Sunday in Zurich has a slow, easy rhythm that feels unlike the rest of the week. Most shops are closed, but the city opens up in a completely different way — perfect for exploring at a leisurely pace.
Start at Lake Zurich
The lakeside promenade from Bürkliplatz to Zürichhorn is the quintessential Sunday morning walk. On clear days the Alps are visible across the water. In summer, free public bathing areas (Badis) open from early morning. Grab a coffee from a lakeside kiosk and enjoy one of Europe’s most beautiful urban waterfronts.
Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)
Sunday mornings are the best time to wander Zurich’s medieval Altstadt. The cobblestone streets are quiet, the light is beautiful, and both the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches are open outside of service times. The Fraumünster is famous for its stunning stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall. Climb Lindenhügel for a free panoramic view over the city and lake.
Take the Polybahn to ETH Zurich
The historic Polybahn funicular runs on Sundays and delivers you to the ETH Zurich terrace in three minutes — one of the city’s finest free panoramas. Continue hiking into Zürichberg forest, where easy trails wind through beech trees and past a free deer enclosure popular with families.
Sunday Brunch
Many Zurich cafés and restaurants serve extended Sunday brunch from 10am to 2pm. Swiss brunch classics include Birchermüesli, Zopf bread with butter and jam, cold cuts, local cheese, and fresh juice. Budget CHF 25-35 per person. Book ahead for popular spots.
Hike to Uetliberg
The S10 train runs every 30 minutes on Sundays to Uetliberg at 871 meters. A 20-minute walk from the station leads to the summit tower with 360-degree views. In winter it is a popular sledding destination. The ridge walk to Felsenegg takes about 90 minutes and ends at a cable car back down.
Visit a Museum
The Kunsthaus Zürich holds Switzerland’s leading art collection. The Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum) is free on the first Sunday of each month. Zoo Zürich is world-class and open every day of the year.
Practical Tips
- Migros and Coop are closed on Sundays — train station shops are open 8am to 9pm
- ZVV public transport runs a full Sunday timetable
- Emergency pharmacy addresses are posted on every pharmacy door