Best of Zurich (for Free)

Zürich enjoys one of the world's highest standards of living. Not surprisingly, it's a great (and easy) place to part with your money. But, even this most stylish of Swiss cities has a few exceptional experiences that will cost you nothing but time. So, here are a few to consider after you realize how much you spent enjoying great restaurants, museums and gorging on Sprüngli chocolates ....

1. Morning on Lake Zurich

Enjoy a quiet morning with breakfast along Lake Zürich. Calm water, a nice breeze, graceful swans and a gorgeous view of the Alps.... a perfect way to start any day!

2. Strolling through Niederdorf

This is Zürich's old town, filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, particularly along busy Niederdorfstrasse.  Many of the side streets dart off into more serene surroundings. Check out Vladimir Lenin's former apartment at Spiegelgasse 17, then get a drink from one of the city's many fountains in this shady courtyard. 

3. Panoramic view from the Lindenhof

Once the site of a Roman fort, the Lindenhof is on the opposite side of the river Limmat and offers a spectacular view of old town. In 1798, citizens swore an oath to the Helvetic constitution on this spot. Take on a local at the oversized chess set. 

4. Stained Glass at the Fraumünster Abbey

Dating back to 853, the abbey was very influential, gaining the right to mint coins, collect tolls and hold markets. Check out the more contemporary addition; 5 stained glass windows by Marc Chagall added in 1970. 

5. 360 Degrees of Zürich atop the Uetliberg

Ok, this one you may want to buy a train ticket for, but technically you can hike all the way up this small mountain for an outstanding view of the city and Alps. If you still have energy - and don't suffer from vertigo - climb the observation tower for 360 unobstructed degrees of Zürich.