Things to Do in Zurich in Summer
For many people, summer is the most beautiful time of year in Zurich: at last you can sit outside until late in the evening, enjoy an ice cream by the water, and participate in many different leisure activities in and around Zurich. Here are just a few tips on how to spend the summer months in Zurich.
Activities on and in the water
Summer in Zurich is all about water. Whether it’s Lake Zurich, the Limmat river, or one of the many open-air swimming baths, opportunities to cool off on hot days are never far away. The city’s rivers and the shores of Lake Zurich are particularly popular among locals and guests on summery days. As well as relaxed hours in the sun, the most popular Zurich summer activities include the famous Limmat Swim event, boat trips, and various watersports.
Outdoor Activities
When the temperatures rise in Zurich, life moves outdoors. Parks, squares, and waterfronts become venues for culture, music, and film. A range of Zurich summer events take place under the stars – from open-air cinemas to big festivals.
Tips:
- Summer in Zurich with kids? The website kinderregion.ch offers information on activities for the whole family in and around Zurich.
- The best way to explore Zurich in the summer is by bike. Bike rental and info
Bad Weather?
- The Masoala Halle offers tropical temperatures all year round, no matter what the weather is like. The Mora-Mora Bar is considered an absolute hidden gem because it is tricky to find and is only open on Sunday afternoons.
- In addition to many other museums in Zurich, the Museum Rietberg is a great tip for rainy days. After the exhibition, the museum café often serves delicacies inspired by the current exhibition.
Eat and Drink
Summer in Zurich also reveals the city’s relaxed side when it comes to food: urban dining with a vacation feel by the water. Restaurants with views of the lake, roof terraces, and summer bars invite guests to enjoy balmy evenings outdoors. In the afternoon, ice cream is the perfect way to cool down, while an Apéro buffet with views of Lake Zurich is high on everyone’s agenda for the evening.
Three Tips from the Editors
Summer fun with a unique atmosphere in Zurich
Summer Event Highlights
The city’s events calendar is particularly jam-packed in the summer. Visitors can look forward to a number of big summer events in Zurich.
Shopping
The summer months are a wonderful time to discover Zurich’s neighborhoods while strolling through the city. Every district has its own distinctive atmosphere, from little boutiques with locally made products to iconic Zurich brands like Freitag or international labels. Zurich’s creativity reveals itself all over the city, from the alleyways of the Old Town to design shops and concept stores.
Art and Culture
Museums, galleries, and theaters provide a welcome place to cool down on hot days or an alternative itinerary on the odd rainy day. Zurich’s arts venues host exhibitions, concerts, and performances – often supplemented by open-air events.
Excursions From Zurich
The lakefront, historic sites, and countless hiking routes await in the region around the city. Excursions around Lake Zurich or to the nearby Alps are particularly popular. Many destinations can be easily reached by train – making Zurich the perfect starting point for day trips.
Practical Planning
Helpful tips and offers to make any stay in Zurich even more relaxing.
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