Zurich is well-known as one of the world’s largest financial centers. However, despite the initial prejudice, it offers lots of superb yet budget-friendly things to explore.
This European city has a long, interesting history. Taking guided tours will help you find out more about it. Beyond that, Zurich also offers many stunning Instagram locations, cozy restaurants and cafes to have a bite, and many engaging activities that don’t break the bank.
Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? In this review, you will learn more about fantastic local spots you can explore on a budget, in between your classes. Still, keep in mind that enjoying many of those will require moving across the city. If you want to ease your trip, take care of your belongings in advance. Review budget-friendly Luggage Storage in Zurich by Radical Storage to explore the city hassle-free. It’s worth your time. Here is why.
TOP Historical, Cultural, and Instagram Locations in Zurich
If you want to get the most out of your trip to Zurich without exhausting your budget, these spots will help you achieve this goal in mind.
Medieval Altstadt and Grossmunster Cathedral
It’s the so-called Old Town, meaning the area from which the city expanded in the Middle Ages. You can fully immerse yourself in the historic vibe here. There are still cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Leisurely strolling across this neighborhood with a cup of tea or coffee, gazing at the impressive architecture, is an unparalleled experience that is also very budget-friendly.
In addition, the Altstadt is also surrounded by various churches and cathedrals. This setting fully reflects the ancient tradition when religion was an integral part of people’s daily lives. Even though you are not a big fan of this type of architecture, consider visiting the Grossmunster Cathedral. It has large towers with 187 steps! No need to say how splendid the views from the top are. Apart from the city itself, you may also enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Alps.
Prominent Museums of Zurich
The collections displayed at the Swiss National Museum in Zurich are special. You may admire lots of interesting artefacts that are introduced in themed exhibitions. Many of them highlight Swiss history and heritage, allowing tourists to learn more about the origins of this nation. The art collections offer diverse artworks for review, depending on their historical periods.
Beyond that, this museum also hosts many unusual or simply unique exhibitions. For instance, visitors may see the Alice and Louis Koch ring collection, one of the largest in the world. The rings represented there cover more than 4,000 years of history!
By the way, if you are a big fan of art, there’s also another impressive museum dedicated fully to art. If you wish to explore it, go to the Kunsthaus Zurich, Switzerland’s largest art museum. It offers for review many works of both Old Masters and contemporary artists. You can see many works by Claude Monet at the Kunsthaus Zurich, by the way.
Taste Local Chocolates and Cheeses
A trip across Zurich will be unlikely possible without tasting local chocolate that will attract your attention almost at every corner. By the way, the Lindt Chocolate Factory, one of the world’s most famous chocolate factories, is located exactly in Zurich. Don’t miss the chance to join one of the guided tours across this factory and to enjoy degustations as well.
In addition to chocolate, Switzerland is also well-known for its cheese tradition. When you decide to sign up for one of the local cheese tours, yes, they exist, you can explore the richness of Swiss cheese culture first-hand.
Each region and city may have its own customs and approaches to cheese-making, by the way, Zurich is no exception. There are more than 450 famous cheese varieties, including Emmental (cheese with holes) and Appenzeller (semi-hard cheese). On top of that, take the opportunity to taste Zurich’s traditional fondue. Some cheese tours even allow tourists to watch the cheese-making process!
Botanical Gardens
It’s an excellent Instagram location and one of the best free Zurich sights to see. The University of Zurich’s Botanical Gardens has a long history, dating back to its 1837 opening! Nowadays, it’s also a home to many fantastic plant species, over 7,000, including tropical plants!
Lake Zurich
Many locals absolutely love this location. Its serene waters allow locals to relax and forget for some time about the city’s bustle. This place also attracts tourists for the same reason.
This massive city lake offers other unparalleled experiences. Rent a paddleboard here to fully enjoy the cruise down the Limmat River, seeing how historical buildings are passing nearby. You can also swim in the public bathing areas of lakeside, called Badis, to cool off in summer.
The boat rides are also unforgettable because of the superb views of the truly magnificent Alps. Having a short rest and a cup of tea or coffee in one of the cases alongside Lake Zurich and the Limmat River is another superior way to spend leisure time without breaking the bank.
Nightlife in the Langestrasse District
This district is known as Zurich’s party hub. It features distinct red lights and is undoubtedly the center of the city’s nightlife. It hosts a huge number of superb bars, dance clubs, beer pubs, and even allows guests to enjoy live street music. Going to this district means having a night of fun and dancing!
Bottom Line
If you wish to explore the genuine Switzerland while travelling on a budget, go to Zurich. This gorgeous city has everything needed for an unforgettable trip: historical buildings and locations, natural wonders, cozy cafes and restaurants, calm places to take a break, and cool places to have a party.
It’s better to reserve at least a few days for your trip and take care of your belongings in advance. Radical Storage, a reputable international luggage storage company, will help you enjoy Zurich without worrying about your heavy belongings. Forget about them and gain unforgettable memories without breaking the bank and study plans.
