Unlimited cultural and recreational activities

Switzerland’s culture, countryside and history make it a one-of-a-kind cultural and recreational experience. In addition to a large number of cultural institutions and events, a wealth of recreational offerings, daytrip destinations and sports ensure plenty of variety during all four seasons.

Treats for every taste

The Greater Zurich Area offers a remarkable wealth of recreational activities. In summer, its beautiful mountain landscapes are a paradise for hikers, bikers, climbers and golfers. Clear alpine and glacier lakes invite you to swim and dive or just hang out on their shores. Many places offer trendy sports like wind- and kitesurfing, climbing, canyoning and river rafting. In winter, sleepy mountain villages become a favorite meeting ground for winter sports enthusiasts, and chances are you’ll see some famous faces from showbiz, politics and high society. People looking for peace and quiet will find that taking long rejuvenating walks or indulging in wellness programs at one of Switzerland’s many thermal spas can do wonders for relaxing the mind and body.

Culture and history are also a big priority. Many of the country’s cultural institutions and events are famous beyond Swiss borders, with offerings ranging from opera, theater and concerts to galleries and exhibitions to street festivals and open-air events. Picturesque old towns provide fascinating glimpses of the region’s past. Archeological digs, remnants of old fortresses and other sights, along with many museums bear impressive witness to the over 2000-year-old history of numerous towns and villages.

A perfect union of tradition and modern life

Traditional sports – e.g. Swiss wrestling or Hornussen – as well as Swiss tradition and folk festivals are extremely popular. Annual vintner festivals offer a wealth of information about Swiss viniculture, which can easily hold its own against more famous wine countries like France and Italy. There are plenty of culinary treats to be explored as well. Apart from the world-famous cheese tradition and international cuisine, each region cultivates its own delectable specialties.

Contemporary festivals and events are a fixture in the Greater Zurich Area social calendar. In Zürich, for instance, the «Streetparade» in August has been held annually since 1992. Over a million dance enthusiasts transform the region surrounding Lake Zurich into an enormous party. House and techno fans have long since been joined at this colorful spectacle by fun-loving families and seniors. Possibilities for shopping abound, with offerings for every sort of taste and budget. Beyond Zürich’s world-famous Bahnhofstrasse, trendy boutiques and local labels for exclusive accessories present a wealth of shopping opportunities. Numerous open-air and flea markets offer everything the heart could possibly desire.
Switzerland is a land of many facets. Ideal for families, adventurers, tranquility seekers, romantics, music lovers, sports fans, art and culture enthusiasts – in a word, everyone.

Switzerland Tourism
Aargau Tourism
Glarus Tourism
Graubünden Tourism
Region Solothurn Tourism
Schaffhauserland Tourism
Schwyz Tourism
Swiss Knife Valley
Winterthur Tourism
Zug Tourism

Zürich – a unique mix

As an El Dorado on the water with a view of the snow-capped Alps on the horizon, Zürich provides a one-of-a-kind mélange: over 50 museums and more than 100 galleries, international labels and local designers, the most colorful and liveliest nightlife anywhere in Switzerland, lake and river swimming in the middle of the city, and hikes on nearby Mount «Uetliberg» are just a few possibilities on the program. Choose from over 2'000 restaurants, 53 movie theaters (films are shown in their original language), 15 theaters and more than 500 bars and night-clubs, and other worthwhile events, festivals, parties and concerts take place regularly. 

Zürich Tourism
Zürichsee Tourism

 
   
     
   
     
     
   

Country rankings

     
    Image Abroad
(IMD 2010)
       
    Tourism Receipts
(IMD 2010)