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Lake Zurich

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · ZURICH

Lake Zurich

A clear Alpine-view lake at the city's doorstep, with boat cruises and lakeside promenades.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
2 hours
Entry
Free (cruises paid)
Best time
May–September
Area
Seefeld

A clear lake with promenades, swimming spots and Alpine views.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Bürkliplatz, 8001 Zurich

  • Boats: ZSG lake cruises leave from Bürkliplatz; Swiss Travel Pass is valid.
  • On foot: Walk the promenades of Utoquai and Mythenquai.
  • Swimming: Lake baths (Badi) open in summer.

The story of Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich stretches about 40 kilometres southeast from the city. On clear days the snowy Glarus Alps rise beyond its far shore.

Locals swim in its clean water in summer, stroll the lakeside parks and take boat trips to villages such as Rapperswil, known as the "Town of Roses".

Best time to visit

Best season

May to September.

Best time of day

Sunset from the promenade.

Summer

Lake baths and open-air events.

Tips before you go

  • Take a short lake boat ride on a sunny day.
  • Take a short round-trip cruise from Bürkliplatz.
  • Walk to Zürichhorn park for views and the Chinese Garden.

Best hotels near Lake Zurich

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Baur au Lac

Historic luxury hotel in a private park by the lake.

See prices

The Dolder Grand

Hilltop palace hotel with city and lake views.

See prices

Storchen Zürich

Riverside hotel in the Old Town.

See prices
All hotels near Lake Zurich

What's around Lake Zurich

  • ZürichhornLakeside park.
  • Chinese GardenGarden by the lake.
  • RapperswilRose town by boat.
  • BahnhofstrasseEnds at the lake.

Questions travellers ask

Can I swim in Lake Zurich?

Yes, at lake baths in summer.

How long is a lake cruise?

From about 1.5 hours for a short round trip.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid?

Yes, on ZSG boats.

More in Zurich

Zurich Old Town & the Limmat

Zurich Old Town & the Limmat

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Grossmünster

Grossmünster

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Back to the Zurich guide
Travel Plan · Lake Zurich Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure