Switzerland’s largest city boasts excellent walking, bus, and boat tours that efficiently cover the must-sees. The most practical options include small-group walking tours through the medieval Old Town – perfect for understanding Zurich’s evolution from Roman times to banking capital. I especially recommend the classic walking tour along the Limmat River, which hits all the main landmarks in just 2.5 hours. For a uniquely local perspective, the food and culture tours through trendy Niederdorf and multicultural Langstrasse give you a real taste of modern Zurich life. Boat tours on Lake Zurich offer unbeatable views of the snow-capped Alps on clear days. Let’s explore the best tour choices for experiencing this fascinating Swiss city.
Key Points
- Private city tours with professional photographers, personalized recommendations, and flexible booking options provide a unique and immersive sightseeing experience in Zurich.
- Historical and cultural tours, such as the self-guided audio tour and the City Tour of Zurich, offer in-depth insights into the city’s past and hidden gems.
- Scenic and adventure tours, including the Best of Zurich & Surroundings and the Rhine Falls and City Highlights Tour, showcase Zurich’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks.
- Themed tours, like the LGBTQ City Tour, provide a specialized and inclusive exploration of Zurich’s vibrant queer history and culture.
- Audio-guided and self-guided experiences, such as the Audio Guided City Tour and Train Experience and the Self-Led Exploration Game, offer convenient and informative ways to explore Zurich.
Private City Tour & Photoshoot With a Local in Zurich
A popular option for visitors to Zurich is the Private City Tour & Photoshoot with a Local. This 3-hour experience provides a personalized exploration of the city, led by a professional photographer.
Travelers enjoy a 79% recommended rating and a Badge of Excellence. Priced from $241.68 per person, the tour includes high-resolution photos delivered within 24 hours. Accessible by wheelchair and stroller, the experience begins and ends at the Swatch store on Bahnhofstrasse.
Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge, friendliness, and photography skills, highlighting unique experiences like drone shots and personalized recommendations.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this is a flexible and memorable way to capture Zurich’s culture and architecture.
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City Tour of Zurich With the City Whisperer From CHF 21.00
Travelers can embark on a captivating City Tour of Zurich with the City Whisperer, starting from just CHF 21.00.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this private tour offers an immersive experience through Zurich’s unique and historical sites, including underground areas.
With 162 reviews and a 5.0-star rating, the knowledgeable guides provide an informative and engaging exploration, from the Roman era to medieval times.
The tour’s highlights include visits to secret places and architectural layers, making it a comprehensive introduction to Zurich.
Operated by die Stadtflüsterer, the tour can be customized to end at any desired location in the old town.
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Zurich: LGBTQ City Tour Through Zurich Including Raclette
This LGBTQ city tour through Zurich offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant queer history and culture.
The 3-hour tour, limited to 10 participants, is led by a local queer guide who provides insights into Zurich’s LGBTQ landmarks and history.
Participants can enjoy a traditional Swiss raclette dining experience outdoors and the first drink at a famous local gay bar.
The tour starts at Bahnhofplatz and includes iconic landmarks and LGBTQ historical sites.
With flexible booking and free cancellation, this tour provides a personalized and immersive experience for those wanting to discover Zurich’s queer side.
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Best of Zurich and Surroundings – Extended City Sightseeing Tour
For those seeking a rundown of Zurich and its surrounding areas, the Best of Zurich and Surroundings – Extended City Sightseeing Tour provides an immersive and insightful experience.
This 4-hour guided tour takes travelers through Zurich’s Old Town, across Lake Zurich, and up to the Felsenegg viewpoint via aerial cable car.
Visitors can expect comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable multilingual guide, and highlights like the University Quarter and Zürichberg neighborhoods.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transit.
With an overall rating of 4.0/5 from 85 reviews, the tour offers great views and photo opportunities, though some feel the large group size can make it less engaging.
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Zurich: 2-Hour City E-Scooter Tour
Adventurous explorers can discover Zurich’s urban charms and natural beauty on the Zurich: 2-Hour City E-Scooter Tour.
Priced from $146.80 per person, this 2-hour guided tour allows participants to ride Swiss-developed, electric-powered 3-wheeled scooters.
Suitable for ages 14 and up, the eco-friendly e-scooters can navigate bike paths, offering a fun and efficient way to see the city.
The tour includes stops at top sights like Zurich’s lakefront, the trendy Zurich West neighborhood, and the historic town of Greifensee.
With live guides in multiple languages, free cancellation, and inclusive safety gear, this tour provides a unique perspective of Zurich.
Riders must meet weight and licensing requirements to participate.
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Zurich City Tour With Audio Commentary
The Zurich City Tour with Audio Commentary offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the vibrant Swiss city. Lasting approximately 100-120 minutes, the tour uses a reinvented trolley to take up to 60 travelers on a journey through Zurich’s highlights, including the Bahnhofstrasse shopping district, Paradeplatz, and the charming Old Town.
The audio commentary is available in 11 languages, providing an informative overview. While the tour doesn’t include admission to the Fraumünster Church, it does offer 10-minute stops at the lake and church.
Reviewers praise the scenic views and comfortable seating, though some note issues with the initial meeting point and desire for a more engaging audio experience. This tour provides a great way for first-time visitors to explore Zurich.
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Zurich: City Walking Tour Made in Zurich
Amidst the bustling Zurich Main Station, the “Zurich: City Walking Tour Made in Zurich” offers a captivating exploration of the city’s up-and-coming quarter.
This 2-hour tour, priced at $25.60 per person, invites guests to discover the vibrant neighborhood’s handmade, local products and original Zurich designs.
Along the way, participants can meet the makers behind the items and enjoy tastings of selected goods.
The tour also provides insights into the area’s historical and architectural background, as well as Zurich’s urban production and creative spirit.
While not suitable for those with mobility impairments, the tour operates rain or shine and includes a Zürich Card for public transport.
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Zurich Super Saver 2: Rhine Falls Including Best of Zurich City Tour
Departs from the Sihlquai Bus Station at 8:45 am, the Zurich Super Saver 2 tour combines a visit to Europe’s largest waterfall, the Rhine Falls, with a comprehensive city tour highlighting Zurich’s top attractions.
Travelers can enjoy a scenic boat ride and photo opportunities at the Rhine Falls, followed by a lunch break and an afternoon exploring Zurich’s National Museum, Bahnhofstrasse, and Fraumunster Church.
The tour includes transportation, admission, and a multilingual guide, though food, drinks, and optional add-ons are extra.
With 164 reviews and a 4.0 rating, this tour offers a convenient way to see the best of Zurich and the Rhine Falls.
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The Dark Side of Zurich: Self-Guided Audio City Tour
Beneath Zurich’s picturesque facades lies a harrowing past, which this self-guided audio tour uncovers. For $11.38, visitors can explore the city’s dark history, learning about medieval executions and witchcraft trials.
The 1.5-2 hour tour takes them to sites of death sentences and torture, including the Fraumünster church and a monument to Hans Waldmann. The high-quality audio guide, available in English or Russian, provides clear route explanations and detailed directions.
While not suitable for children under 16 or wheelchair users, the tour has an overall customer rating of 4.6/5, with value for money rated at 4.4/5.
This flexible, self-guided experience allows visitors to uncover Zurich’s sinister secrets at their own pace.
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Zurich Self-Led City Tour and Exploration Game
This self-led city tour and exploration game in Zurich allows visitors to uncover the scientific legacy of Albert Einstein.
Featuring a combination of city sightseeing and interactive puzzles, the tour takes participants on a journey through landmarks like Münsterbrücke and Paradeplatz.
Accessible via the Questo mobile app, the experience offers flexible departure times and full flexibility for breaks.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, the host’s commitment to addressing technical issues and improving clarity suggests an ongoing effort to enhance the experience.
With a 4.0 rating and suitability for families and groups, this tour offers a unique way to explore Zurich’s scientific heritage.
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Zurich: Rhine Falls and Best of Zurich City Full-Day Tour
Zurich’s Rhine Falls and Best of Zurich City Full-Day Tour showcases the city’s natural wonders and architectural gems in a comprehensive itinerary.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 by 1,654 reviewers, this 5-hour guided tour takes visitors to the majestic Rhine Falls, Europe’s biggest waterfall.
Afterward, explore Zurich’s highlights, including the historic Old Town, the Bahnhofstrasse shopping district, and the scenic Lake Zurich.
With a duration of 4.5 hours and a 4.4 rating from 1,842 reviews, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Zurich.
Priced at $88.76 per person, it provides excellent value for the diverse experiences it delivers.
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Self-Guided Audio City Tour in Zurich
For those seeking a flexible and immersive way to explore Zurich’s highlights, the Self-Guided Audio City Tour offers an independent sightseeing experience.
Featuring a high-quality audio guide recorded by a professional speaker, the tour allows visitors to explore major attractions at their own pace.
The comprehensive package includes clear route explanations, photos, and detailed directions, accessible via a mobile device with internet and headphones.
While an optional entrance fee applies for the Fraumunster, the tour itself is free to access.
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Zurich: Audio Guided City Tour and Train to “Top of Zurich”
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Zurich’s highlights can embark on the “Zurich: Audio Guided City Tour and Train to ‘Top of Zurich'”.
This 4-hour tour provides an immersive experience, with an air-conditioned bus, an audio guide in 11 languages, and a train ride to the 900-meter-high Uetliberg summit.
Along the way, guests will enjoy panoramic views of Zurich’s lake and snowcapped mountains, while learning about the city’s history and culture.
The tour covers key landmarks like Bahnhofstrasse, the old town, and the university quarter.
While some guests have requested more time for exploration, the tour offers a convenient and informative way to discover Zurich’s top attractions.
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Zürich City Private Walking Tour With Optional Lake Cruise
One of the top-rated city tours in Zurich is the Zürich City Private Walking Tour with optional Lake Cruise. Priced from $224.64 per person, this 3-hour tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation tickets, and an English-speaking guide.
Guests can choose to add a 1-hour boat cruise on Lake Zurich. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and operates in all weather conditions.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and in-depth historical insights, though some note issues with pacing and preparation. The tour offers a rundown of Zurich’s highlights, with the boat cruise providing a unique perspective of the city.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies make this a convenient option for visitors.
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Zurich: Private Etuktuk City Tour
Exploring Zurich’s charming old town and vibrant shopping/business districts in an eco-friendly eTukTuk, the Zurich: Private eTukTuk City Tour offers a unique perspective on the city.
This 1.5-hour private tour, available in English and German, takes visitors to famous sights and hidden treasures while providing insights into Zurich’s history and culture.
Personalized with knowledgeable guides, the tour accommodates up to 4 adults or families with children.
With stops for photos, weather-appropriate provisions, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour is ideal for travelers and locals alike, whether seeking a family outing, group trip, or romantic experience.
Reviewers praise the guides’ professionalism, engagement, and assistance in planning their Zurich visit.
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Walking Tour of Zurich – Your First Overview of the City (Private Tour)
The 2-hour private walking tour of Zurich provides visitors with an introductory overview of the city’s highlights.
Meeting at the Bahnhofplatz, the tour takes participants through the old town, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks.
Priced from $378.28 for up to 15 people, the tour offers free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-friendly, the tour is available daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
With an impressive 5-star rating from past guests who praised the knowledgeable guides, the walking tour is an excellent way to get acquainted with Zurich’s beauty and rich history.
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Zurich: Private E-Tuk-Tuk City Tour With Chocolate Fondue
Immersing oneself in Zurich’s captivating cityscape has never been more delightful than aboard a private electric tuk-tuk.
The Zurich: Private E-Tuk-Tuk City Tour With Chocolate Fondue offers a unique experience, blending the thrill of an e-tuk-tuk ride with the indulgence of a Swiss cheese fondue. Lasting 1.5 hours, this tour boasts a 4.7-star rating from 135 reviews, with prices starting at $90.47 per person.
Alongside the fondue, participants can enjoy breathtaking views of Zurich’s landmarks, including the iconic Grossmünster church and the picturesque Bahnhofstrasse.
GetYourGuide’s certification ensures quality and reliability, making this tour a must-try for those seeking an unforgettable way to explore Zurich.
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Zurich: City Top Attractions Tour by Bus With Audio Guide
Discover Zurich’s top attractions aboard an air-conditioned panorama bus on this 2-hour guided City Tour with audio commentary. Priced from €36.61 per person, this tour offers a convenient way to explore Switzerland’s largest city.
Hop on the reinvented trolley and enjoy commentary in 11 languages as you see highlights like Bahnhofstrasse, scenic lake views, and iconic landmarks such as Grossmünster and Fraumünster. Short photo stops allow you to capture memorable moments.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and pets, food, and drinks aren’t permitted. This tour earns an overall rating of 4.2/5 from 93 reviews, with high praise for the transportation and value for money.
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Zurich: City Bus Tour With Audio Guide and Lake Cruise
Zurich’s vibrant cityscape and serene lakeside vistas come alive on this comprehensive bus tour with a captivating audio guide and a relaxing boat cruise.
For just $50.07 per person, you’ll spend 3.5 hours exploring the city’s top attractions, including the National Museum, Kunsthaus, and historic churches.
With multiple language options available, the audio guide provides an informative and immersive experience.
Highlights include photo stops at scenic viewpoints and a scenic cruise on Lake Zurich, offering breathtaking views of villas and snow-capped mountains.
This tour’s flexible cancellation policy and convenient reserve-now-pay-later option make it an excellent choice to discover Zurich’s best sights.
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Zurich: City Sightseeing Tour With Lake Cruise
This comprehensive city sightseeing tour with a captivating lake cruise provides travelers with an immersive experience to explore Zurich’s vibrant cityscape and serene lakeside vistas.
Priced at $50.07 per person, the 3.5-hour tour in English offers a well-rounded itinerary, including a bus tour of key landmarks, a guided walking exploration of the historic Old Town, and an audio-guided cruise on Lake Zurich.
With convenient meeting logistics, carbon-balanced operations, and a solid overall rating from past participants, this tour delivers an excellent value for visitors seeking a thorough introduction to Switzerland’s largest city.
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The Sum Up
Zurich offers a variety of engaging city tours, ranging from private walking and e-scooter tours to bus tours with lake cruises. Visitors can explore the city’s top attractions, get a glimpse into its LGBTQ community, or capture stunning photos with a local guide. Whether you’re interested in a comprehensive sightseeing experience or a more specialized tour, Zurich has something to suit every traveler’s preferences.