Flights from Johannesburg (JNB) to Zurich (ZRH)

About Zurich

Discover Zurich

Why visit Zurich?
Zurich combines lakeside calm with a polished urban edge. You will find a compact city where historic lanes, riverside promenades, and contemporary architecture sit side by side, all framed by views of distant Alpine peaks.

What to expect
The city centres on the clear waters of Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, with the Old Town, Bahnhofstrasse, and the trendy Zurich West district forming its main character. Expect clean streets, efficient services, and a relaxed pace that encourages you to explore on foot or by tram.

Plan your trip
Zurich works well as both a short city break and a base for exploring wider Switzerland. With excellent rail links to the Alps, lakeside resorts, and other Swiss cities, it offers an easy starting point for a longer journey through the country and beyond.

Top sights in Zurich

Lake Zurich Promenade

Stroll or cycle along the lakeside paths, stopping at small parks and piers for wide views of the city and surrounding hills.

Zurich Old Town (Altstadt)

Wander cobbled streets lined with townhouses, cafés, and boutiques, and enjoy views from small squares above the river.

Bahnhofstrasse

Explore one of Zurich's best-known shopping streets, home to department stores, international brands, and elegant shopfronts.

Uetliberg Mountain

Take the train up Zurich's local mountain for panoramic views of the city, lake, and on clear days, the distant Alps.

Zurich West District

Discover a revitalised industrial area with creative spaces, modern architecture, and a lively evening atmosphere.

Limmat River Cruises

See Zurich from the water on a short boat trip that passes under low bridges and offers a different angle on the Old Town.

Kunsthaus Zurich

Visit one of Switzerland's leading art museums, featuring works from local and international artists across different periods.

Lindenhof Hill

Climb to this peaceful vantage point in the Old Town for a quiet break and classic views over the river and city roofs.

Experience Zurich's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Zurich's trams and suburban trains form an easy-to-use network that links the lakefront, Old Town, and outer districts. Boats on the lake and river give a scenic alternative for relaxed journeys, while walking is often the quickest way for short distances in the compact centre.

Local life & culture
You will notice a calm, orderly rhythm to daily life, from early-morning commuters on trams to relaxed afternoons in lakeside parks. Neighbourhoods like Niederdorf and Zurich West express the city's creative side, with galleries, cultural venues, and small theatres adding interest beyond the main sights.

Where to unwind
Green spaces such as the lakeside parks and the broad lawns by the university area offer quiet places to rest between activities. In fine weather, the quays along Lake Zurich fill with people reading, chatting, or simply watching the water, especially in the late afternoon and early evening.

A taste of Zurich

Street food & local specialties
You can sample local favourites and quick bites at casual spots around the Old Town and along the river, where bakeries and small cafés serve simple, hearty meals. Seasonal stalls near the station and lakefront add variety with easy options to enjoy outdoors.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Areas around the main station, Bahnhofstrasse, and Zurich West offer a wide choice of relaxed restaurants and bistros. Menus often mix Swiss and international influences, with portions that make it easy to share dishes or try several courses during a leisurely meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, look for dining rooms with views over Lake Zurich, the Limmat River, or the city skyline. Roof terraces and waterside venues create atmospheric settings, particularly around sunset, turning a simple dinner into a special part of your trip.

Retail therapy in Zurich

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Around Zurich Main Station and the city centre you will find shopping centres that bring together international brands, local labels, and cafés under one roof. These lively hubs are ideal for combining errands, browsing, and a relaxed break in between.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets in the Old Town and creative quarters such as Zurich West showcase independent boutiques, design stores, and artisan workshops. Here you can look for textiles, accessories, and homeware with a distinct local character, often produced by small studios.

Evening retail scene
After dark, key streets around Bahnhofstrasse and the Old Town remain pleasantly active, with illuminated windows inviting an unhurried stroll. Pop into late-opening shops or stop for a drink nearby, then use the efficient tram and train network to return comfortably to your accommodation.

Best time to visit Zurich

Sommer (summer) – June to August, peak season
Summer in Zurich brings warm days around 20–27°C (68–81°F), ideal for lake swims, outdoor cafés, and evening walks along the waterfront. This is peak season, with a lively atmosphere in parks and on terraces, and long daylight hours that suit relaxed sightseeing.

Frühling and Herbst (spring and autumn) – March to May, September to November, shoulder season
Spring and autumn are mild, with temperatures typically between 10–18°C (50–64°F). These shoulder season months offer colourful parks, quieter streets, and comfortable walking conditions, making them appealing for exploring museums and neighbourhoods at a gentler pace.

Winter (December to February), low season
Winter temperatures usually hover between -1–7°C (30–45°F), bringing crisp air and occasional snow. As a low season, it can feel calmer, with cosy cafés and clear views on bright days, and it pairs well with day trips to nearby snowy landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions