Zurich is a very vibrant city in Switzerland, and there are times when the greatest adventures in life are to be found immediately outside of the city boundaries. Fortunately, and this is a very important part when you are visiting Zurich, there are many nice little towns nearby Zurich, and each is a different combination of history, culture and fabulous views. From walking around cobble-laced streets to tasting local Swiss cuisine to enjoying the sights of the lakes, these nearby Small Towns from Zurich are the right choices for a day trip. These are the top 7 Must-Visit Small Towns Day Trip from Zurich.
The Day trips from Zurich are indeed special because they are so easy and also very relaxing. You can calmly drink coffee in the morning and sit by the city riverbank and in less than an hour already find yourself walking through centuries-old villages, exploring castles or marvelling at the mountain sceneries and panoramas. Belonging to all as history buffs, foodies, nature lovers, or someone just wanting to leave the city chaos behind, it has all that is needed to relax and have a small adventure.
And so, when you are ready to experience Switzerland beyond the scenery, here are 7 Must-Visit Small Towns Day Trip from Zurich, each with its story to tell and with its charm.
A magical land, Stein am Rhein is only an hour by train from Zurich and 45 minutes (55.3 km) via A1 with a Zurich Airport transfer. This town in Medieval central Europe is known to have half-timbered houses decorated with colourful frescoes. Go for a stroll in the old town square, lunch by the riverbank, and finally visit Hohenklingen Castle to see a panorama of the Rhine.
Rapperswil, lying on Lake Zurich and within easy reach by train, is called the Town of Roses. It is a romantic getaway with the medieval castle, beautiful rose gardens and the lakeside promenade. It is also ideal with families, as there is the Knie Children's Zoo, which is a Day Trip from Zurich.
Appenzell is culture and tradition. Nestled in the eastern Swiss green hills, this town is known to have colourful buildings, homemade cheese and vibrant traditions. Appenzell is also the access point to some of the most beautiful Hiking routes in Switzerland, in case you are fond of hiking.
Baden is only a 20-minute drive from Zurich via a Zurich chauffeur service, and this lends itself well to the relaxing option. The town is a spa retreat spot famous because of its hot springs. Following your visit to the thermal baths, walk across the old town, the historic old town of Zurich and cross the famous covered wooden bridge over the Limmat River.
Schaffhausen is a pretty town typified by baroque-style architecture, though the main attraction in the area is the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe. You are only able to see the roaring of the falls at close range by a boat ride or by merely watching the falls from the platforms. Couple your visit with a history dosage; take a visit to the Munot fortress.
The most impressive place in Einsiedeln is its fabulous monastery- the Benedictine abbey of Einsiedeln. Religious pilgrims come to this location from all over the world, and secular travellers will also be impressed by the huge architecture and calm atmosphere. The lake nearby and hiking tracks provide a serene life free of city life.
Zug can be small, but one of the most beautiful day trips from Zurich. It is situated on Lake Zug and is known for its old town, high-quality cherry products and lake sunset that would take your breath away. Being a foodie? Then you can not miss out on the Zuger Kirschtorte, a yummy cherry cake.
Zurich is simply an incredible location to get a feel of Switzerland, but the true magic can be found in the adorable day trips from Zurich. These small towns near Zurich make you glimpse at the heart and soul of the country, where time appears to have stopped, the traditions are in the air, and each corner reminds you of a page of a magical fairy book. Just think of a stroll around fairytale Fachwerk alleys, through calm lakeside walks, or a curative stay in a centuries-old spa town. Greater or lesser, the destination, just a day trip from Zurich, will be in its one distinct flavour, be it history, culture, nature or the warm welcome of the people.
The coolest thing? All these small towns near Zurich are within a short distance, whether by a Zurich Limousine Service or train, and that doesn't require tossing a long itinerary to enjoy these towns. You might be sipping wine in a medieval village, stomping around the mountains, or eating fresh Swiss pastries in a small lakeside cafe within less than an hour. Not only are these day trips from Zurich convenient, but truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences that allow you to experience the true beauty of Switzerland outside the city.