A Perfect Day: Zurich in One Day

9 AM: Breakfast at Babu's

I live just outside Zurich. Getting into the city by train takes about fifteen minutes. I love being surrounded by nature, but I also enjoy spending time in the "Städtli," as we call it here. I soak in the good vibes and the multicultural flair on the streets.

Once I arrive at the main station, I like to walk to Babu's for breakfast – it's just an eight-minute stroll. The menu has something for everyone, from muesli and porridge to bagels and rösti. I usually go for the avocado toast with a poached egg and a warming ginger lemongrass tea with honey. Later, I treat myself to a nice cappuccino.

11 AM: City Views From Zurich's Local Mountain

Re-energized, I head back to the main station and hop on the S10 train to Triemli. From there, I recommend a short hike up Uetliberg, Zurich's local mountain. It takes about 45 minutes along a beautiful, well-signposted forest path. At the top, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views over the city, the surrounding region, and, on a clear day, even the Alps.

At the summit, you'll also find the Uto Kulm hotel and restaurant – a great spot for brunch, a delicious lunch, or dinner. They occasionally host yoga classes with breakfast or even murder mystery dinners in the evening.

1 PM: Shopping and Vegetarian Lunch on Bahnhofstrasse

You can either walk back again or take the S10, which is about a ten-minute walk from Uto Kulm, directly back to the main station. One of my favorite lunch spots is the Hiltl rooftop terrace, located at the top of the PKZ Women fashion store on Bahnhofstrasse. If you're in the mood, you can shop along the way – historic department stores like Globus and Bongénie are nearby.

At Hiltl, I help myself to the buffet. Everything is vegetarian or vegan, which is no surprise, since the original Haus Hiltl is considered the world's oldest vegetarian restaurant.

2:30 PM: Inspired by Art at the Kunsthaus Zürich

Art moves me, so a visit to the Kunsthaus Zürich is a must. The museum's contemporary extension, designed by architect David Chipperfield, makes a bold statement and complements the historic buildings beautifully.

Inside, the collection ranges from old masters and impressionists to modern and pop art. One of the most striking exhibitions I've seen there was a major retrospective of performance artist Marina Abramović. My tip: plan at least 90 minutes for a visit – there's so much to see!

4 PM: Strolling Through Niederdorf

One of the most charming parts of Zurich's Old Town is Niederdorf – also known as "Niederdörfli" in the local dialect. It's home to landmarks like the Grossmünster and plenty of little shops. My favorites include Tee & Tee for loose-leaf teas, Farfalla for natural care products and essential oils, and rrrevolve, a boutique for fair fashion.

It's a bit early for dinner, but it's worth mentioning that Niederdorf is a great place to enjoy classic Swiss dishes like fondue, raclette, or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes – try Swiss Chuchi for these dishes. For something lighter or more modern, I recommend Weisser Wind.

6 PM: An Apéro at Bellevueplatz

Bellevue is the perfect spot to soak up a little Mediterranean flair in Zurich. This is also where the famous Sechseläutenplatz is located. There are several tables, chairs, and benches where you can take a seat and admire the beautiful opera house building. Incidentally, this square also hosts major events, such as the big Christmas market in winter. Right next to the opera house is the Bernhard Theater, which is highly recommended for a night of laughter!

At Brasserie Schiller, I like to enjoy an apéro: a glass of wine or a spritz and a few snacks. Then, I stroll along the lake. If it's still warm in the summer and you've packed your swimsuit, you might even take a quick dip or stretch out on the grass. For a longer day of swimming, I recommend the Seebad Utoquai.

7:30 PM: Pasta for Dinner

The Mediterranean mood continues with dinner at Osteria Sazio. The name means "full" in Italian, and that's exactly how you'll feel after a delicious plate of pasta or their house specialty, osso buco.

9 PM: Views or Vibes to End the Day

For a nightcap with a spectacular view over the rooftops of Zurich, I head to the Jules Verne Panorama Bar, a 20-minute walk from the restaurant. Another great summer option is the Allianz Cinema, an open-air movie theater by the lake, open from July 17 to August 17. Enjoy great films in a stunning setting!

About

Anita-Anna Steiner-Zakowski was born in Poland, grew up in Düsseldorf, and has lived near Zurich since 2005. She has been working with Lufthansa as a flight attendant since 1999. She particularly enjoys interacting with people and the challenge of providing an excellent service to all passengers. Steiner-Zakowski usually looks after guests in First Class, as she is specially qualified for this role.