Introduction

Located in the heart of the Zurich Canton, modern Zurich blends old-world charm and avant-garde infrastructure. Every year, Switzerland's largest city draws thousands of visitors to its scenic splendors and beatific landscape. Breathe in the crisp Alpine air and the rich cultural heritage—though that is only the beginning! Historic museums and churches, friendly Zurchers (Zurich citizens, that is), and world-class architecture make this city one of the most frequently visited tourist destinations in Europe. The city is broadly planned into 12 Kreise (districts) arranged clockwise around the city centre, making it quite simple for wandering tourists to read maps and follow directions.

Kreis 1

The Altstadt, Oberdorf and Niederdorf regions cover the historic core of the city. Stroll through medieval streets alongside the Limmat River and admire Chagall's stained-glass windows at the Grossmünster and Fraumünster Churches. Kreis 1 holds a treasure trove of Asian art at the Museum Rietberg, cultural artifacts at the Swiss National Museum, and contemporary paintings and sculptures at the Kunsthaus Zürich. The bustling neighborhood is also home to more than 40 affordable hotels and a number of cosy Italian restaurants.

Kreis 2

Located on the western shore of Lake Zurich, the second district is comprised of the Wollishofen, Enge and Leimbach quarters. The area is a tourist draw due to its lakefront location, historic castles and wild nightlife scene. As the main ferry terminal of Zurich, Enge bustles with tourist traffic at all times, while the famous Street Parade at Mythenquai draws countless party-goers to this splendid city each year. Proximity to the city centre and the availability of cheap accommodation at the many youth hostels make Kreis 2 the preferred night halt of tourists and locals alike.

Kreis 3

The Wiedikon district of Zurich is an important business hub as well as a vital cultural focus of the city. The region flaunts a number of industries, churches and historic museums. The Wiedikon High School offers strong academic opportunity to students in the fields of Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Philosophy, Religion, Art and Music. Other key attractions include the neighborhood's old railway station and the ancient Bühlkirche. Kreis 3 is also known for its wide variety of gastronomic delights frequented by the business crowd come lunchtime. The Maharaja Indian Restaurant at Weststrasse is one such local favorite that serves up exotic Indian dishes and music.

Kreis 4

Aussersihl is Zurich's cosmopolitan district. Inhabited mostly by foreign citizens, this neighborhood lies in South Zurich and is a conglomeration of the city's diverse cultures and lifestyles. Zurich's increasingly liberal attitudes are on display at events such as the Verein Gay Pride Christopher Street Day that takes place at the Helvetiaplatz annually. Hit the streets of Aussersihl if you are in search of an unconventional touring experience.

Kreis 5

Kreis 5 encompasses Zurich's northwestern part. Formerly the industrial heart of the city, this neighborhood was transformed into a massive entertainment sector in the late 1980s. Today, modern apartments have replaced old factory buildings and the area holds a number of theaters, cinema halls and stadiums. In addition to these contemporary delights, Kreis 5 also boasts several majestic structures and quaint paths that hint at the traces of its industrial history. The Department of Urban Development regularly conducts walking tours of the region.

Kreis 6

Kreis 6 is located north of Altstadt and is made up of the Oberstrass, Unterstrass and Wipkingen neighborhoods. The Zoologisches Museum on Karl Schmidt Strasse, with its unusual (and furry!!) games, video projections, and microscope tables, is the area's main attraction, and a major source of entertainment for the kids. The Galerie Walcheturm on Walchestrasse claims to be one of the oldest art spaces in Zurich and displays contemporary creations of new talented artists.

Kreis 7

The quarters of Fluntern, Hottingen, Hirslanden and Witikon are positioned in Zurich's eastern periphery and constitute the city's 7th district. Residents of Kreis 7 enjoy a high standard of living, and the neighborhood is hence promoted as the traditional upper-class district of Zurich. One popular tourist destination is the Friedhof Fluntern, a cemetery with extensive ghost stories woven around it. For those travelers on a budget, the Foyer Hottingen is one of the few inexpensive hotels in the area.

Kreis 8

Situated on the right of the Zurichsee, Riesbach and Seefeld make up some of the most peaceful and pleasant neighborhoods in this prosperous city. Though there is not as much activity to be found, it is worth a visit just to enjoy some urban serenity. One major draw of the area is the Kantonsschule at Riesbach, a powerhouse of scientific research that is an interesting visit for scholars and students of all ages.

Kreis 9

The Altstetten and Albisrieden quarters are conveniently accessible from the main Zurcher Autobahn and are hence primarily inhabited by daily commuters. With its assorted schools, playgrounds, restaurants and spas, Kreis 9 is often considered to be the most family-friendly district of Zurich.

Kreis 10

Kreis 10 encompasses the northwestern quarters of Wipkingen and Höngg. In spite of its picturesque landscape and status as an attractive tourist destination, this area does not sport any hotels, so visitors may have to seek shelter in the neighboring areas.

Kreis 11

The northernmost district of Zurich originally enveloped the Affoltern, Oerlikon, Seebach and Schwamendingen quarters. Kreis 11 was later reorganized in 1971, at which point Schwamendingen developed into an independent district. Today, prestigious events like the Zurich Open begin in this region. Every year in December, this district also hosts the city's biggest Christmas market during the Christmas Collectors Fair.

Kreis 12

Schwamendingen is considered the "district of warriors and bishops," as it was home to many significant historical figures in the early 5th century. Today, the region is well known as the home of various organizations striving towards the promotion of sports and music as an inseparable component of Zurich's vast cultural history.