that our planet is always in. This is a great place to get to know interesting phenomena like what triggers earthquakes, why volcanoes erupt, and how did the planet evolve.

There are impressive and interactive exhibits that detail the origin of precious stones, fossils, mountains, etc. One of the most fascinating things here is a 3-tonne earthquake simulator that can mimic an earthquake of level-8, which one can experience.

Other museum highlights include The Omniglobe (installation of the earth that showcases processes like tectonic shifts & climatic changes) and The Indergand Crystal (a 160 kg lump of quartz crystal transported from the Uri Glacier in the Alps).

Location: Sonneggstrasse 5, 8006 Zurich.

Timings: Every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

13

Aviary & Bird Sanctuary

Ranked among the top 10 free things to do in Zurich, especially for bird watching enthusiasts, is a visit to the Zurich Aviary and Bird Sanctuary. This lush green oasis-like place, located on the banks of Lake Zurich, is the home to hundreds of varieties of bird species- both native and exotic to Switzerland.

You will not only see parakeets, parrots, toucan, owls, etc. but can also have close encounters with them including feeding sessions. There is even a bird guesthouse here that serves as a shelter and hospital for injured and abandoned birds.

Location: Mythenquai 1, 8002 Zurich.

Timings:
- Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am to 7:00 pm

- Sunday: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

14

Zoological Museum of the Zurich University

This museum is one of the best places to see the enthusiasm and love that the Swiss have towards their nature and wildlife. A visit to the museum means stepping into the world of over 1500 native and exotic animals, birds, insects, and mammals displayed through lifelike figurines, films, photographs, and archives.

You will see displays of extinct animals like dinosaurs, mammoths, sloths, Large Frogmouth, wombats, Minke whales, etc. It’s a sheer joy to put on your headphones here and hear the whales singing, dolphins whistling, and insects buzzing. You can also use the powerful magnifying glass to see ants and tiny insects multiply many times their size.

Location: University of Zurich, Karl Schmid Strasse 4, 8006, Zurich.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (Monday closed): 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

15

My Climate Audio Adventure Zurich

A cutting-edge acoustic and walking experience, this is an innovative way to educate and inform visitors about the importance of climate preservation and the need for innovation in environmental sustainability. As you walk across the city, you will hear interesting stories, anecdotes, and fun facts about the climate and the local Swiss history.

The narration is quite fun too! Hearing a polar bear recounting his journey all the way to Switzerland from the North Pole is one of the most fun free things to do in Zurich. What’s more, you can participate in the inbuilt quiz and win prizes. This can be downloaded from izi.-travel application.

Location: The starting point is Hauptbahnhof, 8001 Zurich.

Timings: The walking tour takes around 2.5 hours and the listening time is 60 minutes.

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Rapperswil Castle

Experience the magic of Rapperswil Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress that graces the shores of Lake Zurich in Switzerland. This historical gem offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.Wander through its well-preserved ramparts, courtyards, and towers, and immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural beauty of the castle. Discover the castle's intriguing past, which dates back to the 13th century, and explore its impressive museum, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits.A visit to Rapperswil Castle promises an unforgettable journey through time, where you can step into the footsteps of medieval lords and experience the medieval ambiance that still lingers within the castle walls. Whether you're fascinated by history, captivated by architecture, or simply seeking scenic views, Rapperswil Castle is a treasure trove that captures the essence of Switzerland's cultural and natural splendor. Enhance your experience by including Rapperswil Castle in your Switzerland Travel Packages for a perfect blend of history and scenic beauty.Checkout: Switzerland Honeymoon Package From India

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Excellent

We booked this package from Delhi, it is one beautiful place to be visited by anyone. Interlaken is the most romantic places I've visited, specially with bed breakfast everyday with the view we had from the hotel room were stunning. Loved the trip would definitely recommend.

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Excellent

I went to Switzerland with my partner.The place has magnificent beauty of snow capped mountains We had driver right at the airport for our pick-up. The hotels had dine-in facilities and the friendly companions made the journey more beautiful.

Vasudeva Marar Europe Group Tour

Excellent

It was a nice trip. Everything went off well and systematically thanks to Thrillophilia for this trip

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Excellent

I visited Zurich with Thrillophilia with their planned trip, and it was worth the try as everything was pre-planned and only thing i was supposed to do was just join the group !! And it was beautiful.

18 January 2020

Uttam Pandey Zurich Tuk Tuk Tour

Excellent

Comfort, beauty and pleasure; three words that describe my E Tuk Tuk Experience. Totally worth the price. This awesome experience took us to some of the best places in Zurich like Sechseläutenplatz, Niederdorf, the National museum and many other places. Enjoyed the picturesque steers of Zunich and loved capturing the beautiful buildings.

13 November 2019

Vrund Malik Zurich Airport Transfers

Superb

The overall service was satisfactory and very cost effective at the same time.

05 October 2019

Girindra Pillai Zurich Airport Transfers

Excellent

The experience of being received at the Zurich Airport was very smooth. The car had arrived at the location on time and we had a very comfortable ride.

09 October 2019

Vidur Banerjee Lucerne Day Trip From Zurich

Superb

The Jesuit church, Lion monument, and the Chapel Bridge were so beautiful! On top of that, you also get to see the picturesque Lake of Four Cartons with its crystal clear water! Of all the Lucerne day trips, this one is undoubtedly the best! The train ride from Zurich to Lucerne is a must as it offers the best views of the city of Lucerne and also gives a slightly off-beat experience! Overall me and my friends enjoyed the trip.

03 January 2020

Suman Namboothiri Zurich City Tour with Ferry & Cable Car

Excellent

If you wish to get a good look at the Alps in a single day trip, then this Zurich city tour is for you! The Thrillophilia sales team got me on board with their description of the trip. We saw the Swiss national museum, the Opera House, and even toured the Bahnhofstrasse shopping avenue, which has a plethora of items! And at the end then we took a ferry ride across Lake Zurich. The cable car takes you to Felsenegg- for the most stunning views of the Swiss Alps!

18 December 2019

Suma Devar Zurich City Tour with Ferry & Cable Car

Excellent

This is the perfect day trip to Zurich for someone who just wants to relax! It was the most scenic day trip to Switzerland for sure! I got to see the Opera House and National Museum and take in stunning views of the lake. The view of Zurich during the ferry ride and a view of the Alps at Felsenegg was awesome.