Hochschulen Zurich
Apr 18, 2025

Hochschulen Zurich

Explore the Campus Life of Zürich

"My personal highlight is a modern geological exhibition Focus Terra, with a stunning design by Holzer Kobler Architekturen as well as The Library of a Law School, renovated according to Santiago Calatrava’s project."

On the hill, overlooking the entire city, the historical landmarks of Swiss Higher Education stand in their full glory. The two main buildings, of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich, built in 1864) and of the University of Zürich (built in 1914), are open for visitors. To reach them, take the stairs on Schienhutgasse or take a ride in a historical, but now fully automated, funicular Polybahn. Explore the architecture and the majestic inner decor by simply walking in on a working day.

Both universities can offer a lot to experience. Check their websites for a current list of exhibitions and various tours offered. My personal highlight is a modern geological exhibition Focus Terra, with a stunning design by Holzer Kobler Architekturen (Sonneggstrasse 5) as well as The Library of a Law School (Rämistrasse 74), renovated according to Santiago Calatrava’s project. For a true student experience, head to any of the local cafeterias (referred to as mensas) or to the legendary student bar - Polyterasse. The views of the Alps are included in the price of budget-friendly drinks. If you fancy a cup of coffee and more stunning views, head to the upper level of the ETH Main Building to the Alumni Quattro Lounge.

Pro Tip: ETH Zürich (or Federal polytechnic school as it was called then) was the alma mater of Albert Einstein. You can still find his locker (now a tiny exhibition) in one of the corridors of the ETH Main Building. Ask at the info point for the directions.

002-building
Art & culture

About this spot

Hochschulen

CHF

free

446322118

Find your way with 180 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Zurich guide.

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Zurich

Seefeld

The cosmopolitan paradise on lake Zürich

Seefeld, to which The Opera House serves as a gatekeeper, will please urban souls with a mix of neoclassical and functionalism aesthetics, oak-shadowed streets, and an excess showcase of small local boutiques.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

Sonnenberg

A micro-vineyard with a view

The view opens up from a terrace, which overlooks a tiny vineyard, the lake, and the city. In addition to this, you can explore the entire silhouette of Zürich’s very own mountain - Uetliberg.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

Jelmoli Food Market

A Foodie’s Dream

What brings the shopping experience to a truly next level, is the mini-restaurants scattered throughout the store. You will find a tea room, premium sushi, a grill at the butchers, and gourmet pasta.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

Succulent Collection

The Cactus Jungle in Zürich

It harbors almost half of all known species and serves an educational purpose for casual visitors and specialists alike. Get lost in the lush cactus “jungles” and between giant palms.

002-building
Art & culture
017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

Hardbrücke

The Hip Area of Zürich

Hardbrücke is a former industrial area left behind by a manufacturer of turbines and other industrial equipment called Escher Wyss. The area is landmarked by the arched railway bridge from the nineteenth century - The Viaduct.

002-building
Art & culture
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

Europaallee

The futuristic shopping neighbourhood

If you get tired of the conservative landscape of the city center, Europaallee is your next stop. The allee, shadowed by the modern glossy giants, is reserved exclusively for pedestrians and offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and relaxing.

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

District 4

Legendary, anarchic, fun

You are about to embark on a journey through the most controversial and fun districts of Zürich - Kreis 4 or District 4. Since the 2000s, it has developed a significant nightlife scene, with plenty of popular bars and clubs.

002-building
Art & culture
017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

Schanzengraben Canal

Walk on the Water

Starting from the Bürkli Platz, just behind a luxurious hotel Baur au Lac begins a manmade canal through the city. It follows the outskirts of the old town and offers picturesque views of the boats, pretty facades, and terraces.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025

Oberer Letten

River-side Walks and Beach Parties

Oberer Letten is very popular amongst the younger population. Usually, in the evenings and over the weekends, it is filled with big friend groups, loudspeakers, exposing clothing, and alcohol.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Apr 18, 2025
Blinde Kuh Zurich

Blinde Kuh

Eating in darkness

Beyond the culinary experience, Blinde Kuh embraces an important message of understanding and inclusivity as well as the power of sensory perception.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Simi

Singh

Apr 16, 2025
Aelpli-Bar Zurich

Aelpli-Bar

An island of Swiss folk culture

"Aelpli-Bar" translates to "Mountain Bar" in English, and it couldn't be more fitting - you will be transported to a warm and cozy mountain atmosphere.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music

by

Simi

Singh

Apr 16, 2025

Babus

The perfect breakfast

Babus is one of the best breakfast locations in Zurich, earning fame for its variety of homemade bagels, fluffy pancakes, and delicious morning delights.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Simi

Singh

Apr 16, 2025

Heading to Zurich?

180 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

180 Insider Tips

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

App Download Download our app

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture

Our team loves Zurich

Get to know our other Spotters from Zurich

As featured on:

New-York-Times
the-guardian
mashable
the-sunday-times
false
0
false
39
Filters