Sitting prettily to the southeast of Zurich city, Zurich Lake is one of the top tourist destinations in Switzerland. Offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, the shimmering warm waters of this stunning lake attract a variety of visitors from far and wide. The snow-capped Swiss Alps form a stunning backdrop against the crystal blue waters, which stretch to an impressive 29 kilometres in length. But Zurich Lake offers much more than magnificent views. Visitors can try their hand at water sports, stroll along the shore, feed the ducks, snooze on the grass, read a book or take a dip in the balmy, 20-degree waters.One of the best ways to experience the peaceful serenity of the lake and its surrounds is to take a boat trip. The Lake Zurich Navigation Company (ZSG) offer daily cruises which depart from the lakeshore quay at Bürkliplatz at the southern end of the Bahnhofstrasse and connect to surrounding towns along the Rapperswil peninsula.The lake is divided by the Seedam causeway which links Hurden to the west and the medieval town of Rapperswil to the east. In particular, Rapperswil Castle is certainly worth a stop off as it is home to the Polish National Museum – a unique outpost of Polish culture in Switzerland.If time is tight, opt for a short cruise that typically lasts about an hour and a half. If you have the luxury of a full day, then why not spoil yourself with a relaxing four-hour round trip. Not only is this the perfect opportunity to explore the many towns along the route, it also offers a unique perspective of the city among the sweeping mountains. The cruises offer on-board dining options from hot-stone grill dinners to lighter snacks and refreshments. Cool down with a beer in summer or warm up with a hot chocolate in the chillier months.
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 7 May 2024
Reviewed on 5 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 Mar. 2024
Reviewed on 10 Jan. 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
Max your credit card or window shop to your heart’s content on Zurich’s home of high fashion.
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.
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.
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.
