“Your true assets are the collections of your quality moments on the earth.”
Switzerland
With monstrous mountains, elevated deep lakes, meadowed valleys with laid back villages and alpine farms made up a thriving and enchanting Switzerland. It is an independent country that does not have any direct access to an ocean (Landlocked country). Switzerland is bordered by Italy (South), France (West), Germany (North) and East is bordered by Liechtenstein and Austria.
Long heard about the charms of Switzerland, we come here to experience the picturesque scenery and we are also attracted by the Swiss cultural. Whether you are here for world class museums (more than 500!), spirited arts exhibitions, exquisite alpine buildings or traditional cuisine, we enjoyed every moment in Switzerland. Smaller towns of charming villages and resorts scattered all over the country, which helps a lot when we plan our routes.
Today, with an estimated population of 8.8 million, it is attracting visitors from all over the world when the oldest traces of man-related existence in Switzerland dated 150,000 years ago.
Switzerland is a neutral country that has not been in any war since 1815.
Although Switzerland is not a member of European Union, it maintains a good relationship with other European countries through bilateral agreements to trade with one another. Therefore, the currency of Switzerland is Swiss Franc (CHF).
Though most of the Swiss speaks Swiss-Dialects in the villages, generally they speak German and French and some Italian, however, most of the Swiss speaks English too so no worries at all.
Weather
Switzerland has four distinct seasons, the climate is strongly affected by the Alps and its proximity to Atlantic Ocean. The south side of the Alps is mostly influenced by the Mediterranean Sea. At the higher altitude regions, the cold is prominent feature of icy chills and wind. In the lower lands, the accumulation of ice and frost built up, can cause freezing temperature in the valley and hollow areas.
The average temperature in Switzerland during winter is -2 degrees Celsius so it is very important to put on thicker clothing, make sure there are few layers.
Zurich
The largest city in Switzerland is located in located in the north-central of the country. Though Zurich was founded by Romans more than 2000 years ago, early settlements have been found more than 6400 years ago.
Today's population is more than 400,000, Zurich is the home to many financial institutions and banking companies.
New vibes are fusional into this primitive city that it became one of the vibrant cities in the world.
The city center, scattered with many old buildings and time-honored streets, it is a great place to visit whether you are here for every reason.
Do you know ? : Switzerland does not want to join The European Union despite multiples invitations.
PS: You’ll need a special adaptor for travel in Switzerland as they use the Type J or C outlet. The standard universal travel adaptor, which is the one I have, worked well here.
Love the plane to Zurich, almost empty at the back that people are lying flat.
Here are some photos of Zurich from the air. Zurich is very pretty from my window's view.
Caffe Spettacolo Flughafen Zurich
Our first meal here upon landing, this caffe located right above the train station which is ideal for people catching trains. It is a must to fill up our tummies as we are going to take a near 4hr train.
2 coffees and 2 croissants cost CHF15.
.jpg)
Zurich Airport Train Station
We are heading for a 4hr train ride for our first destination in Zermatt which I will share more under the blogs of Zermatt & The Matterhorn.
The Zurich Airport Train station is located under the airport terminal, just a short distance from our exit after the customs. Simply look around for the signs of "Train or Bahn", there are lifts and escalators for your convenience use. There is also a shopping area where you can grab some food or stuff within easy access.
Do take note that the trains here are super on time., saw a couple ... the man boarded the train first while the lady was trying to board but the door closed with red lights (means door locked and ready to leave), in the end he left without her.
Swiss Travel Pass Given their reputation as master watchmakers, it should come as no surprise that the Swiss rails are also famous for being meticulously punctual. These "Magical Train Rides" routes are designed to help people to explore the alpine beauty of Switzerland. Therefore, there are only a small handful of places that cannot be reached.
With one of the best rail networks in the world, with one of the best scenic train rides in the world too, which visitor will not travel by the train?
Switzerland itself is an expensive country to visit. Nothing is cheap here from point to point, corner to corner.
It is a sensible move to purchase a Swiss Travel Pass which will helps to save some money as it includes free entry to 500 museums in the country.
The mighty Swiss Travel Pass included unlimited travels rides on all the train, bus and ferry throughout Switzerland.
In some places of Switzerland, the transport network is not included in the Swiss Travel Pass but discount up to 50% is you hold a Swiss Travel Pass.
Refer to the website: Swiss Travel Pass – the All-in-one-Ticket for Switzerland | SBB to purchase the tickets for consecutive 3-, 4-, 8- or 15-days pass at different prices. Alternately, there is "Swiss Travel Pass Flexi", "Swiss Half Fare Pass". It is good to double check which is the pass most suitable for you.
The ticket works either as a physical ticket or by apps. You may require showing your identity when asked by the ticket inspector.
This is how our 8 days pass looks like and it cost us CHF789 for 2 tickets which is SGD1180, it is much more expensive than the Japan JR Pass.
We were very confused over many types of cards and after some homeworks, it is discovered that Swiss Travel Pass is the best for us as we have quite an extensive travel. After doing a comparison between Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Half Fare card, the difference per person is not much.
With Swiss Travel Pass, I can just hop on but with Swiss Half Fare card, I still need to purchase tickets before boarding.
Zurich Hauptbahnhof AKA Zurich Main Station
Zurich BH is the busiest train station in Switzerland, was voted the best train station in Europe in 2023.
It is a huge train station that can connect you to any part of Switzerland, it is also a starting point to travel to the other parts of Europe.
There is a fee of CHF1.50 to use the public toilet here, though it is SGD2.30 per entry, the toilet is clean and there are staff allocate here to maintain the cleanliness.
Not only a big transportation hub where the tram station is right outside of the BH, there is also a mall named Shopville attached to it.
There are 180 stores here opening 365 days, where you want to shop or dine, everything is there.
Starting from the door of Zurich BH, there lies Bahnhofstrasse main shopping street that spans nearly 1.5KM.
Cakefriends Cafe
We are here for coffee & cakes. The cakes are very well known here. There are many different flavours to choose from and per whole log price from SGD38.
Bahnhofstrasse AKA Main Shopping Street
To most Singaporean, Bahnhofstrasse is much alike like our Orchard Road.
This 1.4km street is also made up of several notable side streets, it is constructed after the completion of Zurich Main Train Station and the street is start right Infront of Zurich Train Station.
Beside old times' charm and modern shops, it is also photograph friendly.
The most prime shopping street is filled with many high-end brands from fashion to watches to local shops to F&B and even souvenir shops. There are also some shopping malls where shopper can hide or dine from bad weather.
It is basically a car-free street, but visitors are always to shuttle around with local trams. At the end of the street will reach Zurich Lake.
Rennweg
A popular promenade located in the heart of the old town that is connected through Bahnhofstrasse.
The site of the ancient Rennweg Gate is at the current location of Rennweg and Bahnhofstrasse.
Located right beneath Lindenhof, this medieval area, it was once the widest street in Zurich.
Rennweg is the second most exclusive shopping area after Bahnhofstrasse. There are cafes, Apple shop, souvenir shops. shoes. clothings and some local craft shops too.
Augustinergasse
Augustinergasse is one of the most beautiful ancient narrow streets with cobblestones in Zurich. It is well linked from the busy Bahnhofstrasse.
To be precise, this medieval side street is located right after "Omega" in Bahnhofstrasse.
It is littered with many well preserved and colorful painted pretty preserved buildings decorated with Swiss flags. Most of the owners created a bay window over the doorway to spy on if there is any unwelcome guest knocking.
This bustling street filled with Swiss air, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. As one of the prettiest streets in Zurich, it’s an incredible photo spot.
A stroll here is one of the best free things to do in Zurich in the morning before crowds come in.
Nordsee Zurich HB Located at Shopville, under the Zurich train station. I think Nordsee means North Sea as everything sold here are seafood. The food on displays looks really tempting and the prices are also reasonable.
Lake Zurich Lake Zurich is a big lake spanning nearly 30km, located in Zurich itself, the water is very clean that is easily purified and fed into Zurich's water system for home use or public drinking fountains.
Limmatquai One of the notable streets in Zurich which consider one of the main roads here. This road is just by Limmat River that is perfect for a stroll after visiting Lake Zurich. Along the road, there are connections to Niederdoft, Grossmunster, Franmunster and more.
Limmat River Stretching 140km, the Limmat river starts from Lake Zurich which is in the south of Zurich.
Lake Limmat separate the medieval town into 2 parts where you will stumble upon narrow cobblestoned streets, traditional guildhalls, beautiful buildings and timeless small-town squares.Lined along the banks of this river, there are many shops that were resurrected through the old buildings.
Love the video as I was recording the crystal-clear water and suddenly the screen turned black because of a passing dark cloud.
Grossmünster AKA Grand Minister
The Romanesque designed church was built around 1100 and it is one of the most famous churches in Zurich.
It was originally a monastery and recent archaeological evidence confirms the presence of a Roman burial ground at the site. The twin towers of the Grossmünster are regarded as perhaps the most recognized landmark in Zürich. Entry into the church is free, however donation is appreciated. There will be a charge of CHF10 if any visitor wishes to climb up the towers.
Fraumunster AKA Women's Minster
Founded by Louis The German & his family on July 853, it was built on the remains of a former abbey for noble ladies. Most of the architecture here is from the 12th century, it is one of the four main churches in Zurich that it sits right next to Limmat River. We did not enter the church as the main doors were closed so we loitered around the facade for some great photos.
.jpg)
Zurich Rathaus AKA Zurich Town Hall
Sitting on the Limmat River, it looks like an ancient bungalow rather than a government building. The Baroque designed building was built around 1690, it is opened to the public where people can explore the interior and attends exhibitions. Another great free thing to do in Zurich.
 |
Cafe Henrici
Located in the perfect spot of Niederdorf, this cute cafe is very popular, it was pretty crowded when we came. We were served by an Asian waitress whom I think is a Japanese.
Niederdorf AKA Low Village
Niederdorf was the least developed neighborhood of the medieval city.
The car-free area with cobbled lanes is towering by the Grossmunster is lined with many trendy shops. When the sun goes down the place will be full of wine bars and laughter will fill up this part of the old town
Chopstick Chinese Restaurant
Chanced upon this restaurant in Niederdoft that sell steamboat which swept my man's feet off the ground.
Came here again for dinner, this round we go for ala carte dishes.
Here are some more photos of the restaurants.
Lindenhof Hill AKA The Lime Trees Courtyard
One of the best free things to do in Zurich on this ancient Roman Fort is to stroll around and feel the old Roman air while admire the view of Zurich on heights.
Lindenhof Hill was once the site of an ancient Roman castle that was surrounded by fortification during the year of 400s. Today, it’s a modern promenade with lots of historic buildings, a fountain, and scenes. It is also a good meeting point for friends. The unobstructed panoramic views of Zurich where we can have the views over the Limmat, Fraumünster, Grossmünster, City Hall, and the colorful buildings of the old town.
The Hedwig Fountain AKA Lindenhof Fountain
There are more than 1000 beautiful fountains scattered throughout Zurich.
Since 1912, the fountain has been standing on Lindenhof Hill witness the growth of Zurich.
It was built to honor the Zurich women who helped to defend the city during a siege in 1292, these brave women dressed in full battle gear to trick the enemy that the city is well defended with strong army.
The water from the fountain comes from the Limmat river and everyone is welcome to have a sip.
Water fountains or public drinking fountains can be found everywhere in Switzerland. The water is safe to drink unless otherwise indicated as Kein Trinkwasser (literally Not drinking water
St. Peter's Church
Sitting elegantly next to the Lindenhof Hill ever since the year of 1000, a former Roman castle, and can be accessed via St. Peterhofstatt plaza.
Walking around Zurich, it is easy to spot St. Peter Church by its huge clock tower that dominates the skyline of Zurich that you can see it on almost every corner. The Romanesque building was founded in the year of 800s, it is the oldest parish church in Zurich.
HITZBERGER cafe
The last coffee break here in Zurich as it has been 12 days, and it is time to go home.
We have another trip to Denmark & Norway in 4 days' time.
 |
| Water fountain for drinking water |
Zurich International Airport
Zurich Airport is located less than 10 km from Zurich City. It has its own railway station which is located underground that is directly connected to Zurich and the rest of Swiss cities.
The ride from Zurich HB to airport is less than 15 minutes.
Zurich Airport is the largest international airport of Switzerland with 3 terminals, it has been operating since June 1948 receiving numerous visitors. Whether you want to dine or shop at duty free shops, there are plenty to choose from.
One of the leading airports in Europe, it is attached with train station, bus station and tram station.
For the 20th time in a row, Zurich Airport has been named the best in Europe by the World Travel Award
To choose “Europe’s Leading Airport” for 2023, the World Travel Awards studied each airport on the continent to see which offers passengers the best experience. In a statement, Zurich Airport said that customer satisfaction, overall standards of services and the quality and selection of products and services available to travellers were the main areas analysed.
Swiss Tax Refund
This is the most exciting part for most tourists.
The tax refund in Switzerland is 7.7% whereas Denmark is 25%, France is 20%, Netherland & Belgium are 21%.
So, it is up to you whether you want to splurge on those international labels.
With a minimum spending of CHF300, you are entitled VAT claim of 7.7%.
So most importantly, you must carry the passport with you and upon payment, please inform the cashier you want to get a VAT and the staff will do the needful for you like filing up the VAT form and sealing of your items which means you are not allowed to open the seal.
Lastly, at the airport, look out for the VAT center to process the refund with the VAT forms with original receipts and the sealed purchases. You can choose to get the refund back by cash or refund back to your card.
Our happy times in Zurich shall end here
Well, the end of this blog meaning the start of another; coming up next will be on the famous Zermatt.
The remaining blogs of other towns like Spiez,, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen Wengen, Iseltwald and etc. will be in the queue for publishments.
Here are the shortcuts to the blogs on our trips in Switzerland:
We visited Europe recently like The Netherlands & Belgium recently : Amsterdam, The Hague , Rotterdam , Kinderdijk , Naarden ,Muiden , Haarlem , Nijmegan, Brussel, Bruges
and Antwerp.
We even moved to stay in Denmark during the peak of Covid : Relocation from Singapore to Aalborg, Denmark
Meanwhile we will still be driving for short trips to nearby Malaysia especially gourmet trips to Johore.
Feel free, you are most welcome to browse through my other blogs to France, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia and cruises etc. I will be deeply blessed if you can like my facebook page:: followblueginger
"I travel because seeing photos in books and brochures was not good enough for me, To be there, that was everything"
No comments:
Post a Comment