Stepping out of Zurich HB, you can't miss Station Street—Zurich’s grand catwalk for wallets with stamina and shoes built for cobblestone. This is the city’s main shopping artery, mostly reserved for pedestrians and trams, which means you’ll be dodging Gucci bags, not taxis. Lined with luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants, this is where Swiss precision meets retail therapy.

The stroll kicks off right outside the station, on Station Square, because Zurich doesn’t believe in metaphors when it comes to names. From there, Station Street marches south all the way to Lake Zurich, finishing at the ever-charming Burkli Square.

Along the way, you’ll saunter past Parade Square, the golden triangle of Swiss finance where the banks are so rich that even the pigeons have portfolios... This real estate is notoriously expensive, which is why the air here smells vaguely of money and truffle oil.

Fun fact: Station Street was born in the 1870s when Zurich’s medieval moats were filled in to make room for the modern city. In short, they replaced water defenses with window shopping—and honestly, that feels like progress.

In essence, Station Street is old Zurich’s nerve center. From here, charming streets like Rennweg and Augustinergasse twist off into postcard-perfect scenes, packed with shops, cafés, and just enough historical flair to justify your souvenir splurge.

If you need a break from luxury price tags, dive into ShopVille, the underground mall beneath the train station. It's got food, gifts, and treats for mere mortals—plus it's open on Sundays, unlike most of Zurich.

So, whenever you're in Zurich and feel like buying, browsing, or just people-watching with a pastry in hand, Station Street—the most stylish stampede of trams and shoppers in Switzerland—can deliver all of this.

Pro tips:
Trams are your best friend—so, hop on, hop off, and explore with the grace of a local who knows not to jaywalk. In winter, treat yourself to rooftop mulled wine and steaming hot chocolate. In summer, trade the boutiques for a lakeside stroll and watch the world glide by...

A symbol of quality, freshness, variety, and overall excellence, when it comes to chocolate-making, the premium manufacturer of finest handcrafted Swiss chocolate Läderach was founded in Ennenda (Switzerland) in 1962 by Rudolph Läderach. Since 2018, this family-owned business has been run by the third generation of Läderach chocolatiers, maintaining the tradition of discovery and innovation.

In 1970, Rudolf Läderach Jr. invented a revolutionary process of manufacturing thin-walled hollow balls for truffles, rendering the professional manufacture of chocolate truffles easier and significantly improving their quality, taste and texture. In 2008 the company launched a new brand “Läderach Chocolatier Suisse” timed with the opening of show confectioneries in their spacious boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich and Spitalgasse in Bern. In 2018, Elias Läderach of the the world-famous family beat 19 international competitors to win the title of World Chocolate Masters in Paris.

The inventor of FrischSchoggi (Fresh Chocolate), MaClair, Mini Mousses and other finest premium chocolates and pralines with incomparable tastes, today Läderach stands not only for finest premium products, but also for a family-minded social responsibility, fostering ecological thinking.

All Läderach chocolates are handcrafted masterpieces made of handpicked and selected ingredients, with great passion and professional handcraft ensuring their utmost quality.

Since the 16th century the Swiss have been perfecting the art of timekeeping. With superior craftsmanship and elegant design, Swiss brand watches have become world famous, with most top brands boasting the prestigious and strictly standardized “Swiss Made” description as a selling feature. So what better place in the world to pick up a funky new Swatch, or invest in a lifelong relationship with a classy Breitling, than in Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich?

The Bahnhofstrasse (Station Street), leading from Zurich’s central train station, has been called one of the best shopping streets in the world. From top designer boutiques, to touristy shops, and diverse department stores, the Bahnhoffstrasse offers many options for those wishing to purchase a Swiss-made timepiece. The sophisticated Les Ambassedeurs store at Bahnhofstrasse 64, or the new Patek Phillip boutique at Bahnhofstrasse 31, will flatter you with movie star treatment if you are in the market for a new Rolex or Chopard.

For those looking for a more varied shopping experience, Manor department store has the largest selection of watches on the block. Manor sells Swatch’s youthful new brand Flik Flak, starting at 35 francs, a special Tissot for 7500 francs, and everything in between.

What to buy here: “Swiss Made” watches | Cheese fondue set | Mondaine Railway Clock | Raclette maker

No passionate carnivore gourmet visiting Zurich should ever pass by Prétôt Delikatessen on Kuttelgasse. The name of this street (“Tripe alley”) rings the bell and fits the profile perfectly. As for the place itself, this treasure-trove of a sausage shop offers a wide range of smoked and air-dried meats from all over Switzerland, boasting the highest quality and appealing to different tastes. The large slates on display announce all the current and seasonal specialties, and lure passers-by in their numbers. Even with your eyes closed, you can't miss it, really, as the smell of something deliciously smoked greets you at the door.

Here you will find superb Bündner and Walliser beef, Saint Galler bratwurst and smoked Röteli from Lake Zug, Saint Gallen sausage for children and Olmabratwurst from several butchers available in different sizes and tastes. There is Andouiette de veau, the wonderful inner sausage with tripe; small, spicy salice from Ticino and all kinds of saucissons raw and cooked to eat, such as thick boutefas from Welschland, dried beef and lamb from Engadine and Valais. Boiled sausages from Appenzellerland, Schüblige from Zurich and the surrounding area, plus the numerous blood and liver sausages, merguez and luganighe, are also present in rich supply. The list is almost endless.

Practically every Swiss village with a good sausage butcher is featured in this sausage paradise, which stands almost exotic amid the neighboring boutiques.

Perched above the Old Town of Zurich like a quiet, leafy crown, Lindenhof is both a park and a time machine with a view. And it's not just where the city began—it’s where the city still comes to breathe...

This peaceful hilltop was once the site of a Roman fortress, complete with ten towers and walls thick enough to make modern builders weep. The Romans got busy here in the 2nd century, but by the 9th, Louis the German decided the crumbling castle needed a royal facelift. Sadly, by the 13th century, the whole thing was abandoned, and locals did what locals do best—recycled the stones for new projects. Eco-friendly before it was cool...

And no, Zurich’s ancient swagger didn’t start with Roman togas and centurions. Long before Rome flexed its empire, Neolithic and Bronze Age folks had already claimed this hill as prime real estate. Back then, the Sihl River liked to flood the surrounding lands, and the elevated Lindenhof was the safe (and dry) bet.

Fast forward to the 1700s, and Lindenhof reinvented itself as a public park. The early crowd-pleaser, it was primarily about archery and crossbow contests that drew visitors in those days (indeed, nothing like a bit of target practice to go with your afternoon stroll...).

Nowadays, keep an eye out for the Hedwig Fountain, built in 1912 to honor one of Zurich’s boldest deceptions. During the 1292 siege by Duke Albert I, the city’s women donned full battle gear and manned the ramparts, while the men were off fighting elsewhere. The ruse worked, and Zurich lived to tell the tale. Today, Hedwig and her helmet still stand proudly in the park, thanks to sculptor Gustav Siber.

Apart from all the attractions inside, Lindenhof gives you panoramic eye-candy of Zurich’s rooftops, rivers, and lake—all in one relaxed snapshot. It’s the city’s breathing room, ideal for a pause between museum marathons and shopping sprees. Kids can run wild on the playgrounds, and for the tactically inclined, there’s an outdoor chessboard waiting to test your strategy.

Oh, and if you’re lucky, you might stumble onto a festival or event—just ask at the tourism office.

Insider tip:
Check out the replica of a Roman tombstone that first mentioned Turicum—Zurich’s name back when Latin was all the rage. The original is at the Swiss National Museum, but Lindenhof’s got its own copy for on-the-spot admiration...

The Steiff Galerie in Zurich is more than just a retail space; it serves as a gateway to a realm where childhood imagination merges with the enchantment of plush toys. Established by artist Margarete Steiff, who pioneered the creation of the stuffed elephant in 1880, this innovation eventually led to the birth of the iconic Teddy Bears in 1906. The Zurich outlet embodies a delightful assortment of plush wonders, featuring classic teddy bears, arctic and marine creatures, exotic animals, delightful keychains, as well as beloved rocking horses, elephants, and bears, all synonymous with superior quality.

Covering an area of 50 square meters, the Steiff Galerie beckons visitors into the soft, captivating world of Steiff. It not only presents timeless teddy bears catering to all age groups but also showcases exclusive collector's pieces distinguished by the iconic "button in the ear" emblem. This symbol of quality and authenticity underscores Steiff's unwavering commitment to excellence, echoing Margarete Steiff's ethos: "Only the best is good enough for our children." Each Steiff creation is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, echoing the founder's dedication.

The Steiff Galerie pays homage to her spirit and the enduring allure of the Steiff brand, woven together by the commitment and quality consciousness of its staff. It narrates a tale of dreams fulfilled, intertwining Margarete Steiff's personal journey with the enduring heritage of the company she established, making it a destination not to be missed for anyone seeking to rediscover the magic of childhood.

Augustinian Street (Augustinergasse), located in the center of Zürich, represents the city's medieval past mixed with its modern energy. Originally named after the Augustinian Abbey, now the Augustinian Church (Augustinerkirche), this old street is a lively pedestrian area in the heart of Zürich's downtown. The church, once the hub of a convent that ended in 1525, is now used by the Christ Catholic community. Although it appears modest compared to the vibrant street, it holds historical significance.

In the past, Augustinian Street played a vital role in connecting various parts of the medieval city, like Münsterhof, Saint Peterhofstatt, and the Münzplatz, to the city gates and defenses. Its importance was further solidified when it became part of the southern extension of the Seeuferanlage promenades between 1881 and 1887. This made it not only an essential part of the city's layout but also a popular spot in Zürich's oldest neighborhood.

The street reflects Zürich's transition from a medieval craft center to a place of wealth and artistic expression. Starting from the 17th century, affluent factory owners moved in, leading to a competition to create the most impressive facades. This resulted in beautifully decorated wooden bay windows on the colorful houses that now line the street, making it one of the city's most charming areas. Nowadays, these buildings house shops, cafes, and restaurants catering to tourists, adding to the street's lively vibe.

The Augustinian Street illustrates Zürich's ability to retain its historical charm while embracing modern urban life. It offers visitors a glimpse into the city's past, showcasing the creativity of medieval artisans and the later inhabitants' wealth and architectural ambition. Therefore, it's not just a street but a cultural symbol, representing Zürich's spirit and evolution over time.

Based in Zurich and housed within a historic building dating back to 1647 in the Old Town, Teuscher Confiserie has been serving customers since 1932. The company prides itself on the top-notch quality of its offerings, crafted solely from natural ingredients, eschewing any use of chemicals, even in their sugar-free options.

In line with Swiss confectionery traditions, Teuscher not only specializes in chocolates but also offers an extensive array of pastries and cookies, handcrafting over 200 varieties of sweet treats. Among their notable creations are the Champagne Truffles, a pioneering delicacy made with champagne and buttercream, encased in a dark chocolate ganache derived from 66% cocoa. Each truffle is coated in either milk chocolate with a dusting of confectioner's sugar, or dark chocolate with a coating of unsweetened cocoa powder. Additionally, Teuscher boasts a diverse selection of chocolates, ranging from 55% to 99% cocoa content, in intervals of 11%.

The flagship store, situated on the renowned Bahnhofstrasse, epitomizes the enchanting world of Teuscher. Adorned with vibrant decorations and brimming with delightful assortments of chocolates, pralines, fruit jellies, marzipans, and exquisite truffles, it offers a welcoming atmosphere. The ambiance exudes warmth, and the staff consistently exhibit politeness and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

The Beyer Clock and Watch Museum in Zurich represents one of the best private collections of time pieces. This is not surprising, since the Swiss are known for their fine craftsmanship when it comes to watches. The museum represents the private collection of Theodor Beyer, a prominent Swiss family that has owned the Beyer shop since the mid-1700s.

The Beyer shop is the oldest watch and clock store in Switzerland. The museum is located in three rooms in the basement of a retail store and has quite an impressive collection of time-keeping devices. The displays are arranged chronologically (how appropriate for a watch museum), starting with rustic, non-mechanical clocks, such as sundials, then going on up to contemporary pocket watches with intricate detail. There are also grandfather clocks, other wall and floor clocks, shepherds clocks and hour glasses.

Some particularly unique items in the museum include watches made 100% from hardwood or ivory and an original rolling ball clock. There are other items in the museum that are not directly related to watches, including astronomic and geographical tools. Nominal entry fee for adults and children under 12 are free.

Parade Square — Zurich’s glittering crossroads of power, pastries, and jaw-dropping property prices. Nestled on Station Street and laced with tram tracks like a well-frosted cake, this square is the beating heart of Swiss finance. Here, the global giants Credit Suisse and UBS sit like heavyweight chess pieces, guarding a board where real estate is so pricey, it practically comes with its own bodyguard.

But don’t fall for this corporate shine — Parade Square wasn’t always a banker’s playground. Back in the 17th century, it was here that cows mooed and bleated at a lively livestock market just outside the city walls. All that changed in 1642, when Zurich decided to expand its waistline with extra fortifications. A couple of centuries later, in 1865, Station Street was drawn up, and Parade Square got its name — just in time to catch the next tram, which, by the way, used to be horse-drawn until they got an upgrade in 1896. Electricity turned out to be equally good for both light bulbs and public transport...

The square’s grand buildings mostly popped up during the mid-1800s. Take the Credit Suisse building, planted here in 1873 like a money tree. Or the regal Baur en Ville hotel, which first opened its polished doors in 1838. In true Swiss fashion, they demolished it entirely in the 1970s, only to rebuild it exactly the same — just with plumbing that actually works...

But the real crown jewel is Sprüngli Café. Open since 1859, and famous well before that thanks to Rudolf Sprüngli’s chocolate wizardry since 1836, this place is ground zero for anyone serious about truffles, tarts, and tingly taste buds. You haven’t really been to Zurich until you’ve dropped by Sprüngli — bonus points if you pronounce it correctly with your mouth full of Luxemburgerli.

So, go ahead, hop off the tram, stare at your bank balance, and soak in the Swiss elegance. Parade Square: here, fortunes are made, lost, and occasionally spent on chocolate...

Founded in 1836 by Rudolf Sprüngli, this sweet empire began churning out chocolate long before Zurich became a global banking giant (talking about priorities...). Indeed, Confiserie Sprüngli is one of the city's oldest and most luxurious confectioners, but the real showstopper here isn’t chocolate. What is, is the dainty, dangerously addictive “Luxemburgerli” macarons, invented by a homesick Luxembourger in the kitchen. These pastel treats have gone from petit four to cult status, faster than you can say “truffle overload.”

In 1892, Sprüngli’s chocolate-making arm went its own way (think conscious uncoupling, but with more cocoa) and became Lindt & Sprüngli. That’s right, the silky squares of Lindt you know and love—they’re the rebel offspring. Meanwhile, Confiserie Sprüngli stayed put, happily crafting pralines, Grand Cru truffles, and enough sugar-coated temptation to derail any diet.

Fast forward to today, and the business is still family-run, now in its sixth generation. You’ll find Sprüngli shops sprinkled around Zurich like edible jewels—inside the main train station and twice along Station Street, at No. 21 and No. 67.

But the real gem is the Parade Square café at Station Street 21. Picture this: a salon of elegance where Zurich’s high-society grandmothers sip coffee with diamond-studded discretion. Legend whispers that young bachelors used to signal their availability to the ladies by discreetly flipping their coffee spoons—a sort of edible Tinder for the silk-scarf set... Though Sprüngli’s director insists it’s just a myth born of stricter times, when the women of status had few public places to converse without raising eyebrows.

So, next time you're here, mind your spoon—just in case folklore decides to make a comeback...

The Church of Our Lady—or Fraumünster if you're feeling Swiss about it—is easily one of Zurich’s most eye-catching landmarks, thanks to that graceful blue spire that insists on being in every skyline photo. Founded way back in 853 by Emperor Louis the German for his daughter Hildegard (talk about a royal housewarming gift), this wasn’t an average cloistered convent. No, the abbess here wasn’t just praying and gardening—she was running the show. In medieval Zurich, she held market rights, minted coins, and had a firm grip on city affairs. Basically, before Zurich was ruled by bankers in suits, it was partly governed by nuns with serious executive power.

By 874, they’d added a basilica complete with a crypt that now houses Zurich’s patron saints, Felix and Regula—because a great city can certainly benefit from a couple of martyred siblings watching over it. But the good times for the abbey came to an end in 1524 during the Reformation. The last abbess handed the keys over to the city, and most of the religious art was either taken down or..., well, aggressively removed.

Today, people come not just for the medieval intrigue, but for the stunning mashup of Gothic architecture and Baroque flair. And then—boom—the stained glass. In the 1970s, none other than Marc Chagall himself stepped in and created five towering windows for the choir. Each one tells a biblical story in bold, glowing color. The “Prophet” window is all reds and oranges and righteous fire. Across from it are “Jacob,” “Christ,” and “Zion” in cooler, gentler hues, and the “Law” window fit to impress even Moses himself.

Also remarkable is the vibrant window near the entrance by Augusto Giacometti, adding another layer of artistic prestige to the church’s interior. So now it doubles as an accidental art museum.

If you're visiting, do grab the audio guide—it’s included with the ticket and actually quite good. You’ll get the full story, minus the Latin. Entry fees vary, and remember: while photos of the interior are generally allowed, pictures of the Chagall windows are strictly prohibited. Your phone will be tempted, but resist. Oh, and be sure to bring some Swiss francs, too—they still like their cash here.

So, whether you’re into saints, stained glass, or just need a break from the Station Street, the Church of Our Lady is a peaceful detour into Zurich’s soul—with a splash of color and a whole lot of history.

If your legs are protesting and your eyes are glazed from all the churches, towers, and charming cobblestones of Zurich’s Old Town—fear not. Schwarzenbach Colonial Goods Shop is your elegant excuse to hit pause. This isn’t just any pit stop. It’s a gourmet time machine disguised as a shop, roasting beans and tempting tastebuds since 1864. It was back then that Heini Schwarzenbach decided Zurich needed less boredom and more spice. Quite literally...

Step inside, and you're instantly wrapped in the old-world charm and the sweet, seductive smell of freshly roasted coffee. The wooden shelves groan (happily) under the weight of dried fruits, artisan jams, wild honey, and enough chocolate to make your dentist nervous. Also, there’s wine. There are syrups. There’s rice that probably has a better passport than you. And yes, the teas and coffee beans come from just about every corner of the globe that knows how to grow something aromatic.

But what's more. Next door, you’ll find their cozy little café. Just grab a seat, order a cup of their lovingly roasted coffee or fragrant tea, and pair it with a baked good that whispers sweet nothings to your soul. It’s the perfect break—part history lesson, part foodie fantasy.

So, if you're strolling through the Old Town of Zurich and feel the need for a snack with a story, Schwarzenbach is ready to serve.

Located in the heart of Zürich's Old Town, the Curiosity Rosenhof Market stands out as a significant highlight in Switzerland's lively market scene. Operating from March to November, this craft market brings vibrancy to the charming Rosenhof square, providing a picturesque backdrop that reflects the city's rich history. Featuring an eclectic range of exotic and Swiss handicrafts, including bespoke clothing, intricately designed jewelry, precious gemstones, leather goods, pottery, and antiques, the market caters to diverse tastes.

What distinguishes the Rosenhof Market is its bohemian atmosphere, reminiscent of a past era dominated by hippie fashion and trinkets. This unique vibe is enhanced by refreshment stalls, making the market not only a place to shop but also to unwind and enjoy. Offering often one-of-a-kind products, each visit promises a unique exploration experience.

Despite its modest size, the Rosenhof Market draws a significant crowd, attracting artists, traders, and shoppers every Thursday and Saturday. Its appeal lies not only in the quality and variety of goods but also in the lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Zürich's dynamic city center. With its enticing array of food options and high-quality merchandise, the market reflects Zürich's thriving market culture, catering to bargain hunters and leisurely strollers alike. As one of Zürich's premier shopping destinations, the Curiosity Rosenhof Market is a must-visit for those seeking to immerse themselves in local culture and discover unique, top-notch items in an enchanting setting.

Building on the tradition of superior watchmaking skills, Switzerland is also famous for their intricately made music boxes. The first music box factories were opened in Switzerland in the early 19th century and at one time the industry surpassed that of watchmaking.

Today, Swiss music boxes still feature the same function, playing songs like “Edelweiss” and the “Happy Wanderer” via metal cylinders and pins. High-end music boxes allow cylinders to be changed in order to play many different songs. The classic style of Swiss music boxes has not changed from its day of invention, but today a much larger selection is available. Boxes are available with hand painted scenes of olden day hikers and shepherds, or come fashioned as wooden Swiss chalets with detailed carving of flowers and water troughs.

More contemporary designs are also available: a transparent box that allows the incredible inner-workers be seen, or the “Rolls Royce” of music boxes, a large polished inlaid wooden box with changeable rules, sold for 10,000 francs. Schweizer Heimatwerk has the best selection of wooden handmade music boxes, priced from 100 francs to the 10,000-franc art piece.

What to buy here: Swiss Music boxes