City Guide - Switzerland - Zurich

 

 

Situated at the foot of the Swiss Alps, Zurich is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with astonishing backdrops over the crystal-clear Zürichsee (Lake Zurich) picturesque promenades and architecture demonstrating exquisite style and grandeur. Zurich is also one of the most sophisticated cities in Europe, representing a convergence on international style, expressed mostly without pretension.

With its origins dating back to 15BC, Zurich today has developed into the commercial and financial centre of Switzerland. It is often said that 'Zurich is a city of bankers in a country of banks'. Perhaps as a result of such, the city maintains a higher than average concentration of wealth and imparts a sense of culture and financial importance that belies its modest size. Consequently, it's also a city full of bankers, lawyers and accountants, resulting in an profusion of dynamically questionable personalities - interpret as dull.

Significantly, Zurich is a city which can be comfortably explored with minimal effort or exertion, a relatively level city with many of the attractions concentrated centrally between the main station and the lake, feeding off the famous Bahnhofstrasse, reputedly the most expensive expanse of retail real estate in the world.

Of course, there are many significant historical attractions for the academics amongst us, most famous being the Fraumünster and Grossmünster Churches, religion imparting a strong influence dating back to the 16th century, a time when Zurich was the centre of the Reformation.

However, for most the prime attraction will be the Bahnhofstrasse, elegantly flanked by lime trees and with representations from all major designer brands. With exception to the furriers, which are morbidly fascinating and hence somewhat fitting for Zurich, enjoy the vista, take a photo or two, and explore the immently more interesting cobbled streets and lane ways running parallel between the Bahnhofstrasse and the River Limmat.

Here you will find the true character of Zurich, elegant boutiques, fascinating antiquities, quaint cafes, gourmet food providors and modern designer living.

Crossing the river will reveal some of the most interesting walkways and buildings which are situated within the Old Town. This area maintains a high appeal and is the location of many of Zurich's most fashionable bars, cafes and restaurants.

In summer, the view of the city is beautiful, with the lake reflecting the mountains and jet-stream embossed blue sky. It's also a time when the youth reclaim the city, pretty girls in summer frocks riding bicycles, young couples strolling hand in hand along the shore of the lake at dusk, bringing forth a warmth to the city that is otherwise suppressed throughout the remainder of the year.

Dressed appropriately, the winter snowfalls bring a magic of their own. Be prepared however, the chill from the lake can be quite invigorating (unpleasant) at times, only to be overshadowed by the excessive compensatory dry heat maintained within all hotels, restaurants and shops.  

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Overview - Significant world city, very sophisticated, albeit executed in a highly conservative manner. High scenically appeal. Very expensive. Languages - German and English. Tourism focus - historical, shopping, the experience of a beautiful city. Major financial capital, extreme concentration of wealth. Recommended stay - 2 to 3 days.