Enjoying a Visit to Zurich, Switzerland

I was charmed by this wonderful city the first, and, the second time I visited. And, I want to go back and spend even more time there. Zurich is located on Lake Zurich and is very old world and picturesque. It's also a major international banking center.

Switzerland to me, looks just like a picture postcard - clean, sharp and crisp. Zurich is no exception. Lots of colorful flowers, unique shops - very expensive shops - and clean, sharp and crisp. Great food, friendly people, an interesting culture, and a wonderful place to spend a few days.

Consider purchasing a Zurichcard at the Zurich airport or at the main train station in the city. This pass will include travel by rail, bus, tram, and boat plus admission to many museums and other discounts.

Old town Zurich is very charming with its cobbled streets and you'll find the tourist service center at the main station has maps and information about various local attractions. The Bahnhofstrasse - one of the world's most famous shopping miles, is here and it leads from the main train station via Paradeplatz to Lake Zurich. There are 2 and 4 hour guided tours available, but you can easily stroll about and explore for yourself. Shop til you drop because you'll find elegant fashion boutiques, unique shops, department stores, pastry shops, and, of course - banks.

There are many interesting museums in Zurich. At the Swiss National Museum you'll find a display of antique Swiss weapons, a collection of intriguing artifacts from ancient times to modern inventions plus carved altar pieces and stained glass windows from old churches and convents. There are also exhibits about Swiss clock making. Its Museum of Fine Arts showcases one of the continent's largest art collections. Lastly, the Zurich Toy Museum features many of the toys Switzerland is known for.

Any gardener will thoroughly enjoy the Bontainesher Garten. And, the Fluntern Cemetery is the burial place of the famed author, James Joyce. Admission to the cemetery is free.

No visit to Zurich is complete with enjoying the lake area. Cruises are available on Lake Zurich that can go from 2 to 7 hours. In August and September you can enjoy plays at open air stages by the lake.

Take a trip up the Uetliberg, which is a four hour trip which taking you 800 metres above sea level. At the top, enjoy a meal in the restaurant and take a stroll around the area for the magnificent views.

The Dolder Grand Hotel, about 20 minutes from the city is a charming luxury hotel. It is a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World organization. Its main building shows the history of the hotel and the two newer wings show the modern niceties. Many of the rooms include steam showers and whirlpool tubs. There is also a spa, lounge and restaurant on the premises. Enjoy a traditional British tea every Saturday and Sunday in the hotel lobby. (Check out thedoldergrand.com for details)

Zurich has many other hotels to fit any style and budget.