The Dark Side of Zurich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Zurich , Switzerland

The Dark Side of Zurich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Zurich is much more than just Switzerland’s financial heart.

On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll be introduced to a side of the city that you won’t hear about in guidebooks. You'll go back 500 years to a time when executioners lived on the outskirts of the medieval city but were part of the fabric of daily life. You'll learn about the trials and subsequent executions of people convicted of witchcraft and petty crimes.

You’ll also see where people were tortured in Zurich and find out about the methods of execution that they faced. Along the way, you’ll also see the main sights of Zurich and a few lesser-known ones, including the executioner’s former house, and the Wasserkirche, Water Church. You’ll also see Zurich's Town Hall where death sentences were announced, and find out where a person could take their last sip of wine before being executed.

Please note: This tour isn't suitable for people with mobility issues and children younger than 16.

Available options

The Dark Side of Zurich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

VoiceMap Application

Lifetime access to Soho: Food to Queue For tour

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

While winding your way from Paradeplatz, where our tour starts, to Altstadt, Zurich’s Old Town, I’ll tell you about the trials and subsequent executions of people convicted of witchcraft and petty crimes.

Stop 2 Pass by

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll see and learn about the Fraumünster Church.

Along the way, you’ll also see the main sights of Zurich and a few lesser-known ones, including the executioner’s former house, and the Wasserkirche, Water Church.

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll see and learn about the Felix & Regula Martyr stone.

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll see and learn about the Grossmünsterplatz.

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll see and learn about the Täufergedenkplatte.

What's not included

Smartphone

Transportation

Food/Drink

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

This self-guided audio tour ends in Paradeplatz. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and traditional Swiss charm. Nestled between the Alps and a beautiful lake, it offers a unique mix of financial hub activity and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Europe.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Altstadt)

The historic heart of Zurich, with medieval streets, charming squares, and beautiful architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

Lake Zurich

A beautiful lake offering scenic views, water activities, and relaxing walks along its shores.

Nature Half day or more Free (activities may have costs)

Uetliberg

Zurich's local mountain, offering hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to escape the city.

Nature Half day CHF 12.80 for the train ride

Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)

A comprehensive museum showcasing Swiss history, culture, and artifacts from prehistoric times to the present.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 10

Kunsthaus Zurich

One of Switzerland's most important art museums, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, often served with Rösti (Swiss potato pancake).

Main Dish Contains meat and dairy.

Rösti

A Swiss potato pancake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Side Dish Vegetarian.

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a pot, enjoyed by dipping bread into it.

Main Dish Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.

Zürcher Trout

Fresh trout from Lake Zurich, often served with lemon and herbs.

Main Dish Contains fish.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Alps Skiing at nearby resorts Paragliding over Lake Zurich Boat cruise on Lake Zurich Visiting spas and wellness centers Picnicking in parks Exploring museums and galleries Attending concerts and festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to February

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, lake swimming, and festivals. Winter brings Christmas markets and skiing opportunities. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

15-25°C, -2-5°C 59-77°F, 28-41°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Zurich is generally very safe with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Zurich Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Zurich Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Carparkplatz Oerlikon, Carparkplatz Triemli

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are efficient, punctual, and cover most of the city's attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi 433

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Altstadt) Zurich West Kreis 5 (District 5) Kreis 4 (District 4)

Day trips

Lucerne

60 km from Zurich • Full day

A picturesque city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the famous Chapel Bridge, and its location on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Rapperswil

40 km from Zurich • Half day

A charming town known as the 'Town of Roses' and its historic castle, offering beautiful views of Lake Zurich.

Mount Titlis

60 km from Zurich • Full day

A popular ski and hiking destination in the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views and year-round activities.

Festivals

Zurich Christmas Market • Late November to late December Sechseläuten • Third weekend in April Zurich Film Festival • Late September to early October

Pro tips

Purchase a Zurich Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions
Visit the Old Town early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the historic atmosphere
Take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich for stunning views and a relaxing experience
Explore Zurich West for a trendy and creative vibe with unique shops and restaurants
Try Swiss chocolate and pastries at Confiserie Sprüngli, a must-visit for chocolate lovers