Upon discovering that the city is consistently voted as one of the best in the world to live in, those undertaking a business trip to Zurich often expect an impressive and exciting stay. However, further online research causes many to worry, as a popular word associated with Zurich in search engines is ‘boring’. We believe that Zurich has long been unfairly branded with this association, and so are here to refute it and turn the tide for Zurich’s reputation. Read on to discover why we believe that Zurich is, in fact, the opposite of a boring city.
It’s the ‘best place to live’
As mentioned above, Zurich has been voted as one of the best places to live in the world on many occasions. This ranking is mostly due to the destination being loved by both residents and visitors alike, and thus begins this blog with a rather substantial point to challenge Zurich’s boring reputation. With accolades such as placing second in Mercer’s Quality of Living City Rankings, and more recently, taking the crown of The Best City for the World’s Super-Wealthy in 2021, Zurich is, in fact, a very desirable destination to explore.
The beautiful scenery
A trip to Zurich is filled with picturesque sights, leaving visitors with incredible memories and photographs to cherish. We believe no city which has such breath-taking views can be branded as boring, and there’s no denying that Zurich offers plenty of stunning vistas. From crystal waters, to luscious verdant greens, every turn provides a new picturesque sight to marvel at. For a unique perspective, the Felsenegg takes you high above Lake Zurich and the city; the perfect bird’s eye view of the world below.
Zurich’s cultural scene is thriving
We’d understand Zurich’s boring reputation if there wasn’t much going on, however, with so much to explore and do, a trip to Zurich offers plenty to saturate your itinerary. Kunsthalle Zurich and Galerie Eva Presenhuber are popular art galleries and line the streets with buildings such as the Swiss National Museum - ideal for visitors wishing to sample the local culture - and pop-up bars named Badi-Bars are constantly emerging, especially in the summer months, which bring the city to life. The artists, architects and DJs who have flocked to the city in recent years have helped to challenge the idea that life in Zurich fits a certain mould of order and tradition, and as such have contributed towards the thriving cultural scene.
The shopping is second to none
From luxury brands, to unique stores which enhance Zurich’s Old Town, there’s no surprise as to why the city has a reputation as a shopping destination. When bored whilst away on business in Zurich or anywhere else in the world, the obvious solution is a shopping spree. The city provides ample places to splurge, however, maybe window shopping is the best way to avoid breaking the bank on a trip to Zurich.
Fantastic cuisine
Whenever you travel to a new place, experiencing the regional culinary highlights is just as important as seeing the sights. If when browsing the menu of your selected restaurant your eyes gaze upon Geschnetzeltes, call your waiter over immediately and order this quintessentially Swiss dish. Quite simply part of the city’s identity, the many restaurants which Zurich is home to are sure to offer this staple piece. When conducting business in Zurich, you are spoilt for choice with places to take clients and partners; venues such as Didi’s Frieden and Kindli offer a vibrant atmosphere for your corporate lunch, without being too loud.
The festivals and parades
Historically, Zurich’s boring reputation can be attributed to its inhabitants who were seen as keeping themselves to themselves. This has changed with the introduction of parades and festivals throughout the year, bringing both vibrancy and variety to the city. The traditional annual events include Sechselauten festival, celebrating the end of winter with the burning of the Boogg and Limmatschwimmen swimming festival. Additionally, if visiting during the month of August, you may cross paths with the Street Parade, known as the world’s largest techno parade – a far cry from the traditional quiet streets Zurich is known for.
Mount Uetliberg
Creating a breath-taking backdrop, Mount Uetliberg is worth adding an extra day onto your trip outside of conducting business in Zurich to venture out onto one of the many hiking trails. It might not be the Alps, but it does provide views of them, alongside the city of Zurich and Lake Zurich. Dining at the Hotel Uto Kulm at the top of the mountain will supply you with these spectacular sights, accompanied by a glass of wine and a-la-carte dishes.
A boat trip from Limmat-schifffahrt
Contrasting the views from Mount Uetliberg, observe Zurich from a different angle; from the bottom up. This boat trip along the Limmat River takes you past the charming Old Town and allows you to see everything through the glazed roofs. The calm waters open up onto Lake Zurich, so you can enjoy the famed excursion destination that Zurich is known for. How can a place be boring when it offers such stunning views from all angles?
One word that certainly doesn’t come to mind when talking about this Swiss retreat is ‘boring’, that’s for sure. So, when planning your next trip to Zurich, select a Zurich SilverDoor serviced apartment for your stay and discover all that the underrated city has to offer.
