Travel
10 of the most effective issues to do in Zürich
Though its inhabitants would not even hit half 1,000,000, Zürich is a forerunner in Switzerland in the case of enterprise, banking, nightlife and gastronomy. If it’s occurring in Switzerland, it’s occurring in Zürich first.
Extremely walkable but with a chocolate-smooth transport system, Züri – because the locals affectionately name it – has world-class museums, a various social scene and a lakeside tradition that’s exhausting to beat. Listed below are the most effective issues to do in Switzerland’s largest metropolis.
1. Admire Chagall’s modernist home windows on the Fraumünster
Standing tall on the left financial institution of the Limmat River, the Fraumünster is one among Zürich’s oldest non secular buildings, based as a convent approach again in 853 CE. However its main draw as of late is one thing way more latest: a set of stained glass home windows created by modernist artist Marc Chagall in 1967.
The 5 panels use daring colours and summary imagery to depict biblical tales. Picasso was apparently a fan, and it’s straightforward to see why. Chagall was 83 when the home windows have been inaugurated, however he wasn’t achieved there. He created the Fraumünster’s equally hanging rose window on the grand outdated age of 90.
Detour: Stroll over the Münsterbrücke to the Grossmünster on the alternative facet of the Limmat, whose twin bell towers are a particular landmark within the metropolis. Trendy stained glass home windows by German artist Sigmar Polke enliven an in any other case plain inside. This lack of decoration is due partially to Huldrych Zwingli, one of many founders of the Protestant Reformation in Switzerland, who preached right here within the sixteenth century.
2. Be taught Switzerland’s historical past on the Landesmuseum
Housed in a Nineteenth-century stone constructing close to the prepare station, the Schweizerisches Landesmuseum (Swiss Nationwide Museum) is a good place to get a way of the nation. The everlasting assortment takes guests by way of the nation’s eclectic historical past from the Center Ages to the current day.
Displays illuminate Switzerland’s latest historical past by detailing its angle to banking secrecy, neutrality, overseas migration and girls’s rights (girls solely obtained the correct to vote in 1971) – all way more fascinating than it sounds – whereas a formidable show of pikes and halberds from the Center Ages exhibits how far it’s come.
Don’t miss the unique 1862 version of Henry Dunant’s account of the battle of Solférino, which impressed his humanitarian ideology and led to the formation of the Worldwide Committee of the Purple Cross a 12 months later.
3. Wander the Outdated City and loosen up in Lindenhof
If you’re achieved wandering across the Altstadt (Outdated City) – its slim cobbled streets, ornamental buildings, boutiques, cafes, taverns and bierkellers (beer cellars) might maintain you there some time – relaxation your legs on a bench beneath the bushes at Lindenhof, a peaceable plateau on a hill overlooking the Limmat River and the skyline of its proper financial institution. As soon as the location of a Roman fort and later a royal palace, as of late it’s a gathering place, picnic spot, chess gamers’ hangout and backdrop of selection for selfie-taking vacationers.
Planning tip: You will discover water fountains at Lindenhof, however they’re everywhere in the metropolis. Until in any other case said, the water is as clear and drinkable as something pre-bottled. Deliver your individual bottle and high up as you go.
4. Discover Niederdorf’s espresso and craft tradition
Often known as Dörfli (that means “little village”), Niederdorf sits on the correct financial institution of the Limmat River and types a part of Zürich’s Outdated City. Reflective of Zürich’s younger coronary heart as a lot as its outdated soul, the world’s cobbled pedestrian alleyways harbor up to date artists’ galleries and upmarket artisan outlets, cafes, delis, outdated taverns and trendy bars that draw a energetic crowd.
Browse the connoisseur coffees and chocolate at Schwarzenbach grocery, which seems to be unchanged because it opened its doorways in 1864, earlier than having dinner and drinks at Am Rank, a glossy bar that hosts gigs by a few of Zürich’s newest younger music skills.
5. Uncover Dada at Cabaret Voltaire
Whereas WWI was raging in Europe in 1916, a bunch of artists, writers and thinkers sought protected haven and like-minded souls in impartial Switzerland, which – counter to the nation’s popularity as of late – turned a magnet for the avant-garde. These anti-bourgeois intellectuals would hang around at Zürich’s Cabaret Voltaire, a small bar on a cobbled road in Niederdorf, the place they shaped Dada, an experimental, anarchical literary and inventive motion.
Right this moment, the bar celebrates this historical past whereas additionally showcasing the work of up to date artists. Sip a espresso or a Dada Bitter within the ground-floor Artists’ Bar – adorned by a unique artist every year – or browse the Dada Library within the 1st-floor house the place Dada founder Hugo Ball and his pals used to carry out.
Detour: If you happen to can’t get sufficient of Dada, head to the Kunsthaus Zürich, town’s foremost artwork gallery, which holds the world’s largest assortment of Dada artwork, together with items by Man Ray, Tristan Tzara, and Swiss artist Sophie Taeuber-Arp.
6. Swim in a lakeside badi
Like most Swiss cities, Zürich lives for its waterways, and in summer time the banks of the Limmat and the shores of the Zürichsee (Lake Zürich) simmer with sunbathers, swimmers, and the odor of barbecued sausage.
Town’s many badis (swimming baths) are a longstanding a part of Zürich life, offering altering amenities, solar decks and water entry, in addition to providing a spot to socialize, eat and drink into the night.
There’s a quaint, old school really feel to wood bathhouses like Seebad Utoquai, which dates from 1850 and has each single-sex and blended zones, in addition to a sauna and therapeutic massage amenities – plus the most effective sundown views over town.
Planning tip: Most badis shut in winter, so get extra lake into your life by taking a ship journey from shore to shore or farther afield with Lake Zürich Navigation Company, which runs commuter providers and leisurely cruises year-round.
7. Hike up Uetliberg, Zürich’s native mountain
Greater and mightier mountains are inside a brief distance of Zürich, however Uetliberg holds a particular place in individuals’s hearts as Züri’s native mountain – so native, actually, that each one you want do to get there’s take the S10 tram from the principle prepare station (Hauptbahnhof) and stroll 10 minutes to the viewpoint.
Widespread in all seasons, Uetliberg has family-friendly hikes and picnic spots in summer time, toboggan runs in winter and an eye-filling panorama of town and lake all 12 months. It’s significantly particular on a fall or winter day when you possibly can rise above the fog that habitually hovers over town at the moment of 12 months and benefit from the blue sky overhead.
8. Be a part of the post-work crowd in Zürich West
In stark distinction to the great thing about town’s Outdated City and riversides, Zürich West isn’t fairly in any respect. However what it lacks in seems to be, it makes up for in persona. A patchwork of former industrial buildings, concrete flyovers and railway tracks, this space has been seized upon by enterprising locals lately who’ve opened quirky bars, eating places and cultural sights in its uncommon areas.
Discover the boutiques and meals corridor beneath the railway arches at Im Viadukt or catch a theater efficiency on the Schiffbau, the previous website of Zürich’s shipbuilding exercise. The post-work crowd may be discovered at Frau Gerolds Garten, a shocking pocket of greenery the place shipping-container bars, unbiased outlets and an natural kitchen backyard encompass a central space of shaded benches.
Planning tip: Get from the city middle to Zürich West on an electrical scooter – a number of firms together with Bolt, Vio and Lime supply on-street rental by way of their apps.
9. Eat plant-based meals at Hiltl, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant
Plant-based meals could also be all the fad as of late, however in Zürich, it’s nothing new. The vegetarian restaurant Hiltl has been working since 1898, making it – in accordance with the educated people at Guinness World Data – the oldest meat-free restaurant on the planet.
The unique restaurant at Sihlstrasse, Haus Hiltl, has since spawned a number of different retailers throughout town, all serving a buffet unfold of imaginative salads, pasta dishes and mezze-style creations impressed by flavors from world wide. Even in the event you’re a devoted meat eater, you’re certain to search out one thing right here to sate your urge for food. Haus Hiltl additionally affords an à la carte menu with desk service.
Detour: If vegetarianism isn’t your factor, hunt down a traditional Swiss bratwurst as an alternative. Sternen Grill has been serving this conventional snack since 1963. Pair it with a hunk of bread or a bath of potato salad.
10. Climb the Freitag tower
It’s exhausting to cross a day in Switzerland with out seeing somebody with a Freitag bag. This ubiquitous Swiss model started life in Zürich within the early Nineteen Nineties because the brainchild of two creative brothers who determined to make sensible messenger baggage out of outdated truck tarps.
It’s acceptable, then, that the flagship store in Zürich West can also be made out of recycled supplies, 9 former delivery containers, to be exact, piled one on high of one other to create a creaky outdated tower. It is a trek up the steps to the highest, however value it for the view of the world’s industrial sprawl and its shocking incongruities, such because the close by wave pool the place surfers may be seen catching a journey.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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