Freitag bags are a cult classic and world-famous. The idea behind the colourful, fashionable bags dates back to 1993 and has its origins in Zurich’s Hardbrücke area. Large numbers of trucks still filled the streets of Zurich’s western district back at that time. This everyday spectacle inspired the Freitag brothers to recycle old truck tarpaulins – creating distinctive one-of-a-kind bags. Since 2006, the Freitag flagship store has also been enthroned in the trendy District 5 – and this has been created from discarded materials too, as you would expect. A lasting experience that is doubly rewarding.

The Heimatwerk beneath the Zytglogge clock tower is home to the largest selection of handmade gifts and souvenirs from Switzerland.
In design studios and small businesses, the often one-of-a-kind pieces are lovingly crafted by Swiss artisans. Nowhere else can you find such a diverse and innovative selection of artistic handicrafts of the highest quality, functionality and excellent design.

This young Geneva-based company understands how to combine Swiss tradition and precision with the current zeitgeist. And the result? Aesthetic and stylish watches with maximum responsibility and full transparency. They rightly call their watch manufacturing process a circular ecosystem: 100% recycled steel from the Jura, straps made of 100% biowaste, a modular design for easy repair, and manufactured in Geneva. These eco-innovative watches herald a new era. An era in which the circular economy will be the new norm.  

The name says it all: This store is all about local products. With charm and style, this shopping gem offers products ranging from wines, honey and agricultural products right through to soaps and cosmetics – with everything coming from Lausanne and its surroundings. So there are plenty of authentic souvenirs on offer. And the best thing? No two visits are the same. Since the store, which only opened in 2021, has set itself the goal of constantly presenting new regional producers. So variety is guaranteed.

Innovation, Swiss tradition and responsibility – three terms that guide this young company from Wil, not far from St. Gallen. From this vision, rustic artisanal products have emerged that radiate charm. Alpästärn is now known throughout Switzerland, first and foremost for its traditional Swiss papercut lanterns. 

Shirts made in Ticino: Yari, the creative and hip young entrepreneur from Lugano, founded the Old Captain Co. label in 2016. His specialty? Shirts. Because, according to Yari, these have a cross-generational character – and be given appropriate attention. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Sustainable because the design, print and manufacturing take place in Lugano and its nearby surroundings. Only as much is produced as is ordered. For less waste, and also more colour and joy in day-to-day life.

Flea markets are in vogue. And is it any wonder, because why put precious resources into new products when the desired item already exists? In Basel, places that regularly transform into colourful, bustling scenes are an almost permanent part of the cityscape. 

The Petersplatz flea market is one of the most magnificent in the city on the Rhine, offering nifty unique items and everyday things. And even just a wander around would be well worth your time: strolling through the individual stalls and watching the hustle and bustle of the market is an experience in itself.

Skilful craftsmanship, top quality and sustainability – hallmarks of a traditional company that has been delighting its customers as a chocolatier and pâtisserie for over 70 years. All chocolate components are from controlled organic farming, and Swiss ingredients are used wherever possible. Indulgence coupled with responsibility – what more could you want?

In the middle of the city and yet close to nature – that’s the Hinter Musegg farm. As the name suggests, the adventure farm is situated directly behind the medieval city towers. Its principles are simple and at the same time enormously powerful: biological management, ecological added value for flora and fauna, and an educational approach. Open barn doors, an eatery and an educational trail invite you to stay a while and explore. And the farm’s own farm shop has fine products on offer as souvenirs and gifts. 

An indulgent slice of Swiss history: Solothurn tart was invented more than 100 years ago, and since 1928 the original recipe has even been protected! The award-winning tart consists of an airy sponge and a delicate, melt-in-the-mouth hazelnut meringue with a light cream filling. A trip to a Solothurn cake shop is a must for anyone visiting the picturesque Baroque city.

Tourist information and the sale of regional specialties all in one place! At Les Marchands Merciers, tourists can get information about the old town with its incomparable medieval charm while stocking up on food produced in the surrounding area at the same time: Fribourg cheese, chocolate and wine are just a few of the authentic souvenirs from the region.