The Best Reasons to Visit Zurich, Switzerland
The city of Zurich is known all over the world as a banking capital which is demure, uptight and spotlessly clean. However, this metropolis is more than just a boring financial hub. Even though Zurich today is home to worlds' fourth largest stock exchange, the city is also surprisingly trendy and vibrant. This transformation has come about in the recent years and the globe trotters as well as the natives of the country are not complaining widest river in europe.
Sitting pretty beside a picturesque river, the city of Zurich is easy to navigate. The most astonishing feature of the city is its easy-going and peaceful attitude that is uncharacteristic of most metropolises these days. However, do not mistake this tranquility for demureness. Despite its low-key attitude, this city is known to enjoy the best things in life. Since the late 1990s a lot of new clubs and bars have opened up in Zurich and unlike clubs in most other parts of the continent, these are very homely and warm. Zurich also hosts Europe's largest street party which is known as the Zurich Street Parade. The streets are filled with young crowds around this time and the city which is otherwise orthodox in appearance comes alive with modernity. Even the so-called conceited bankers are seen zipping across in swagger bikes. The best thing about Zurich though is that its conservative protestant background keeps away all the things associated with modernity and helps keep a perfect balance of the past and the present.
There are many tourist attractions to explore in Zurich. Just a stroll through the city and you will discover something interesting in almost every corner. Historic squares, architectural highlights, churches, interesting streets and much more - Zurich has it all!
You should start your Zurich trip with the Augustinergasse. This is one of Zurich's oldest and narrowest streets but is intrinsic to Zurich culture. A unique feature of this street is its colorful oriel windows. These windows are one of a kind and are generally located at the side of front door to provide a view of those coming inside. The street connects the busy Bahnofstrasse and St. Peterhofstatt. Next, you may visit the Bahnofstrasse which is a paradise for shop-a-holics. Lined with jewelry stores, boutiques and department stores, this street has all that you will ever need.
After that, get a taste of Switzerland's Protestant culture in the Fraumunster Church. This used to be one of the only churches in Europe to have female inhabitants. It's important architectural assets include the high transept and the Romanesque choir. However, the jewels of the church are its amazing stained glass windows which have been created my renowned artistes like Mark Chagall and Augusto Giacometti.
If the Bahnofstrasse did not satisfy your shopping desires then the Niederdorf surely will. This is Zurich's pedestrian zone with little alleyways that hide small but excellent boutiques. A mere stroll in this area is enough to leave you enchanted. At night, this area is transformed into an exciting pub area with amazing nightclubs and cozy bars.
End your Zurich tour with a visit to the Lake Promenade. This grassy park area along the lake is Zurich's favorite hangout spot and the epicenter for all its activities, especially during the summer months. Take in the cultural diversity of the city amongst the skaters, sunbathers and street artists that fill the place every evening.
Zurich is an excellent place to visit, especially for those who like to party but love culture all the same. Visit Zurich and embrace culture, art, history and modernity in all its glory.