Places to Visit in Zurich

Swiss National Museum  is acclaimed as the most significant establishment offering insights into the cultural history of Switzerland, and is a must visit spot in the country. It is located at the confluence of Sihl and Nimmat rivers, adjacent to Park Platzspitz.

Through numerous permanent as well as temporary exhibitions, the museum complex has a wealth of information to offer about the various aspects of Switzerland’s history, culture, and art during different eras. The museum houses amazing assortments of paintings, photographs, and texts that walk the visitors through the late Middle Ages, the era when Switzerland established itself as a federal state to the present.

No wonder the museum claims to store more than 840,000 objects. So, whether you are eager to learn about the local culture in the past, various battles fought in the region land or the origin of Swiss watches, chocolates, etc., this museum is a treasure trove of information. In addition to what the museum complex houses and exhibits, its fine architecture is also worthy of admiration.

Built by architect Gustav Gull in 1898 to honour the 50th anniversary of the Swiss federal constitution, this museum complex is an architectural masterpiece. The neo-Gothic style complex looks like a magnificent castle from afar. With its grand structure, exquisite location, and peerless collection, the museum succeeds to impress flocks of history, architecture, and culture enthusiasts throughout the year.

The Chinese Garden is a beautiful, manicured temple garden in the Swiss city of Zurich. It is situated along the lake at the Zürichhorn and is frequented by locals and tourists alike. The garden was a gift from a nearby Swiss town of Kunming and is one of the highest-ranked temple gardens outside of China.

It has a beautiful pond with a small island in the middle. The island is decked with beautiful pavilions and a palace! The garden pays homage to the traditional Chinese gardens and follows the theme of the Three Friends of Winter. This means that the landscape of the park is dominated by three major tree types which bloom throughout the winter; including pines, bamboo and plum blossoms.

The different flowers found in the garden also carry special meaning. For example, the willows which line the pond stand for the purity of the water and holiness and the plum blossoms symbolise the joyful-ness that spring brings!

The entire garden complex, including the boundary wall and the temples, are covered in intricate designs and patterns representing the rich Chinese culture. You will also find sculptures depicting the Chinese dragon of clouds and carved panels with experts from old Chinese tales.

Situated on the border of Ticino between Switzerland and Italy, Lake Lugano is amongst the top tourist places to visit in Switzerland. It was discovered by Gregory of Tours in 590 AD and is a whopping 9 square miles long. The lake has a number of small branches and offers panoramic views of  Monte Generoso. The climate here is mild Mediterranean that allows visitors to relax and sunbathe amidst a gorgeous natural setting.

The climate is also the main factor of the delicious citrus, figs, palms, and pomegranates this place is famous for. The calming and the beautiful blue waters of the lake are a sight to the sore eyes. You can take a boat ride here to explore the various villages like Porlezza, Brusimpiano, Lavena Ponte Tresa, etc that surround the lake and experience the local lifestyle.

A relaxing session of fishing at the lake is a must-do activity when you are here. You can even stay at the summer resorts available around the resort that further enhance your visit to this beautiful place. 

Best time to visit: Spring and summer months between April till September.