Lights on at Locke: Winter in the city, Zurich.

Skate beneath the stars at Dolder Ice Rink.

Nothing says ‘winter’ quite like serenely gliding (or comedically sliding) on ice under the open sky. Perched on a hill above Zurich, the 6,000-square-metre Dolder Ice Rink is one of Europe’s largest outdoor ice-skating spots. Lace-up and join both locals and visitors whirling to music, or pause and enjoy the view with a steaming cup of Glühwein or hot chocolate from the café. But rusty? No stress – it’s about having fun, not perfecting the triple axel. 

Insider tip: Avoid the rink on Wednesday from 5.30pm to 7.00pm when it’s closed for training. 

Uh oh, got yourself a rainy day? No worries – here are seven vibey spots to pass the time instead. 

Get festive at Zurich Christmas markets.

From 21st November to 24th December, Zurich’s Christmas markets light up the city. There’s the high-end Weihnachtsdorf on Sechseläutenplatz (20 minutes’ walk from Locke am Platz) – great for one-of-a-kind gifts and feasting on international flavours (although be sure to book a fondue chalet if cheese is your one true love).  

Or Christkindlimarkt in Zürich Hauptbahnhof train station (26 minutes’ walk), where the food tends to swing more traditional Swiss (think bratwurst, rösti, and raclette) and a giant tree takes centre stage.  

And, of course, there’s Dörfli: Zurich’s oldest Christmas market spread along the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, from Grossmünster church (20 minutes’ walk) to Hirschenplatz. Get the low-down on all these and more in our Zurich Christmas market roundup. 

Insider tip: Zurich winters can be chilly, so pack warm! Layers are your friend for switching between packed, cosy restaurants and the brisk outdoors.  

Take a wintry walk around Lake Zurich.

Lake Zurich is stunning year-round, but there’s something serenely special about visiting in winter – especially on a clear day, when the snow-capped Alps loom large in the background. Bundle up and stroll along the lakeside promenade from the beautiful Bürkliplatz to Sechseläutenplatz, where you might chance upon a seasonal pop-up event. Or climb aboard a boat tour and nurse a mug of something to warm to keep you cosy as you admire the frosty views. 

Feel like venturing a little further? Check out our ultimate guide to nature walks in Zurich. 

Feel like a kid again while sledging.

To unleash your inner kid, hop on a tram for just over an hour and a half and head up Uetliberg. In winter Zurich’s very own mountain is a playground for sledging: the run starts near the final stop of the SZU railway at the top of the Uetliberg, winding down through whimsical woodland and beautiful scenery into the Triemli quarter of the city. For a truly magical experience try the descent at night, when the city glows from the valley and your path is lit with only torches (just remember to take one!). 

Not into sledging? Why not enjoy a scenic winter hike with panoramic views over Zurich and the Alps, followed by a warm drink at the mountaintop restaurant. 

Top tip: Pick up a Zurich Card for unlimited travel on public transport (including trams, trains, and even boats), along with discounts on museums and attractions. 

Immerse yourself in art at Kunsthaus Zurich.

If it’s too chilly to be outside for long, take shelter in Kunsthaus Zürich, Switzerland’s largest art museum. Featuring works by Swiss artists like Giacometti and Hodler, as well as international icons like Monet and Picasso, its extensive collection and thought-provoking exhibitions span from classical masterpieces to avant-garde thought-starters. The café serves up coffee and light bites, perfect for a break between exhibits or refuelling before braving the cold. 

Find out why local tastemakers love Kunsthaus – and where else they reckon you should go. 

Indulge in Swiss fondue.

No winter trip to Zurich is complete without savouring some gooey, melted Swiss cheese, dunked with chunks of bread, sharp pickles, and perfectly cooked potatoes. The ultimate comfort food. 

Fribourger Fonduestübli (23-minute walk from Locke am Platz) is a cosy, rustic spot tucked away on a quiet street that draws locals and visitors alike with its famous cheese pots and the buzzing atmosphere. Make sure you book a table in advance – it’s popular, with reason. 

Or, for more of the good stuff in a different format, try Raclette Stube (27-minute walk). Try to contain your excitement as you’re presented with a wheel of cheese to be slowly melted and scraped directly on to your plate. Yes. Please.