Fed by crisp mountain waters, Lake Zurich once served mostly for passenger traffic and cargo transport. Today the sprawling lake counts among Switzerland's top tourist destinations, luring visitors with its sightseeing boat tours, walking paths, and lush parks, set against a chain of photogenic hills. Used to supply clean water to the surrounding cities, the lake is 40 km (25 mi) long and about 3 km (2 mi) wide. The city of Zurich wraps itself around the northwestern end of lake and provides a base for cycling tours and paddle steamer cruises along the sun-kissed and prosperous "Golden Coast." Zurich's well-developed lakefront areas boast several immaculate beaches, a big draw for active vacationers from all over the world. Make Lake Zurich part of your personalized Zurich itinerary using our Zurich itinerary planner.
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Reviews
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Fereidun S
Lake Zurich is a typical Switzerland lake with beautiful surrounding. But I found Lake Geneva more charming and far more beautiful. more »
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nateb361
Loved the 1.5 hr boat ride. Beautiful lake, and scenery with so much activity. Highly recommend during a stay in Zurich to see how the locals live. Stop off along the way and bring a bathing suit(we w... more »
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ClontarfPorky76
We took the log 1909 ferry from Rapperwil on Lake Zurich to Zurich. The Lake is beautiful with excellent views from the ferry of both sides of the lake. Lunch was served on the ferry. Quite expensive ... more »
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Best things to do in Zurich
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Old Town (Altstadt)
Zurich
Visit for: 3h
Kunsthaus
Zurich
Visit for: 3h
Bahnhofstrasse
Zurich
Visit for: 2h
Side Trips
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Mt Pilatus
Lucerne
Visit for: 2h 30min
Lake Lucerne
Lucerne
Visit for: 2h
Parasailing & Paragliding
Interlaken
Visit for: 3h
Hidden Gems
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Swiss National Museum
Zurich
Visit for: 3h
Museum Rietberg
Zurich
Visit for: 3h
Lindenhofplatz
Zurich
Visit for: 1h 30min
Kid Friendly Attractions
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Zoo Zurich
Zurich
Visit for: 5h 30min
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Nature & Wildlife Tours
Zurich
Visit for: 3h 30min
Strandbad Tiefenbrunnen
Zurich
Visit for: 4h
Where to stay in Zurich
As the financial hub of the country, it shouldn't come as a surprise that staying in Zurich usually comes at a price. The city puts emphasis on its glamorous four- and five-star hotels and international chains that appeal to traveling professionals. There a handful of hostels and guesthouses for the budget-conscious traveler. When staying in Zurich, you'll find that the majority of the accommodation offerings are in close proximity to the city core, either on the left or right bank. The left bank is the glitzier of the two, with its grand restaurants, shops, and proximity to the banks and train station. The right side, as home to the Old Town, charms with its historical atmosphere. Here you'll find independently owned boutique hotels and some mid-range options. The city also sports several hotels geared toward wellness, with spas and saunas. These tend to be pricey too, but you're guaranteed a truly relaxing retreat.
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