Welcome to Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, where breathtaking Alpine landscapes meet shimmering waters in a captivating fusion of art, luxury, and delectable culinary experiences. An ideal destination for an indulgent city break or the starting point for your Swiss adventure, the question is, where to begin? We consulted expert Travel Concierge Daniele, who reveals that Zurich’s stunning old town, exceptional shopping avenues, and culinary excellence create an enchanting backdrop for your luxurious 24 hours in Zurich.

For travel inspiration: Switzerland destination guide

Introducing Zurich

Zurich is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern sophistication. With a population of about 430,000, the city gracefully lies at the northern tip of Lake Zurich, framed by the majestic Swiss Alps. “The city is famous for its beautiful setting on the lake,” says Daniele. “You can enjoy castles, forts, medieval streets and some exceptional shopping, but also be prepared for Zurich’s luxurious prices,” he advises noting that Zurich is one of the world’s top ten expensive cities.

Zurich was founded by the Romans in 15 B.C. who called it Turicum. In Modern times the city has blossomed into a prestigious financial center, while its enchanting medieval old town remains well-preserved. Zurich boasts a flourishing arts scene, world-class museums and diverse culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination for discerning travelers.

Make Zurich your gateway to a luxurious Alpine journey with Majestic Switzerland

Bahnhofstrasse

Zürich’s Bahnhofstrasse is a premier shopping avenue, renowned as one of the world’s most exclusive streets.

“This famous shopping destination is a paradise for luxury seekers,” says Daniele. “With iconic brands like Armani, Gucci and Prada alongside Swiss legends such as Cartier, Montblanc and Rolex, the options are endless. Don’t miss Confiserie Sprüngli for their legendary Luxemburgerli macarons, a delight cherished by locals.

“You should allocate one to two hours for browsing, but if you’re indulging in extensive shopping or taking time to savoring a coffee or two, plan for half a day. Arrive mid-morning to avoid the crowds maximizing your 24 hours in Zurich, and start your journey at Paradeplatz for a grand entrance.”

Image credit: @zurich_bahnhofstrasse on Instagram

If you love shopping you may also enjoy reading: Our Favorite Legendary and Lesser-Known Shopping Streets

Enge

The upscale neighborhood of Enge, located on the western side of Zurich, is characterized by beautiful parks, gardens and scenic lakeside promenades.

“This elegant area offers a serene escape from the urban hustle,” says Daniele. “Take a leisurely stroll through Rieterpark, which provides stunning views and makes for a lovely spot for a picnic. Don’t miss the nearby Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zurich (Succulent Plant Collection) if you’re a plant enthusiast.

“Enrich your 24 hours in Zurich and prepare a picnic or enjoy a gourmet lunch by Lake Zurich, where sunsets are truly enchanting. Alternatively, rent a paddleboat for a delightful perspective of the area from the water.”

The Kunsthaus and Rietberg Museums

The Kunsthaus Museum is a treasure trove, hosting one of Switzerland’s most impressive art collections. “The Kunsthaus is perfect for those who wish to see great works by Swiss artists like Alberto Giacometti,” Daniele tells us. “A café visit here offers a luxurious touch of relaxation. Sip a coffee or wine to unwind amidst the artistry.

“For a tranquil cultural experience, the Rietberg Museum showcases a unique collection of non-European art, particularly stunning in spring when the gardens bloom.”  The villas in which the museum is housed offer a serene experience and are where Richard Wagner penned Tristan und Isolde.

“The Opera House frequently hosts outstanding performances,” Daniele adds. “Attending a show is a splendid way to embrace Zurich’s vibrant arts scene during your 24 hours in Zurich.”

Image credit: @kunsthauszuerich on Instagram

You may also enjoy: After-Hours at the Little Museum of Dublin with Author Trevor White

The Old Town (Altstadt)

On the south bank of the river, Zurich’s enchanting Old Town presents a mesmerizing mix of narrow streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. Key landmarks include the iconic Fraumünster and Grossmünster churches, architectural marvels that define Zurich.

“For an atmospheric encounter, the Fraumünster with its spectacular Chagall stained-glass windows is breathtaking (5 CHF entrance fee),” advises Daniele. “Don’t overlook the Cloister adjacent to the church, and explore Münsterhof Square, known for its charming historical buildings and cobblestone streets.”

In the heart of Old Town, St. Peter’s Church features Europe’s largest church clock, boasting an outer diameter of 8.64 meters.

“The Lindenhof Hill offers panoramic views of the river and Old Town, particularly magical at sunset,” Daniele notes. “It’s a must-visit during your 24 hours in Zurich.”

Bookmark for later: How Luxury Gold Journeys Go Above and Beyond with Expert Karen Gower

Exceptional Dining

“The Old Town is not only rich in architecture but also a culinary gem,” Daniele reveals. “Enjoy an exquisite array of fine dining and cozy, traditional spots. You can’t leave without trying Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a delectable veal dish in a creamy sauce, often paired with rösti—a Swiss classic! The vicinity of the Opera House also offers an array of contemporary and traditional restaurants with exceptional menus.”

With over 35 Michelin-starred restaurants, Zurich is a gastronomical paradise. Historical dining venues like Zunfthaus Zur Zimmermann, which dates back to the 14th century, are distinctive. “Originally a meeting place for the carpenters’ guild, it now merges refined dining with Zurich’s rich heritage.”

You may also enjoy reading: The 10 Most Scenic Train Rides in Europe: From Switzerland to Scotland

Sample Swiss Chocolate

No Swiss visit is complete without a sumptuous chocolate experience, and our Luxury Gold Majestic Switzerland includes an immersive visit to a chocolate factory as part of the voyage! For those eager to indulge, Zurich, among other chocolate havens, boasts the exclusiveMax Chocolatier located in the old town, near Bahnhofstrasse.

Founded in 2009, it is known for its artisanal chocolates made from 100% natural ingredients, using seasonal flavors and local Swiss products. The Zurich shop provides a refined yet welcoming experience, with beautifully packaged pralines, truffles, and even vegan options. Tastings are available to sample their unique creations firsthand.

Bookmark for later: History in the Making: Meet Chef Chocolatiers in Switzerland

For the ultimate in Swiss luxury, join us on the 10-Day Majestic Switzerland, where Zurich is your starting destination.

Traveling by train is the epitome of the idea that the journey can be every bit as meaningful as the destination. It’s a mode of transportation that has not only stood the test of time, but remains arguably the most comfortable, relaxing and romantic ways to get from A to B. And few regions of the world offer the amount of inter-connectivity, rail travel heritage and environmental variation that you’ll find when traveling by train through Europe. But when it comes to the question of ‘what’s the most scenic train ride in Europe?’, that’s ultimately for you to decide. Here, in no particular order, are 10 of the most scenic train rides in Europe for you to consider.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Leave life in the fast lane for the slowest train in the world, the Glacier Express. You’ll ascend over 6,600 feet to the top of the Oberalp Pass, cruising through tunnels, past rows of spruce, and across the mountainside. This train travels at a leisurely 24mph, much of it through a UNESCO World Heritage listed site, allowing you to take in the beauty of the Swiss mountains in around 8 hours.  

Fine food and dining can be enjoyed on one of the world’s greatest train journeys through the Swiss Alps. It would seem a shame not to toast one the amazing views with a crisp Swiss white, and one of the best onboard is the Johannisberg Cuvée Spéciale Glacier Express.

What is the most beautiful train ride in the Alps?

With its panoramic views and guaranteed window seats, the Glacier Express won the 2023 World Luxury Travel Award in the category “Train Tours”. We’d say that crowns it as one of the most beautiful train rides in the Alps. 

Experience it for yourself on: Majestic Switzerland 

Related reading:Peak Performance: The Best Train Rides in Switzerland

Bordeaux to Paris, France

With a Luxury Gold journey to the South of France, your return to Paris from Bordeaux will be speeding through the French countryside to Paris at 320 kmph on a high-speed train. The best part, apart from the views of the meadows and the occasional castle, is that you’ll be in Paris in time for lunch – the train takes just 2 hours. 

Experience it for yourself on: Ultimate France

Flåm Railway Scenic Train, Norway

In 2014, Lonely Planet named the Flåm Railway the best train journey in the world – and it’s still certainly one of the most scenic train rides in Europe. Here you’ll take a more vintage style of train through Norway, from high mountains in Myrdal station down to the very bottom of the Aurlandsfjord, decked out in a nostalgic wooden interior with the large passenger windows you’d expect from a train that goes through the changing scenery of the Flåm Valley. The train takes a five-minute stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall, where you can stretch your legs and see the cascade from the platforn. It’s only around an hour’s journey, but you’ll be wishing it was longer – in which case you can hop back on the train and return to Myrdal. 

Experience it for yourself on: Timeless Scandinavia

Cinque Terre, Manarola to Rapallo, Italy

Experience some of the most awe-inspiring coastal scenery on earth at the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre when you journey with Luxury Gold. After exploring the charming fishing village of Manarola with your Local Expert, you’ll travel by train to the historic and colorful resort town of Rapallo. Italy’s most popular scenic rail trip may be short, but it sure is sweet! As the train hugs the coastline you feel as if you’re floating across the water, from one picture-perfect village to another. 

See it on: Ultimate Italy 

Brenner Railway, Munich, Germany to Venice, Italy

The Brenner Railway was the first to cross the Alps in the 1860s, so while there are more modern options out there, this is by far one of the most charming – and it has the added benefit of passing through three countries: Germany, Austria and Italy. Starting at Munich and ending in Venice, those two great cities set high standards for views and architecture. Over the course of around 6 and a half hours, enjoying the transition up to panoramic mountain views. The opportunity to stretch your legs at the Brenner Pass, the highest point of the trip at 1371m (4498ft), is one you won’t forget.

Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia 

Tread off the beaten path and onto the Bohinj Railway, which connects two Slovenian towns: Nova Gorica and Jesenice. As far as the term ‘picture perfect’ goes, this scenic train journey fits the bill, climbing the narrow Bača Valley, plunging into the four-mile Bohinj Tunnel and emerging in the spectacular Julian Alps. You’ll slowly pass by the bright blue waters of the famous Lake Bled, eventually stopping where you can follow a footpath down through the woods to the lakeshore.

Bergensbanen, Norway 

One of the less famous scenic train rides in Europe, Bergensbanen travels between Oslo and Bergen in around six and a half hours. In that time you’ll see the fill spectrum of Norway’s natural beauty, from canyons and mountains to rivers, fjords and waterfalls. If you’re lucky, you might even spot Arctic foxes, snow owls or herds of reindeer out the window. 

Royal Scotsman, Scotland 

Take in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands on one of the world’s most luxurious trains, stopping to try a dram of Scotch whisky at a world-famous distillery, try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, or even dive into one of Scotland’s many mystical lochs for a wild swim.  

Fresh Scottish cuisine is served throughout the day and evening as you dine in the mahogany-paneled restaurant cars, showcasing the country’s finest seafood and local produce. You’re joined by a maximum of just 35 fellow guests, who you can mingle with for after dinner drinks by candlelight. For a bit of extra pampering, pop into the Dior Spa onboard and let the holistic experts take care of you. 

Related reading: 10 of the World’s Most Famous Luxury Train Rides

The Presidential Train, Portugal 

Portugal’s Presidential Train once transported royalty in the 20th century, and although it was retired in 1970 only to be restored to its former glory 40 years later. Today, you’ll board the Presidential Train at Porto’s São Bento station and journey to Quinta do Vesuvio, rolling past the Douro Valley’s famous vineyards and the Douro River. Spectacular views are accompanied by live music and multi-course menus from Michelin-starred chefs, while Portuguese wine and port tastings further elevate the 10-hour train route.  

Related reading: 5 Celebrities Who Have Experienced the Timeless Luxury of Train Travel

Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland 

Not just one of the most scenic train rides in Europe, but in the world, the Jacobite Steam Train is full of nostalgic charm. Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it passes by loch Morar (the deepest freshwater loch in Britain) and arrives at the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis. The 84-mile round trip also passes Morar and the beaches used in the 1986 film Highlander. Harry Potter fans will recognize one of the most famous stops on this route, the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct, where the train may pause (time permitting) to allow you to take in the view.

Is there a train that takes you all around Europe?  

While there isn’t a single train that can take you all around Europe, there are rail passes that allow you to travel across multiple countries. The most popular is the Interrail Global Pass, which allows you to visit over 30,000 destinations in 33 countries in a ‘hop on and off’ style with no booking required – unless you’re traveling on high-speed, international or night trains.

Discover some of the most scenic train rides in Europe – and the world – on our Luxury Train Journeys.

One of the most prestigious hotels in Europe, Ashford Castle offers unrivalled service, warm Irish hospitality and five-star luxury. An amazing stay at any time of year, an Ashford Castle Christmas goes above and beyond. Think Santa, giant trees, sumptuous cuisine and a festive cruise. Read on to see why Ashford Castle is one of the best hotels for Christmas and find out how they celebrate the holiday season.

Ashford Castle – An Iconic Stay

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The Ashford Castle hotel is situated in a spectacular 350-acre estate. Over 800 years old, the castle is a grand, historic structure of great national significance. The former home of the Guinness family, it has hosted countless notables over the years, including The Prince of Wales (who later became King George V) and President Ronald Reagan. Sumptuous rooms and suites combine with divine interiors brimming with antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features.

Stay in luxury at Ashford Castle on: Ultimate Ireland & Castles & Kingdoms

A Time to Make Guests Feel Special

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“At Ashford Castle we’re an extended family for our guests and it is viewed as a home,” Catherine, Ashford Castle’s Rooms Division Manager tells us. “It is important that when guests arrive, either on Christmas Eve or before, they feel they are coming home, and that they know someone. Everybody at Ashford understands the importance of our guests coming for Christmas. They all go above and beyond and there is a lovely excitement in the house.”

“We reach out to guests in advance and keep in touch with them in the months leading up to their arrival. This way we build a relationship with them and learn about their preferences, which we try to incorporate into their stay in some discreet way.”

Of course, the most VIP festive guest to visit the castle is Santa. Arriving on Christmas Eve, he presents all of the guests with a gift.

You may also enjoy reading: Ashford Castle: A beloved icon magnificently restored

Christmas Trees, Grown on the Estate

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Taking pride of place in the magnificent Oak Hall is a 20-foot-high Christmas tree, which Catherine tells us proudly “is grown and matured on the estate.” A palatial space, the Oak Hall with its storied interior veneered in rich oak paneling and draped in deep scarlets, makes a magnificent setting for the tree.

Ashford Castle’s Head Gardener Martin keeps an eye out through the year for the best tree, so the hunt begins months ahead. The tree provides the perfect backdrop for the Christmas family photograph that all guests receive. Additional trees are also placed in the Staterooms and Suites.

For travel inspiration: Ireland destination guide

Festive Feasts and a Pudding Parade

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Decadent festive breakfasts, a flow of mulled wine, and quintessential afternoon tea pepper the festivities. On Christmas Eve a black-tie gala dinner provides a sumptuous feast. The centerpiece is, of course, the Christmas Day lunch. Dine on a thoughtfully chosen menu of traditional favorites. Or there are a wide range of alternatives to choose from.

The festive five-course menu includes decadent dishes such as beetroot-cured organic salmon with blinis and horseradish cream, spiced pumpkin and chestnut soup, and mulled wine sorbet. And of course, traditional roast turkey and ham, served with bread stuffing, goose-fat roast potato, turkey sausage roll, and rosemary gravy.

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Special wine-tasting sessions are offered over the festive days. Guests can also relax in the lounge and sip a signature Baileys Hot Chocolate, made with Valrhona chocolate.

A festive highlight is the Pudding Parade. “Christmas pudding is made here in the Castle,” Catherine says. “Our team of Chefs in full uniform parade the hot puddings into the restaurant, piped in by Benny the Piper. It’s quite a sight.”

Bookmark for later: Hives and honey: Meet Ashford Castle beekeeper Steve Watson Oughterard

Christmas Day Cruise on Lough Corrib

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“A highlight for guests on Christmas Day is a leisurely cruise on Lough Corrib, a truly beautiful setting,” shares Catherine. “We serve hot whiskeys and there is traditional music on board. Everyone gets into the festive spirit.”

The second largest freshwater lake in Ireland, the stunning Lough Corrib is around 35 miles in length and contains over 300 islands. It separates the fertile limestone plains of east Galway from the lake-strewn bogs and rugged mountains of Connemara in the west.

Music and Merriment

It wouldn’t be an Irish celebration without live music. And Ashford Castle has lined up some of the greats. This includes the legendary Irish singer Keith McDonald who will perform both with his Show Band and solo. One of Ireland’s leading male vocalists, expect a toe-tapping evening and a festive tune or two.

Discover a world of relaxation from an Ashford Castle expert: Skip The Jacuzzi and Brave the Ice Bath: Industry Insider Joanna Moran Reveals Her Top Spa Secrets

St Stephens Day Celebrations

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December 26th is known as St Stephen’s Day in Ireland, also called the Feast of Saint Stephen. On this day Ashford Castle invites guests to join them in the great outdoors.  The 350-acre castle estate boasts stunning parkland, woods and gardens. The magical setting on the edge of Lough Corrib with the Castle as the central feature is truly unique. The gardens combine a thoughtful balance of formal and informal areas, with a Walled Garden full of perennial borders, fruit and vegetables. The great woods are home to ancient trees, perfect to wander through at leisure and enjoy the wildlife.

Fly a Harris Hawk

Guests can try the ancient form of falconry, a fascination that has enthralled people for 5,000 years. Ashford Castle is home to the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland and flying hawks is an experience of a lifetime. You can also test your archery skills or even try your hand at sheep herding on the estate.

And to top off St Stephen’s Day, in the evening there is a visit from the Wren Boys offering a feast of traditional music. This celebration gives a nod to the age-old Irish Wren Boys custom that, in the past, saw people dress up and travel from door to door singing, dancing and playing traditional music.

Why is Ashford Castle Famous?

An icon of County Mayo since the 13th Century, Ashford Castle is now an exquisite 5-star hotel. Originally built in 1228 as a fortress, it has served as a noble residence for centuries. In 2013, the Tollman Family spent two years lovingly renovating the historic property, restoring it above and beyond its former glory. Today Ashford Castle is reconginsed as one of the best hotels in the world, and earning the accolade of Ireland’s only Forbes five-star rated hotel .

How Far is Ashford Castle From Dublin?

Ashford Castle is 240km (150 miles) from Dublin, roughly a three hour drive.

You can experience the delights and luxury of Ashford Castle for yourself on our Ultimate Ireland and Castles & Kingdoms limited-edition tours.