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Intro

The bent, almost banana-shaped Lake Zurich is framed on the southern side by the Albis and Zimmerberg hills and on the north by the Pfannenstiel chain of hills. The lake is bordered by the cantons of Zurich, St.Gallen and Schwyz. At the western end lies Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city.

Lake Zurich at a glance

Whereas, in the past, the lake was above all a route for traffic and transport, today it is a popular place for excursions, and homes along its shores are much sought after. Gently rocking waves, peace and quiet, relaxation and fine food: the best way to discover the Lake Zurich area is by taking a boat trip. Most of the places around the shore are served by a regular boat service all year round. The undisputed favourites with the public are the two historic paddle-steamers. From the “Gipfeli-Schiff” (early mornings) to the “Sonnenuntergangs-Schiff” (sunset sailings), there are all kinds of special excursions available. Musical trips and special tours on public holidays are all part of the programme offered by the Lake Zurich shipping company.

At the eastern end of the lake is the “rose town” of Rapperswil. In the public gardens here you’ll find over 15,000 rose bushes blooming, of more than 600 different varieties. The lakeside promenade with its Mediterranean charms, the picturesque Old Town and the medieval castle make this harbour town a popular place for excursions. For young visitors, Knie’s Children’s Zoo is high up on their wish-list.

Popular places to visit around Lake Zurich include the numerous swimming areas, the Alpamare in Pfäffikon – the largest covered water park in Europe – the sunny islands of Ufenau and Lützelau near Rapperswil, the wooden footbridge across the lake between Rapperswil and Hurden, the Baroque church in Lachen, the famous Lindt & Sprüngli chocolate factory in Kilchberg and, of course, the dynamic metropolis of Zurich, with all its many sights, the famous shopping mile of the Bahnhofsstrasse and its vast range of cultural amenities.

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Lake Zurich
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  • Baur au Lac 5 Stars

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    Zurich, Zurich Region

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  • Sorell Hotel Zürichberg 4 Stars

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  • Hotel Alex Lake Zürich 5 Stars

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    Thalwil, Zurich Region

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  • The Dolder Grand 5 Stars

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    Zurich, Zurich Region

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  • Hotel Adler Zürich 3 Stars

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    Zurich, Zurich Region

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  • Jugendherberge Richterswil

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Richterswil, Zurich Region

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  • Marktgasse Hotel 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Zurich, Zurich Region

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  • Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle Zurich 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Zurich, Zurich Region

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  • The Home Hotel Zürich 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Zurich, Zurich Region

    Learn more about: Zurich, Zurich Region The Home Hotel Zürich
  • Hotel Seidenhof - Member of Sorell Hotels 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Zurich, Zurich Region

    Learn more about: Zurich, Zurich Region Hotel Seidenhof - Member of Sorell Hotels
  • Rapperswil-Jona

    Included: Overnight stay in the selected category incl. breakfast Daily luggage transfers Costs for...
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  • Zurich Zurich Luggage Storage

    Effortlessly Explore Zurich with Our Convenient Luggage Service! Once you place the booking, simply... from CHF 7
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  • Zurich FIFA Museum: Entry Ticket

    Football. Fútbol. Fußball. Voetbal. Calcio. Jalkopallo. Kora. Soccer. The names vary, but the game’s... from CHF 24
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  • Zurich "Beat the groom" in Zurich: action-packed stag party

    Take the wedding party on an action-packed city rally through Zurich to see the groom off into... from CHF 299
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    valid: 10.07.2025 - 18.06.2026

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  • Zurich Zurich Premium Fitness Pass for Travelers

    Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, maintaining a fitness regime can be hard—and,... from CHF 32
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  • Zurich Wakesurfing in Zurich in a private boat

    Experience the ultimate wakesurfing adventure on Lake Zurich. Together with friends, you'll... from CHF 300
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    valid: 03.07.2025 - 31.10.2025

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  • Zurich Smartphone photography course for beginners in Zurich

    In this professional photography course, you will learn how to use your smartphone to create... from CHF 145
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    valid: 06.07.2025 - 12.10.2025

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  • Zurich Reformation in Zurich Tour

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    valid: 08.11.2025

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Travel information: Lake Zurich