Zürich in 48 Hours: A Weekend City Break Guide

Planning a short escape to Switzerland’s cultural hub can feel daunting, but with a clear plan you can experience the best of Zürich in just two days. From its cobbled Old Town to the tranquil shores of Lake Zürich, this guide packs activities, insider tips, and practical info to help you make the most of a weekend city break.

Day 1: Arrival & Old Town Exploration

Morning – Arrive & Check‑In

Aim to arrive by early morning to maximize your day.

Choose a centrally located hotel, hostel, or Airbnb near Bahnhofstrasse or the Seefeld district.

Drop off luggage and grab a quick breakfast at Cafe Sprüngli (famous for Luxemburgerli macarons).

Late Morning – Explore Altstadt (Old Town)

Walk through the narrow, picturesque lanes: Limmatquai, Münsterhof, and Lindenhof.

Visit St. Peter’s Church – its clock, the largest in the world.

Snap photos of the iconic Kunsthaus Zürich terrace.

Lunch – Local Bites

Enjoy traditional Swiss lunch at Zeughauskeller – try Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal with creamy mushroom sauce).

Afternoon – Museum & Shopping

Spend a couple of hours at the Riviera Art Center (Rietberg) for world‑class art in a beautiful villa setting.

Stroll along Bahnhofstrasse for high‑end boutiques, and pop into the Zürich Altstadt market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

Evening – Sunset at Lindenhof

Take a leisurely walk to Lindenhof for panoramic views of the Limmat River and cityscape.

Dine at Restaurant Zeughauskeller or a quiet riverside spot like Restaurant Löwen.

Day 2: Culture, Shopping & Lake Zürich

Morning – Uetliberg Mountain Hike

Catch the S-Bahn to Uetliberg and hike (or take a cable car) to the summit for breath‑taking views of the Alps, Lake Zürich, and the city.

Start early to beat the crowds and finish before noon.

Midday – Lake Zürich Cruise

Return to the city and board a short Lake Zürich cruise from Bürkliplatz.

Enjoy the scenic panorama while sipping a refreshing Swiss drink.

Lunch – Seefeld District

Have lunch at Haus Hiltl, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, for a healthy yet delicious meal.

Afternoon – Contemporary Culture & Relaxation

Visit the innovative MOCO Museum for a mix of modern art and contemporary culture.

Alternatively, relax in Botanical Garden near the University – a serene spot for a quick break.

Evening – Culinary Highlights

Book a table at Restaurant Kronenhalle for a sophisticated Swiss dining experience featuring works of art by Chagall and Picasso.

End the night with a walk along the Limmatquai and a splash of nightlife at Bar Kuhn or Hüpfe.

Zürich in 48 Hours: A Weekend City Break Guide

Time	Activity	Where	Tips
Day 1	Arrival & Breakfast	Café Sprüngli	Try Luxemburgerli macarons
	Old Town Walk	Altstadt	Wear comfortable shoes
	Lunch	Zeughauskeller	Order the Veal dish
	Museum	Riviera Art Center	Check opening hours
	Sunset	Lindenhof	Bring a camera
Day 2	Uetliberg Hike	Uetliberg	Bring water and snacks
	Lake Cruise	Bürkliplatz	30‑min ticket
	Seefeld Lunch	Haus Hiltl	Vegetarian/vegan options
	MOCO Museum	Wiedikon	Purchase online
	Dinner	Restaurant Kronenhalle	Reserve early

FAQ

How do I get around Zürich efficiently?
Zürich’s public transport (S-Bahn, trams, buses) is world‑class; buy a day ticket for unlimited travel.

Is Zürich safe for solo travelers?
Yes. Zürich is consistently ranked one of the safest cities worldwide.

What’s the best time of year to visit?
Late spring to early autumn (May‑September) offers mild weather and vibrant activities.

Can I visit all sights in two days?
While you can’t see everything, this itinerary covers the city’s major highlights and gives you a balanced experience.

Where can I find discount tickets for museums?
Visit the student or senior card program, or consider the Zürich Card for museum entry discounts and free transport.