Why you should visit Lake Zurich in 2025

Lake Zurich is a place of unparalleled beauty in Switzerland. It's the perfect destination for a day trip or longer vacation, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities amidst a stunning scenery. There are also many pretty towns and villages to explore dotted around the lake. The water is clean and clear, making it ideal for swimming, boating and paddling. So if you are looking for a beautiful place to relax or an exciting place to explore, then you should definitely visit Lake Zurich.

16 highlights at Lake Zurich

• Enjoy the breathtaking views. From Lake Zurich, you'll have a fantastic vista of the Glarus Alps, allowing you to soak in stunning panoramas from every angle.
• Go swimming or sunbathing. The water in Lake Zurich is clean and refreshing, making it perfect for a swim on a hot day. Plus, there are plenty of grassy areas where you can relax in the sun.
• Take a boat ride from Zurich or go sailing. One of the best ways to experience Lake Zurich is from the water. You can rent boats, join group tours, or even sail around the lake by yourself if you're feeling adventurous.
• Enjoy a cruise on the lake. From the water, you can see the entire city of Zurich, and it's a wonderful way to unwind, even in winter.
• Take a stroll along the promenade. If you want to stretch your legs, the promenade is a great place to do it. You can start your walk at Bellevue and continue to Zurichhorn.
• Relax in one of the parks by the lake. There are several beautiful parks around Lake Zurich where you can have a picnic, play some games, or simply soak up the sun.
• Plan a BBQ. Why not take advantage of the sunny weather and grill something up? You'll find BBQ spots all around the lake.
• Rent a paddleboat. Pedal boats are a perfect way to explore the lake. They offer a unique and romantic experience for couples or can be enjoyed for a thrilling solo adventure.
• Explore the Chinese garden in Zurich. It's located between Bellerivestrasse and Blatterwiese at Zurichhorn on the right lakeshore. Surrounded by the beautiful lakeside promenade, it's the perfect spot for a day outdoors.
• Visit nearby towns and villages. Around Lake Zurich, you'll find many charming towns and villages, each with its unique character.
• Dine at one of the lakeside restaurants. The area around Lake Zurich is known for its delicious food, so be sure to try it while you're here. You'll find everything from traditional Swiss dishes to international cuisine.
• Rent a bike or an e-scooter. Cycling is a great way to explore the sights around Lake Zurich. There are many scenic routes that wind through the landscape and offer stunning views of the lake. If you're not in the mood for exercise, you can also rent an e-scooter.
• Experience city life. Zurich, the largest city by Lake Zurich, is a cosmopolitan hub that has something for everyone. Whether you want to shop, see the sights, or just people-watch, there's plenty of variety.
• Visit a museum or an art gallery. While you're in the area, make sure to check out one (or more) of the many museums and galleries. There are plenty of cultural attractions around Lake Zurich, from art museums to historical houses. The Swiss National Museum is a must-see.
• Explore the old town of Zurich. The city is rich in history and culture, just a short ride from Lake Zurich. Be sure to visit some of the city's most famous landmarks, like the old town and the Zurich Grossmünster.
• Shop till you drop. If you're looking for an upscale shopping spree, Zurich is the place for you. The city is famous for its luxury shops.

What awaits you at Lake Zurich

There are plenty of activities on offer at Lake Zurich, so there's something to suit everyone. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, go for a swim, or hire a paddle boat and explore the lake at your own pace. For those who want to up the ante, there are also plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities on offer, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. And when you're ready to refuel, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes offering delicious Swiss cuisine.

Lake Zurich in winter

The best time to visit Lake Zurich is undeniably in the summer. But what can you expect at Lake Zurich in winter? The scenery is breathtaking with snow-capped mountains and the unspoiled lake. You can go for a walk or take the cable car up to Felsenegg to experience the stunning view up close.

The variety of excursion boats guarantees a pleasant outing. A classic on cold days is the cheese fondue boat: while the illuminated lakeshore glides by the window, you can enjoy a hearty cheese fondue à discretion in the cozy onboard restaurant.