Sipping a can of beer and snacking on pretzels while watching those majestic swans calmingly glide through the waters of Lake Zurich - this is my usual scene whenever I visit Zurich, Switzerland during summer. Recently, I had a 24-hour layover, so I decided to stroll around and show you how beautiful this city is. Known for its high quality of living, one can expect that a tour around this city will be quite pricey. But you can have a fun day while keeping your travel costs at bay. Here's how I did it.
At A Glance
Zurich, Switzerland
With its captivating natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history, it's no wonder Zurich is the most visited city in Switzerland. It is the country's largest city and a major cultural and financial hub. It is listed as one of Europe's most expensive cities but undoubtedly one of its most gorgeous ones!
24 Hours in Zurich, Switzerland
Though it may seem like touring around this city can get pretty expensive, Zurich is filled with free stunning spots. I visited the following during my 2024 Zurich summer stroll.
Old Town
I rode the train and alighted at Bahnhofstrasse/HB. I was greeted by the medieval structures of Zurich's Old Town. With its well-preserved structures, traveling around Old Town will make you feel like you've traveled back in time. My stroll was relaxing since I walked around the pedestrian zone where cars are restricted.
I spent the afternoon walking along the charming cobblestone pathways and watched the sunset as it painted a romantic ambiance to this medieval town.
Here are some of the photos I took at Old Town. Check out my blog regarding Old Town of Zurich for more info.
The thing about visiting countries in the northern hemisphere during summer is that they have longer days. That means more time for me to roam around! It was July then and the sun set at 9 PM. Plus, the climate was mild, without excessive heat, cold, or humidity. My shirt and pants were perfect for the weather and there's no need to bring a coat. A perfect day indeed.
I went back to my hotel, ate a quick dinner, and rested my head.
Waldweiher Mass
The next day, the sun has risen before 6 AM. I began my day early, had a cup of coffee and some pretzels, and then went for a walk to a nearby forest. We stayed at a hotel in Opfikon, and Waldweiher Mass is within walking distance.
On my way to the forest, I walked through a gravel path. I especially enjoyed this countryside ambiance. I saw acres of wheat fields, corn fields, and apple trees at the side of the road. The houses were so cute! I felt like I was walking through a painting!
I came across a rural village. Most of the houses had barns for horses, alpacas, and different farm animals. Like a celebrity, I even took a paparazzi shot of a baby alpaca comfortably sitting on its barn. I was in love with the simplicity of this place.
I finally reached the forest. There's just something about walking through trees that calms my mind. I walked around for about an hour and enjoyed the smell of the trees, the cool breeze, and the warm streaks of sunlight as they peeked through the leaves. I took a bunch of photos and videos as well.
I may have walked way more than usual but I didn't feel exhausted at all since the view just energized me. I went back to my hotel room and prepared for my flight.
Zurich on a Budget
Now I am quite fortunate that my trips are bleisure. The airfare and accommodation are already paid for by the company so I cover my transportation and dining needs. But for leisure travelers on a budget, here are some tips to maximize your travel budget.
Visit during the cheapest months.
Although I love Zurich during summer and winter, the cheapest rates for airfare and accommodations are from February to April.
Be creative with your accommodation.
Look for cheaper hotels in nearby towns. The transportation system is so efficient even outside the city.
Book an Airbnb in nearby towns. Look for one that has a kitchen so you can minimize eating out.
Book a hostel that has a kitchen.
Pitch a tent. Know more about this here.
Opt for strolling or renting a bike.
Zurich is a beautiful city. Wherever you stay, there might be a nearby quaint village, park, or free stunning spot for you to stroll around on foot or bike.
Minimize dining out.
Since I usually stay for a 24-hour layover, I just bring my packed snacks. I also buy some pretzels in supermarkets for easy snacking.
Shop for ingredients in supermarkets and cook your food.
Visit markets for fresh ingredients and takeaway items.
Have a picnic at a nearby park or town square.
Refill your water bottles at any of the 1200+ drinking water fountains in the city. The drinking water is of top quality and a hundred percent free.
There are so many things to do here for free. Here are some.
Walk around the pedestrian zone of the Old Town.
Hike Uetliberg, Zurich's central mountain.
Just outside Zurich, visit Langenberg Wildlife Park to see animals in their wild environment.
Visit the Botanical Garden at the University of Zurich.
Be informed and entertained by focusTerra, the Earth and Science Discovery Center of ETH Zurich.
Take a look at the birds rescued at Zurich Aviary and Bird Sanctuary.
Try thrifting at Brockenstuben.
I'll never get tired of strolling around this marvelous city and there's just so much to explore! See you on the next blog!
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