Zurich is a stunningly beautiful city that circles around the northern end of Zürichsee (Lake Zurich), from which the Limmat River flows, bisecting the city. In the distance, magnificent snow-clad peaks overlook the waters of the lake, and the shores are dotted with stately 19th century mansions.

The city is crisscrossed by lovely, low bridges. On the left bank are the Altstadt (Old Town); the Hauptbahnhof (the main train station); and Bahnhofplatz, a major urban crossroads and the beginning of the Bahnhofstrasse. The right bank constitutes the livelier older section, divided into the Oberdorf (Upper Village) and the Niederdorf (Lower Village). Zurich is a central point allowing one-day excursions almost anywhere in the country. Luzern and Bern are only 75 minutes away. The Rhein, the medieval village of Stein, and the Rhein Falls are also close.

Along the shores of Lake Zürich, concrete walkways give way to trees and lawns in the Arboretum on the west bank, making the area perfect for strolling. Zurich has a free bicycle rental program. For a small, refundable deposit and your passport, you can borrow a bike. The most central pickup points are at Platform 18 of the Hauptbahnhof, the Globus department store on the Bahnhofstrasse, and at Theaterplatz/Stadelhofen. Zurich is also considered to be one of the best shopping destinations in the world.