Zürich - an overview

There's not insubstantial evidence to support the stereotype of Zürich as a place of Gnome-ish bankers and you'll certainly see some evidence of it around - especially Bahnhofstrasse - but that doesn't mean that there's nothing to do.

Niederdorf

The The Niederdorf is the old cobbled town of Zürich - on the opposite side of the Limmat from the original old town which was built up behind the modern Bahnhofstrasse and the Lindenhof. The Niederdorf is a pleasant place to stroll through the cobbled streets and turns into a popular night venue later. It's also home to the distinctive Grossmuünster with it's twin spires - which has become the de facto symbol of Zürich.

Around Banhhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is shopping central in Zürich - department stores at the station end give way to the super-luxury brands of Gucci, Bulgari, LVMH and purveyors of fine watches. One favorite game is to spot the most expensive watch with a price tag. You know what they say about having to ask the price ......

At Paradeplatz, the iconic Sprüngli serves one of the quite delightful Luxemburgerli which are, for sure, worth a try when in Zürich - but have them fresh, preferably as soon as you've bought them at Paradeplatz.

The Lindenhof, originally a Roman fortification, offers great views over the Limmat River to the Niederdorf and the distinctive twin-towered Grossmünster.

Close to Paradeplatz, of course, the is elegant Fraumünster - the one time convent of Zürich founded by the Holy Roman Emperor Ludwig - the grandson of Charlemagne who founded Grossmünster opposite - in 853. The importance of Fraumünster cannot be understated as it once had the rights to print coins and money in the Zürich region. Today it houses stained glass windows by Chagall and works by Giacometti from Graubunden.

Zürich West

Zurich West is, essentially, a new and up and coming area which is slowly being rejuvenated. It's got an increasing vibrant nightlife, which I'm slowly exploring and will keep you informed of places to eat and drink when worthy of this venerable organ.

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