In my opinion, Zurich doesn't have that one must-see. Therefore, I recommend a short walk that starts at the city's Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), which is a sightseeing attraction in its own right with its neo-renaissance style. Then, follow along Bahnhofstrasse – one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world - until Rennweg where the old town begins. Take a left on Fortunagasse to the quiet and leafy Lindenhof square. This is not only the oldest district of Zurich with houses dating back as far as the 12th century but you also have a great view of Niederdorf on the other side of the river. On your way down you have the option to visit two famous churches: St. Peter with the biggest clock face in Europe and the Fraumünster with windows by Marc Chagall.

Even though Zurich is a city that’s easily manageable by foot, why not discover it by bike? There are several FREE (!) bike rental places around the city centre – you only need an ID and 20 CHF deposit. For location and times please see Zurich on wheels .

Viadukt (shops and market hall) and Josefswiese (park) – both in the trendy Kreis 4 (neighborhood, district) The Viadukt is a series of redeveloped railway arches and claims itself to be the “most exciting street to shop in Zurich.” In fact it boasts a good variety of fashion shops and concept stores, as well as restaurants and concert venues. A special feature though is the “Markthalle” which offers a great selection of both regional produce and international food stalls in a Market atmosphere. Both the stalls and restaurant area make it a perfect place for your lunch break after a long morning of sightseeing. Adjacent is a lovely little park called the Josefswiese with a huge playground and a kiosk cum café which makes it a popular hot spot for Zurich families. When in the area, I would also recommend to visit the original home of the famous Freitag messenger bags which are made from recycled truck tarps – it is based in stacked up containers and therefore worthwhile a look.

Somewhat of a Zurich institution is the Sternengrill near Bellevue (in fact it’s been around since 1963). It's famed for its Sankt Galler Bratwurst, which is served with a “Golden Buerli” (a crusty bread) and a rather fiery mustard. While it's more of a takeout place rather than a restaurant, it also features some tables outside as well as an upstairs dining area. Apart from the popular bratwurst, they also serve other food such as salads, chicken wings, etc. The Swiss’ love for sausages and the convenient location make it a popular spot for locals – be it the visitors of the nearby opera house, bankers after work, students, or craftsmen taking their break.

1. Shopping in Zurich’s Design District (Kreis 4 & 5)
You think Zurich is all about expensive boutiques and jewelers? Then check out the thriving area of Zurich West – this is the heart of Zurich’s creative sector. You will find a big range of small boutique shops, funky design stores and trendy bars and restaurants in that area. Agglomerations of nice boutiques are in Ankerstrasse and Josefstrasse.

2. Boat tour along the river Limmat
A single ride ticket with regular public transport takes you from the Landesmuseum (near the Central Train Station) along all the major sightseeing attractions of Zurich’s old town to the far end of the Eastern lakeside promenade. There is an information flyer in English available on board (only from April to October)

3. Visit to a Badi (bathing pool) - by day or night
A very special feature about Zurich is its bathing pools that you will find all throughout the city. However, what makes it really unique is that some of them transform to a bar by night! On a special note: while the Frauenbadi (a beautiful wooden structure dating back from 1888) is open only for women and the Schanzengraben is men only during the day, both genders are welcome to the bar (Barfussbar/ Rimini Bar) at night.
Barfussbar
Riminibar

4. Barbecue by the lakeside
Eating out can be a pricey affair in Zurich. Why not do as the locals and do a barbecue by the lakeside? The Swiss LOVE their barbecues so the supermarkets usually offer a wide variety of all things you need for a decent barbecue. You will find installed grills to the use of everyone at several spots along the lake. In case the weather is not for picnics, I would recommend the Hiltl (several outlets throughout town, see http://hiltl.ch/en/). It claims to be the oldest Vegetarian restaurant in the world and offers price worthy buffet-style food that will even change the mind of the most convinced carnivores.

5. Cocktail at the Jules Verne Panorama Bar
Located just off from Bahnhofstrasse and nestled beneath the Urania observatory, this bar provides spectacular views over the city centre and the lake while sipping a cocktail. The entrance is at the Brasserie Lipp, from there you can take an elevator.

Strolling around the quaint little cobble-stone streets of Zurich’s old town (Ober- and Niederdorfstrasse and especially its side streets) on an early Sunday morning when nobody’s out yet – you feel like a time traveler back to the Middle Ages.