Clear, still and picturesque, Lake Zurich is a defining feature of the city. But the water stretches much further than the city. From its northern tip, it extends 18 miles (29 kilometres) southeast, passing townships including Meilen on its east bank and Horgen on its left.
Lake Zurich can be seen from numerous points around Zurich. The only bridge to cross the lake (aside from the Seedamm in the far south) is the Quaibrücke. The bridge is straddled by Lake Zurich to the south and the Limmat River to the north. Though busy with cars and trams, the Quaibrücke has ample paths for pedestrians and is a brilliant vantage point over the lake. Another favourite approach to Lake Zurich is the walk down to the waterfront from Bahnhofstrasse. The boats bobbing up and down here make a great photo.
You can go out on a boat yourself, and see the city from an entirely different perspective. The Zürichsee Schifffahrtsgesellschaft company offers a choice of trips around the lake, varying from 1.5 to 7 hours in length (the longest is a round-trip to Rapperswil). They also organise evening cruises with refreshments and live entertainment.
Switzerland is a landlocked country, so in summer its lakes become substitutes for a coastline. Fortunately, Lake Zurich’s water often reaches temperatures of over 68 F (20 C), making for pleasant swimming conditions. Temporary beaches, such as that at Mythenquai, provide spaces for sunbathing and ball games. Lake Zurich’s gentle waves make it a safe swimming spot for younger children.
Lake Zurich is also used for the International Self-Transcendence Marathon Swim. This 16.4-mile (26.4-kilometre) course is tackled by keen athletes every summer. If you’re not participating, it’s an impressive sight to see more than 100 participants swim towards Zurich as they complete the journey from Rapperswil.
Where to stay in Lake Zurich
Zürich Center
While you're in Zürich Center, take in top sights like Lindenhof or Swiss Casinos Zurich, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Rennweg Tram Stop or Sihlstrasse Tram Stop.
Zürich District
If you're spending time in Zürich District, check out sights like St. Josef Church or Swiss National Museum and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Museum of Design Station or Limmatplatz Tram Stop.
District 2
Lake views, spas and gardens highlight some notable features of District 2. Make a stop by Mythenquai Beach or FIFA World Football Museum while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Morgental Tram Stop or Butzenstrasse Tram Stop to get around town.
District 7
Noted for its forests and spas, there's plenty to explore in District 7. Top attractions like FIFA Headquarters and Zoo Zurich are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Dolder S-Bahn or Dolderbahn S-Bahn to see more of the city.
Zürichberg
Noted for its forests and spas, there's plenty to explore in Zürichberg. Top attractions like FIFA Headquarters and Zoo Zurich are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Dolder S-Bahn or Dolderbahn S-Bahn to see more of the city.
Rapperswil
You'll enjoy the bars and museums in Rapperswil. You might want to make time for a stop at Knies Kinderzoo or Rapperswil-Jona Municipal Museum.
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Reviewed on 13 May 2024
Reviewed on 19 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 6 May 2024
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Zoo Zurich
Come face-to-face with rare and exotic animal species, including Amur tigers and snow leopards, which roam in recreations of their natural habitats.
Swiss National Museum
Discover the life of the Swiss people from prehistoric times to the present day while wandering among the rooms of a grandiose riverside castle.
Bahnhofstrasse
This is one of the world’s most exclusive retail strips. Even if you can’t afford the price tags, it’s worth a browse for the window-shopping alone.
Zürich Opera House
You can enjoy a show at Zürich Opera House during your trip to Zürich. Wander the lakeside in this culturally rich area.
Lindenhof
This historic quarter is filled with medieval alleyways, Zurich’s finest churches, artisan’s shops and a hilltop featuring Roman ruins and sweeping city views.
Kunsthaus Zurich
Spot works from the 15th century onward and pieces by Matisse, Picasso and Rembrandt, among other greats at one of Switzerland’s most significant art museums.
