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 enjoy world-class art, wander through the Old Town, 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.
Morning: Art or History
Kunsthaus Zürich – Zurich’s World-Class Art Museum
The Kunsthaus Zurich is one of Switzerland’s premier art institutions, with collections spanning medieval masters to modern works by Alberto Giacometti.
It’s an unmissable stop for art lovers, offering a chance to explore everything from Old Masters to contemporary exhibitions.
If you decide to include Kunsthaus Zürich in your morning activities, you can conveniently purchase tickets in advance through the museum’s official ticketing portal – Kunsthaus Zürich Tickets
The online system allows you to select your preferred date and entry time, helping you avoid queues, though same-day tickets may still be available at the museum desk depending on capacity.
Opening hours vary, so it’s best to confirm them for your travel date. If you plan to see both the Kunsthaus and the Swiss National Museum, look into combined passes that may offer extra value.
Swiss National Museum – Exploring Switzerland’s Cultural History
If history is more your style, the Swiss National Museum is the perfect choice. Housed in a building that looks like a fairytale castle right beside Zurich’s main station, it offers a fascinating overview of Switzerland’s cultural past.
Inside, you’ll find exhibitions on Swiss traditions, artifacts, and everyday life through the centuries. Even a short visit can give you a deeper context for the country’s history and identity.
You can buy your tickets here: Swiss National Museum Tickets
Afternoon: Old Town Walk and Lunch
After your cultural stop, head into the Old Town for a relaxed lunch. I grabbed a plate of rösti with melted cheese at a small café — simple but hearty.
From there, I strolled along 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.
I then 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, the kind of place where you stumble upon hidden courtyards and centuries-old guild houses without even trying.
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 world-class art and medieval charm.
From Giacometti’s works at the Kunsthaus to the cobblestone lanes of the Old Town, 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.
