Zurich is Switzerland’s most cosmopolitan city. It has a diverse ethnic population that includes people from Italy, the Balkans, Portugal and Germany.
The historic centre features an elegant Old Town with well-preserved Renaissance buildings, capstone lanes and plenty of sidewalk restaurants and cafes. Shopping is concentrated in Bahnhofstrasse, which is lined with shops and boutiques.
Parade Square
In the heart of Zurich’s prestigious financial center, Parade Square is home to some of Switzerland’s leading banks and high-end fashion boutiques. You’ll find world-famous confectioners like Confiserie Sprungli, as well as historic buildings that date back to the 1700s.
The main tram line converges here and this bustling square is the perfect place to people watch. In the middle of the square is the Credit Suisse building that dates back to 1876 and was designed by famous architect Jakob Friedrich Wanner.
One of the best places to experience the chocolate culture in Zurich is at the Sprungli cafe. Here you can try their renowned Luxemburgerli and other delicious treats. The shop also sells a variety of tarts, cakes, and truffles.
Grossmunster Church
The twin towers of Grossmunster, a Romanesque church built by Charlemagne to commemorate the saints Felix and Regula, are some of Zurich’s most recognizable landmarks. They stand imposingly over the city’s skyline and can be seen from afar.
The Grossmunster also became an important place of worship in Protestant Christianity due to its role in the Reformation led by Ulrich Zwingli in the first half of the 16th century. In addition to the towers, this church has several exceptional decorative windows and a Romanesque crypt.
One of the oldest churches in Zurich, Grossmunster is a major historical attraction in the city. Its two towers are a testament to its importance in the city’s history.
It is also home to a remarkable crypt, with numerous Gothic wall paintings that tell the story of the martyrs Felix and Regula and their servant Exuperantius. It is possible to climb the tower for a breathtaking view of Zurich’s Old Town.
Predigerkirche
The Predigerkirche is one of the main churches in Zurich. It is located on the Munsterhof square and is one of the city’s main landmarks. It was built in the 13th century and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries.
Originally, it was built in Romanesque style as a church for the Dominican order. However, it was converted into a Protestant church during the Reformation movement in Switzerland.
Today, the Predigerkirche is still used as a church and it hosts regular worship services. It is also home to a library and a dining area for free Sunday lunches.
The exterior of the church is made up of red sandstone and it is decorated with intricate carvings. The interior of the church features a Gothic nave and a Baroque chancel. There is also a stained glass window by Marc Chagall.
Swiss Museum of Technology
Designed by Gustav Gull, this national museum is a treasure trove of Switzerland’s cultural history. It tracks the development of Swiss identity and culture from prehistory to the present, and it is one of the most important art museums in the world.
Besides the permanent collection, it also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring renowned artists. Its collections of modern art include paintings by Edvard Munch, Alberto Giacometti, and many others.
The WOW Museum-Room for Illusions is an interactive place where visitors can try their hand at a variety of experiments. This is an excellent way to entertain friends and family or get some unusual photos for social media.
The Swiss Museum of Technology is an excellent place for young and old alike to learn about the development of technology. Its exhibits and interactive attractions will keep you engaged, regardless of the weather.