OK, I feel like I say this every time I come home from a European adventure, but… Zurich is my favorite! Lol. It’s just so effortlessly chic, yet completely welcoming. I found the Swiss to be warm and friendly, and the city's style has a touch of Scandinavian charm that I was, of course, obsessed with. The trains are a planner’s dream, the mountains are breathtaking, and the fondue… don’t even get me started.

Solo travel always comes with a bit of unpredictability, and this trip was no exception. I flew direct from Chicago to Zurich and spent my first two nights at an Airbnb hosted by the most incredible world-traveling woman. Seriously, she was the best host, and I felt right at home. Her stories inspired me (she traveled through South America, by herself, in the 90s… so, yeah, no cell phones.

And yes, I cried… again. Lol. I think that’s just how my first day in Europe will always be. Give me a break, I’m exhausted, OK?

While in Switzerland, I took the train to Lucerne, expecting a lively lakeside escape, but it was dead. Sundays in Lucerne are practically hibernation mode, so I’ll definitely need to go back, especially for their annual light festival, which looks incredible. From there, I bravely (lol) took the train all by myself to Davos where I après-skied my heart out while staying at the gorgeous Waldhotel for a few days before heading back to Zurich to wrap up my trip at the stunning Marktgasse Hotel.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when traveling to switzerland:

1. Zurich can keep you busy, but Switzerland is worth exploring

If you have time, hop on a train and explore beyond the city. The rail system is incredibly clean, efficient, and ON TIME, with helpful staff ready to assist.

2. You don’t have to ski to après-ski

Even if you’re not hitting the slopes, you can still enjoy the cozy mountain bars, hot mulled wine, and stunning alpine views.

3. Switzerland has four official languages German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

In Zurich, Swiss German (Schweizerdeutsch) is spoken, but most people also speak English very well. An interesting fact is that the Swiss learn "High German" in school, which is what is taught in Germany, but they speak Swiss German in daily life. This means that Germans and Swiss Germans don’t always understand each other, like Scottish and American English, where it is the same language but with a totally different dialect.

4. The food is amazing

From rich cheese fondue and raclette to the best Swiss chocolate you’ll ever taste, the country knows how to do comfort food. I didn’t really care if I ate fondue or not… until I ate the fondue. OMG. It’s warm, melty perfection, and now I get the hype. Zurich also has a growing culinary scene with top-tier restaurants and cafés. While there, I dined at IGNIV Zurich and had one of the best meals of my life. Also, the BEST fondue was in Davos - Restaurant Fleufi. Incredible.

5. Switzerland is expensive

I had heard this before, and people are NOT exaggerating. Prices are high across the board, from dining out to hotels to even basic groceries. If you don’t live in a big U.S. city like Chicago, LA, or NYC, the cost of things here might genuinely shock you. Be prepared and budget accordingly.

6. Public transport is next-level

Zurich’s trams, buses, and trains are incredibly efficient, clean, and easy to use. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I was worried about this. My anxiety was through the roof thinking I’d mess up the train system. But honestly? It was easy breezy. I got the Swiss Travel Pass, and it was absolutely worth it if you plan to explore beyond Zurich. It gives you unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, plus discounts on museums and mountain excursions.

7. Shops close early and Sundays are quiet

Many stores close by 6 or 7 PM, and Sundays feel like a ghost town outside of tourist areas. Plan ahead if you need essentials.

8. Zurich is a banking capital but it’s also cool and artsy

I was worried it would feel drab but it is anything but. Beyond its financial district, Zurich has an incredible art scene, lakeside charm, and trendy neighborhoods like Kreis 4 and Kreis 5.

9. Tipping culture is different

Service charges are included in the bill, so tipping is not expected but always appreciated for great service. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% is plenty.

10. Be prepared for tiny wine pours

Swiss wine is fantastic, but don’t be shocked when your glass arrives with a modest pour. They keep it classy with smaller servings, so savor every sip. Or, maybe just order two glasses at once lol.

If you’re considering Zurich for a solo trip, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re wandering the charming old town, sipping coffee by the lake, or effortlessly hopping on a train to the mountains, Zurich is the perfect mix of elegance, efficiency, and warmth. It’s a city that makes you feel at home while giving you that exciting sense of adventure.

Ready to start planning? Head HERE!

Zürich: What to Know Before You Go