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Enjoy the ultimate freedom to travel where you want and when you want it, by selecting one of our modern reliable touring buses with an experienced English speaking tour driver, including the top of the range premium Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibuses and coaches at your disposal for the whole of your trip.
All we do is tours. Serving up to 150 groups per year, we are purely focused to provide best touring experience.
The quality of our services recognised by our clients consistently providing us with great reviews.
We are not agents or brokers. We provide you vehicles that we own and look after, so we can guarantee you the quality of the service.
We have only experienced and friendly English speaking tour drivers who will give you support through the whole tour.
No hidden costs – just clear, upfront pricing with all potential extras explained in advance
You can pay comfortably and securely with all major cards without having to worry about transaction charges.
We offer a versatile fleet of vehicles, passenger vans, minibuses, and full size coaches, designed to accommodate groups of various sizes. Whether you’re organizing a small group tour or planning a multi-day adventure, our bus charter services provide the perfect solution for your travel needs.
Passenger vans:Â
For smaller groups of up to 6 – 13 people, our 16-seater touring passenger minivans are the ideal choice. These vehicles provide lot of space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
Minibuses:Â
Groups of 7 to 18 passengers will enjoy using our Mercedes Sprinter minibuses, which blend comfort and practicality. These vehicles are perfect for small group tours. While Sprinters can occasionally accommodate up to 20 passengers, we recommend this only for short trips or when luggage is minimal to ensure comfort.
Coaches:
For larger groups, our Mercedes Tourismo coaches offer unmatched comfort and space. Designed to transport up to 50 passengers with their luggage, these vehicles are ideal for multiday day tours.
Need Help Choosing the Right Vehicle?
If you’re uncertain about the best option for your group’s size and needs, check out our detailed Guide to European Bus Rental Vehicles or contact our team directly.Â
Compact passenger vans seating up to 7 passengers Â
Getting started with your bus rental is easy! Simply send us an email or fill out the form here. You don’t need to have a fully detailed itinerary at this stage, but providing the following information will help us give you an accurate cost estimate for your bus hire:
This information allows us to tailor our service to your needs and ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience with our bus charter service.
If you need an inspiration to create your itinerary, have a look at some of our suggested tours. These tours can be customised any way you need to design the European tour that you dream about. If you are still unsure of any of this, contact us as we are happy to help. Being a tour specialist, we use our extensive experience to suggest you the most effective route and what places are not to be missed along the way. We also know how many days you will need to cover all your sights stress free.
Once we receive sufficient information about your plans, we will prepare a detailed price quotation for you. Our quotes include the cost of the bus rental, driver services, driver meals, and miscellaneous parking charges.
For the driver’s accommodation, we prefer that it be booked by the client along with the group. However, if the hotel cannot provide a free or discounted driver’s room, or if the group’s hotels are too centrally located without night parking, we will arrange accommodations for the driver.
Please note that city bus permits and driver tips are not included in the quote and will need to be arranged or covered separately. This transparent approach ensures you have a clear understanding of the costs and can enjoy your tour with no unexpected surprises.
In the case you will accept our offer, we will start preparing for your arrival. We will give you continuous support in planning and fine-tuning your itinerary until the beginning of your tour. Some of the arrangements such as booking hotels for your group should be done before your arrival. Booking restaurants and sightseeing tickets can be done at a later stage.
Some of our clients come with thorough day to day planned itineraries but some choose to have more basic approach with just a general list of sights they want to see. Your driver will support you in any case to make the most of your holiday. He will make sure that you did not miss on any interesting sights and you are on time for your prebooked sightseeing or restaurants.
For the rest of the tour, you have a great flexibility. You can use your hired bus with a driver for all intercity transportation, en route sightseeing, city tours and day tours. Going shopping and going to restaurants is also included.
Unfortunately, all holidays have to come to an end. But by this time you will have a bag full of memories. We will be happy to welcome you back as one tour is never enough to experience the diversity of all countries in Europe.
A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.” – Tim Cahill
We recommend our 8 seater touring passenger minivans for groups up to 6 persons. This is to ensure sufficient travel and luggage space. Groups of 7 plus persons can choose one of our ultimate touring minibuses, Mercedes Sprinter.
Mercedes Sprinters are recommended for groups up to 7 – 17 persons large. In specific cases, they can accommodate groups up to 20 persons but space for passengers would be limited. A trailer would also be necessary to accommodate the luggage.
We recommend one of our Mercedes Tourismo midsize coaches, if the passenger and luggage space is the priority. These can accommodate up to 50 passengers with their luggage comfortably.
The cost of the hire of bus with a driver is influenced by many variables. It depends on the season of the year, where the tour starts/ends, empty run kilometres and road tolls. In some European cities, entry fees for buses are applicable. Therefore, we calculate the cost for each tour individually to give you the most accurate price. To give you an idea, the cost of renting a tourist Mercedes Sprinter minibus with a driver typically ranges from €550 to €800 per day. For larger groups, a 50+ seater coach generally costs between €800 and €1,100 per day. Please note that prices usually do not include tips or parking fees. Get in touch with us to get a quote.Â
For tours starting in peak season, we recommend booking the bus at least 3 – 4 months in advance to ensure availability. The busiest months are April to July. In less busy period, booking 2 month in advance is usually fine.
We do not provide bus hire for self drive. To operate a vehicle with more than 9 seats in Europe is fairly complicated. You would need EU transport operator licence. Drivers are required to have a bus D licence, tachograph card and professional drivers training valid in EU.
Moreover, driving large passenger vehicles in Europe is difficult. It takes an experienced, professional driver to navigate through all the traffic rules, parking and access restrictions which are different to almost each city. When you use our minibus and bus rental in Europe, you will not have to worry about any of this and just enjoy your tour.
We operate under EU licence and you can rent our buses with a driver anywhere in the EU including Switzerland. Below are the most common locations of our floating fleet.
Zurich’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby destinations full of culture, history, and natural beauty. With a bus rental in Zurich, your group can enjoy a seamless and comfortable journey to some of Europe’s most iconic cities and regions. Here are some great suggestions for where to go next:
Frankfurt: A Blend of Modern and Historic
Head north to Frankfurt, a city known for its striking skyline and rich cultural heritage. Discover Römer Square, the historic Old Town, and St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral. A bus rental in Frankfurt offers your group easy access to this dynamic metropolis and nearby attractions.
Munich: Bavaria’s Cultural Heart
Travel east to Munich, where Bavarian tradition meets modern charm. Visit Marienplatz, explore Nymphenburg Palace, and unwind in the famous English Garden. With a bus rental in Munich, your group can explore the city’s highlights and nearby scenic spots like Neuschwanstein Castle comfortably.
Milan: Italy’s Fashion and Culture Hub
To the south, Milan welcomes visitors with its impressive mix of history, art, and high fashion. Don’t miss the Milan Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. A bus rental in Milan ensures your group can navigate the city’s vibrant streets and nearby landmarks, such as Lake Como, with ease.
Innsbruck: An Alpine Paradise
Southeast of Zurich lies Innsbruck, a city surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery. Highlights include the Golden Roof, Ambras Castle, and the stunning views from the Nordkette cable cars. A bus rental in Innsbruck is ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the beauty of the Austrian Alps.
Geneva: A Lakeside Gem
Southwest of Zurich, Geneva offers a unique blend of international diplomacy and cultural charm. See the Jet d’Eau, explore the Old Town, and visit the United Nations headquarters. With a bus rental in Geneva, your group can discover the city and venture to nearby attractions like Montreux or Chamonix with ease.
Plan Your Next Adventure
With a bus rental in Zurich, your group can travel comfortably to nearby destinations, exploring everything from Frankfurt’s modern vibrancy to Innsbruck’s alpine charm and Milan’s elegance. Each city offers its own unique experiences, making your multiday tour an unforgettable journey through the best of Europe.
If you’re looking for a place where you can visit a world-class gallery, swim in a lake right in the city center, and finish your dinner with a view of the snow-capped Alps in one day, Zurich should be high on your list.
Switzerland’s largest city is not just a banking hub with a perfect infrastructure – it’s also a vibrant metropolis with a rich culture, exceptionally clean public spaces, and access to nature that you can often miss in other European cities.
At first glance, Zurich may seem like a city of bankers, luxury watches and flawless infrastructure. But if you look at it through the eyes of a traveler, you will discover a place where historic streets blend with views of the snow-capped Alps, where you can swim in the lake in the city center and enjoy world-class opera in the evening.
For many, it is the gateway to Switzerland – clean, safe and efficient. For others, a city with a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere and a diverse culture.
Zurich regularly ranks high in rankings of the best places to live. According to the Mercer Quality of Living Survey, it is one of the cleanest, safest and best-organized cities in the world. Public transport runs on time, pickpocketing is rare and the city parks are as clean as a Swiss laboratory.
What makes Zurich special is its location. It lies directly on the shores of Lake Zurich and on a good day you can see as far as the snow-capped Alpine peaks. In the middle of the city you can swim, rent a paddleboard or just sit with a coffee by the water. And if you love hiking, you can reach the Uetliberg viewpoint by suburban train in 20 minutes.
Zurich is home to several major global banks and insurance companies, as well as prestigious universities such as ETH Zurich – Albert Einstein’s alma mater. It is this technological sophistication combined with a conservative charm that makes the city special. And yes, even the watches here run accurately. It’s not just a cliché – it’s a standard of living.
Switzerland is known for its political neutrality, which has spared it from several wars throughout its history. Thanks to this, Zurich has become the headquarters of many international organizations, including humanitarian and diplomatic centers. The city has such a quiet but significant role in world politics.
The idea that Zurich is only a city of banks arose naturally – Zurich is a financial center. But for visitors to the city, this means not only money, but also investments in quality infrastructure, cultural life and security. The city has over 50 museums, world-class galleries, jazz clubs, the alternative district of Zurich West and one of the largest Street Parades in Europe.
So the answer is: no, Zurich is not just about banks. It is about balance – between tradition and innovation, city and nature, precision and relaxation.
Before you set out to explore historic streets, views of the Alps and Swiss precision in practice, it’s worth knowing a few basic facts. They will help you prepare better, avoid minor misunderstandings and enjoy your trip to Zurich without any unnecessary surprises.
Zurich is located in northeastern Switzerland, on the northern shore of Lake Zurich. It is the country’s largest city (although not the capital – that is Bern) and an important transport and economic hub. Thanks to its location, it is an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of Switzerland.
Tip: From Zurich International Airport, you can reach the city center by train in 10-15 minutes.
Zurich is located in the Central European Time Zone (CET, UTC +1). In summer, daylight saving time (CEST, UTC +2) applies.
The main language is Swiss German (Schweizerdeutsch), which has a significantly different pronunciation and vocabulary from standard German. However, standard German is used in official texts and on signs. Most residents, especially in services and tourist centers, also speak English.
In Switzerland, payment is made in Swiss francs (CHF), not euros. 1 CHF is worth approximately 1.05 EUR (approximately). Many businesses in Zurich accept payments in euros, but you will receive your bill in francs and the exchange rate is often unfavorable.
It is common to pay by card (also contactless), including public transport and vending machines. It is worth having cash for smaller purchases or markets.
Switzerland uses 230 V and 50 Hz, the same as in the European Union. However, the sockets are shaped differently – triangular type J. Most European type C plugs (thin, two-pin) will work, but an adapter is recommended, especially for devices with an earthed connection (type E/F).
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes and public areas. Switzerland is not part of the EU roaming zone, so check with your operator before you travel – charges can be high. It may be beneficial to buy a local SIM card (e.g. Salt, Sunrise, Swisscom) or an eSIM with a data package.
Zurich is a year-round destination, but each season has its advantages:
Spring (March – May): blooming parks, mild temperatures, fewer tourists
Summer (June – August): warmth, festivals, swimming in the lake
Autumn (September – November): vintage, cultural events, pleasant climate
Winter (December – February): Christmas markets, proximity to ski resorts, winter atmosphere
December is popular for its festive decorations, accommodation prices are lower in March, and in July you can enjoy Zurich as a summer holiday city.
Zurich is one of the cities with the most efficient public transport in Europe. The system is clear, reliable and covers almost every part of the city and its surroundings. Most tourist attractions are accessible on foot or a few stops by tram.
Public transport in Zurich: trams, buses and trains
Zurcher Verkehrsverbund (ZVV) provides urban transport in Zurich. The public transport system includes trams, buses, trolleybuses, trains (including S-Bahn), as well as boats and cable cars.
Tickets are valid within zones, not for a specific connection. The validity of the ticket applies to all types of transport within a given zone and time. They can be purchased at vending machines, via the ZVV mobile app or directly at the stations.
The Zurich Card is a good choice for tourists – it includes unlimited transport in the city and surroundings, entrance to museums and discounts in some businesses. Prices (2024):
24 hours: approx. 27 CHF
72 hours: approx. 53 CHF
The old town (Altstadt) is compact and ideal for exploring on foot. Most streets are car-free, so you can stroll between shops, cafes, churches and the lakeside. Distances are short – for example, you can walk from the main station to the lake in 15 minutes.
Zurich has a well-developed network of cycle paths and a shared micromobility system. The most famous services are Lime, Tier, Circ (scooters) and ZĂĽri Velo (city bikes).
Rental is via apps – just download the app, register and pay according to the minutes you use the service. Scooters are suitable for short distances in the city centre, bicycles are worth it for longer routes, for example a trip along the lake.
Uber works in Zurich, but prices are significantly higher than in other European cities. Local taxi services are reliable, but also more expensive – starting prices start from around CHF 6.
If you are planning trips to the mountains or outside the city, renting a car is an option, but parking in the city centre is complicated and expensive. Most hotels do not have free parking.
Boats on Lake Zurich are part of public transport. You can choose between short connections between city districts or a panoramic cruise. A boat ride is not only practical, but also an experience – especially at sunset.
Some lines run all year round, others operate seasonally. The boat trip from BĂĽrkliplatz on the lake takes around 90 minutes. Tickets are included in the Zurich Card.
If you are travelling in a group, renting a minibus or bus with a driver is the ideal solution. You avoid complicated transfers, you know the price in advance and the driver knows the route and local conditions. DirectBus offers comfortable vehicles, assistance with itinerary planning, and the ability to combine city transportation with trips to the surrounding area.
For groups of more than 8 people, this form of transportation is often not only more comfortable, but also more cost-effective.
Accommodation
Budget accommodation: Hostels like Oldtown Hostel Otter or capsule hotels offer accommodation from 50–80 CHF per person.
Mid-range: Smaller hotels or business accommodation in the wider centre cost around 120–200 CHF per night.
Luxury: Hotels like Baur au Lac, Dolder Grand or Park Hyatt Zurich offer exclusive service with prices starting from 400 CHF per night.
Food and Drink Prices in Zurich
Eating out in Zurich is one of the more expensive in Europe. A main course in a regular restaurant costs around 25 to 40 CHF, and significantly more in more upscale establishments. Coffee costs around 4–6 CHF, beer 6–8 CHF and bottled water 3–5 CHF.
A plate of quality chocolate in a specialty shop will cost you 5–10 CHF. A good alternative to reduce costs is the lunch menu (Mittagsmenü), which is offered by many establishments at a more affordable price between 11:30 and 14:00.
Zurich is a city that has something to offer at any time of the year and for every type of
traveler. Whether you come here for culture, nature, history or simply for a
relaxation by the lake, dozens of interesting places await you.
Altstadt – the historic center of Zurich
The old town of Zurich (Altstadt) is the most picturesque part of the city, stretching along both banks of the Limmat River. Narrow streets, medieval houses, small squares and numerous cafes
create an authentic atmosphere. A walk through the Altstadt will introduce you to the history of the city and the daily life of its inhabitants.Don’t forget to visit the streets Niederdorfstrasse and Augustinergasse.
Bahnhofstrasse – the most famous shopping street
Bahnhofstrasse is one of the most expensive streets in the world. It starts at the main station and leads all the way to
Lake Zurich. Here you will find luxury brands such as Chanel, Cartier and Louis Vuitton, as well as Swiss watchmaking houses and banking headquarters. Even if you are not shopping here, a walk along this street is an experience in itself.
Grossmünster and Fraumünster – city landmarks
Grossmünster is the symbol of Zurich – a Romanesque twin-towered church that is linked to the
Swiss Reformation. FraumĂĽnster, located on the opposite bank, is best known for its
stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. Both buildings are open to the public and offer a view and
spiritual peace.
Lake Zurich – relaxation in the heart of the city
Lake Zurich is a central point of relaxation and recreation. In summer, you can swim, sail or paddleboard here. Boat trips or walks along the riverbank are popular all year round. The view of the mountains and the calm surface of the lake is one of the most beautiful in the city.
Uetliberg – panoramic view of the Alps
Uetliberg is a hill southwest of Zurich, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city, the lake and in the distance the Swiss Alps. A hiking trail and a train from the center (Uetlibergbahn) lead to the top. There is an observation tower and a restaurant at the top.
Kunsthaus, ETH Zurich and Opernhaus
Kunsthaus Zurich is one of the most important art galleries in Switzerland, with works from Giacometti to contemporary artists. ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) is considered one of the best universities in the world, where Albert Einstein also studied.
Opernhaus Zurich is the place where you can experience world-class classical music, opera and ballet.
Romantic cruises on the lake at sunset, views from Uetliberg, dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant or a night walk along the illuminated promenade – Zurich is the ideal place for couples looking for a combination of nature, gastronomy and a quiet atmosphere.
Families will appreciate the Zurich Zoo, one of the most beautiful in Europe, with an elephant park and a rainforest. The Technorama technical museum in nearby Winterthur offers interactive exhibits for children of all ages. The center also has playgrounds and beaches with a gradual entrance to the lake.
For young travelers, there is Zurich West – a former industrial area transformed into a trendy district with clubs, rooftop bars, galleries and street art. Local festivals, concerts and an alternative scene make the city an interesting destination for nightlife as well.
If you’re looking for experiences without admission fees, we recommend strolling through the Altstadt, visiting parks, the botanical garden or free exhibitions in some galleries. In the rain, it’s worth visiting the Kunsthaus, Landesmuseum or Lindt Home of Chocolate. In winter, Christmas markets, ice rinks and wellness centers offer a pleasant escape from the cold.
Although Zurich offers enough experiences for several days, its great advantage is its location – within one day you can reach the waterfalls, the Alps or other iconic places of Switzerland.
Thanks to the top-notch infrastructure and excellent accessibility by train, bus or rented minibus with driver, a day trip from Zurich is an ideal way to diversify your stay.
Rheinfall – the largest waterfall in Europe
The largest waterfall in Europe – Rheinfall – is located near the city of Schaffhausen, only about 45 minutes drive from Zurich. The Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) are the largest waterfall in Europe by water flow. Visitors can take a boat trip to the massive rock formation in the middle of the waterfall, walk along the viewing platforms or view the waterfall from the top of Laufen Castle.
Details and current information:
www.rheinfall.ch
Luzern am Vierwaldstättersee
The city of Lucerne is one of the most beautiful in all of Switzerland. It is located on Lake Lucerne, surrounded by mountains and is known for its historic wooden chapel bridge (KapellbrĂĽcke), medieval towers and pedestrian zone with rich architecture.
You can get here from Zurich by train or bus in about 1 hour. Connecting Lucerne with the lake surroundings by boat offers a unique view of the Alpine landscape and is an excellent alternative for summer trips.
Official tourist website:
www.luzern.com
Mount Pilatus and Titlis – an Alpine experience within reach
If you want to experience the real Swiss Alps, go to Mount Pilatus (2132 m above sea level) or Titlis (3238 m above sea level).
Pilatus is accessible from Lucerne by boat – cogwheel train – cable car. It is known for the steepest cogwheel railway in the world and the fantastic view of the Swiss landscape.
Titlis is located near the town of Engelberg and can be reached from Zurich in about 2 hours. The Titlis Rotair is the world’s first rotating gondola lift. At the top, snow awaits you even in summer, an ice tunnel and a suspension bridge over the chasm.
More information:
www.pilatus.ch
www.titlis.ch
Lindt Home of Chocolate – chocolate museum near Zurich
The Lindt Home of Chocolate chocolate museum is located in Kilchberg, just 20 minutes from the center of Zurich. This modern museum offers a tour of the chocolate production process, a 9-meter-high chocolate fountain and, of course, tastings. A visit to the museum is also ideal for families with children or as a short trip in bad weather.
Tickets should be booked in advance.
More at:
www.lindt-home-of-chocolate.com
Accommodation prices in Zurich are among the highest in Europe, but in exchange for this you get cleanliness, comfort and a high standard of accommodation services. You can choose from different categories – from affordable hostels to luxury hotels by the lake.
Best locations to stay in Zurich
City centre (Altstadt): Ideal for first-time visitors, everything is within walking distance – sights, restaurants, shopping.
Seefeld: Quiet and elegant lakeside district, excellent restaurants, good access to public transport.
Langstrasse: Lively, multicultural area near the main station. Suitable for younger travelers, but busier at night.
Tips for choosing a hotel
When choosing accommodation, pay attention to:
Proximity to public transport (ideally within a 5-minute walk to the tram or station)
Distance from the lake and the center (especially if you plan to walk)
Option of breakfast, free Wi-Fi and luggage storage
You can search for hotels through well-known platforms such as Booking, HRS, or directly through the ZĂĽrich Tourismus website.
Swiss cuisine combines influences from French, Italian and German gastronomy, but at the same time retains its uniqueness. Tasting local specialties is almost a must on every visitor’s agenda.
Typical Swiss dishes
Among the most famous dishes is fondue – melted cheese served in a ceramic pot, into which bread is dipped. Its sister dish is raclette, where the cheese is melted on a grill and poured over potatoes or vegetables.
Rösti is a simple but popular dish of grated and toasted potatoes, often served as a side dish with meat. And of course, Swiss chocolate is world-famous and can be found in all forms – from handmade slabs to tasting bars in chocolate museums.
Recommended restaurants in Zurich
For traditional Swiss dishes, visit restaurants like Swiss Chuchi or Zeughauskeller, where they serve classics in a home-style style. If you prefer something quick, local street food markets like Markthalle im Viadukt offer modern and international flavors.
Zurich also has several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Restaurant Pavillon or Ecco ZĂĽrich, where you can experience haute gastronomy in an elegant setting.
Shopping in Zurich is an experience in itself – the city offers a mix of luxury, traditional products and local design.
What to buy
The most commonly purchased souvenirs include Swiss chocolate, hard cheeses such as Gruyère or Appenzeller, high-quality Swiss knives (e.g. Victorinox) and of course watches, which are synonymous with Swiss precision. Although these are often more expensive gifts, many brands offer more affordable models or elegant souvenir versions.
Markets and designer boutiques
If you are looking for a more authentic shopping experience, we recommend visiting farmers’ markets, such as BĂĽrkliplatzmarkt (Tuesdays and Fridays), where you can find local products, flowers and crafts. For designer fashion and local creations, it is worth visiting the Zurich West district, especially the Im Viadukt shopping arcade, which is home to smaller brands, boutiques and galleries.
Christmas Markets in Zurich
During the run-up to Christmas, usually from late November to December 24, Zurich transforms into one big festive town. The most famous Christmas markets include the Christkindlimarkt inside the main train station with its giant tree decorated with Swarovski crystals, or Wienachtsdorf by the opera house.
The markets offer handmade products, Christmas decorations, hot punch and seasonal specialties such as raclette and roasted almonds.
The length of your stay in Zurich depends on what you want to experience. The city is compact, so you can do the basic sights in a day, but if you want to get to know the museums, the gastronomic scene, relax by the lake and trips to the surrounding area, it is recommended to spend at least three days.
In the case of a week-long stay, you can combine Zurich with exploring the Swiss mountains, waterfalls or other cities such as Lucerne or Bern.
Itinerary: Zurich in 1 day
Morning: Stroll through the old town (Altstadt), visit GrossmĂĽnster and FraumĂĽnster
Lunch: Traditional restaurant in the center (e.g. Swiss Chuchi)
Afternoon: Shopping on Bahnhofstrasse and a walk along the lake
Early evening: View from Uetliberg or a boat trip on the lake
Evening: Dinner in Zurich West or an aperitif on the waterfront
This plan is ideal for those who come to Zurich just for a detour or as part of a larger tour of Switzerland.
Three-day Zurich itinerary
Day 1 – City centre and sights
Old town, churches, Kunsthaus Zurich, full-day Zurich Card
Dinner by the lake, relaxing on the promenade
Day 2 – Culture, shopping, relaxation
Visit to the Swiss National Museum or ETH Zurich
Shopping and markets in Zurich West, dinner in a modern restaurant
Wellness option (Thermalbad & Spa Zurich)
Day 3 – Excursion to the surrounding area
Rhine Falls or Lindt Home of Chocolate
Return in the early evening, walk or evening concert/opera
This plan balances city experiences, culture and relaxation, ideal for a weekend or extended stay.
Week-long stay in Zurich with excursions
Days 1–3: Detailed itinerary as for the three-day plan
Day 4: Full-day trip to Lucerne and a cruise on Lake Lucerne
Day 5: Mountain trip – Pilatus or Titlis
Day 6: Relaxing day in Zurich – parks, galleries, chocolate museum
Day 7: Shopping, brunch, airport transfer
A week-long stay gives you plenty of time to explore Zurich at your own pace and visit the most popular sites in the surrounding area. For groups, it is advantageous to combine the city program with excursions via the DirectBus service.
Zurich is a very well-organized and safe city, but as with any trip abroad, it is worth knowing a few practical things that will make your stay easier and reduce stress in unexpected situations.
What to pack – according to the season
The weather in Zurich is mild, but changes quickly. In spring and autumn, we recommend layered clothing, a light jacket and waterproof shoes. Summer is warm, especially by the lake, but evenings can be cooler – don’t forget a sweater or light jacket.
In winter, prepare for sub-zero temperatures, occasional snow and ice – a warm jacket, scarf and gloves are a must. Comfortable walking shoes and a collapsible umbrella are useful all year round.
Language Tips – Swiss German and Standard German
Swiss German (Schweizerdeutsch) is spoken in Zurich, which is different from standard German (Hochdeutsch). However, many signs and information boards are in Standard German, which is taught in schools and used in the media.
Most staff in hotels, restaurants and tourist services also speak fluent English. Basic phrases such as “Grüezi” (hello/good day) or “Merci vilmal” (thank you very much) may be appreciated by locals as a sign of respect and interest.
Zurich Airport: Orientation, Terminals and Practical Information
Zurich Airport (Flughafen ZĂĽrich, code ZRH) is the largest international airport in Switzerland. It is located approximately 12 kilometers northeast of the city center and is well connected by public transport and highways.
Terminals and airport orientation
The airport has three terminals – A, B and E. Terminals A and B are accessible on foot from a common check-in hall, while Terminal E (international flights outside Schengen) is accessible by underground train (Skymetro) which runs every few minutes.
The airport is modern, clearly marked and most signs are in both German and English. The main hall houses a service centre: exchange offices, car rental, pharmacy, grocery, Wi-Fi, a restaurant area and information booths.
Parking and navigation for bus drivers
There are reserved spaces for buses and minibuses at the P16 car park, which is accessible via the main entrance to the airport (Flughofstrasse). Parking is charged, but allows for safe boarding and alighting of passengers. Short-term parking (up to 15 minutes) is free in some zones, but it is always advisable to check the current signage.
The airport is also well signposted for drivers – just follow the “Bus Terminal” or “Car/Coach Drop-off” symbols. You can also find precise instructions and a map for drivers on the airport’s official website:
www.flughafen-zuerich.ch
Advantages of traveling with DirectBus
Transportation plays a key role when exploring Switzerland in a group. Instead of complicated public transport with suitcases and transfers, more and more travelers are choosing to rent a minibus or bus with a driver.
DirectBus offers a comfortable, reliable and professional solution tailored to your needs – whether you are planning a trip around Zurich or a multi-day route across Switzerland.
Comfort, time efficiency and local knowledge
Traveling with DirectBus means you don’t have to worry about navigation, transfers or finding connections. An experienced driver knows the local conditions and travel routes and can recommend ideal stops and sights. Buses and minibuses are air-conditioned, comfortable and suitable for longer journeys.
Flexibility and your own itinerary
Unlike fixed public transport connections, with DirectBus you determine the route yourself. You adapt the program to the weather, mood or current situation. You can plan a break by the lake, in a village with a nice view or in a restaurant that catches your eye.
Group tours for tourists directly from the airport
If you arrive at Zurich Airport with a group, DirectBus will provide a comfortable transfer without having to deal with taxi services or dividing into several cars. It is the ideal solution for travel agencies, company trips, school groups and private travelers who want to start their Swiss trip without stress and with the certainty that someone will be waiting for them immediately upon arrival.
Safety and local rules
Zurich is one of the safest cities in Europe. Public transport and streets are clean and well-lit, but as everywhere, be careful with personal belongings in busy areas such as stations and shopping areas.
Public order is strictly enforced here – alcohol consumption is regulated, smoking is prohibited indoors and there are heavy fines for breaking the rules (e.g. running a red light). Possession of drugs is illegal in Switzerland, except with a medical prescription.
Important contacts and numbers
In an emergency, call the emergency number 112, which works for all basic services. Direct numbers are: police 117, fire 118, ambulance 144.
You can find the Zurich Tourist Information Center at the main station (ZĂĽrich HB), where they can help you with maps, tickets and current events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Zurich
Before traveling to Zurich, many travelers have similar questions – regarding prices, safety, programs or local specifics. Below you will find answers to the most common ones, which will help you plan your stay better and avoid surprises.
Is Zurich expensive?
Yes, Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. Prices for accommodation, food and transport are higher than in many other destinations. On the other hand, the quality of services is usually excellent. You can save money, for example, by using the Zurich Card, lunch menus or free attractions such as walks along the lakefront or visiting public parks.
Is Zurich safe?
Zurich is an extremely safe city. Crime is low, public spaces are clean and well lit even in the evening. It is still worth being careful with personal belongings in busy places such as train stations or large events.
Where is Zurich located?
Zurich is located in northeastern Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Zurich and at the foot of the Alps. It is the largest city in the country and a major financial and cultural center. Zurich International Airport is about 12 km from the city center.
When is the best time to visit?
Zurich is a year-round destination. Spring (March – May) offers blooming parks and fewer tourists, summer (June – August) is ideal for lake cruises and festivals. Autumn is quiet and photogenic, while winter (December – February) attracts with Christmas markets and proximity to ski resorts. The choice depends on what you expect from your trip.
How and where to experience nightlife in Zurich?
Nightlife in Zurich is diverse – from elegant cocktail bars in the city center to alternative clubs in the Zurich West district, which is also home to industrial-style establishments such as Hive or Frau Gerolds Garten. For music lovers, Zurich also offers live concerts, jazz clubs and world-class opera.
What language is spoken in Zurich?
The official language is Swiss German (Schweizerdeutsch), but standard German (Hochdeutsch) is used in writing. You can easily communicate in English in tourist services and in public places.
Are there museums in Zurich?
Yes, Zurich has more than 50 museums. The most important ones include the Kunsthaus ZĂĽrich (art gallery), the Landesmuseum ZĂĽrich (national historical museum), the FIFA Museum for football fans and the Lindt Home of Chocolate for chocolate lovers. Several museums offer free admission on certain days or with the Zurich Card.
How many days is the ideal time to spend in Zurich?
If you want to see the main attractions, 1 to 2 days are enough. For a more thorough program that includes museums, a lake cruise, a trip to the surrounding area, and gastronomic experiences, 3 to 4 days are ideal. If you are also planning trips to the Alps or other places, it is worth staying for 5 to 7 days.
Zurich is a city that offers much more than just banks and punctuality – it is a place of contrasts, where history meets innovation, nature meets cutting-edge culture, and peace meets city life. Whether you are coming for a day or planning a longer stay with excursions to the surrounding area, the good infrastructure and safe environment will ensure you enjoy your stay to the fullest.
If you are traveling in a group or want to enjoy comfort without worries, use the services of DirectBus – a reliable partner for trips in Zurich and beyond.
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Telephone: +421902075380
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