The Swiss city of Zurich is often described as the little-big city, and a walking tour is a great way to see its many attractions. There are self-guided walking tours that fit into a five hour layover at the Zurich airport for those who are just passing through, and longer ones for those spending an extended time in the city.
Choose the right time for a walking tour in Zurich. Stores are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and avoiding rush hour from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. is a good idea.
Center a walking tour on a Bahnhofstrasse. This street doesn't have cars, only trams. Strolling along this street provides access to expensive shops, old architecture and Swiss banks.
Start at the Hauptbahnhof rail station, built in 1871. After seeing the rail station, you are well in place to walk the Bahnofstrasse.
Notice the Limmat River. It connects with Lake Zurich at Bürkliplatz.
Stop at several of the parks along the way. There are plenty of places to sit and rest, read historic plaques and get a sense of Zurich's history.
Check out the Alstadt area. This is the old town of Zurich and has cobblestone streets. Make sure you stroll past the Fraumünster church, built in the late 800s. The Weinplatz is the oldest market square in Zurich and by crossing over the bridge you reach Café Odeon, famous for where Lenin plotted the Russian Revolution.
