Zurich Guide

Zurich Shopping & Culture Tours

Discover luxury Bahnhofstrasse, Swiss watches, designer boutiques, and vibrant arts scene!

42+ tours
From $50
3-5 hours
Zurich Shopping & Culture Tours

Experience Zurich as a luxury shopping and cultural destination! Bahnhofstrasse, one of world's most expensive shopping streets, features flagship stores of Swiss watchmakers (Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega), luxury brands (Chanel, Prada, Louis Vuitton), and Swiss specialty shops. Tours explore Swiss watch culture, visit traditional shops selling Swiss Army knives and textiles, discover emerging designers in Niederdorf, and explore art galleries and museums. The cultural scene includes Kunsthaus Zurich (Swiss art museum), Museum Rietberg (Asian art), FIFA World Football Museum, and vibrant street art in Zürich West. Learn about Swiss craftsmanship, precision engineering, and how Zurich balances luxury with progressive culture. Some tours include personal shopping experiences and tax-free shopping guidance!

Featured Shopping & Culture Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for shopping & culture tours in Zurich

Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein Half-Day Tour from Zurich
From $104.77
Free Cancellation

Visit the magnificent Rhine Falls and the pretty village of Stein am Rhein on this 5-hour trip from Zurich. With a guide, you'll travel along part of the Grand Tour of Switzerland, passing through gently rolling vineyards and picturesque farming villages near the German border. Marvel at the powerful Rhine Falls - Europe’s largest waterfall - from clifftop Laufen Castle and enjoy breathtaking views from the panoramic glass lift. Witness an incredible 700,000 liters of water per second thundering over a 150-meter-wide drop into the basin below. In summer, you can opt for an unforgettable boat ride that brings you up close to the mighty cascades (optional). Continue to the beautifully preserved town of Stein am Rhein, where a guided walking tour reveals its richly frescoed, half-timbered buildings and fascinating medieval architecture. Perfect for those short on time, this tour offers a memorable snapshot of Swiss history, culture, and natural beauty - all in just half a day.

4.5(713)
5h 15m
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Zurich Sights: Cruise, Lindt Chocolate and optional FIFA Ticket
From $104.77
Free Cancellation

Discover Zurich, Switzerland’s cultural hub, on a half-day tour including a half-hour Lake Zurich cruise. Begin with a guided coach tour past the National Museum, the financial district, and the shopping avenue Bahnhofstrasse. Explore elegant districts with stately mansions from bygone eras and admire the high standard of living on the edge of the popular Zürichberg area. Enjoy a half-hour scenic cruise across Lake Zurich, followed by a short walk along the lakeshore. Conclude with a visit to the renowned Lindt Home of Chocolate. Return to the city centre by public bus or tram, either with your guide or independently, using your 24-hour transport ticket to get familiar with Zurich’s excellent system. For those who have selected the optional FIFA Museum ticket, continue your day with an independent visit to explore football’s history through interactive exhibits, original artifacts, and multimedia displays, experiencing iconic moments and legendary players at your own pace.

4.2(1,024)
5h 15m
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Zurich Food Tour with 10 Local Delicacies, Cheeses & Chocolates
From $167.22
Free Cancellation

Welcome to the Secret Food Tour in Zurich! Join us as we embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of this vibrant city, where you'll taste your way through the best local spots and discover the authentic flavours of Swiss cuisine. From mouth-watering cheeses at a local deli, to local spirits and liquors, historic restaurants, street foods and pastries to indulgent chocolates from Switzerland's oldest chocolate shop, we'll guide you through hidden gems and iconic eateries that showcase Zurich's rich food culture. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this tour promises a delicious journey filled with unique dishes, local stories, and the best of Swiss hospitality. Come hungry and ready to explore!

4.9(300)
3h 30m
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Zurich Highlights City Tour with Optional FIFA Museum Ticket
From $44.53
Free Cancellation

Discover the highlights of Zürich, Switzerland’s vibrant business and cultural hub, on this classic sightseeing coach tour. Enjoy a photo stop at scenic Lake Zürich, pass by iconic landmarks such as the luxurious Bahnhofstrasse shopping avenue and the Swiss National Museum, and take in breathtaking panoramic views from the Zürichberg district. Explore the historic university quarter, where Einstein once studied, and follow your guide on an informative walk through the medieval Old Town. For an enhanced experience, add an optional FIFA Museum ticket, to explore after the city tour at your own pace. Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits that showcase the fascinating history of football.

3.5(101)
2h 15m
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The Best of Zurich Including Panoramic Views in a Small Group Walking Tour
From $66.4
🔥Likely to Sell Out

Explore Zurich’s most notable sites and enjoy some breathtaking panoramic views in the heart of the city on this 2-hour walking tour. The tour is designed for small groups to ensure you have the guide's full attention for questions and comments. Don't miss entertaining historical context while passing nearby more than 10 of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the "Salt and Paper Church", the square of "modern pigs" and the headquarters of the biggest Swiss banks, the biggest face clock of Europe (bigger than Big Ben), the place where Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti left their fingerprints, one of the most expensive shopping street in the world, a haven of peace and tranquility in the heart of the city, the University of 21 Nobel Prize winners and the place where Vladimir Lenin planed the Russian Revolution. Solo travelers are kindly asked to contact us in order to check the availability.

4.8(16)
2h
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From Zurich: The most beautiful insider spots in Switzerland (private 1-day tour)
From $1,352.27
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Experience Switzerland from Zurich with a local Swiss guide on a private tour to the most beautiful insider spots! Start in Brunnen with a breathtaking view of Lake Lucerne and the Alps. Visit a charming village in the canton of Uri that enchants with its Mediterranean flair and impressive mountain peaks. In Altdorf you will discover the birthplace of Wilhelm Tell and historic buildings. On the way to the Klausen Pass, hidden valleys, glacial rivers and breathtaking views await you. Enjoy a traditional raclette and a delicious picnic surrounded by nature. Discover a hidden waterfall in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sardona. Finally, visit Läderach in Bilten to taste delicious Swiss chocolate. The tour is flexible and can be customized according to your wishes.

5.0(89)
8h
View Details
Zurich Highlights In A 2+ Hour Walking Tour Including Panoramic Views
From $66.4
🔥Likely to Sell Out

Step through 2000 years of history and discover the rich cultural tapestry of Zurich on a 2-hour walking tour in a small group. Don't miss the city’s most prominent sights and get acquainted with its historical highlights and cultural delights. With a knowledgeable private guide, explore the Old Town, the place where the Romans settled down 2 millenniums ago, where Marc Chagall and Giacometti painted some fabulous stained glass windows for a famous church, where Europe's biggest facade clock can be admired, where the frequented restaurants by Vladimir Lenin, Richard Wagner, Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent or Pablo Picasso are still welcoming its guests, where the biggest Swiss Banks are preserving tones of gold and billions in cash, where breathtaking panoramic views invite you to linger and to take with you some brilliant pictures and memories. Solo travelers are kindly asked to contact us in order to check the availability.

5.0(4)
2h
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Zurich Private Walking Tour with a Local
From $65.23
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Skip the standard sightseeing tour and discover Zurich through the eyes of a local. With Lokafy, every tour is private, unscripted, and personalized to you. Your Lokafyer is a passionate local who shares stories, hidden gems, and authentic tips you won’t find in a guidebook. They aren’t professional guides with memorized scripts, they're locals who love their city and want you to experience it like a friend would. Whether you’re interested in food, art, history, or simply exploring the neighborhoods beyond the tourist spots, your Lokafyer will adapt the walk to your interests. By the end, you’ll feel at home in the city, with insights to keep exploring on your own.

3.4(8)
2h
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Private Bike Tour with Pickup From Zurich
From $166
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Your guide will pick you up at your hotel in Zurich as per your requested time and take you to the starting point of the bike tour. Start your bike tour at the Limmatquai and enjoy the stunning views of the Limmat River. Head to the Bahnhofstrasse, the most famous shopping street in Zurich. Cycle through the Old Town and visit the Fraumunster Church with its iconic stained-glass windows by Chagall. Pedal to the beautiful Zurich Lake and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Visit the Chinese Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Zurich. Cycle through the trendy Zurich West and stop at the Freitag Tower, a unique architectural landmark. End your bike tour at the beautiful Rieter Park, a perfect place for a picnic or a relaxing stroll. Your guide will then drop you off at your hotel in Zurich. Your tour guide will provide you with interesting information about Zurich's history, culture, and architecture throughout the tour. At the end of the tour we will drive you back to your hotel.

4.2(5)
2h
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Zürich Private Walking Half-Day Trip with optional Lake Cruise
From $201.75
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Join a captivating walking tour through Zürich's historic city center, where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy. Begin in the bustling Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues, before wandering through the picturesque alleys of the Altstadt (Old Town) with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings. Discover landmarks like the Grossmünster Cathedral, with its iconic twin towers, and the Fraumünster, famous for Chagall's stained-glass windows. Pause at Lindenhof Hill for stunning views over the Limmat River, and end your stroll along the riverside promenade, soaking in Zürich's blend of history, art, and culture. • choose a optional 1-hour cruise on lake Zürich with your tourguide

4.2(26)
4h
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Zurich City Full Discovery Trip
From $1,163.28
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Zurich is the biggest Swiss city offers you numerous attractions in each corner of it. The discovery starts when the local professional guide greets you at the lobby of the hotel in order to depart and enjoy a historical 2 hours walking tour through Zurich’s highlights. Later on, it will be the time to farewell the guide and to be greeted by the driver-guide who will take you to Bürkliplatz for a relaxing journey on Lake Zurich during a Ferry boat trip. A short journey on the lake approximately 54 minutes, however full of heavenly sceneries of Zurich with the Swiss Alps in the background. The driver-guide will meet you once again at Horgen in order to head to Adliswil. Here is the only aerial cable car in Zurich Canton - Adliswil-Felsenegg which takes you to the upper station of Felsenegg hill overviews the whole city. After an hour you will descend, and your exploring day will end by a private drop off at the initial meeting point in Zurich City.

5.0(2)
4h
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Private tour to the most breathtaking insider spots in Switzerland (1 day)
From $3,063.35
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover breathtaking insider spots of Switzerland with a local Myswisspanorama guide - completely private HIGHLIGHTS: • Guided by a highly educated local Swiss guide - 100% flexible • Learn interesting stories about life in Switzerland, our history, culture and much more • Explore beautiful hidden places and landscapes on a private day trip in Switzerland • Enjoy a delicious Swiss picnic with Raclette in a stunning landscape • If you wish, stop at a Swiss Luxury Chocolate and Mountain Cheese factory store If you have any wishes or needs, let us know. We will try everything to make your day unforgettable and stay 100% flexible according to your wishes

5.0(77)
8h
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Premium Transfer from Zürich Airport to Zurich city or Zürich city to Airport
From $149.4
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Your premium limousine transfer in Zurich Zurich is regularly ranked highly as one of the world’s most liveable cities, and it’s easy to see why. Situated on Lake Zurich, just an hour from the ski resorts in the Alps and boasting stunning traditional Swiss architecture, Zurich has ample opportunities for both the business traveller and tourist alike. A relaxing Nobletransfer car service in Zurich is available 24 hours a day – whether you need an early morning airport transfer, an evening ride, or a late night pick up from a club – of which Zurich has more per capita than anywhere else in Europe. Our five-star limousine service in Zurich is available 365 Days per year. You can choose from Business Class, Business Van or First Class and have a chauffeur exactly when and where you need one - a convenient and comfortable alternative to standing in taxi lines or hoping to hail a taxi on the street.

5.0(1)
20 min
View Details
Private 5 Hour Zurich City Tour
From $504.03
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

This Zurich city tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty—all in just a few hours. Start at Bürkliplatz, where you’ll enjoy stunning lake views. Then, take in panoramic sights from Lindenhof, a peaceful hilltop retreat. Stroll down Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s premier shopping street, before admiring the breathtaking Chagall windows at Fraumünster Church. Finally, wander through Niederdorf, the charming Old Town filled with medieval streets, traditional Swiss architecture, and cozy cafés. With a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural highlights, and picturesque spots, this tour provides a well-rounded Zurich experience in a short, enjoyable walk.

5h
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Zürich, Lindt Chocolate, Rheinfalls and Stein am Rhein
From $930.11
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This busy full day trip shows you the spectacular north of the country. Visit Zürich, Switzerland’s cultural and economic centre, visit the stunning Rhein Falls, Europe’s biggest waterfall and the beautiful Stein am Rhein.This 8 hour tour goes at the pace of the guests and starts at your Luzern or Zürich hotel.  Chocolate is one of the many things Switzerland is famous and a stop at the Lindt chocolate factory is included so guest can stock up on some delicious presents for loved ones.  A brief city tour of Zürich will show guests the main elements of the town, before heading off to the Rhine Falls to get up close and personal to the torrents of water crashing down along a 100m span of waterfall.  After drying oneself, then the finale is a short drive to Stein am Rhine to view the buildings in this old medieval town.

5.0(14)
8h 30m
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Why Choose Shopping & Culture Tours in Zurich?

Luxury Bahnhofstrasse

Shop one of world's most expensive streets with Swiss watchmakers!

Swiss Watch Heritage

Discover Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Swiss timepiece craftsmanship.

World-Class Museums

Kunsthaus, Rietberg, and specialized collections showcase art and culture.

Tax-Free Shopping

Get VAT refunds on luxury purchases - significant savings!

Types of Shopping & Culture Tours in Zurich

Bahnhofstrasse Shopping Tour

Guided tour of luxury shopping street with Swiss brand insights.

3 hoursLuxury brandsSwiss watchesShopping tipsFlagship stores

Swiss Watch Experience

Visit watch boutiques learning about Swiss watchmaking tradition.

2-3 hoursMultiple brandsExpert guideWatchmaking historyBoutique access

Museum & Gallery Tour

Explore Zurich's art scene from classic to contemporary.

4 hoursMultiple museumsArt collectionsCultural insightsSkip lines

Design & Local Shops

Discover Swiss designers, artisan shops, and unique boutiques.

3 hoursLocal designersArtisan shopsHidden gemsAuthentic finds

What to Expect on Your Zurich Shopping & Culture Tours

Duration

Shopping tours: 3 hours. Museum tours: 4 hours. Combined: Full day.

Bahnhofstrasse

Walk 1.4km luxury street with 250+ shops from Swiss watches to haute couture.

Swiss Watches

Visit Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega boutiques learning watchmaking heritage.

Kunsthaus Zurich

See Swiss art collection with works by Alberto Giacometti and Ferdinand Hodler.

Designer Boutiques

Discover emerging Swiss designers and local artisan shops.

Shopping Culture

Learn about Swiss quality, craftsmanship, and luxury retail traditions.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Tax refund (VAT): Non-EU visitors get 8% refund on purchases over CHF 300 - significant savings!

2

Swiss watches: Prices similar worldwide but selection in Zurich is unmatched.

3

Bahnhofstrasse window shopping is free entertainment - stunning displays!

4

Kunsthaus Zurich (CHF 23) has excellent Swiss modern art - Giacometti collection.

5

Saturday shopping: Most stores open 9 AM-6 PM; Sundays almost everything closed.

6

FIFA Museum (CHF 24) interesting even for non-football fans - interactive!

7

Swiss Army knife original Victorinox store near Paradeplatz - authentic souvenirs.

8

Zürich West has edgy galleries and street art - free to explore, very different vibe!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is Bahnhofstrasse?

A: Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich's main shopping street and one of world's most expensive retail streets. It stretches 1.4km from train station to lake with 250+ shops: luxury brands, Swiss watches, jewelry, and department stores. Window shopping alone is spectacular!

Q:Are Swiss watches cheaper in Zurich?

A: Not cheaper but better selection! Prices similar worldwide. However, non-EU visitors get 8% VAT refund on purchases over CHF 300. Plus unmatched choice of Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega in flagship stores. If buying Swiss watch, Zurich is ideal!

Q:How does tax-free shopping work?

A: Non-EU visitors get 8% VAT refund on purchases over CHF 300. Ask for tax-free form at store, get it stamped at airport customs (show unworn items), then get refund. Significant savings on luxury purchases!

Q:What museums should I visit?

A: Top picks: Kunsthaus Zurich (Swiss art, CHF 23), Museum Rietberg (Asian art, CHF 14), Swiss National Museum (history, CHF 10), FIFA Museum (football, CHF 24). Zurich Card (CHF 27) includes free entry to most museums.

Q:Is Zurich shopping expensive?

A: Yes! Switzerland is expensive country. Luxury brands priced globally but quality is exceptional. Look for Swiss specialties: watches, chocolates, textiles, Army knives. VAT refund helps offset costs. Budget travelers: Window shopping Bahnhofstrasse is free!

Q:What to buy in Zurich?

A: Swiss specialties: Watches (Rolex, Omega), Swiss Army knives (Victorinox), chocolate (Sprüngli, Lindt), cheese, luxury goods (VAT refund!). For souvenirs: Quality Swiss products last lifetime. Worth paying Swiss prices for genuine craftsmanship.

Q:When are shops open?

A: Monday-Friday: 9 AM-8 PM. Saturday: 9 AM-6 PM. Sunday: CLOSED (except train station shops). Department stores and Bahnhofstrasse shops keep these hours. Small shops may close earlier or have lunch breaks.

Q:Is there a design district?

A: Zürich West! Former industrial area now has galleries, design shops, and artisan boutiques. Viadukt under railway arches features local designers and sustainable brands. More affordable and edgier than Bahnhofstrasse. Great for unique finds!

Don't Miss the Perfect Zurich Experience

Book your shopping & culture tours today - 42+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Zurich?

Charming Old Town with medieval architecture

Beautiful Lake Zurich and waterfront promenades

Easy access to Swiss Alps and mountain scenery

World-class shopping and Swiss luxury

Excellent Swiss cuisine and chocolate culture

Perfect blend of tradition and sophistication

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Zurich enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Summers are warm (70-80°F/21-27°C), winters are cold (30-45°F/-1-7°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

May to September offer the best weather with mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with warm weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

October to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and shorter days.

Plan Your Zurich Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation with trams, buses, and trains. Walking is perfect for exploring the compact city center, and taxis are readily available.

Car Rental Deals in Zurich

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Zurich adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Zurich

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Ready to Explore Zurich?

Discover the best tours and activities in Zurich with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.