Urban Oases in Zurich | zuerich.com

Urban adventurers can find numerous hidden-away cultural insider tips in the heart of the city. They are tranquil oases for relaxing in, exquisitely designed gardens, or particularly beautiful public institutions. Many locals are familiar with them, but for tourists they mostly comprise as yet unknown gems, which make a visit to Zurich all the more special.

Some of these places are not directly on the tourist routes or have special opening hours. But it is well worth taking the time and trouble to seek them out ‒ for intrepid city explorers are rewarded with beautiful sights and great views.

Villa Patumbah

The park of the Villa Patumbah, which is open to the public, is a gem of Zurich garden culture.

Rechberg Park, Zurich

Rechberg Garden

For Switching Off

The beautiful Rechberg Garden, which is somewhat reminiscent of formal French gardens, lies right in the middle of the city and yet is so quiet.

Blüemlihalle by Augusto Giacometti

Giacometti Frescoes

What is probably the most beautiful police station entrance hall was painted by Augusto Giacometti.

Grossmünster Cloister

For Contemplating

Not many people are familiar with the cloister at the Grossmünster church. Open on weekdays, it is a wonderful place to sit and contemplate.

Archaeological Window at the Parkhaus Opéra

Archaeological Windows

For Archaeologists

Several archaeological “windows” spread throughout the city provide a glimpse into Zurich’s past.

Fraumünster Church

Chagall’s Church Window

Both the series of stained-glass windows and the rosette by Marc Chagall shine bright in the Fraumünster Church.

Urania Observatory

Urania Observatory

Stars, planets, the Milky Way, and more ‒ the observatory offers public guided tours from Thursday to Saturday.

Enge Church

Enge Church

For the Vertigo-Free

Zurich’s “Sacré-Coeur” offers a wonderful view ‒ providing you do not suffer from vertigo.

Sihlfeld Cemetery

Sihlfeld Cemetery

For Those Seeking Quiet

A visit to Sihlfeld Cemetery, the largest continuous green space in the city of Zurich, is peaceful and contemplative.

Bruno Weber Park, residential building

Bruno Weber Park

For Mythical Creatures

Just outside Zurich lies the sculpture park by the artist of the same name, who created all kinds of colorful and abstract mythical creatures.

Enea Tree Museum in Rapperswil-Jona – Botany and Architecture

Enea Tree Museum

For Landscape Architects

Landscape architect Enzo Enea collects trees. These can be admired, together with numerous works of art, at his Tree Museum near Rapperswil-Jona.

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