9 best viewpoints in Zurich

Where can you find the best view over the rooftops of Zurich’s Old Town? And from which vantage point can you see as far as the Alps on clear days? In this article, I’ll introduce you to the most stunning viewpoints in and around Zurich. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next Sunday stroll or the perfect spot for a picnic with a breathtaking view, you’re guaranteed to find the ideal location for your next outing here.

Uetliberg: Zurich’s local mountain with breathtaking panoramic views

The Uetliberg, Zurich’s local mountain at 871 meters, is a paradise for anyone wanting a fantastic panoramic view of the city, Lake Zurich, and the Alps. Whether you’re looking to experience a sunrise over Zurich or end your day with dinner at the mountain-top restaurant, the Uetliberg is always worth a visit. Unfortunately, access to the tower currently costs CHF 2, but the view is excellent even without climbing the tower. And the best part: with a bit of luck, you might break through the persistent high fog during your visit.

Height:	73 m
Cost:	CHF 2
Opening hours:	Mon to Sun: 7 AM–12 AM
Access:	Uetliberg-Bahn SZU (S10) to Uetliberg

Grossmünster: A historic landmark with views of Zurich

The Grossmünster, one of Zurich’s most impressive landmarks, is a must-see for any visitor. Particularly striking are its artistic stained-glass windows. Climbing the Karlsturm rewards you with a stunning view of Zurich’s city center and the Limmat River.

Height:	50 m
Cost:	CHF 5 for adults
Opening hours:	Summer (1.3.-31.10.): Mon-Sat 10 AM–5:30 PM, Sun 12:30 PM–5:30 PM Winter (1.11.-29.2.): Mon-Sat 10 AM–4:30 PM, Sun 12:30 PM–4:30 PM

Lindenhof: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the Old Town

Across from the Grossmünster lies the idyllic Lindenhof—a green oasis in the heart of Zurich’s Old Town. From here, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Niederdorf, the University, and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. It’s the perfect spot to relax and escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a moment.

Height:	0 m
Cost:	Free
Opening hours:	Always accessible

Waid: The viewpoint with the best panoramic views over Zurich

Located on Käferberg above the Höngg district, Waid is, in my opinion, the most beautiful viewpoint in Zurich. You can either take a leisurely walk through Wipkingen and Höngg or take bus line 69 to the Waidbadstrasse stop. Waid is especially magical at sunrise or sunset when the city is bathed in golden light. The nearby forest offers numerous idyllic spots for picnicking or grilling.

Height:	0 m
Cost:	Free
Opening hours:	Always accessible

Loorenkopf Tower: Climb the tower for a 360-degree view

A visit to the Loorenkopf Tower on the Adlisberg at the edge of Zurich can be perfectly combined with a relaxing hike through the picturesque deciduous forests. The 33-meter-high wooden tower, a striking structure from the 1950s, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Glattal and the Zurich Oberland.

Height of viewing platform:	33 m
Cost:	Free
Opening hours:	Always accessible

Pfannenstiel Tower: A scenic excursion with distant views

Another great tip for escaping the high fog is the Pfannenstiel Tower. This over 100-year-old structure originally stood on the Bachtel, but it was dismantled in 1985 and rebuilt a few years later on the Pfannenstiel. From the tower, you are guaranteed to enjoy magnificent views over Lake Zurich. The ascent is convenient: from the Meilen, Vorderer Pfannenstiel bus stop, the tower is about a 20-minute walk.

Height of viewing platform:	33 m
Cost:	Free
Opening hours:	Always accessible

Albishorn / Albis Hochwacht Tower: Adventure and views in one

For adventurers, a visit to the Albis Hochwacht Tower in the Zurich Sihlwald Nature Experience Park is worthwhile, ideally combined with a hike along the exciting Wilderness Trail. After the climb, you are rewarded with a stunning panoramic view: the Glarus Alps, Säntis, Rigi, and Pilatus seem within arm’s reach.

Height of viewing platform:	30 m
Cost:	Free
Opening hours:	Always accessible

Altberg: A natural retreat with fantastic views near Zurich

The Altberg Tower is one of the newer ones in the Zurich canton and remains a hidden gem. The ridge separating the Limmat Valley from the Furttal is crisscrossed by a network of picturesque hiking trails. The tower is easily accessible from both Oetwil an der Limmat and Dänikon. Nearby, a cozy forest tavern invites you to take a break—perfect for a pause after the climb.

Height of viewing platform:	30 m
Cost:	Free
Opening hours:	Always accessible

Hardwaldturm: This viewpoint offers a view over the forest

The newest attraction can be found in the Hardwald forest between the municipalities of Bassersdorf, Dietlikon, Kloten, Opfikon, and Wallisellen. Opened in 2022, the Hardwaldturm offers not only a stunning view over Zurich’s metropolitan area but also a unique architectural experience. On your way up, you can admire the intricate wooden structure up close—210 steps lead to the highest viewing platform. A visit to Hardwaldturm is also ideal for families with children.

Height of viewing platform:	39 m
Cost:	Free
Opening hours:	Always accessible

Which viewpoints in Zurich do you visit regularly?