48 Hours in Zurich

Last Updated November 12th, 2019

How to spend two days in Zurich, Switzerland, with the top sights to see

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Zurich, the city known as the banking epicenter of Europe -maybe the world- is by far one of the most efficient cities with an equally high standard of living. It’s a destination that has up to date convenience mixed with extravagance and an old-world charm… all of which you’ll notice on your wallet (Zurich ain’t cheap, but it sure is worth the visit).

But don’t let those things deter you from visiting Zurich. It is a great city to book a 48-hour stopover in to see it’s stunning architecture and the pristinely blue river Limmat which separates the old town from the shopping and banking.

Plus, while the crowds of overtourism flood London’s Buckingham Palace or Paris’s Eiffel Tower, you’ll feel as if you have Zurich to yourself.

Upon exiting the train station you’ll see that this European city has the best of both worlds – winding cobblestone streets mixed with flourishing businesses and modern design. Even if you only have 48 hours to spend in Zurich, you should visit this beautiful city.

Whether you decide to take the efficient train from the airport and walk to your lodging or hire a car to do so, you’ll witness the city transform from a hustling business center to the easily accessible, albeit booty working, walkable European town.

Getting to Zurich from the airport

Since Zurich airport is considered a hub airport, flights should be significantly cheaper flying into the city. And with Switzerland being internationally known for extravagance, their airport is part shopping mall, part airport and quite large inside.

Fret not though, it’s quite easy to navigate your way from your gate through customs and to a quick train ride to the city center of Zurich. There are a few ways you can travel from the Zurich Airport to its city center, the fastest of which is by train.

With only a ten-minute train ride, travelers can jump onto a train that departs every 5-10 minutes. Purchase your ticket from an SBB ticket booth in the center of the Arrivals hall in the airport for only 6.80 CHF.

As the train is the quickest way to travel from the airport to the city, if you only have 48 hours in Zurich to enjoy the sites, I would suggest the train as the best way to get to the Zurich city center.

You can read about the other ways to travel to/from the Zurich airport here.

With so much to explore, here are the

Top 10 things you need to see & do in 48 hours in Zurich, Switzerland

Fraumunster Church

With its iconic teal-blue spire and clock tower, Fraumunster Church is by far the most stand out church in Zurich. Mostly known for its Chagall stained glass windows, this site was originally home to an abbess. Go in the early morning to witness the morning light shine through the windows. However, keep in mind that there is a small 5 CHF fee to enter. (*there was a wedding the day of our visit so we weren’t able to get inside.

Lindenhof Hill

If you’re a fan of stunning vistas than take the trek up to Lindenhof Hill. With a bit of a steep climb, Lindenhof offers a great viewpoint of Zurich for breathtaking views of Aldstadt Zurich. Be sure to head there early in the day for early morning pictures or to claim your sunset spot as this viewpoint attracts many visitors. Luckily, we could see Lindenhoff from our Airbnb and noticed there were large crowds even at the end of the day.

Enjoy Fondue at La Dezalay

One of THE most recognizable dishes for Switzerland, fondue has become a delicious staple for anyone visiting Zurich to try. La Dezalay is a Swiss restaurant known for its fondue… trust me, it’s worth it. Located in the Aldstadt neighborhood of Zurich and you can see the Grossmunster church from outside.

Fun fact: fondue is considered to be part of your meal, however, we chose to eat it as our meal. Sometimes living your best life means devouring a bowlful of bread dunked in warm cheese. (I would have placed a picture of our fondue here… but to be honest I was trying to live THE moment of cheese heaven and forgot to take one. Oh well, worth it!)

Lake Zurich

*TIP- buy drinks/snacks at a grocery or liquor store (Migros stores do NOT sell alcohol) to bring on the boat. Drinks on the boat are expensive… as is most everything in Switzerland.