7 Free Things to Do in Zurich

Zurich, a city renowned for its high quality of life, offers a wealth of experiences for digital nomads who choose to make it their temporary home. While it's known for being one of the more expensive cities in the world, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy that can enrich your stay without breaking the bank. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are nine free things to do in Zurich that will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful Swiss city.

Lake Zurich Promenade

Strolling along the Lake Zurich Promenade is a must-do for anyone visiting Zurich. The picturesque views of the lake against the backdrop of the Alps are breathtaking. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or just to sit and watch the swans. The promenade is bustling with activity during the summer months, with locals and tourists alike soaking up the sun and fresh air.

Location: Lake Zurich, Zurich. The promenade stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Zurich, easily accessible from the city center.

Travel Tip: Visit during sunset for a spectacular view. The colors reflecting off the lake make for a stunning natural display.

Nearby: After your walk, stop by the popular Café Z am Park for a delightful coffee and a slice of their famous homemade cake.

Uetliberg Mountain

For a panoramic view of the entire city of Zurich, the lake, and the Alps, hiking up Uetliberg Mountain is an adventure not to be missed. The trails are well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels. Once at the top, the vista is unparalleled, and there are plenty of spots to relax and take in the scenery.

Location: Uetliberg, 8143 Zurich, Switzerland. The mountain is to the southwest of Zurich and is accessible by train or by foot if you're up for a longer hike.

Travel Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy at the summit. There are several benches and grassy areas perfect for a meal with a view.

Nearby: The Uto Kulm restaurant at the top offers a range of refreshments and meals, but for a more budget-friendly option, pack your own snacks.

Old Town (Altstadt)

Exploring Zurich's Old Town (Altstadt) is like stepping back in time. Wander through the narrow, winding streets and admire the medieval architecture, including the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches. The area is also home to the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, which can be enjoyed as a window-shopping experience.

Location: Altstadt, Zurich, Switzerland. The Old Town is in the heart of Zurich, making it an easy walk from most central locations.

Travel Tip: Look out for the free walking tours that often start from Paradeplatz; they're a great way to learn about the city's rich history.

Nearby: Conditorei Schober is a historic café where you can indulge in some of the best pastries in town.

Lindenhof Hill

Lindenhof Hill is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. This historic site offers not only a quiet place to relax but also one of the best vantage points for views of the Old Town, Grossmünster Church, and the Limmat River. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to play giant chess or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility.

Location: Lindenhof, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland. Situated in the Old Town, Lindenhof is easily accessible on foot.

Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and find a quiet spot to read or meditate.

Nearby: For a quick bite, try the traditional Swiss dishes at the nearby Sternen Grill, known for its legendary bratwurst.

Zurich Botanical Garden

The Zurich Botanical Garden, maintained by the University of Zurich, is home to over 15,000 species of plants and trees. It's a living museum where you can learn about flora from all over the world. The garden is a perfect place for a peaceful walk, to study, or to simply enjoy the diversity of plant life.

Location: Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland. The garden is located in the Seefeld quarter and is a short tram ride from the city center.

Travel Tip: Check out the garden's event schedule as they often host free workshops and guided tours.

Nearby: Café Gartnerei is a great spot for a healthy lunch or a smoothie, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

Chinese Garden Zurich

The Chinese Garden Zurich is a lesser-known gem gifted by Zurich's sister city Kunming. It's a symbol of gratitude for Zurich's help in developing Kunming's drinking water supply and purification. The garden is a tranquil place with beautiful pavilions, ponds, and a rich display of Chinese culture and gardening artistry.

Location: Bellerivestrasse 138, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland. Located near the lake in the Seefeld district, it's a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Travel Tip: The garden is closed during the winter months, so plan your visit between March and October to ensure it's open.

Nearby: After your visit, enjoy a lakeside walk to the nearby Tiffins Asian Kitchen for some delicious Asian cuisine.

Free Museums on Wednesdays

Zurich offers free entry to several of its museums on Wednesdays, including the Swiss National Museum and the Museum of Design Zurich. This is a fantastic opportunity for culture vultures to delve into Swiss history, art, and design without spending a franc.

Location: Various locations across Zurich. Check individual museum websites for addresses and opening hours.

Travel Tip: Arrive early to avoid the larger crowds that tend to form later in the day.

Nearby: Café des Amis is a cozy spot in the neighborhood where you can grab a coffee and discuss the art you've just seen.

Street Parade

If you're in Zurich in August, don't miss the Street Parade, one of the largest techno parties in the world. This vibrant event is free and takes over the streets around Lake Zurich with floats, music, and dance. It's a celebration of love, peace, freedom, and tolerance, with a fantastic atmosphere that's hard to beat.

Location: Route around Lake Zurich. The parade usually starts at Utoquai and ends at Hafen Enge.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely be on your feet dancing for hours!

Nearby: Refuel with a hearty meal at the Sternen Grill, a local favorite for its bratwurst and other Swiss specialties.

Im Viadukt

Im Viadukt is a trendy market area built into the arches of an old railway viaduct in the Zurich-West district. While shopping here might not be free, wandering through the market and enjoying the unique atmosphere is. The area is filled with boutiques, artisan shops, and eateries, making it a great place to explore Zurich's contemporary urban culture.

Location: Viaduktstrasse, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland. Located in the hip Zurich-West district, it's a short tram ride from the city center.

Travel Tip: Even if you're not shopping, the area often hosts free events and exhibitions, so check the local listings.

Nearby: Markthalle im Viadukt offers a variety of food stalls where you can sample local and international delicacies.

Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, culture, or urban life, Zurich has a plethora of free activities that cater to all interests. As a digital nomad, these experiences will not only help you save money but also provide you with a deeper connection to this dynamic Swiss city.