What to Do Near Zurich: Three Unusual Places to Explore

Let’s be honest—Switzerland is a dream destination! There are so many stunning places that it’s hard to put into words. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the country twice to see a close Swiss friend I met during my exchange program in Ireland. She lives in Zurich, which became my home base on both trips, and she’s always been an amazing local guide.

In this post, “What to Do Near Zurich,” I’ll share three off-the-beaten-path places you can visit on day trips, along with five practical tips for your travels.

Rapperswil: The City of Roses

Let’s start with Rapperswil. Known as the “City of Roses,” this charming town near Zurich offers a mix of history and nature. Perched on a hill, Rapperswil Castle provides a stunning view of Lake Zurich and houses the Polish Museum, with exhibits dedicated to Polish culture.

The Rose Garden, home to over 15,000 rose bushes in various colors, is a highlight—especially vibrant in summer. The old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, is full of cozy cafés, shops, and historic buildings that reflect centuries of local heritage.

A wooden footbridge connects Rapperswil to the village of Hurden, offering a peaceful walk with scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. If you want a different perspective, boat tours on Lake Zurich are a great way to admire the region.

Rapperswil is the perfect blend of history, charm, and natural beauty—an ideal day trip from Zurich.

Click here to access the full guide and learn everything about Rapperswil.

Rheinfall: The Majestic Waterfall

Another must-see near Zurich is Rheinfall, or the Rhine Falls. These are the largest waterfalls in Europe by volume, with flow rates reaching over 600,000 liters per second in summer. Located near Schaffhausen, the falls combine stunning natural power with historical importance. During the Middle Ages, the area served as a strategic barrier, home to castles that controlled important trade routes.

The site offers viewing platforms, walking trails, and activities like boat rides and castle visits—each one showcasing the dramatic meeting of history and nature.

Getting there is easy, especially from Zurich, with options like train, car, or even bicycle. For more comfort, there are also guided tours that include transport and tickets. You can visit the falls year-round, and the scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, making each visit unique.

Click here to access the full guide and discover everything about the Rhine Falls.

Stein am Rhein: A Journey Back in Time

Last but not least, Stein am Rhein—a wonderfully preserved medieval town that transports visitors to another era. Its painted façades and narrow streets retain a historic charm and offer an authentic experience for those who love history and architecture.

To get a true feel for the town, start at the Monastery of St. George, founded in the 11th century—a key site for both religious and commercial development in the region. Climb to Hohenklingen Castle for panoramic views of the Rhine River and Stein am Rhein. Don’t miss the Nativity Museum, with an international collection of nativity scenes, and the Lindwurm Museum, which recreates daily life in the 19th century.

The town has a great selection of cafés and restaurants in the historic center, serving local dishes with scenic views. It’s less than two hours from Zurich and accessible by train or car, passing through gorgeous landscapes along the way.

Click here to read our full post on Stein am Rhein.

5 Practical Tips for Your Trip

1. Transportation

• By Train::
  • Zurich → Rapperswil: 40 min
  • Zurich → Rheinfall (Neuhausen am Rheinfall): 1 hr
  • Zurich → Stein am Rhein: 1 hr 30 min
• By Car::
  • Zurich → Rapperswil: 30 min
  • Zurich → Rheinfall: 1 hr
  • Zurich → Stein am Rhein: 1 hr 30 min

2. Suggested One-Day Itineraries:

• Option 1: Quick visits — Rapperswil → Rheinfall → Stein am Rhein
• OP2Option 2: Relaxed trip — Visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate, then Rapperswil (by car); or go straight to Rapperswil (by train)
• Option 3: Visit Rhine Falls, then continue to Stein am Rhein

3. What to Pack:

• Summer: Light, comfortable clothes
• Winter: Warm layers and proper footwear for snow
• All seasons: A raincoat or umbrella—the weather can change quickly!

4. Tourist Passes:

• The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited train, bus, and boat rides, plus discounts on attractions.

5. Travel Flexibility:

Renting a car gives you more freedom to stop along the way and explore hidden gems.

Read also: Car Rental in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re staying in or near Zurich, don’t miss out on these amazing day trip destinations! And if you get the chance to visit, come back and let me know what you thought. 😊