Locals are fanatics about the lake. They boast the water is clean enough to drink; boating is a favorite pastime, whether it’s on a sailboat, paddleboat, yacht or public boat from the ZSG network (included in the cost of a daily tram card); and come summer, swimming in it, for many, is a daily activity in one of the city’s excellent badis. The tree-lined Utoquai and Arboretum at Enge offer excellent views, but the iconic spot for lake-gazing is at the Burkliterrasse, with its statue of Zeus and Ganymede and straight-shot view of the Alps. Photo © Elisabeth Real/Zürich Tourismus.
Quai 61 in Zuerich, aufgenommen am 24. September 2013. (Zuerich Tourismus/Keystone/Elisabeth Real)
More Recommendations
Lake Zurich Love
Locals are fanatic about the lake. They boast the water is clean enough to drink; boating is a favorite pastime, whether it’s on a sailboat, paddleboat, yacht or public boat from the ZSG network (included in the cost of a daily tram card); and come summer, swimming in it, for many, is a daily activity in one of the city’s excellent badis. The tree-lined Utoquai and Arboretum at Enge offer excellent views, but the iconic spot for lake-gazing is at the Burkliterrasse, with its statue of Zeus and Ganymede and straight-shot view of the Alps. Photo © Elisabeth Real/Zürich Tourismus.
Take a Mini Cruise Along Lake Zurich
At 8.60 Swiss francs or about $9, the ZVV day pass might seem steep, but it’s a relative bargain considering it allows for travel on any of the city’s various modes of transport, be it train, bus, tram, funicular, cable car or boat during any given 24-hour period. That means you can take a mini cruise—complete with waiter service!—all along Lake Zurich. The most central boat harbor is at Burkliplatz.
