Zurich Transportation Adventure: Cogwheel, Funicular & Boat Tour

Ride a scenic train right from the center up Zurich’s own mountain, the Uetliberg. As the city fades below, enjoy changing views of forests and villas along the slope. At the summit, panoramic vistas open up — stretching from the glittering Lake Zurich all the way to the snow-covered Alps on the horizon. This is one of the best spots to grasp the city’s unique setting between hills, lake, and mountains — a true local favorite for both sunrise and sunset.

A short walk brings us to the iconic Uetliberg Lookout with even broader views over the city, the winding lake, and the majestic Alpine range in the distance. Those who wish can enjoy a short but rewarding hike up to the tower (small admission fee) rising above the treetops for a full 360-degree panorama.

Optional Hike downhill: If you wish, we can descend on foot all the way back toward the city — following scenic trails through dense forest and along stepped paths that reveal ever-changing perspectives of Zurich.

Once a textile factory complex, Sihlcity has been transformed into one of Zurich’s most vibrant urban hubs. This modern shopping and leisure center blends historic brick facades with striking contemporary design, symbolizing the city’s seamless balance of tradition and progress. Here you can enjoy a short break, browse local boutiques, or pick up one of Switzerland’s finest chocolate creations — a delicious souvenir to take home.

Named after the former Grandhotel Bellevue, this lively square takes its name from the French belle vue, meaning “beautiful view.” Overlooking the lake and the city’s elegant quays, Bellevue is a popular meeting point where trams, boats, and locals all cross paths. It’s the perfect spot to soak up Zurich’s atmosphere — and for those who wish, enjoy lunch at a traditional Zurich snack bar, tasting simple yet beloved local favorites.

From spring to autumn, small boats travel quietly along the Limmat River, passing right through the center of Zurich. The glass-roofed vessels glide under low bridges and past many of the city’s landmarks, offering a unique view from the water level. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to experience Zurich’s old town

This peaceful square crowns a moraine hill formed by ancient glaciers, offering one of the most beautiful viewpoints over Zurich’s old town and the Limmat River. Once the site of a Roman fort and later a Carolingian palace, Lindenhof is steeped in history spanning prehistoric, Roman, and medieval times. Today, it’s a quiet retreat shaded by lime trees, listed as a Swiss heritage site of national significance — a perfect spot to pause and take in the layers of Zurich’s past.

Located in the old town on the opposite side of the Limmat, St. Peter’s Church is one of Zurich’s oldest and most distinctive landmarks. Its clock tower bears the largest clock face in all of Europe — clearly visible from nearly anywhere in the city. As a Protestant church with medieval origins, it reflects Zurich’s long spiritual heritage and offers a peaceful glimpse into centuries of local history right in the heart of the old town.

Located on the opposite side of the Limmat from the Grossmünster, the Fraumünster is one of Zurich’s most celebrated churches. Its serene Gothic interior is illuminated by the world-famous stained-glass windows designed by artist Marc Chagall, whose vibrant colors bathe the space in an ethereal light. Each window tells a biblical story in his distinctive artistic style, making this church a true highlight for art and history lovers alike. Entry is optional and subject to a small admission fee.

Stretching from the main train station down to the lake, Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s grand boulevard and one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. Lined with luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and inviting cafés, it showcases the city’s refined side while remaining lively and welcoming. Originally built on the site of the old city moat, this prestigious street reflects Zurich’s evolution from a medieval town to a modern financial hub.

Once a simple livestock market, Paradeplatz has become one of the most valuable addresses in Switzerland. Today, it stands as the symbolic center of Zurich’s financial world, home to the headquarters of UBS and the former Credit Suisse. Surrounded by elegant façades and luxury boutiques, the square reflects the city’s long tradition of banking and commerce. It’s a fascinating stop to observe how modern wealth and historic architecture blend seamlessly in Zurich’s cityscape.

The Dolderbahn is Zurich’s only cogwheel train, linking the city with the wooded slopes of the Zürichberg. The short ride passes the elegant Dolder Grand hotel, one of Switzerland’s most scenic and storied places to stay. Whether you’re heading up to the viewpoints or back down toward the city, the journey offers calm views, local charm, and a glimpse of Zurich’s seamless blend of nature and urban life.

Optional Hike along the forested Zürichberg ridge: A peaceful forest path follows the Zürichberg ridge, offering glimpses of the city, lake, and distant Alps between the trees. This easy and refreshing walk connects scenic viewpoints and local landmarks while giving a sense of Zurich’s green surroundings. It’s a pleasant way to stretch your legs and enjoy nature between urban highlights.

The Rigiblick funicular is a small hillside railway connecting the city with a quiet residential area above it. The short route passes through leafy neighborhoods and offers open views toward the Uetliberg mountain. This nostalgic ride gives a glimpse of everyday Zurich life and one of its lesser-known panoramic corners.

This area is home to Zurich’s two main universities: ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich. The historic main buildings sit above the city and are easy to reach either by the Polybahn funicular or on foot from the old town. From the terraces, you get relaxed views over the rooftops, the lake, and the surrounding hills — a popular spot for students and visitors alike. Their grand main buildings, designed by Gottfried Semper, crown the skyline and reflect Zurich’s reputation as a center of knowledge and innovation.

Running since 1889, the red Polybahn funicular is one of Zurich’s most charming and historic means of transport. In just a minute, it carries you from the bustling city center up to the university hill, home to the renowned Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) and the University of Zurich. From the top, sweeping views open over the rooftops and river before we begin our scenic descent into the old town — a perfect blend of history, engineering, and panorama.

Dominating the city skyline, the Grossmünster is Zurich’s most recognizable landmark. This Romanesque church with its twin towers has stood for centuries as a symbol of the city and its Reformation heritage. Inside, striking stained-glass windows and simple stone interiors reflect its historic character. For those who wish, it’s possible to climb the tower for a panoramic view across the old town, the river, and all the way to the distant Alps.

Set directly on a small island in the Limmat, the Wasserkirche is one of Zurich’s most atmospheric landmarks. Once believed to stand on the site of the city’s martyrs, it became closely linked to the Reformation era. The nearby statue of reformer Huldrych Zwingli and memorials recall both the new ideas of the time and the persecution that followed — including the tragic drowning of Anabaptists in the river. With its Gothic design and peaceful riverside setting, the Wasserkirche invites reflection on Zurich’s complex spiritual past.

Enjoy a relaxing short cruise on Lake Zurich and see the city from the water. The boat glides past bays, promenades, and green hillsides, revealing a calmer side of urban life. With views of church towers, the Alps on the horizon, and everyday scenes along the shoreline, this gentle ride offers a refreshing contrast to the city’s bustling streets.