7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Zurich

As a digital nomad living in Zurich, you have the unique opportunity to blend the convenience of city life with the allure of the Swiss countryside and nearby European destinations. Zurich is perfectly positioned for a variety of weekend getaways, ranging from popular tourist spots to hidden gems off the beaten path. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, dive into the rich cultural history, or simply relax in a picturesque setting, these seven destinations offer something for every type of traveler.

Lake Lucerne

Just an hour away from Zurich, Lake Lucerne is a classic Swiss getaway that combines stunning scenery with a rich historical backdrop. Surrounded by mountains, the lake is perfect for boat cruises, hiking, and visiting the charming lakeside towns like Weggis and Vitznau. Don't miss the opportunity to take the world's steepest cogwheel railway up to Mount Pilatus for breathtaking views.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Lake Lucerne is by train, with regular services from Zurich Hauptbahnhof taking around an hour.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, take a paddle steamer to explore the lake and enjoy the panoramic views from the water.

Where to Stay: The Park Hotel Vitznau offers luxurious accommodations with a spa and fine dining, while the Hotel des Balances in Lucerne provides a charming stay with views of the Reuss River.

Where to Eat: The Restaurant Olivo in Lucerne offers gourmet Mediterranean cuisine with a terrace overlooking the lake. For a more traditional meal, try the fondue at the Stadtkeller Swiss Folklore Restaurant.

Appenzell

For a taste of traditional Swiss culture, Appenzell is a delightful destination. This small town is known for its colorful houses, local cheese, and folk music. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Alpstein mountain range, which offers trails for all levels, including the ascent to the famous Ebenalp and the Wildkirchli caves.

How to Get There: Appenzell is accessible by train from Zurich, with a journey time of about two hours, including a transfer at Gossau.

Travel Tip: Visit the Appenzeller Schaukäserei to see how the local cheese is made and to sample some of the best Swiss cheese.

Where to Stay: The Romantik Hotel Säntis has a prime location in the town square with a backdrop of mountains, while the Hotel Appenzell offers cozy comfort with traditional decor.

Where to Eat: The Aescher-Wildkirchli mountain restaurant is accessible via cable car and offers a unique dining experience with stunning views.

Stein am Rhein

Stein am Rhein is a picturesque town where the Rhine River meets Lake Constance. Known for its well-preserved medieval buildings with elaborate frescoes, the town is like stepping back in time. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the St. George's Abbey, and take a leisurely boat ride on the Rhine.

How to Get There: The journey by train from Zurich to Stein am Rhein takes about an hour and a half.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to walk along the river and enjoy the view of the town from the bridge.

Where to Stay: Hotel Rheinfels is situated right on the riverfront, offering beautiful views and a historic atmosphere.

Where to Eat: The Restaurant zum Schiff serves traditional Swiss dishes and is known for its riverside terrace.

Creux du Van

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to the natural rock arena of Creux du Van. This massive amphitheater-like formation offers stunning views and is a sanctuary for ibexes and other wildlife. Hiking to the top will reward you with a panorama of the Jura mountains and Lake Neuchâtel.

How to Get There: The trip involves a train ride to Neuchâtel, followed by a bus and a hike to reach the site, taking around 3 hours in total from Zurich.

Travel Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for a truly magical experience as the light plays over the landscape.

Where to Stay: The eco-friendly Hotel Palafitte offers pavilions built on stilts over Lake Neuchâtel, providing a unique and luxurious stay.

Where to Eat: The Ferme du Soliat is located near the summit and serves hearty local cuisine with a view.

Rapperswil-Jona

Rapperswil-Jona, known as the town of roses, is a short trip from Zurich and offers a romantic setting with its rose gardens, medieval castle, and lakeside promenades. The town is also a gateway to the hiking and cycling trails around Lake Zurich and the nearby vineyards.

How to Get There: It's a quick and scenic train ride from Zurich to Rapperswil, taking about 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the Rapperswil Castle for its museum and stunning views over the lake and the Alps.

Where to Stay: The Sorell Hotel Speer is centrally located and offers modern comfort with a touch of history.

Where to Eat: The Restaurant Quai 61 by the marina offers contemporary dishes with a lakeside view.

Valle Verzasca

The Valle Verzasca in Ticino is a stunning valley known for its clear turquoise waters and rustic charm. The region is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, bungee jumping from the famous Contra Dam (as seen in the James Bond film GoldenEye), and swimming in the Verzasca River.

How to Get There: The journey from Zurich to Valle Verzasca involves a train to Locarno and then a bus to the valley, taking around 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Be sure to walk along the Ponte dei Salti, a double-arched stone bridge that is a symbol of the valley.

Where to Stay: For a rustic experience, stay at the Albergo Losone, which offers a charming atmosphere and a swimming pool.

Where to Eat: Grotto dei due Ponti is a traditional grotto restaurant where you can enjoy local Ticinese specialties.

Lenzerheide

Lenzerheide is a mountain paradise that offers year-round activities. In the winter, it's a ski resort, and in the summer, it transforms into a haven for mountain bikers and hikers. The Heidsee lake provides opportunities for water sports and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Lenzerheide is by train to Chur, followed by a bus to the resort, with the total travel time being around 2.5 hours from Zurich.

Travel Tip: In the summer, don't miss the chance to try the toboggan run or the high ropes course for an adrenaline rush.

Where to Stay: The Maiensässhotel Guarda Val is a unique hotel that combines luxury with traditional alpine huts, offering a spa and gourmet dining.

Where to Eat: The Restaurant Crest'ota is renowned for its regional dishes and offers a sun terrace with mountain views.

Each of these destinations provides a unique experience that can enrich your life as a digital nomad in Zurich. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these weekend getaways are sure to create lasting memories.