Getting Around Zurich
The best way to get around Zürich’s interesting neighborhoods is by foot or bike. If you get fatigued, you can take the city's efficient tram system. From Zürich International Airport (ZRH), you can also take a cost-efficient Federal Railways train the seven miles into the city or you hop into a very expensive taxi (for the equivalent of about $60 USD). Because of too few parking spots and too much traffic, driving is not recommended.
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On Foot |
Many Zurich's attractions are located in close proximity to one another in Kreis (or district) 1, so walking is a very good way to get around. This is also the best way of maneuvering Old Town's cobblestone streets and weaving alleys; to explore beyond, Zürich offers a very efficient public transit system. |
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Bike |
You can rent a bike for a small sum or borrow them (for six hours or less) for free. Find them in shops outside various places, such as the Hauptbahnhof station, the Opera House or the Globus department store. |
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Public Transport |
Zürich Public Transport (ZVV) employs a network of trams, trains, buses, cable cars and even boats that traverse throughout Zürich and to the outskirts. The trams, in particular, are a good way to get around. Before you hop aboard, make sure to buy your ticket at the vending machines at tram stops. A one-hour ticket costs about 4 CHF, which is roughly equivalent to $4 USD. Purchase a special ZürichCARD for access to all of the public transportation, as well as free admission to around 40 of the city's museums. However, note that the ZVV operates (and charges fare) on a zone system. |
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Taxi |
Taxis are expensive, and due to the expansive ZVV tram system, largely unnecessary. The meter starts off at about 6 CHF (about $6 USD) and charges about 4 CHF (about $4 USD) per kilometer. You'll find them lined up in ranks at the Hauptbahnhof station and other major sites throughout the city. |
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Car |
We don't recommend driving around Zürich: The traffic is very heavy and the parking is scant and expensive. And if you think you can just park it at your hotel, think again. Some hotels don't offer parking at all, and if they do, they'll charge you a premium price for it. |
