Vienna's overlooked museums: seven tips

Weekend getaway in Zurich: Five insider tips for city travelers Zurich offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways. From serene lake views to cultural experiences and hidden gems, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities tailored to different interests. The city’s lakeside setting provides opportunities for relaxation and recreation year-round, while its vibrant nightlife and historical sites cater to diverse tastes. Whether exploring local bars or shopping for vintage items, Zurich has something for everyone. The city's proximity to Lake Zurich allows residents and visitors alike to experience the tranquility of the water throughout the seasons. In spring, walking along the quay offers a peaceful start to the day, while summer evenings provide perfect conditions for watching sunsets over the lake. Winter brings the chance to jump directly into the lake after a sauna session at the Seebad Enge. For those who prefer to stay on the water, boat tours come in various sizes, offering a scenic way to explore the lake. Evening activities in Zurich often revolve around the tradition of the Apéro, a Swiss version of the Italian aperitivo. This practice is considered part of the luxury of visiting the city, with several spots offering exceptional drinks. The Bar "Belmondo" in the district of Wipkingen is noted for serving one of the best Negronis in town. Other recommendations include the Andorra Bar for later in the evening, the Café Bar Nordbrücke for social gatherings, and Lulu for its impressive cocktails. For fans of vintage finds, Zurich's many Brockenhäuser, second-hand stores scattered across the city, are essential visits. These shops offer everything from old records and books to clothing and furniture, all at reasonable prices. Some notable locations include the Heilsarmeebrocki on Geroldstrasse and the Zürcher Brockenhaus on Neugasse. Additionally, the Bücher Brocky on Bederstrasse specializes in books, providing another option for collectors. The Zurich Opera House, located near the Sechseläutenplatz, is not just an architectural marvel but also a hub for world-class performances. Visitors can attend ballet and opera shows, and Saturday tours allow access to the costume collection, masks, and props. Booking a tour gives insight into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the theater. Swimming in the city's rivers and lakes is a popular activity among locals and tourists. The Limmat River offers numerous spots for swimming, including the Flussbad Oberer Letten and the Werdinsel recreational area. During the summer months, floating down the river on an inflatable mattress becomes a fun pastime. Additional swimming areas include the Frauenbad Stadthausquai, Seebad Enge, and the beaches at Zürichhorn or Rentenwiese. Travelers arriving from Vienna have multiple options for reaching Zurich. Trains run five times daily during the day, and overnight services are available via the Nightjet. Once in the city, visitors can take advantage of the 1,200 drinking fountains spread throughout Zurich, which provide water of drinking quality. For more information about the city, resources such as zurich.com and myswitzerland.com are recommended.