Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is located in the heart of the country. This beautiful city with its snow-covered mountains, crystal blue lakes and lush green meadows is an important financial, industrial and commercial center. Many are attracted to the beautiful terrain as well as to the numerous restaurants, museums, and shopping opportunities. Zurich is the center of communications in Switzerland.

 

 

History

As early as 58BC, the Romans built their first settlement in Zurich. A free imperial was formed when the Holy Roman Empire fell. In 1351, Zurich became a part of the Swiss Confederation. This movement was started by Forest Cantons. The city began to prosper and the 16th century found Zurich as the center of the Reformation in German-speaking parts of the country. It also became a refuge for Protestant families seeking relief from Catholic cantons. The city continued to flourish throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. The ancient fortifications were removed and, today, Zurich is home to the textile and banking industries as well as a great center for mechanical engineering.

 

Art & Museums

Zurich is well-known for its Arts scene. Millions flock to the city yearly to attend concerts and visit its museums. The Zurich Opera House is widely known in Switzerland. The late-baroque styled building has become one of the most popular cultural institutions in Europe. The Tonhalle Gesellschaft concert hall is the biggest and most famous concert hall in Zurich, with 22,000 combined seats between the large and small halls. Zurich also houses more than 100 art galleries and museums.

 

Nightlife

The Kongresshaus Nightclub sets a high-class atmosphere for its conservative crowd. The Adagio, with its baroque-styled environment, offers ballroom dancing. A variety of pubs and bars cater to those looking for a bit more contemporary entertainment and a number of street parades and festivals are planned throughout the year.

 

How to get there

There are flights to Zurich airport by most major airlines. Transportation by car, train and shuttle bus can be obtained from the airport to major hotels. Zurich can also be reached by train, car, bus as well as boat.