Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a blend of picturesque medieval streets, sleek modern architecture, and the stunning natural backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re strolling along the cobblestone lanes of the Old Town or capturing the shimmering waters of Lake Zurich, this city offers endless photographic inspiration. Let’s dive into my Zurich travel and photography guide.

Zurich is where old-world charm meets modern sophistication. The city’s well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene are enhanced by its location at the northern tip of Lake Zurich, with views of the Alps peeking over the horizon. Zurich is also a global financial hub, but don’t let that fool you—it’s a place of art, history, and stunning natural beauty. With its cobbled streets, iconic clock towers, and peaceful lakeside promenades, Zurich is the perfect playground for photographers and travelers alike.

Where Should You Stay?

When choosing where to stay, consider the Old Town (Altstadt), a charming district with historical buildings, museums, and access to many of Zurich’s top photography locations. Here are some of the top options for luxury and mid-level accommodations:

Luxury Hotels

Baur au Lac – This iconic 5-star hotel, set right on the shores of Lake Zurich, has hosted celebrities and royalty alike. Its private park and elegant interiors make it a dream base for photographers looking to capture both luxury and the lake.
The Dolder Grand – Perched above the city with breathtaking views, this is a palace-like retreat that seamlessly blends modern design with classic elegance.
Park Hyatt Zurich – A sophisticated option in the heart of the financial district, this contemporary hotel offers luxury and comfort within walking distance of Zurich’s main attractions, making it perfect for both photography and relaxation.

Mid-Level Hotels

Hotel Storchen Zurich – A chic, riverside hotel offering stunning views of the Limmat River, blending tradition with contemporary comfort. It’s an ideal location for photographers looking to explore Zurich on foot.
Hotel Adler Zurich – Located in the Old Town, this traditional Swiss hotel has been a favorite for travelers for centuries. It’s great for those wanting easy access to the city’s most photogenic spots.
Hotel Glockenhof Zurich – This sleek hotel is located near Bahnhofstrasse, one of Zurich’s most famous shopping streets. It provides a stylish yet relaxed environment for your stay.

How Long Should You Stay?

A stay of 2 to 3 days is perfect to explore Zurich’s key sights, capture the essence of the city, and even venture slightly beyond for a day trip. If you want to dive deep into Zurich’s neighborhoods and take your time with photography, an extra day or two would be perfect.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Zurich is a year-round destination, but if you’re a photographer looking for the best light and scenes, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal. In the spring, flowers bloom across the city, and in autumn, the trees around Lake Zurich transform into a painter’s palette of gold and red. Winter is also magical, especially during the Christmas season when Zurich becomes a festive wonderland with markets and twinkling lights.

Getting Around

Zurich has an excellent public transportation system, with trams, buses, and boats that will get you around the city with ease. If you’re staying in the Old Town or nearby, most major photography spots are within walking distance.

While Uber operates in Zurich, public transport is often the easiest and most scenic way to get around. If you're venturing out further, rental bikes and e-scooters are available around the city. Zurich’s public transport passes, like the Zurich Card, are also handy for getting unlimited travel on the network.

Where to Eat (And Don’t Forget Coffee!)

Zurich has an impressive food scene, with options ranging from fine dining to cozy cafés where you can recharge during a long day of exploring.

Restaurants:

Haus Hiltl – The world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant offers a diverse, healthy menu in a stylish setting.
Kronenhalle – This iconic restaurant has an elegant interior and a history of hosting famous artists and writers. Their Swiss cuisine is excellent, and the art-filled walls are photo-worthy too.
LaSalle – Located in a repurposed shipbuilding hall in Zurich West, this trendy spot offers Mediterranean dishes in a cool industrial setting.
Zeughauskeller – If you're craving Swiss classics like schnitzel or sausages, this historic restaurant in a former armory is the place to go.
Clouds – Located in Zurich’s Prime Tower, it offers panoramic views of the city and the perfect setting for a sunset meal and photography session.

Coffee Shops:

Café Schober – A quintessentially Swiss café located in the heart of the Old Town, perfect for indulging in coffee and pastries in an Instagram-worthy setting.
Bovelli – A hip café near Bahnhofstrasse with great coffee and even better lighting for capturing cozy café shots.
ViCafe – Zurich’s favorite coffee-on-the-go. With small locations dotted around the city, it’s a great pitstop for a quick caffeine boost between photo sessions.
Sprüngli - Sprüngli in Zurich is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth or an eye for elegant, old-world charm. Established in 1836, Sprüngli is an iconic Swiss confectionery renowned for its exquisite chocolates and pastries, especially the famous Luxemburgerli macarons—tiny, colorful, and packed with flavor.

Photography Gear to Bring

Zurich’s varied landscapes, from the city streets to the lake and mountains, require a versatile setup.

Camera Bodies:

Nikon Z7 II or Canon EOS R6 – Both are excellent mirrorless cameras that offer great image quality, fast autofocus, and weather resistance, essential for Zurich’s changing weather.

Lenses:

24-70mm f/2.8 – A must for its versatility in street, architecture, and landscape photography.
16-35mm f/2.8 – Ideal for capturing wide shots of Zurich’s stunning medieval architecture, like the churches and riverside scenes.
70-200mm f/2.8 – Great for getting close-up shots of landmarks from a distance, especially the city’s iconic clock towers and mountain views across the lake.

Other Essentials:

Tripod – For steady shots during golden hour or long exposures along the lakefront.
Polarizing Filter – To reduce glare when shooting around the water and enhance the blues of Lake Zurich.
Waterproof Camera Bag – Zurich’s weather can change quickly, especially in the fall and winter.

Best Photography Locations in Zurich

Zurich is filled with photo-worthy spots. Here are the must-visit locations for capturing the essence of the city:

Lake Zurich Promenade –

A picturesque spot for sunset photos, with views of the water and the distant Alps. This is a wonderful area to stroll around in the evening.

The promenade stretches along the shores of Lake Zurich, offering stunning views of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and the city skyline. This makes it a great place to capture photos, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light reflects off the water.

Old Town

Zurich’s Old Town (Altstadt) is one of the most captivating parts of the city, offering a blend of history, culture, and architectural charm.

The Old Town is full of medieval buildings, narrow winding streets, and colorful townhouses. You’ll find well-preserved structures from various eras, ranging from medieval to Renaissance styles, with charming facades, unique doorways, and decorative details that make for great photography subjects.

Grossmünster Church –

The Grossmünster Church in Zurich is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, with a rich history and unique features that make it fascinating for travelers and photographers alike.

The Grossmünster has deep historical roots, dating back to the 12th century. According to legend, the church was founded by Charlemagne after his horse knelt at the graves of Zurich’s patron saints, Felix and Regula.

Lindenhof Hill –

A quiet park that offers one of the best views of the Old Town and the Limmat River.

Bahnhofstrasse –

One of the world’s most famous shopping streets, this is perfect for capturing both high-end modernity and historic charm.

Bahnhofstrasse is known for its luxury shopping, with stores from top international designers like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, as well as Swiss brands like Bally and Sprüngli. It’s a haven for high-end fashion, jewelry, and watches, especially those iconic Swiss watches like Patek Philippe and Rolex.

No visit to Bahnhofstrasse is complete without stopping at Confiserie Sprüngli, one of Zurich’s oldest and most beloved chocolate shops. Their Luxemburgerli macarons and Swiss chocolates are famous and make for a perfect sweet treat or gift.

Located midway along Bahnhofstrasse is Paradeplatz, a financial hub and home to some of the world’s most important banks, including Credit Suisse and UBS. The square has been a center of commerce for centuries, adding a layer of economic history to the area.

Street Photography

Street photography in Zurich is a rewarding experience, offering a unique blend of urban life, historical charm, and scenic beauty.

Zurich is known for its architectural diversity. From the medieval buildings in the Old Town (Altstadt) to the sleek modernity of the financial district, street photographers can capture striking contrasts in just a short walk.

The city’s streets are always buzzing with activity. Key areas like Bahnhofstrasse and Niederdorf are perfect for capturing candid moments of locals and tourists alike, whether they’re shopping, enjoying a coffee, or commuting. The variety of people and activities in these areas makes for dynamic and engaging photos.

Night Photography –

Once an industrial area, Zurich West is now a hip, modern district with cool architecture, street art, and trendy restaurants.

Zurich is excellent for night photography! The city offers a blend of modern architecture, historic charm, and vibrant urban life, making it a fantastic subject for photographers after dark.

The Limmat River, flowing through the city, offers beautiful reflections of illuminated buildings, churches, and bridges at night. The Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, both iconic landmarks, look stunning when lit up, providing dramatic shots with reflections in the calm river.

Zurich's Altstadt, with its narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings, provides excellent low-light photography opportunities.

The mix of soft streetlights and old-world charm creates a captivating atmosphere for night shots.

One of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, Bahnhofstrasse, is beautifully illuminated at night, especially during the holiday season. The streetlights, luxury stores, and passing trams offer great opportunities for capturing vibrant street scenes and urban life.

Venturing Outside of the City

If you drive 20 minutes outside of the city you begin to experence the incredible beaurty of Switzerland.

Festivals and Holidays

Zurich is home to several festivals that can provide unique photo opportunities. The Zurich Street Parade in August is one of the largest techno parties in the world, while Sechseläuten in April celebrates the end of winter with a spectacular bonfire event. During winter, the Zurich Christmas Markets light up the city, creating a magical, festive atmosphere perfect for night photography.

Final Thoughts

Zurich offers photographers a rich tapestry of history, modernity, and natural beauty. Whether you're wandering through medieval streets, capturing the reflection of the Alps on Lake Zurich, or simply sipping coffee in a cozy café, there's always a new scene to discover. So pack your gear and get ready to explore this stunning Swiss city.

If you enjoyed this guide to Zurich, you can check out my other Photography and travel Guides at this link.

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My Photography & Travel Guide to Zurich, Switzerland