However, if your plan is to see what makes Switzerland such a popular destination, add some of our curated sightseeing stops to enhance your trip. Stop by Hallwyl Castle to see one of the best examples of a moated castle or have a spa day in Baden before arriving safely in Zurich.

Neutral to their core

Zurich, and Switzerland in general, has the advantage of being in the mountains and difficult to attack, so it has developed a distinctive culture from the rest of mainland Europe. You will find this in the mentality of the Swiss people to always remain neutral. They are not a part of the EU, although they share strong trade relations with their neighbors and are part of the Schengen zone.

There are four official languages in Switzerland (perhaps they were too neutral to pick a favorite?): French, German, Italian, and Romansch. English is widely understood, and there is a large population of foreign workers who speak other languages.

Zurich as a worldwide destination

Today, about 4 million people visit Zurich each year. Many visit for the close access to some of the best ski resorts and luxury shopping in the world.

Dress in layers

Zurich has a high elevation and is by a large body of water, so the weather can change on a dime. Warm, sunny days can quickly turn much cooler in the shade or evening times. Wear layers so you are always comfortable inside or outdoors!

Have comfortable footwear

Switzerland is a mountainous country, so sturdy and comfortable shoes are a must for all the steep streets and trails. Break in your shoes before starting your vacation and wear thick socks to prevent blisters.

Be punctual for reservations

If you’ve booked any restaurant reservations, tours, or excursions, make sure you are a few minutes early. The Swiss value punctuality and like to stay on schedule. Remember that old adage "if you're not early, you're late"? The Swiss live it. This also applies to public transportation, which is accurate to the posted departure and arrival times.

Basel to Zurich by private car service

With Daytrip, it’s not just about the destination but also the journey. The drive to Zurich takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes and is directly connected via the A3 highway. This distance is a good length for a day trip to Zurich and seeing the many castles and Roman ruins that dot the countryside.

Your private driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Basel and take you to all the sightseeing stops you want to see before getting you safely to Zurich. If you are staying overnight in Zurich, your driver will take you right to your hotel and help with your bags.

Daytrip takes the guesswork out of car rentals and driving in foreign countries. Our drivers speak English and our fleet of vehicles are insured, so you can have peace of mind while on your vacation.

Basel to Zurich by train

Direct trains leave Basel every 15 minutes for Zurich and take about one hour to arrive at Zurich’s main train station. Tickets start at 20 USD for economy class and you do not have to purchase tickets ahead of time due to the frequency of the trains.

Basel to Zurich by bus

Buses to Zurich start at about 10 USD and take about 90 minutes. They tend to be a reliable, on-time, and clean method of transportation. Check the timetables early to get the best price and departure time. If you have a flight from ZRH, it is also possible to book a bus straight to the airport without a transfer.

Go out on Lake Zurich

In Zurich, you’re never too far from nature. During the short summers, locals take to Lake Zurich to do watersports, picnic on the shores, and walk along the promenade. Take a boat cruise tour for panoramic views of the shore and to learn more about the area.

Visit a swanky bar in Zurich West

Zurich West is a trendy and vibrant district known for its contemporary art galleries and hip cafes made out of converted warehouse spaces. Be sure to stop by the Schiffbau Cultural Center and the Viadukt market hall for Instagramable industrial chic photo ops and inspiration.

Shop til you drop on Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is among the world's most exclusive luxury shopping districts. Browse the many designer boutiques and department stores from around the world within walking distance of each other. Check out the wide array of jewelry, clothing, and, of course, Swiss watches.

Take a hike

Once you’ve seen all Zurich has to offer, take a short train or car ride outside the city to Uetliberg Mountain. Here you will find hiking trails leading you to breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Zurich. With views like these, you can see why the Swiss love the outdoors and hiking so much!

The trails are open year-round, even in winter, so come prepared with a water bottle, comfortable shoes, and layered clothing appropriate for the season.

The high altitude of Switzerland means great snow and mountains for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. If you get too cold, heat up with some roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and other traditional winter foods.

Summers in Zurich are quite cool compared to other parts of Europe, with highs of around 75F (25C). With this in mind, the best time to visit Zurich is whenever you want!