3-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich, Switzerland
3 days
About Zurich, Switzerland
Experience the magic of Zurich, Switzerland, a city where modernity and tradition blend seamlessly. As the cultural hub of Switzerland, Zurich offers a rich blend of history, art, and nature. Explore the charming Old Town (Altstadt) with its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings. Visit the iconic Grossmünster Church, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from its tower. Indulge in world-class shopping on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive streets. Experience the vibrant nightlife in Zurich West. Don't miss the stunning Lake Zurich, perfect for boat trips and lakeside strolls. For art lovers, over 50 museums and 100 galleries are waiting to be discovered. And of course, your trip won't be complete without tasting Swiss chocolate and cheese. Zurich is not just a city, it's a world of its own.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
A Day at Zurich Zoo and Kunsthaus Zurich
Morning
Visit the Zurich Zoo, home to more than 360 different animal species. During Christmas, the zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with special festive activities for children.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the University District, known for its vibrant food scene.
Afternoon
Explore the Kunsthaus Zurich, one of the most important art museums in Switzerland. They often have special exhibitions during the holiday season.
Dinner
Dine in the Seefeld district, known for its upscale restaurants.
Evening
Visit the Christmas market at Bellevue Platz, one of the largest in Zurich. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, browse the stalls, and try some mulled wine.
Day 3
Lake Zurich Boat Tour and Rietberg Museum Visit
Morning
Take a boat tour on Lake Zurich for stunning views of the city and the snow-capped Alps. Some tours offer special Christmas-themed cruises.
Lunch
Have lunch in the Enge district, which offers a range of dining options.
Afternoon
Visit the Rietberg Museum, which houses a collection of non-European art. During Christmas, the museum often hosts special events and workshops.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner in the Niederdorf district, known for its quaint restaurants and cafes.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Opera House, where you can catch a festive ballet or opera performance.
Attractions in Itinerary (15)
1Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich's main downtown street and one of the world's most expensive and exclusive shopping avenues.
2Old Town
Historic center of Zurich with narrow, winding streets, medieval houses, churches, and town hall.
3Swiss National Museum
The Swiss National Museum in Zurich is one of the most important art museums of cultural history in Europe.
4Zurich West
Zurich West is a trendy district with an industrial history, now known for its culture, clubs, and cuisine.
5Zurich Zoo
Located in Zurichberg, Zurich Zoo is a popular attraction that houses a variety of animals from all over the world. It is known for its commitment to conservation and education.
6University District
The University District in Zurich is a vibrant area known for its academic and cultural institutions. It's home to the University of Zurich and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, among other institutions.
7Kunsthaus Zurich
One of the most significant art museums in Switzerland, it holds a vast collection of modern art.
8Seefeld
Seefeld is a trendy and upscale neighborhood in Zurich. It's known for its vibrant dining scene, boutique shops, and beautiful lakeside location.
9Christmas market at Bellevue Platz
The Christmas market at Bellevue Platz is a festive event that showcases local artisans and culinary delights. It's a great place to buy unique gifts and sample traditional Swiss holiday foods.
10Lake Zurich
Lake Zurich is a lake in Switzerland, extending southeast of the city of Zurich. It offers boat rides and stunning views.
11Enge
Enge is a residential district in Zurich known for its parks and cultural institutions. It's a peaceful area with beautiful views of Lake Zurich.
12Rietberg Museum
The Rietberg Museum is a museum in Zürich, displaying Asian, African, American and Oceanian art. It is the only art museum of non-European cultures in Switzerland.
13Niederdorf
Niederdorf is a vibrant neighborhood in Zurich's old town. It's known for its pedestrian streets lined with boutiques, bookstores, and outdoor cafes. The area also boasts a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs.
14Opera House
The Zurich Opera House is a major Swiss opera company based in Zurich. The Opera House offers a variety of performances including opera, ballet, and concerts. The building itself is a stunning piece of architecture, making it a must-see landmark in Zurich.
15Singing Christmas Tree at Werdmühleplatz
The Singing Christmas Tree at Werdmühleplatz is a unique and beloved holiday tradition in Zurich. Every year, a large Christmas tree structure is erected, and children stand on its tiers to sing Christmas carols.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
A traditional dish from Zurich, it consists of sliced veal that is cooked in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce.
Raclette
A popular Swiss dish that is especially loved in Zurich, Raclette is a semi-hard cheese that is melted and scraped onto potatoes, pickles, and onions.
Fondue
Originating from the Alps but popular throughout Switzerland including Zurich, Fondue is a dish where bread is dipped into a pot of melted cheese.
Rösti
A Swiss-style grated and fried potato dish that is often eaten for breakfast in Zurich.
Swiss Chocolate
Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, and Zurich is home to many chocolatiers. Swiss chocolate is known for its high quality and unique flavors.
Swiss Pastries
Zurich is known for its bakeries that serve a variety of Swiss pastries, including butterzopf, a braided bread, and nusstorte, a nut-filled pastry.
Lebkuchen
A traditional Swiss gingerbread cookie that is often enjoyed during the holiday season in Zurich.
Sausages
Switzerland, including Zurich, is known for its variety of sausages, such as cervelat and bratwurst.
Bündner Nusstorte
A traditional Swiss nut-filled pastry that is popular in Zurich. It is made with a shortcrust pastry and filled with caramelized sugar, cream, and chopped nuts.
Swiss Cheese
Switzerland is famous for its cheese, and Zurich is a great place to try varieties like Emmental, Gruyère, and Appenzeller.
Swiss Wine
Switzerland, including Zurich, is known for its high-quality local wines, particularly white wines made from the Chasselas grape.
Rivella
A popular Swiss soft drink made from milk whey. It is a refreshing beverage often enjoyed in Zurich.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Zurich, Switzerland as a tourist is during the summer months from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city also hosts a number of festivals and events during the summer. However, if you're interested in winter sports like skiing, the winter months from December to February would be the best time to visit.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day (regional holiday) |
January 2 | Tue | Berchtold Day (regional holiday) |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany (regional holiday) |
March 1 | Fri | Republic Day (Neuchâtel) |
March 19 | Tue | Saint Joseph's Day (regional holiday) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday (regional holiday) |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday (regional holiday) |
April 4 | Thu | Näfels Procession (Glarus) |
May 1 | Wed | May Day (regional holiday) |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day (regional holiday) |
May 20 | Mon | Pentecost Monday (regional holiday) |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi (regional holiday) |
June 23 | Sun | Jura Independence Day (Jura) |
August 1 | Thu | Swiss National Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary (regional holiday) |
September 5 | Thu | Genevese Fast (Geneva) |
September 16 | Mon | Federal Fast Monday (regional holiday) |
September 22 | Sun | Mauritius Day (Appenzell Innerrhoden) |
September 25 | Wed | St. Nicholas of Flüe (Obwalden) |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day (regional holiday) |
December 8 | Sun | Immaculate Conception (regional holiday) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day (regional holiday) |
December 26 | Thu | St. Stephen's Day (regional holiday) |
December 31 | Tue | Restoration Day (Geneva) |
How to get around
Zurich Public Transport
Zurich has an extensive public transportation system that includes trams, buses, trains, and boats. The Zurich Card offers unlimited travel on this network within the city limits, and also includes short boat trips and excursions to the Uetliberg mountain.
Ridesharing
Uber operates in Zurich, providing a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around the city. You can book a ride using the Uber app on your smartphone.
Bicycle Rental
Zurich offers several bike rental services, including Züri rollt, a free bike rental service. You can pick up a bike from one of their many locations around the city.
Car Rental
If you prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies in Zurich. However, parking can be expensive and difficult to find in the city center. It's also worth noting that Zurich's city center is very walkable and well-served by public transport.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Zurich, but they can be quite expensive. You can hail a taxi on the street, or book one in advance.
Walk
Zurich's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an enjoyable and practical way to get around. Many of Zurich's top attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.
SBB Trains
For trips outside of Zurich, the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) offers regular train services to other Swiss cities and towns, as well as international destinations.
Boat
Lake Zurich Navigation Company operates boats on Lake Zurich and the Limmat River. These boats offer a scenic and relaxing way to travel between various points around the lake and river.
Important information
CurrencyCHF CHF
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 144; Fire: 118; Police: 117
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Zurich, Switzerland as a first time visitor
1
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and it's known for its cleanliness and high quality of life.
2
The official language is German, but most locals also speak English, French, and Italian.
3
The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
4
Zurich is known for being expensive. From dining out to shopping, expect to pay more than you would in other European cities.
5
Public transportation in Zurich is excellent. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and trains that are punctual and reliable.
6
Zurich is a very safe city, but like any other place, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
7
Tipping is not mandatory in Zurich as service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it's customary to round up the bill to the nearest franc.
8
Zurich has a temperate climate. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Winters (December to February) are cold with temperatures ranging from 28°F to 45°F (-2°C to 7°C).
9
Switzerland uses Type J plugs, so you may need a power adapter if your devices use different plugs.
10
Zurich is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).
11
Switzerland is not part of the European Union, but it is part of the Schengen Area, which allows passport-free travel across 26 European countries.
12
Zurich is a very walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones. It's a great way to explore the city.
13
Swiss people are generally reserved and value their privacy. It's important to respect their personal space and avoid loud behavior.
14
Zurich has strict laws against littering. Even throwing a cigarette butt on the street can result in a fine.
15
Switzerland has a high standard of healthcare. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
16
Tap water in Zurich is safe to drink and of high quality. It's sourced from natural springs and lakes.
17
Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places in Zurich, including bars, restaurants, and public transportation.
18
Zurich has a vibrant nightlife with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. However, noise laws are strictly enforced, so keep the noise down when outside.
19
Swiss people are punctual and value efficiency. It's important to be on time for appointments and public transportation.
20
Zurich has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. However, accommodation can be expensive, so it's recommended to book in advance.
Basic German to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hallo | Ha-lo | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Auf Wiedersehen | Owf vee-der-zane | Leaving someone |
Please | Bitte | Bit-te | Asking for something |
Thank you | Danke | Dahn-ke | Showing gratitude |
Yes | Ja | Ya | Agreeing with someone |
No | Nein | Nine | Disagreeing with someone |
Excuse me | Entschuldigung | Ent-shool-dee-goong | Getting someone's attention |
I'm sorry | Es tut mir leid | Es toot meer lite | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Sprechen Sie Englisch? | Shprek-en zee Eng-lish | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Ich verstehe nicht | Ikh fer-shtay-uh nikht | Not understanding something |
Where is the bathroom? | Wo ist die Toilette? | Vo ist dee toy-let-te | Asking for the bathroom |
How much does this cost? | Wie viel kostet das? | Vee feel kos-tet das | Asking for the price of something |
I would like... | Ich möchte... | Ikh mukh-te | Ordering something |
Help! | Hilfe! | Hil-fe | In case of emergency |
Can I have the menu, please? | Kann ich bitte die Speisekarte haben? | Kan ikh bit-te dee shpy-zay-kar-te ha-ben | Asking for the menu at a restaurant |
Water | Wasser | Vas-ser | Asking for water |
Beer | Bier | Beer | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Wein | Vine | Ordering wine |
Cheers! | Prost! | Prost | Toasting someone |
Good night | Gute Nacht | Goo-te Nakht | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Swimsuit
Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)
Rain jacket or umbrella
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Maps and guidebooks
Swiss Francs (local currency)
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and adapter
Headphones
Laptop or tablet
Camera
Memory cards or film for camera
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow and blanket
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Plastic bags for dirty clothes
Travel lock
Swiss-German phrasebook
Weather Conditions
Zurich, Switzerland, is a beautiful city to visit, but the weather can be quite variable, so it's important to be prepared. In general, Zurich experiences a temperate climate. Summers (June to August) are warm but not excessively hot, with temperatures typically ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). This is a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or swimming in Lake Zurich. However, do remember to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Autumn (September to November) sees a drop in temperature, ranging from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C), and increased rainfall. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella. The fall foliage in Zurich is beautiful, making it a great time for photography. Winter (December to February) in Zurich can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, ranging from 25°F to 40°F (-4°C to 4°C). Snow is common, making it a great time for winter sports enthusiasts. Be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring (March to May) is a transitional period with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). The city begins to bloom during this time, offering beautiful landscapes. A light jacket and umbrella are recommended as rain showers are common. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Also, keep in mind that weather can change quickly in Zurich, so it's wise to dress in layers and always carry an umbrella. Enjoy your trip!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 5° / -2° | January is the coldest month in Zurich, with snowfall common, making it a great time for winter sports enthusiasts. |
February | 7° / -1° | February is still cold with occasional snow, but the days start to get a little longer. |
March | 13° / 1° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures slowly rising and the snow starting to melt. |
April | 16° / 4° | April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
May | 20° / 8° | May brings warmer temperatures and more sunshine, making it a great time to visit the city's parks and gardens. |
June | 25° / 11° | June is the start of summer with long, sunny days and warm temperatures, ideal for exploring the city and nearby lakes. |
July | 27° / 13° | July is the warmest month in Zurich, with plenty of sunshine and occasional rain showers. |
August | 26° / 13° | August is similar to July, with warm temperatures and occasional rain showers, perfect for outdoor activities. |
September | 21° / 10° | September marks the beginning of autumn, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. |
October | 15° / 6° | October is a cool month with the leaves changing color, making it a picturesque time to visit. |
November | 10° / 2° | November is a chilly month with shorter days and the first signs of winter approaching. |
December | 5° / -1° | December is a cold month with snowfall, making it a magical time to visit, especially during the Christmas markets. |
Did you know?
Places near by Zurich, Switzerland
Rhine Falls
The largest waterfall in Europe, offering boat trips, viewing platforms & guided tours.
Lucerne
A compact city known for its preserved medieval architecture, sits amid snowcapped mountains on Lake Lucerne.
Rapperswil
Known for its castle, old town, and a beautiful wooden bridge.
Stein am Rhein
Well-preserved medieval town famous for its beautifully painted facades.
Bern
The capital city of Switzerland, known for its medieval city center.
Basel
A city on the Rhine River in northwest Switzerland, known for its vibrant cultural scene, particularly in art and theatre.
St. Gallen
Known for its Abbey of Saint Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Interlaken
A traditional resort town in the mountainous Bernese Oberland region.
Lugano
A city in southern Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region. Its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures is closely related to that of Italy's northern Lombardy region.
Lausanne
A city on Lake Geneva, known for its Olympic Museum.
Geneva
A city that lies at the southern tip of expansive Lac Léman (Lake Geneva). Known for its Red Cross headquarters and UN office.
