Switzerland Travel Destinations

On the other hand, I don't recommend spending too much time in Zurich, simply because there doesn't feel (to me) like there's a whole lot to do here. Lucerne has more sights, and is probably a better overall destination. Nonetheless, if you're flying to or from Switzerland you'll probably be spending a day in Zurich, and it will be worth it. It's a very pleasant place to spend half a day. Find more information about travel to Zurich on the Zurich Tourism site.

Here are a few ideas:

• Take a lake cruise - Lake Zurich is a pleasant walk away from the central train station, about a half-mile away, along the Limmat river. The streets are lined with shops, parks and churches, and there are a number of different cruises of all types on the lake.
• See the Swiss National Museum - right behind the train station, the museum houses a large collection of Swiss cultural artifacts, from the prehistoric age to the Middle Ages to more recent times.
• Dinner and nightlife on Niederdorf street - Niederdorfstrasse runs parallel to the Limmat river (on the north side) between the train station and lake. It's a lively, pedestrian-only street filled with restaurants, bars, and throngs of people. Come here in the evening for dinner and nightlife on your visit to Zurich.
• Shopping and dinner near Bahnhof street - Bahnhofstrasse also runs parallel to the Limmat river (on the south side) between the train station and lake. It is the main pedestrian and shopping area, where you'll find all kinds of stores big and small, and a great collection of cafes, bars and restaurants. It's all tucked into a delightful maze of Gasse's (alleyways), that lead you to all sorts of hidden squares and fun surprises. Overall, it's more upscale than Niederdorf, which tends to offer more affordable options. I love spending an evening in the Gasse district near Bahnhofstrasse.
• Rheinfalls - A daytrip to the Rheinfall waterfall near Schaffhausen is a powerful experience. Don't skip the viewpoints from down below the waterfall.