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

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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.

A sea of pink, so dense you cannot see the sky. Japanese cherry blossom is a mesmerizing sight. The significance of cherry trees goes back centuries in Japanese culture. Known as ‘sakura’ the pink flowers symbolize how short and precious life is.

Travel with us on our Majestic Japan tour and have the privileged opportunity to meet with a specialized Cherry Blossom Doctor. In the beautiful setting of Hirosaki Castle in Amouri, you will learn how they take meticulous care to nurture the cherry blossom trees. This ensures that each and every one is healthy and thriving during the blossom season each April.

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

The symbolism of Japanese cherry blossom

As well as their beauty, the cherry blossoms hold great symbolism for the Japanese. Said to be like the clouds, as they bloom all together and sit at the top of the trees. Then, like clouds, they suddenly disappear. This has come to symbolize ‘ephemerality or transient nature of life.’ Reflecting a longstanding of Buddhist concept in Japanese culture known as ‘mono no aware,’ or roughly, ‘the pathos of things,’ which recognizes both the beauty and mortality inherent in life.

For travel inspiration: Japan destination guide

Japan’s cherry blossom obsession

If you travel to Japan in the springtime, you will be swept up in the changes to the atmosphere and landscapes. Promises of new life and new beginnings mix with soft scents as plants and flowers burst into life. Japanese cherry blossoms take pride of place, a source of conversation as people become entranced by the trees. It is not uncommon to see people taking their time to photograph the blooms from every angle.

Shops and stores fill with pink products in celebration, and the Starbucks Sakura tree-themed drinks are in everyone’s clutches. Cherry blossom festivals are held in many parks and castle grounds across Japan. And the Japanese cherry blossom flower is seen on everything from wall paper to clothing.

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

The cherry blossom doctors

Tree doctors, or arborists, are the specialists that keep the Japanese cherry trees healthy all year round. They’re able to diagnose the condition of a tree just by looking at the color of its leaves and branches or listening to the sound of the trunk. Throughout the year they take care of these precious trees, both to guarantee the most magnificent blossoms, and the ensure they can survive for further decades.

In Hirosaki, where Luxury Gold guests will meet a cherry blossom doctor, these guardians are known as the known as the sakuramori. Sakuramori literally means “people who look after sakura” in Japanese.

Most of Hirosaki Park’s cherry blossoms are the variety called ‘Somei Yoshino’ which live around 60 years. But Hirosaki also has trees that are over 100 years old and still blossom profusely. The oldest cherry blossom tree in Japan is over 2,000 years old. Called ‘Jindai Zakura’, it grows within the grounds of the Jissoji Temple in Yamanashi, with a root circumference of 13.5m.

Read more: Sakura: The story of an obsession

Preserving the green spaces in Japan

Whilst the volume of green areas in Japan’s cities has generally increased over the last two decades, in many places it is becoming more difficult for trees to grow healthy and strong. This is because of new diseases and pests. Urban forests are important to clean air, reduce flood risks and even lower stress, which is why the Japanese cherry blossom doctors are vital for keeping Japan’s cities green.

The tree doctors are highly skilled in trimming any branches that appear sick or are preventing other branches from growing. They also keep an eye out for mushrooms as these rot the branch from the inside, meaning the branch is more likely to fall.

Hirosaki Style Management

Hirosaki style management was first introduced in the 1960’s. The way sakuramoris take care of sakura trees originated from the highly successful pruning methods used by Hirosaki’s apple farmers. Local farmers grew apples on the lower part of the trees to facilitate harvest, and this technique has proved useful for managing sakura today.

Sakuramoris first thin the branches to allow new branches to grow. After pruning and fertilization, sakura flowers can then blossom from the lower part of the tree. This is why, compared to the average Somei Yoshino, each bud in Hirosaki Park can develop one to two more flowers. When cherry blossom season arrives, after a winter of loving care the flowers are simply spectacular.

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Hirosaki Castle and park

The most stunning setting, Hirosaki city is an old castle town in Aomori, Japan. Beautiful any time of year, its vast park is home to Hirosaki Castle. Widely considered as one of Japan’s most beautiful castles, Hirosaki Castle is the symbol of the park. It is one of the few Japanese castles that has been preserved in its original structure.

Constructed in the Hirayama style, the main tower was built on top of a hill for easier defense and surrounded by defensive walls, moats, and yagura towers. The park surrounding the castle is filled with cherry trees, and when spring arrives in late April the cherry blossom festival always draws huge crowds. The park has about 50 varieties of Sakura tree, with over 2600 trees overall.

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To have the opportunity to meet a Japanese cherry blossom doctor for yourself, and to explore the best of this enchanting country, take a look at our Majestic Japan luxury guided tour. Discover and elegant, enchanting and ever-changing Japan, with exceptional hotels and exquisite dining bookending each unforgettable day.

Japan is gorgeous all year round, but it truly sings in springtime. This is when the iconic cherry blossoms, or “sakura”, blanket the landscape in dreamy hues of pink and white, while ornate gardens bloom and spring cuisine flourishes. It’s also a wonderful time to experience Japan’s unique cultural practices, with vibrant festivals celebrating revival and renewal. We delve deeper into all the reasons why spring is the best time to visit Japan and what you can experience on a spring trip to Japan.

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The Sakura season

Seeing the mesmerising cherry blossom season in Japan is one of the ultimate bucket list experiences. Usually occurring from late March to early May, the cherry blossoms bloom in waves, starting from the southern region and progressing northwards. 

Cities, parks, and temples are blanketed with stunning soft pink and white blossoms and you can’t help but take part in the “hanami” (flower viewing) tradition of enjoying the beauty of the blossoming trees. You’ll even see nighttime illuminations, known as “yozakura”, offering a unique and enchanting perspective on these gorgeous blossoms.

@visitjapanjp

When you visit Japan with Luxury Gold, you’ll meet a specialised cherry blossom tree doctor at Hirosaki Castle. These doctors ensure that each tree, from saplings to mature trees, is healthy and thriving. You’ll learn all about their meticulous care for these trees while admiring the blossoms around the castle.

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

Ideal weather and natural landscapes

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Springtime in Japan brings mild temperatures and blue skies, making it ideal for exploring the country’s beautiful natural landscapes, from the mountains and national parks to zen gardens. 

When you visit Japan on our Majestic Japan luxury tour, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak up the glorious spring weather and nature. We’ll board the bullet train to Mishima for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and then admire its reflection in Lake Kawaguchi. You can also choose to get a more spectacular view of Mount Fuji and the lake by riding the thrilling Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car. Or explore the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum where you can wander through the peaceful gardens and marvel at the architecture and kimono collection. 

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If you want to get closer to the water, we’ll take a private cruise on Matsushima Bay in Sendai. Soak up the views of the pine-clad islets of the bay, and hear about the countless haikus poets have written after being inspired by the bay, said to be a place of love and wonder.

You’ll also have the chance to delve deeper into Japan’s nature at Oirase Gorge, a wonderland of waterfalls, lush forest, and crystal-clear streams. Enjoy a walk along the bubbling river in Hachimantai National Park then sink into a soothing Onsen bath surrounded by the forest – the perfect springtime activity. You’ll then have the rare opportunity to meet sake brewmaster Takumi Sato for a private VIP tasting and brewery tour. Learn about the essence of sake and shared some of this sacred drink in the beautiful surroundings of Oirase. 

Read more: Masters at work: These artisanal jobs hark back to an older time

Unique festivals and cultural customs

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Spring holds deep cultural significance in Japan as it represents renewal and new beginnings. The season is teeming with vibrant festivals, such as the remarkable Takayama Festival in the Gifu prefecture. You’ll see colourful parades with intricately adorned floats, lively puppet shows, and traditional music and dance performances.

When you visit Japan with Luxury Gold, you’ll see the Sensō-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. If you’re visiting in mid-April, you may be lucky enough to witness Shirasagi-no Mai, or the Dance of the White Heron, a large spring festival that takes place at the temple. The festival dates back to the 8th century during the Heian period and involves a procession of dancers dressed in elaborate white heron costumes and makeup, accompanied by a group of guardians and floats with musicians. It’s an incredible performance and unmissable if you visit Japan in April. 

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Spring is also one of the best times to get an insight into Japan’s sacred tea culture. Spring is the time of shincha (new tea) and the tea fields are green and lush. We’ll head to Sendai on Honshu island, where you’ll witness a tea ceremony at a traditional tea house. You’ll also learn the ancient art of making the perfect matcha green tea, and enjoy a warming brew of fresh tea. 

Read more: The timeless elegance of Japan: admire geisha in Kyoto

Fresh spring cuisine

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Springtime isn’t just about the blooms and views – it also brings an array of culinary delights. You can find Sakura-flavored treats such as mochi, and enjoy the fresh flavors of “takenoko” (bamboo shoots) and “sansai” (mountain vegetables) in your dishes. In Sendai, we’ll meet the owner of a local inn for a fresh seafood lunch, while in Hiroshima, you can savor the local delicacy of Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake dish. 

In Tokyo, take part in a private sushi-making class to learn this 2,000-year-old art from a master sushi chef and indulge in a mouthwatering lunch afterwards. And discover Osaka’s Donburi Street on a stroll with a Local Expert. Taste the local specialities such as Takoyaki (octopus wrapped in batter) and find out what this city is renowned as the kitchen of Japan. 

Read more: A guide to Japan’s finest Kobe beef

Discover all this and more, such as a private Geisha performance and a stay at the remarkable Hotel Granvia Kyoto, on our Majestic Japan luxury tour.