Zurich: Culture, Cafés, and the Best Meal of the Trip

Zurich is polished without being pretentious. It’s a city designed for walking, lingering, and discovering small moments—great food, quiet streets, and excellent shopping woven into everyday life.

Zurich is an ideal first stop. It eases you into Switzerland while delivering culture, cuisine, and calm immediately.

As we do in every new European city upon arriving, we dropped our things at the hotel and met our private tour guide to do a walking tour of the city. This allows us to see the popular and historic highlights of the city, while getting a lay of the land, understanding which part of town we are staying in, and where we wan to experience the city.

Where to Stay

Neues Schloss Hotel

Beautiful, quaint, and located centrally, making it walkable to Old Town, shopping, and dining.

What to Do

• Old Town walking tour

  • Must-do and highly recommend starting with this in all European cities you visit

  • The best way to understand Zurich’s history and layout

• Wander Bahnhofstrasse for high-end shopping

• Stop frequently for a coffee or tea as Zurich excels at casual elegance

• Optional: Lake Zurich boat cruise or Swiss National Museum

Where to Eat

Ristorante Bindella is a classic Italian and Venetian restaurant located in the heart of Zurich's old town near Bahnhofstrasse and St. Peter's Church. This was hands down the best meal of the entire trip. A charming Italian bistro that feels intimate, local, and unforgettable.

Strategy Notes

Zurich isn’t about checking boxes. Give it space. Walk without an agenda, eat well, and let the city unfold slowly.