Are you doing Zurich on a budget? Or just saving where you can? Here’s the good news: there are plenty of free things to do in Zurich. You just have to know where to look for them. I’m all for splurging and living the good life because what’s a vacation without that? But honestly, there’s nothing better than knowing you’re getting shit for free. I love free stuff as much as, well, everyone. Europe can be pretty pricey, so I’m here to give you my best suggestions for activities and experiences in Zurich that won’t put holes in your pockets.
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Where To Stay in Zurich
First and foremost, you need to book your room unless you like living on the edge. We stayed at 25hours Hotel Zurich Langstrasse, which is a 4-star hotel in the heart of Zurich and literally steps away from the train station. Talk about convenience!
The rooms aren’t anything fancy, but they’re clean, modern, and spacious. Honestly, that’s all I’m asking for from these hotels. The beds kind of give off a dormitory vibe, which I think is sort of cute.
If you’re only spending a day in Zurich, this is the perfect hotel. I mean, 25 hours is literally IN the name. It’s within a short drive to pretty much everything you’d need and within walking distance of lots of great restaurants. If you just want to stay in the hotel and rest, their amenities provide whatever you need for a 24-hour staycation.
PHOTO CREDIT: 25 HOURS HOTEL ZURICH LANGSTRASSE VIA HOTELS.COM
Free Things To Do in Zurich
Zurich is dubbed as one of the most expensive cities in the world, so you wouldn’t think you’d be able to save any money while you’re here. But I’m here to tell you that it’s always possible to find free stuff, even in the most bougie of locations.
Here’s a guide for what to do for free in Zurich that will save money for that fancy 5-star dinner you want later.
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Take a Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens
Are you an aspiring horticulturist or just a lover of beautiful foliage? One of the best free experiences in Zurich is the University of Zurichโs Botanical Gardens. The original garden dates back to 1837 and sits on a hill in the city center.
It houses numerous tropical trees, a palm house, and a medieval herb garden named in honor of a 16th-century Zurich doctor. You can also explore the complex at Seefeld, built in the 1970s, whose domed greenhouses are the main draw. Home to around 7,000 plant species, these tropical greenhouses are the perfect place to check out if the weather takes a turn for the worst.
Roam Around Zurich’s Old Town
This is a great place just to get lost in the local culture and experience everything unique about Zurich. This charming location hasn’t changed much at all in literal centuries, and it spans the very blue Limmat River. Everything here is within walking distance, including super cute shops and cafes.
The Old Town is also highly picturesque; it’s the perfect spot to take all those super aesthetic photos for Instagram. Some highlights include Niederdorfstrasse, St. Peterโs Church, featuring the largest clock in Europe, and Lindenhof Hill.
Get in Touch With Nature at Lake Zurich
This iconic lake offers a fantastic spot for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy stunning views or take a soothing boat ride. If youโre in the mood to socialize, the left-hand promenade often features live local music and attracts crowds. However, if you prefer solitude, head to the right, where youโll find a park perfect for a picnic or simply people-watching.
The surrounding scenery is breathtaking, and experiencing it from a boat makes it even more delightful. In my opinion, this is the most relaxing option of all the free things to do in Zurich.
Climb Uetliberg Mountain
Okay, so not technically a “massive” mountain, but it’s a mountain, nonetheless. It also has a viewing tower at the top if you crave some amazing panoramic views over the city. It’s 871 meters (2,857 feet) above sea level with rolling, pine-tree-filled rumps.
This is a pretty popular spot for bikers and hikers, especially in the fall. Why, you ask? During this time of year, Zurich can become enveloped in a fog, and the summit of the mountain sits above it. When you reach the top, it’s like you’re existing in the firmament of the heavens. Not to mention, it’s a great photo op!
Visit the Grave of James Joyce
This one’s for all my literature fanatics out there. James Joyce actually wrote Ulysses in Zurich before he died there in 1941. He was buried at the Fluntern Cemetery with an interesting statue of the writer, depicting him sitting and thinking with a pencil in one hand and a book in the other.
In addition, there are also free meetings and readings that delve into the authorโs best-known works, hosted by the James Joyce Foundation.
Opt for the Free Museums in Zurich
Zurich has so many museums that it will make your head spin. However, many of them charge some sort of an entry fee. I know what you’re thinking, “Jordan, aren’t all museums supposed to be free?” Well, yes and no. It depends on how they operate and are funded.
Some of the best free museums in Zurich include the hands-on Zoological Museum of the University of Zurich and the Paleontological Museum, which houses fossils from the Unesco World Heritage site of Monte San Giorgio in southern Switzerland. Actually, most of the university’s museums are free since they’re already funded.
Dip Your Toes (or Body) in a River Swimming Pool
You can totally swim in Lake Zurich for free, but the cityโs river pools are actually pretty cool and worth checking out. If you’re an adventurous swimmer, the Lower Letten Pool is ideal, as it makes the most of a quick current. If you want to relax and go with the flow (literally), the Upper Letten Pool is your best option, with a 400-meter (1,312-foot) swimming canal and diving board.
There’s also the historic Schanzengraben River Pool, which is located on a secluded river bend, but it’s men-only. What is this, 1890? On the other hand, the river pool, Au-Hรถngg on Werd Island, is open to everyone. It’s popular in summer for its swimming pools, BBQ areas, restaurant, and grassy sunbathing areas.
These pools are amazing free things to do in Zurich that you definitely shouldn’t pass up.
Ride Through Zurich on a Free Bike
Sometimes, there’s nothing better than just exploring a city on two wheels. Especially in Europe because it tends to be very bike-friendly in most areas. You can pick up โGratis Veloโ or a free bike at the bike station at Europaplatz between 8 am and 9:30 pm. These free bikes are available year-round, although there tend to be more stations with bikes in the summertime.
You can make your life easier by downloading this free app to check for availability. If youโre with a group and looking for more than five bikes, itโs possible to reserve them in advance for a deposit of 10 CHF per bike.
What Else Is There To Do in Zurich?
If you’re staying in this Swiss city for an extended amount of time and want more things to do, check out these unusual things to do in Zurich or wander around taking photos at Zurich’s most Instagrammable spots.
On the other hand, if you only have one day in Zurich, here are some suggestions for interesting things to do in Zurich in just 24 hours. There’s honestly so much to see and do in this city that it will be a grand adventure no matter how long you stay.
Don’t forget to follow me for more European travel guides, and stay tuned for my upcoming adventures!
