Zurich (Switzerland)

My first experience of the city of Zurich was the central railway station, or Hauptbahnhof, and it did not endear me to it. I arrived on a train from the airport at an underground platform and was to meet my son and his partner somewhere on the station, but I didn't know where. I decided to follow the signs for those who wanted to catch a bus or a tram, but ended up in a street to one side. Going back inside the station, I was surprised how crowded it was; it was just after 5pm, but apparently it's always packed with people. I headed for the main entrance past an open market. I thought I'd ... more

Just give me three good reasons to go to Zürich. No litter, no graffiti, no children. ‘Nuff said? I hope not! Zürich is a place that greatly rewards you for a little research either by getting a guide to the city before you go or, the method I chose, repeated visits to the city where you build up your own feel for the place. I was living relatively nearby in Böblingen, Baden-Würtemburg in the Southwest of Germany about two hours by car. I believe it is better to discover places for yourself rather than following the well-trodden path. So, in a sense I am ruining that opportunity for you. But ... more

Zurich is an extremely easy city to get to, located in the eastern German-speaking part of Switzerland. If you're hoping to use your school-learned German, you'll be disappointed - although all the signs are in the "High" German you learnt at school, everyone speaks Swiss German, a language different enough to lead to communication breakdown more rapidly than you'd think! Fortunately though, virtually everyone also speaks English. Zurich itself is a beautiful city, built on the river Zimmat, and next to the Zurichsee lake. The two main churches; Grossmunster and Fraumunster are both very ... more

Zurich is the largest city in the German speaking part of Switzerland and its easy to get to from London airports. There are two things you will notive straight away about Switzerland. Firstly, everyone speaks English so it's not a problem if you don't speak German. Secondly, everything is very clean! There's no litter on the streets which makes for a refreshing change. Zurich is a very wealthy city, so not the cheapest to stay in. It's a good idea to look for somewhere to stay outside the city as public transport is good. The shopping is good quality but expensive, especially on the main ... more

Lovely scenery but nothing much else to do... Food expensive, drinks ridiculously expensive, shopping not too great (better in London). Stayed at the airport hotel Movenpick. Lovely rooms, free coutesy bus to airport and regular train service from airport to Zurich centre. First and last impressions not too good. If you are into lively atmosphere, great value shopping this is not the place for you, not even for a weekend... better off in London... where the prices are better! Example 2x coffee(normal plain coffee not a fancy one) = £6.00. Mc Donalds, here in england £3.88 for a value meal but ... more