Zurich: A Side Trip

“He that can take rest is greater than he that can take cities.” -Benjamin Franklin

In between my travel destinations and my home, I usually plan a side trip or a quick stop-over. I learned that having a side trip allows me to ease into the destination by lessening both physical and emotional stress.

Zurich is one of the cities in central Europe I find travel to be stress free, and a great city to stop over or pass through. Its reputation is “Swiss clock works,” and my life becomes quite predictable in Zurich, as well as in many other Swiss cities. This year on my way to Milan, I chose Zurich to be a transfer city, helping me to prepare my travels precisely to my expectations. I simply took the Swiss train to the center of Milan from Zurich International Airport, which is not only easy, but also economical and an efficient way to connect. The rail route from Zurich to Milan is called “Willem Tell,” and it is one of my favorite rail routes in the world. With frequent connections, I was able to move at a slow pace and not be rushed. In between my transfers, I decided to stroll the famously historical street in Zurich: Bahnhofstrasse. My walk took about an hour, at a leisurely pace. Here, one can also enjoy time in cafes, restaurants, shopping, or international banking.

Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich is one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive shopping avenues. Bahnhofstrasse (i.e. Station Street) starts at Bahnhofplatz by Zurich Hauptbahnhof, Passing Rennweg, and Paradeplatz before ending in 1.4 kilometers at Burkliplatz on Lake Zurich. Some of the many shops include: Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Giorgio Armani, Cartier, Bvlgari, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ermenegildo Zegna, Tiffany and Co., Dior, Giobus, Manor, and H&M. Paradeplatz, one of the most famous squares in Switzerland, is situated towards the end of Bahnhofstrasse closest to Lake Zurich. The two biggest Swiss banks, UBS and the Credit Suisse Group, have their headquarters there. Paradeplatz is also known for its chocolate shop and café, Confiserie Sprungli.

Here are some of my snap shots taken from Bahnhofstrasse and I hope you will be inspired to add a stop over to your next travels.