Visiting Zurich in Winter | Ultimate Guide to a Dreamland

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There are many things to do in Zurich during the winter. Below is the ultimate guide to the dreamland of Zurich.

You will find the top 10 reasons why people love to visit in the winter, what the weather is like and what to pack, the best 3-day itinerary, where to stay, and more. Keep reading to learn more!

Is December a Good Time to Visit Zurich?

Whether you’re a fan of winter sports, festive markets, or simply appreciate the beauty of a snowy landscape, Zurich in the winter has something to offer for every type of traveler.

Traveling in the winter increases that enchanting feeling in colder destinations. I’ve listed the top 10 attractions below for why many tourists visit Zurich in the chilly months.

Top 10 Attractions for Visting Zurich in the Winter:

🇨🇭 Christmas Markets
🇨🇭 Winter Wonderland Scenary
🇨🇭 Snow sports
🇨🇭 Ice Skating
🇨🇭 Luxury shopping
🇨🇭 Chocolate, hot chocolate, and more chocolate
🇨🇭 New Year’s Eve Celebration
🇨🇭 Cultural Events

What is the Weather like in Zurich in the Winter?

Winter in Zurich can be a bit chilly and you should be prepared to dress warmly. Remember that temperatures can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to changing temperatures and ensures you stay comfortable during your winter visit to Zurich.

What to pack for Zurich in the Winter:

✅ Marmot Women’s Montreal Mid-Thigh Length Down Puffer Coat
✅ Carhartt Cuffed Beanie
✅ Chunky Cable Knit Beanie
✅ Wool Socks
✅ Waterproof Winter Gloves
✅ Scarf

Remembers, layers and waterproof items are your friend. 😌

Zurich in Winter: Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and winter charm, allowing you to make the most of your 3 days in Zurich during the winter season.

Day 1: Explore Old Town and Lake Zurich

Morning:
Grab a coffee or a quick bite at the cozy Cafe Conditorei. They have gluten-free treats, too!

Stroll through the charming Old Town of Alstadt and the beautiful narrow streets. This area has a ton of historical significance and you can still admire the well-preserved bay windows.

Visit the Grossmünster, one of the most important churches in all of Zurich. This famous medieval church is a landmark of the city and is a perfect photo opportunity.

Afternoon:
Make a scenic boat ride on Lake Zurich and view the city from a different perspective. Not into boats? Instead, take a stroll along the lake. During the winter Zurich has a special sparkle to it with a holiday touch of magic.

All that walking and boat riding can stir up some hunger. When you are ready for lunch, stop at Spitz for a vibey atmosphere that has views of the Limmar River Bank. Spitz has a variety of foods, serves vegetarian options, and has tasty cocktails.

The National Swiss Museum is located in Zurich and provides insight into historical and current Switzerland. Traveling with kids? Children under 16 years old can visit the museum for free!

Evening:
Time to unwind and spend some time off of your feet. While in Switzerland, it’s always fun to try the local food. Maybe an appetizer of cheese fondue or raclette on your cozy evening.

Now you might be thinking, what the heck is raclette? This is a native Swiss dish and raclette is a cheese dish that is typically served with potatoes. One of the top-rated restaurants in old town Zurich is the Raclette Factory.

Day 2: Cultural Delights and Shopping

Morning:
Spend the morning in the beautiful art museum, Kunsthaus Zurich. Inside this museum, there is a collection of stunning Swiss and international art.

You may spend a few hours here, but it is recommended to take your time through the museum and embrace the history and culture of Switzerland.

Old town Zurich has the most adorable and romantic Christmas Market in the city. There are many stalls of art and items to purchase for a loved one. Or, let’s be real…tis the season to #treatyoself.

The market is open everyday so you don’t have to worry about that.

Afternoon:
The most important part of this time of day is “elevenses”. Aka: lunchtime. Niederdorf is a lively district in the area with trendy restaurants that can satisfy anyone’s cravings.

Some of the top restaurants in Niederdorf are Coconut Thai (Thai food), Santa Lucia (Italian cuisine), and Adler’s Swiss Chuchi (Swiss cuisine).

Once you are full and happy many boutiques are in the area to go shopping. As many tourists and visitors of Switzerland, this is a great place to buy chocolate. Fun fact: Lindt Chocolate is headquartered in Switzerland.

Evening:
Zurich is one of the more vibrant cities in Switzerland in terms of nightlife. The Zurich-West district will be the spot to go if you are a night owl.

The Zurich Christmas Market is one of the most desired places to visit in the winter. This is one of the places to experience the magic of the holidays. Near the Zurich Opera House is an array of different activities each day.

Check out how well (or not well) you are at ice skating at the Dolder Ice Rink.

If you enjoy classical or fantasy events, the Christmas Circus Conelli is a great spot to spend the evening.

Zurich’s possibilities are endless in November and December. Follow what adventure fills your cup.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure and Relaxation

Morning:
Zurich’s local mountain is called Uetliberg and is only a quick day trip away. Depending on the snow it might require more gear. However, on a bluebird day this 1.8 mile hike has panoramic views of the city and nearby alps. AllTrails is a great way to check out details of the hike.

Afternoon:
After a chilly workout in the morning, it’s time to relax with a mindful afternoon. The Thermalbad & Spa Zurich has beautiful city views. The interesting part? These thermal baths are century-old vaults, that used to be a formal brewery.

On the top floor there is also an infinity pool for more panoramic views of Zurich.

Step into the Roman-Irish influenced spa for a cleansening ritual experience. Maybe include a massage to increase serotinin and help relax your body and mind.

Evening:
The last evening of a trip is always a bittersweet feeling. The desire to want to check off everything that maybe you haven’t had the chance to do.

Winter in Zurich is a magical time to visit and there are so many activities. For your last evening, embrace Zurich’s serene atmosphere with a lakeside farewell dinner. Check out the top lakeside restaraunts in Zurich here.

The city has breweries and wine bars for a taste of the a fun and community-filled evening. Bring a book, bring a friend, bring yourself, and simply enjoy the evening.

Where to Stay in Zurich in December

Zurich offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommended areas and types of places to stay in Zurich during the winter:

🏠 Old Town (Altstadt) – A charming area with cobblestone roads, boutique hotels, and historic guesthouses.
🏠 Zurich West (Kreis 5) – Trendy and artistic with a vibrant nightlife.
🏠 Lake Zurich – Luxury accomodations on the waterfront with stunning views.
🏠 Bahnhofstrasse Area – Great for shopping lovers. Luxury and budget-friendly stays in the area.
🏠 Zurich Airport Area – Makes it easy for late or early flights that additionally offer shuttle services.
🏠 Swiss Alps Resorts – Picturesque and magical views. Outside of the city and in charming resorts.
🏠 Zurich North (Kreis 11) – Exhibition area that offers a range of hotels.
🏠 University District (Irchel) – Want to stay away from the crowds and tourists, this is your area.

When choosing a accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, public transportation, and the type of experience you want. Zurich’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore the city from various locations. Additionally, booking accommodations well in advance, especially during the winter holiday season, is recommended to secure your preferred options.

Recommended ways to Travel Throughout Zurich

📍Utilize Zurich’s efficient public transportation system, including trams and trains, for easy city exploration.
📍Consider a ZurichCARD for free transportation and discounts on attractions.

Conclusion: Visiting Zurich in the Winter

If you decide to visit Zurich in the winter you will be stepping into a winter dreamland. The city may be covered in a blanket of snow that feels magical with the Christmas markets and festive lights. The atmosphere is warm and inviting while you can indulge in rich chocolate and cheese fondue. Additionally, the Swiss alps offer an epic place for outdoor adventures.

The city’s elegant boutiques, cultural events, and the serene beauty of Lake Zurich add to the allure, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a cozy, festive, and unforgettable winter experience.

Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels