Half a Day in Zurich: Old Town Walks, Lakefront Views, and Swiss Eats
Zurich might be Switzerland’s largest city and financial hub, but with just a few hours, you can still experience its charm.
On my way from Bern to Lake Como, I carved out half a day in Zurich — enough time to wander through the Old Town, stroll along the lake promenade, and indulge in a little Swiss chocolate.
👉 This stop was part of my Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days of Scenic Trains, Lakes, and Alpine Adventures, the perfect balance of lakes, mountains, and cities.
A Walk Through Old Town – Bahnhofstrasse to Niederdorf
I started my walk on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets. Even if you’re not here to buy luxury watches or designer clothes, the energy of the street is worth experiencing.
From there, I cut across to the Lindenhof, a leafy square on a hill with sweeping views over the Limmat River. It’s hard to believe this peaceful spot was once a Roman fort.
Crossing the river brought me into Niederdorf, Zurich’s medieval heart. The narrow cobblestone lanes are lined with quirky boutiques, bookshops, and bars.
It’s the kind of place where you stumble upon hidden courtyards and centuries-old guild houses without even trying.
Lake Zurich Promenade – The City’s Playground
From the Old Town, it’s only a few minutes to the Lake Zurich promenade. On sunny days, locals sit on the steps with gelato, kids feed swans, and couples head out for short boat rides.
Even with limited time, it’s worth pausing here just to soak up the atmosphere. I didn’t have time for the full round trip, but you can hop on a quick one-hour boat cruise if your schedule allows.
It’s a relaxing way to see the city from the water, framed by mountains in the distance.
Art or History – If Time Allows
If you still have an hour to spare, Zurich has two excellent museums within easy reach. The Kunsthaus Zurich is one of Switzerland’s premier art museums, with works ranging from medieval masters to Alberto Giacometti.
If history is more your style, the Swiss National Museum, shaped like a fairytale castle right by the main station, gives a fantastic overview of the country’s cultural past.
Even a short visit here can add an extra layer of context to your trip.
Where to Eat – Cafés and Swiss Chocolate
Zurich is a paradise for coffee lovers and chocoholics. I grabbed lunch at a small café in the Old Town — rösti with melted cheese, simple but hearty.
Afterwards, I couldn’t resist stopping at Sprüngli, the city’s legendary chocolate shop. Their Luxemburgerli macarons are bite-sized perfection and make for the sweetest souvenir.
Fun fact: Zurich has more chocolate shops per square kilometer than any other city in Switzerland. No wonder it’s so hard to leave without a sweet tooth fix.
Transition to Lake Como
By early afternoon, it was time to continue south. From Zurich’s main station, the direct train to Lake Como takes about 3.5 hours, passing through scenic valleys and tunnels that eventually open up to Italian sunshine.
It felt like the perfect way to round off a Switzerland trip — one last lake, but this time on the other side of the border.
Final Thoughts – A Taste of Zurich in Just Hours
Half a day in Zurich gave me just enough to appreciate its mix of medieval charm and lakeside relaxation. From Lindenhof’s historic views to the promenade along Lake Zurich, the city felt welcoming and unhurried, even on a tight schedule.
Add in some Swiss chocolate, and it’s the sweetest short stop you can make.
If you’re following a similar route, don’t skip Zurich. Even a few hours here can leave a lasting impression before you continue on your journey.
