Top Rated Attractions in Zurich

The Schanzengraben reclaims the perimeter of Zurich's original defensive bulwarks, turning the area into a lovely tree-shaded walkway that subverts the once-imposing fortifications of Altstadt. What was once a prohibitive moat is now a tranquil canal, boats and swimmers bobbing easily in the still water that reflects the brickwork of antique fortress walls. A haven from the bustle of urban Zurich, Schanzengraben is the perfect destination for a peaceful walk through green pathways and nearby office workers enjoying a leisurely lunch.

Once an all-women abbey for those of aristocratic lineage, the Fraumünster Church commands dignity and a place of pride in Zurich. Perhaps one of the most striking features of this church is the troupe of magnificent, diversely colored stained glass windows crafted by renowned artists Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti. Another such recognizable gem of the church is its soaring tower, which was built in 1732, standing today in stark contrast to the twin towers of the nearby Grossmünster. This Gothic-Romanesque church also features an ornate nave, a Romanesque chancel, and exquisite frescoes which are but an escape into the church's storied past. Topped by a gleaming teal cap, this church proudly graces the heart of Zurich's old town.

The first floor of Zunfthaus zur Meisen houses the faience (glazed ceramic ware) and porcelain collection of the Swiss National Museum. The baroque interiors provide a good backdrop for an overview of the Swiss faience and porcelain workshops of the 18th century and the role Switzerland played in the tableware culture of that time. Products from the Zurich porcelain factory in Kilchberg-Schooren and some from Nyon VD are displayed in the center of the room. They are arranged chronologically (Zurich products from 1763 to 1790 and Nyon ones from 1781 to 1813) to give an insight into how they evolved as per the changing tastes of the time. Zurich's porcelain figures have a special place in the exhibition. They are grouped according to the theme they represent such as seasons, continents, wine, love, allegories, hunting, elements and exoticism. Private events can also be organized at the venue which can accommodate 200 people (standing only).

Augmented by the steely waters of the Limmat River, this church is a stirring escape into history. A stone's throw from Lindenhof Hill in the old town of Zurich, this is one of the four major churches in the city. Although the current holy site was not declared sacred until 1706, an early church structure was believed to have been built by the 8th or 9th Century. The most iconic feature of St. Peterskirche is its clock tower, which plays host to the largest clock face in the country, its minute hand alone measuring 5.7 meters (18.8 feet). With a facade as legendary and imposing as this, it is no surprise that St. Peter Church lords over pristine, fawn-roofed houses which dot the charming landscape of Old Town. However, the interiors of the church are just as beautiful, its stuccoed white ceiling and carved wooden balconies illuminated by a line of chandeliers that swing overhead. While an ornate Romanesque choir stall and Baroque naves add to its magnificence, it is the now faded murals that are a true testimony to the church's long-standing history and religious repute.

Zurich's vibrant and diverse history comes alive Augustinergasse, a historic street which winds through the charming Old Town. Touted as one of Zurich's most colorful streets, Augustinergasse is where lovingly carved, wooden windows embellish picture-perfect buildings gleaming in corals, emeralds and pastels. In the Middle Ages, it was home to a number of local artists, though the street was largely occupied by wealthy factory owners by the 17th Century. Notable landmarks along Augustinergasse include Augustinerkirche, one of the most significant churches in medieval Zurich, and Munzplatz, which served not only as a church but also as a workshop and mint coinage. Perhaps the most striking attribute of these edifices is the strategically crafted oriel windows, which go beyond just being a pretty ornamentation. Through these bay windows, residents could view forthcoming guests, hence buying themselves time to decline them with grace, if they so wished. These buildings which date to as far back as the 14th Century, are presently storefronts brimming with cultural relics, books, souvenirs, clothing and the likes.

Hemmed by the historic Schanzengraben, the Old Botanical Garden lies at the site of the former Bollwerk zur Katz - part of the city's Baroque fortifications. From 1837 to 1977, the garden was maintained by the University of Zurich as a botanical preserve until the new botanical garden was established at Zollikerstrasse. Today, the Old Botanical Garden is a public park that invites all to linger and marvel at the exotic plants on display. The 19th-century Palm House and the Gessner Garden are the highlights of the park; the former a historic edifice that is now used as a venue for live theater and concerts, while the latter is an intriguing collection of herbs that chronicles the use of such plants for medicinal purposes in the 17th Century. With its scenic surrounds and historic allure, the Old Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich remains a popular tourist attraction.