To the big city and beyond
Zurich & the north
Ancient secrets, amazing art, natural wonder and the quintessential craftsmanship of Swiss watches: all waiting to be discovered in this under-spotlighted part of the Alpine Republic. Founded by the Romans almost 2000 years ago, Zurich today is Switzerland’s posh mini-metropolis known for its affluence. The tri-border city of Basel is a haven for fine arts and culture. Follow the River Rhine to the Rhine Falls, Schaffhausen and Stein am Rhein for some epic nature and a history lesson across medieval cobblestones. Yes, this region is a comprehensive Swiss education covering the basics during just one leg of your alpine adventure.
The little big Swiss city
Hectic city vibes disappear once you’re beside Lake Zurich admiring the Alps, even in Switzerland’s financial and commercial hub. Soak up the priceless art in the Kunsthaus and explore the narrow streets of Niederdorf. Indulge in the finest chocolate and some retail therapy along Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich’s modern finesse, ancient Roman roots and traces of the Reformation make for a profoundly fascinating experience.
Explore Zurich with Cosa
Capital of art and culture
Basel, the dramatic tri-border city on Switzerland’s edge, is so close to Germany and France you can almost stand in all three simultaneously. It’s a dreamy stop for art and architecture fans, with events like Art Basel and the carnival plus heaps of museums. Cultivated travellers always feel right at home here in this eclectic yet played-down cultural city.
Visit Basel & its museums
A mighty natural wonder
You can admire the Rhine Falls from the shore – if you want to be boring. Or you can hop on a boat for a rocky adventurous encounter, and really hear Europe’s largest waterfalls roar. Stay dry for Instagrammable photoshoots on lookout points and then get drenched on the tiny island in the middle of the rumbling 150-metre-wide falls.
Where the water rushes and roars
Tales of time and watchmaking
Geneva isn’t the only place to jump into the unparalleled craftsmanship and precision behind Swiss watches. Switzerland’s north also dives deep into the national passion of timekeeping with museums, boutiques and even ateliers where you can make your own Swiss timepiece. Fun fact: the oldest watch retailer in the world, founded in 1760, is in Zurich.
Make your own watch with Cosa
A colourful medieval gem
Along Switzerland’s northern border, the Rhine is usually the dividing line from Germany. Not in Stein am Rhein, which lies over on the ‘other’ bank but has been Swiss for centuries. This historic town’s half-timbered buildings are proudly embellished with colourful murals and fresco painting. And when you need a break from buzzing streets, head to the quiet riverside.
Zurich & the north in brief
The northern border of Switzerland runs roughly along the River Rhine from Lake Constance to France, covering the cantons of Schaffhausen, Zurich, Aargau, Solothurn and Basel. With Switzerland’s biggest city, Zurich, and its industrial hub, Basel, this region is home to around three million people, or a third of the Swiss population. You’ll also find Switzerland’s tallest building (Roche 2 Tower at 205m), the FIFA headquarters and maybe even a celebrity: this was where Tina Turner lived and became Swiss. Whether it’s sampling Aargau’s signature carrot cake or taking a boat on Lake Zurich, you’ll love exploring this part of Switzerland.
When to go
All year
Why go there
History and culture
Art and architecture
Natural wonder
What to see
Zurich
Art Basel
Rhine Falls
Explore all of Switzerland
Wherever you want to go in Switzerland, we can make it happen. Just click on the link to find out all we have to offer in every region of this beautiful country.
