Zurich is a charming and unique city to consider fitting in to a winter Euro trip. From the open air markets boasting roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and swiss crafts to the enchanting lights and musical surprises, Christmas time is when Zurich shines.
Prior to arriving to Switzerland on December 20, 2015, I did not have many pre-conceived notions about the city of Zurich. The city's reputation is as discrete to outsiders as its banking policies are. I was surprised to find the conveniency and location of the city allows for a unique, multicultural experience, which is both safe and charmingly authentic.
Here are five reasons to consider fitting Zurich into your next winter-break Euro trip:
2. Short but Sweet
When I go away for the holidays, I like to soak up as much as I can in as little time as I have. Two or three days is the perfect amount of time to capture the essence of Zurich without breaking the bank. While Zurich has one of the lowest costs of living for its citizens, do not expect to save money while traveling to the German-speaking city. A combo meal at McDonalds can cost anywhere between $12-$15 and hotel rooms are not cheap either.
3. Balance of old and modern
As a banking capital, expect in Zurich to see busy men and women wearing suits and hurrying to make their next appointment. The bustling nature of the city center is juxtaposed with a quick stroll down the Altstadt, Zurich's old town. Explore quaint alleyways dotted with enchanting shops and cafes while getting lost in the history and well-preserved architecture of the old city.
4. Shopper's paradise
Luxury shopping is a common pastime in Zurich as witnessed by the rows of expensive watches and jewelry stores along one of the priciest streets in the world, Banhofstrasse. While I can only window shop and fantasize about future purchases for most of the street, Zurich does have some more affordable options. The streets around the city center are home to popular clothing stores like Zara and larger department stores like Jelmoli and Manor. Stop into Modissa during the holiday season to find great sales on trendy pieces.
5. Foodie town
Aromas of Swiss delicacies like Gruyere cheese, chocolate and freshly-baked bread fill the air year-round in the German-speaking city of Zurich.The holiday season tips the senses over the edge adding scents of roasting chestnuts and spiced holiday drinks. I have never had a bad meal in Zurich between the decadent fondue and raclette of melted cheese on boiled potatoes. For dessert, a quick stroll through the Sprüngli chocolate factory on Bahnhofstrasse had my mouth watering for days.
The clean streets, elegant shops and delicious food make Zurich one of my favorite European cities and a must see during the holidays.
Here are five reasons to consider fitting Zurich into your next winter-break Euro trip:
- Convenient and traveler friendly
2. Short but Sweet
When I go away for the holidays, I like to soak up as much as I can in as little time as I have. Two or three days is the perfect amount of time to capture the essence of Zurich without breaking the bank. While Zurich has one of the lowest costs of living for its citizens, do not expect to save money while traveling to the German-speaking city. A combo meal at McDonalds can cost anywhere between $12-$15 and hotel rooms are not cheap either.
3. Balance of old and modern
As a banking capital, expect in Zurich to see busy men and women wearing suits and hurrying to make their next appointment. The bustling nature of the city center is juxtaposed with a quick stroll down the Altstadt, Zurich's old town. Explore quaint alleyways dotted with enchanting shops and cafes while getting lost in the history and well-preserved architecture of the old city.
4. Shopper's paradise
Luxury shopping is a common pastime in Zurich as witnessed by the rows of expensive watches and jewelry stores along one of the priciest streets in the world, Banhofstrasse. While I can only window shop and fantasize about future purchases for most of the street, Zurich does have some more affordable options. The streets around the city center are home to popular clothing stores like Zara and larger department stores like Jelmoli and Manor. Stop into Modissa during the holiday season to find great sales on trendy pieces.
5. Foodie town
Aromas of Swiss delicacies like Gruyere cheese, chocolate and freshly-baked bread fill the air year-round in the German-speaking city of Zurich.The holiday season tips the senses over the edge adding scents of roasting chestnuts and spiced holiday drinks. I have never had a bad meal in Zurich between the decadent fondue and raclette of melted cheese on boiled potatoes. For dessert, a quick stroll through the Sprüngli chocolate factory on Bahnhofstrasse had my mouth watering for days.
The clean streets, elegant shops and delicious food make Zurich one of my favorite European cities and a must see during the holidays.