Fun In Zürich (Switzerland) - Day 1
A trip to Europe would be incomplete without a stop in Zürich, a city in Switzerland known for its beautiful location, rich history, and a vibrant nightlife. You can easily lose track of time while exploring Zürich’s winding streets, going from one attraction to another and meeting new people along the way.
The city has a rich history of over 2000 years and is considered to be one of Europe’s oldest cities to be inhabited continuously. Perhaps this is why Zurich’s beauty combines the vibrant and lively features of a modern city along with the ancient and peaceful nature of an old city, resulting in a very distinct feel that no other city in the world can offer.
Zurich is considered Switzerland’s financial capital as well as a hotspot for leading research and development. It has a population of over 1.4 million people and covers an area of 87.88 km2, making it one of the safest cities with a high quality of life that many people dream of.
Interesting Facts About Zurich :
- Buying bottled water is a waste of money, as Switzerland is one of the countries with the cleanest drinking water in the world.
- One of the Happiest Cities in the World due to their high quality of living.
- People believe that Zurich is the capital of Switzerland, but in reality, Bern is the capital of Switzerland.
- Switzerland has four official languages and the city of Zurich is called differently in all these languages, such as Zurich – In French and English; Zurigo – In Italian; Turitg – In Roman; Zürich – In German.
Markthalle im Viadukt (Market Hall) :
We start our journey in Zurich by visiting the Markthalle im Viadukt (Market Hall), which is one of the most iconic tourist places to visit in Zurich. The Viadukt is owned and maintained by the PWG foundation. The PWG Foundation works to preserve and create affordable residential and commercial spaces in Zurich so the population can enjoy quality life with sustainable living.
They created this concept for commercial use as part of their effort to improve the district’s quality of life along with preserving their rich history. This place used to be an overpass, and in this specific case one for the railways during the 1890s. This place now offers local products and exquisite Swiss cuisine takeaways for your lunch or dinner.
Now, this place is a modern indoor market hall, and serves as a foodie’s paradise. You can try both regional and international cuisines here, and can also order for Sushi, pasta, or pies while taking a stroll. This place is an all-in-one restaurant.
Grossmünster :
In 286, Zurich’s two saints, Felix and Regula, were beheaded. However, legend has it that they did not die immediately, but instead managed to pick up their heads and walk up a hill to pray before dying. Many years later, while passing through the city, Charlemagne’s (Roman emperor) horse happened upon the martyrs’ tombs. He took it as a divine sign and decided to construct Grossmünster on the grounds.
The beautiful church with the two identical towers played an important role during the Reformation, when Zwingli’s preaching established Zurich as the primary religious center in Switzerland. The church is devoid of decorations, but the simplicity is appealing, and there is a serene air of dignity inside.
The stained-glass windows are lovely, but the most famous ones by Marc Chagall can be found on the other side of the Limmat River in Fraumünster. The northern tower of Grossmünster is open to visitors all year round, and upon climbing nearly 200 stairs, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.
Fraumünster :
Fraumünster Church, located opposite to the Grossmünster church, was founded in 1853 as a women’s monastery and has been remodeled and expanded numerous times over the centuries. While the church’s exterior is appealing, the interior is the truly breathtaking. The stained-glass windows were designed by Swiss artist Augusto Giacometti and Russian-Jewish artist Marc Chagall, then head towards the crypt (which was sealed until 2016), and enjoy the gardens, courtyards, and fountains that surround the church.
Here Are Some Things to Know Before You Go There :
- There is a small fee to enter the church.
- It is forbidden to take photographs inside the church.
- A small gift shop sells postcards depicting the famous windows and other parts of the church.
- On Sundays, the church services begin at 10 a.m.
Lunch At Zeughauskeller :
Zeughauskeller is a popular Swiss beer hall among both locals and tourists. The restaurant is so well-known that it has menus in multiple languages for its many visitors.
After visiting 2 beautiful churches, it was time to try the best of Zurich’s cuisine. We were extremely fortunate because, despite the fact that we had no reservations, we were able to secure a table after about a wait of 15 minutes.
The restaurant building, which was originally Zurich’s armory, was built in 1487 and is located just off Paradeplatz in the center of the city. Diners are awestruck by the diverse weaponry that are on display at this restaurant, they range from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Since 1926, the Keugaukeller has been a peaceful place for people to meet, eat, and drink. The arms on display are now only used for decoration purposes. The Zeughauskeller serves traditional Zurich fare such as the “Rösti and Geschnetzeltes”.
St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Zurich Ontario :
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Zurich belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada’s Eastern Lutheran Synod (ELCIC). The Church was established in 1861.
The tower’s large bell was installed in 1878, after the building was completed. The tall spire, visible to the surrounding community, is a living testament to these forefathers’ devout faith, as well as a constant reminder to future generations of God’s dwelling place.
The new church was consecrated on the First Sunday in Advent, 1878. A school room was added to the west end, where the beginner class met on Sundays and the confirmation class met during the week. In the early years, learning the German language was emphasized in addition to Catechetical instruction.
Bahnhofstrasse :
A trip to Zurich would be incomplete without a stop at Bahnhofstrasse. It’s interesting to look around this shoppers’ paradise, whether you just go window shopping or buy something.
Hauptbahnhof (HB) Railroad Station :
The Hauptbahnhof (HB) Railway Station is Switzerland’s largest railway station. It is an important train station located in the city center that connects the city through trams and inter-city travel via fast trains. Buses are also accessible from here.
The old building is a historic monument, with Renaissance architecture with large windows, doors, and traditional passageways. It has multiple floors with hundreds of shops on the lower levels, all of which are brightly lit.
The Station has a plethora of shopping and dining options. Everything is well-organized and clearly labeled.
Landesmuseum Zürich :
The Swiss National Museum was designed by architect Gustav Gull in 1898. A work of art was created to honor the 50th anniversary of the Swiss federal constitution. The neo-Gothic architectural structure appears to be a spectacular castle from a distance. Furthermore, the museum impresses crowds of history, architecture, and culture enthusiasts. With its grand construction, exquisite setting, and unrivaled collection, it has captivated people from all over the world.
Luftseilbahn Adliswil-Felsenegg LAF AG / Cable Car Ride :
The Felsenegg may be reached from Adliswil in the Sihl valley, just outside Zurich, through the canton of Zurich’s only public cable car, which is part of the Zurich transit network.
In just five minutes, it will whisk you up to 803 meters above sea level. When you arrive on the Felsenegg, you will be greeted with stunning views, an enticing restaurant, and numerous walking pathways.
This was one of the best & scenic cable car rides we ever had, and the beautiful aerial view of Limmat river was breathtaking.
Zurich Opera House :
The Zurich Opera House, built in the 1890s, is a spectacular and elegant structure. It was not only a huge honour for Zurich in the nineteenth century, but it was also a wonderful architectural marvel. This building’s distinct features will undoubtedly pique the interest of architects and music enthusiasts alike.
We are officially in love with Zürich! I can’t wait to venture out of the city tomorrow to explore more of Switzerland! Here are some extra images from our Day 1 trip.
