City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, Switzerland, north of Lucerne, is a vibrant city with a rich blend of history, culture and stunning natural attractions. The city offers medieval architecture, quaint courtyards and exquisite churches like Grossmunster and Fraumunster, as well as beautiful views from Lindenhof Hill, the Limmat River, the Swiss Plateau and Lake Zurich.

Whether you're visiting for a short stay or exploring the city in depth, here are some top things to do in Zurich whether you’re moored at a marina or anchored at a private boat dock rental. 

Lake Zurich 

Lake Zurich is one of the city's most beautiful spots. You can enjoy a relaxing boat cruise, walk or cycle along the promenade, cast a fishing line or simply unwind by the water. Swimming areas, like the Badi Enge, are popular in summer.

Another way to enjoy Zurich's beauty is by water. Take a cruise along the Limmat River. The cruise offers a unique perspective of the Old Town section of the city as you float past its historic buildings, modern architecture and green spaces. 

Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich)

If you're interested in Switzerland's history and culture, the Swiss National Museum is a must-visit from private boat slips for rent. The museum, an impressive neo-Gothic castle-like setting, offers exhibits on the country's art, culture and history.

Established in 1898, its collection spans prehistoric artifacts, medieval art and contemporary pieces, offering insight into Swiss culture, politics and social evolution. Visitors can explore everything from ancient weaponry and religious relics to traditional Swiss costumes. 

Kunsthaus Zürich (Zurich Art Museum)

Art lovers should visit the Kunsthaus Zurich, which holds one of the most important art collections in Switzerland. Founded in 1910, it’s home to pieces from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. You can find works from Swiss artists such as Alberto Giacometti, Ferdinand Hodler and Johann Heinrich Fussli as well as pieces by international masters like Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet.

Zurich Zoo

A great family-friendly activity is visiting the Zurich Zoo, which is committed to conservation, education and research. Established in 1929, it covers more than 70 acres and houses more than 360 animal species. The zoo emphasizes creating naturalistic habitats to mimic the animals' native environments, such as the Masoala Rainforest Hall and the Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park.

Zurich Zoo is actively involved in breeding endangered species and supports numerous conservation projects worldwide. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to mountainous regions, while learning about biodiversity and the importance of protecting wildlife. It's a must-visit destination for nature lovers to visit from private boat slips for rent.

Swiss Chocolate

You can't leave Zurich without indulging in some Swiss chocolate. Visit local chocolatiers like the Lindt Home of Chocolate to see how your favorite sweets are made. Opened in 2020, it features a state-of-the-art museum that offers interactive exhibits on the history of chocolate and the Lindt brand.

Visitors can enjoy guided tours, observe the chocolate-making process and taste fresh chocolates. The highlight is the world’s largest chocolate fountain, which stands about 29.52 feet tall. There’s also a café and a shop offering a wide range of Lindt products. The factory combines a rich heritage with modern innovation, making it an immersive experience for both tourists and locals.

Botanical Garden

For a peaceful escape, head to Zurich’s Botanical Garden, which is located at the University of Zurich. It features over 15,000 species of plants from around the world, including alpine environments, Mediterranean gardens and tropical plants in dome-shaped greenhouses.

Established in 1976, the garden serves as both a public park and a research center, offering a rich resource for botanists and plant enthusiasts. Its beautiful landscape, tranquil ponds and educational exhibits make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike to relax in nature before returning to private boat dock rentals.

If you’re looking for something to do from marinas or private boat lift rentals near Lake Zurich, check out some of these sites. Happy boating!