5 top spots for photographers in Zurich
Beyond the urban charm, Zurich’s surrounding landscapes offer incredible opportunities for landscape and nature photographers. Just a short drive away, you’ll find yourself amidst serene forests, rolling hills, and serene lakes, all begging to be immortalized through your lens. The nearby Uetliberg mountain provides a panoramic view of the cityscape, making it an ideal spot for sweeping vistas and stunning long-exposure shots after dark.
Zurich is well connected to the rest of Europe by air, road and rail. Once you have arrived, the public transportation system is highly efficient, allowing photographers to easily access the city’s gems and surrounding areas.
I spent a long weekend exploring Zurich in July 2023, here are some of my top picks for photography.
Munsterbrucke
Munsterbrucke, also known as the Munster Bridge, is an iconic historical landmark in Zurich, Switzerland. Spanning the Limmat River, this picturesque stone bridge offers breathtaking views of the city’s old town and the majestic Grossmunster cathedral, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy a leisurely stroll and capture stunning photographs.
Easily my favourite spot in the city, I visited here 4 times in one weekend to explore the photo possibilities at sunrise and sunset, daytime and night time.
Giacometti Halle
Believe it or not this is the entrance to a police station! Thanks to Augusto Giacometti, this is probably the most beautiful police station entrance hall in the world.
Thankfully you don’t have to be arrested to visit here. Just visit at strict designated hours, which are 0900-1100 and 1400-1600 Monday to Saturday. Remember your passport or other identification, since you will need to relinquish this to a police officer to begin your visit. Don’t worry – you will get it back!
Zoo Zurich
Zurich’s Zoo is widely regarded as one of the best in Europe – a deserved reputation. I walked over 5 miles and did not see every exhibit! Situated in Zurichberg, this zoo is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram line 6 and disembark at the “Zoo” stop, which is is a 5 minute walk to the entrance.
The zoo is open year-round, and the opening hours vary depending on the season. During the summer months from March to October, the zoo opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM. In the winter season from November to February, the zoo closes an hour earlier at 5:00 PM.
Opened in 1929, it is the third oldest zoo in Switzerland and it accumulated a collection of over 2000 specimens of over 300 species. Remember a good zoom lens and enjoy a captivating day of photography.
Chinagarten
The Chinagarten Zurich is a serene oasis nestled within the beautiful Zurichhorn Park. This enchanting garden is a symbol of the longstanding friendship between Zurich and Kunming, its sister city in China. To reach the Chinagarten, take tram lines 2 or 4, and get off at Fröhlichstrasse. Alternatively take bus 912 or 916 and get off at the “Chinagarten” stop. From here head towards the lake, only a 5 minute walk.
The Chinagarten Zurich opens its gates to the public from April to October. During these months, visitors can experience the garden’s peaceful ambiance from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Entrance is free!
Lindt Home of Chocolate
Lindt Home of Chocolate was a must-visit for a chocoholic like me. This attraction is located in Kilchberg, just a short journey from Zurich’s city center, and is the ultimate celebration of the renowned Swiss chocolate brand, Lindt. The impressive building itself is a striking architectural masterpiece that boasts a contemporary design, capturing the essence of chocolate-making while merging it with modern aesthetics.
The centrepiece is the giant chocolate fountain – the largest of its kind in the world. Tours sell out in advance so pre-booking is essential. However the fountain, gift shop and cafe can be visited without a ticket.