Flights from Kathmandu (KTM) to Zurich (ZRH)

About Zurich

Discover Zurich

Why visit Zurich?
Zurich combines lakeside calm, historic lanes, and a modern creative spirit. You will find a compact city where mediaeval streets sit alongside contemporary architecture, and where the waterfront and surrounding hills are never far away.

What to expect
The city centres on the Limmat River and Lake Zurich, with districts like the Altstadt, Bahnhofstrasse, and Zurich West each offering a distinct atmosphere. Expect efficient public transport, a strong café culture, and plenty of green spaces intertwined with galleries and cultural venues.

Plan your trip
Zurich works well as both a short city break and a base to explore wider Switzerland. From here, you can take efficient rail connections into the Alps, visit nearby lakeside towns, or continue onwards to other European cities on an extensive transport network.

Top sights in Zurich

Lake Zurich Promenade

Stroll along the lakeside paths for views of the water, distant mountains, and the city skyline.

Altstadt (Old Town)

Wander narrow, winding lanes filled with historic buildings, cafés, and small boutiques.

Bahnhofstrasse

Explore one of Zurich's best-known shopping streets, lined with department stores and elegant façades.

Uetliberg Mountain

Ride up to this local peak for panoramic views over Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the surrounding region.

Kunsthaus Zurich

Discover an extensive collection of European art in a museum that blends historic and modern wings.

Zurich West

Experience a former industrial area transformed into a lively district of design spaces and dining spots.

Lindenhof Hill

Pause in this quiet hilltop park in the Old Town, which offers a peaceful lookout over the river and rooftops.

Chinese Garden Zurich

Enjoy a tranquil garden by the lake, with pavilions, ponds, and shaded walkways ideal for a short break.

Experience Zurich's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Zurich is easy to explore using trams, buses, and local trains that connect the lakefront, Old Town, and outer districts. For a scenic perspective, lake boats and river cruises offer relaxed journeys across the water, while walking bridges and riverside paths help you cover the final stretch.

Local life & culture
Daily life balances work, nature, and culture, with residents making the most of parks, waterfront spaces, and neighbourhood cafés. Districts like Seefeld, Zurich West, and the Old Town each have their own character, where you can observe galleries, theatres, and cultural venues interwoven with residential streets.

Where to unwind
Green spaces and lakeside lawns give you many spots to pause and recharge. Visit Uetliberg or nearby hills for walking trails and broad views, or choose quieter lakeside parks in the late afternoon and early evening when the light softens and the city settles into a calmer pace.

A taste of Zurich

Street food & local specialties
You can sample local favourites in cosy city-centre eateries and casual spots around the Old Town and along the lake. Areas near the main station and by the riverside are convenient places to try regional dishes and simple, comforting plates after a day of sightseeing.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern dining clusters in neighbourhoods such as Zurich West and around Langstrasse, where former industrial buildings and side streets host a mix of cafés and relaxed restaurants. Menus often encourage sharing and tasting, so you can try a range of small plates or mains across different cuisines in one evening.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, look for venues overlooking Lake Zurich, riverside terraces, or hilltop locations around Uetliberg. In the city centre, some restaurants and hotel dining rooms pair refined menus with views over historic rooftops, giving you an atmospheric backdrop for a special lunch or dinner.

Retail therapy in Zurich

Malls & lifestyle hubs
In central Zurich, you will find shopping centres and arcades close to the main station and along Bahnhofstrasse, where international labels sit beside local designers. These spaces often combine fashion, homeware, and dining, creating easy places to meet friends and spend a few relaxed hours.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller shops and unique finds, explore the lanes of the Old Town, as well as districts like Niederdorf and Zurich West. Here, you can browse independent boutiques, design stores, and occasional markets that showcase handmade items, contemporary Swiss design, and thoughtful souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
After dark, central streets remain pleasantly active, with window displays and building façades softly lit. At certain times of year, evening markets and extended opening hours add extra energy, especially around the Old Town and lakefront. Well-connected trams and trains make it simple to return to your hotel when you are ready to call it a night.

Best time to visit Zurich

Spring awakening (March to May, shoulder season)
Average temperatures range from about 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). Trees and parks come back to life, and lakeside paths grow busier, making it a pleasant time for gentle walks and exploring the Old Town without peak-season crowds.

Summer by the lake (June to August, peak season)
Expect warm days of around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), with occasional hotter spells. Locals flock to outdoor pools, lake bathing areas, and terraces, and long daylight hours give you more time to enjoy cruises, viewpoints, and evening strolls along the water.

Autumn and winter charm (September to February, low season)
Temperatures usually range from 0°C to 12°C (32°F to 54°F), bringing crisp air and the chance of snow in mid-winter. Clear days offer beautiful views of nearby hills, and the cooler months are ideal for museums, cafés, and day trips to mountain destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions