Looking for a weekend getaway that’s as picturesque as it is pricey? Look no further than Zürich, a city that’s as clean as a whistle and as charming as your grandmother’s teapot.
Now, I won’t sugarcoat it for you, my love; Zürich can be expensive, So, if you’re on a budget, you might want to reconsider. But I think you’re worth it!
And with a bit of creativity, you can experience all the city has to offer without breaking the bank.
Start your weekend off by exploring the quaint and quirky streets of the Old Town. It’s a place where Instagram dreams come true, with its charming shops and cafes that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale. And if you’re feeling fancy, indulge in a cup of coffee that’ll make your taste buds sing and your wallet cry (okay I’ll stop).
Cocktails at Elisaburg
As the sun sets, Zürich comes alive with its trendy bars, such as Elisaburg. This spot has an atmosphere that oozes coolness and sophistication, thanks in part to its maximalist decor. The lighting is subdued and moody, making it the perfect place to relax with a cocktail after a long day. And speaking of cocktails, the bar’s mixologists are some of the best in the city, creating unique and delicious drinks.
Anyways, the nightlife in Zürich may not be Ibiza, but hey, you’re in Switzerland. Sip on a craft cocktail or two, and dance the night away to some top-notch DJ sets if techno is your thing.
Museums that make you go ‘WOW’
If you’re a fan of history, culture, or art, then Zürich has plenty of museums to satisfy your craving for knowledge:
• If you’re looking for a mind-blowing experience in Zürich, the WOW Museum should be at the top of your list. This place isn’t your average snooze-fest museum with dusty artifacts and boring labels – aka the ones cited above, which I love by the way, but I know it’s not necessarily everyone’s cup of tea. Instead, you’ll find interactive exhibits that will make you say “WOW!” (hence the name). You can explore the mysteries of the human body, blast off into space, and even travel through time in their 360-degree cinema. Whether you’re a science nerd or just looking for a fun day out, the WOW Museum is sure to leave you impressed and maybe even a little wowed (wink wink).
• One of the most popular is the Swiss National Museum, which is housed in a stunning neo-Gothic building and showcases Swiss history and culture from prehistoric times to the present day. You can immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Switzerland’s diverse regions, including its many languages and traditions.
• If you’re more of an art lover, the Kunsthaus Zürich is a must-visit. It’s home to one of the largest art collections in Switzerland, with works ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. You can see famous pieces from artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Munch, as well as works by Swiss artists such as Ferdinand Hodler and Alberto Giacometti. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a temporary exhibition that highlights some of the most innovative and boundary-pushing art of the moment.
Indulge in fondue
Last but not least, and mark my words, not least, you simply can’t leave without indulging in the city’s famous fondue. It’s a dish that’s as warm and comforting as a hug from your grandma. And let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like dipping chunks of bread into a bubbling cauldron of melted cheese, unless you’re lactose intolerant, in which case, we recommend you skip this paragraph.
But for the rest of you, get ready to indulge in a Swiss delicacy that’ll have you feeling like you’re wrapped up in a cozy blanket on a snowy winter’s day. Just be careful not to overdo it – you don’t want to end up feeling like a wheel of cheese yourself. (I hope my puns aren’t too cheesy for you.)
In conclusion, spending a weekend in Zürich is like taking a bite out of the most decadent Swiss chocolate – it’s indulgent, it’s luxurious, and it’s oh so satisfying.
From taking a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town to dipping a piece of bread in a bubbling pot of fondue, Zürich is a city that will win your heart.
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Read more about Zürich here in Dispatches’ archives.
Read more from Charlotte here.
Charlotte Laborie grew up in England, Belgium and Switzerland. Charlotte then moved to Paris and graduated from Sciences Po Paris. She is still based in Paris, where she works in marketing.
