A long weekend in Zurich in December
The goal of any great trip is the memories that you bring back with you. And you can get some of these great memories in Zurich, Switzerland, especially during the month of December. The weather averages about thirty five degrees Fahrenheit (about two degrees Celsius) during the day with just a light covering of snow. The sun is usually out but be prepared by packing a small umbrella.
The airport in Zurich is located only six miles from the city. One can easily grab the train which is located on the bottom level of the airport. Most Swiss people speak English and are eager to help you find the correct train. You can purchase a Zurich card which allows you on any train or bus for seventy-two hours. You arrive at the main train station in Zurich. Again there are many people available to ask directions to your hotel.
Spend your first day exploring the city. Take a walk down Bahnhofstrasse and enjoy a coffee in one of the many cafes. If you are traveling with children, stop at the Franz Weber toy store located on Bahnhofstrasse.
The toy store decorates especially for the holidays and is worth the visit.
As you walk down the street, you will see many stalls that are set up. This is for their Christmas market. The main market is located in the train station. There is usually a fifty foot (fifteen metres) Christmas tree here that is decorated with over five thousand Swarovski crystals along with one hundred forty stalls selling traditional food, drinks and merchandise.
Located behind the train station is the Schweizerisches Landesmuseum. This is the Swiss National museum. It looks like a Gothic Castle and has a wonderful collection of religious art and stained glass windows. For the children, there is a collection of dollhouses and medieval weapons.
On your second day in Zurich, there are a number of tours you can take. The tourist bureau is located in the train station and all buses leave from Sihlquai Bus Terminal which is located behind the train station.
One of the most popular tours is the Mount Titlis Tour. This is a full day tour that takes you up to Mount Titlis in the Alps. The bus takes you to the bottom of the mountain where you board a cable car that takes you up the Mountain. The views are spectacular so remember to bring your camera. Once up there, there is time to explore the ice crevasses as well as participate in some winter sports.
Try to go to Lucerne if you have the time. The view of the mountains is breathtaking. Walk over Kapell Bridge and look up to see the beautiful paintings. Look at the Lion monument and spend the day enjoying this unique medieval city.
The Children's zoo is a great place to spend the day. On the weekends there are many games and crafts. Enjoy lunch in the Tropical rainforest there. There is a wonderful playground and petting zoo. Tickets can be purchased at either the zoo or the main bus terminal.
No trip to Zurich would be complete without a stop to one of the many candy stores. Swiss chocolate is delicious and the stores are always ready to offer samples. There are many places to buy cuckoo clocks and Swiss watches. Switzerland is still using Swiss francs.
Bring home a souvenir that will remind you of this wonderful city.
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Date Created: 11-Jan-2009
Last Updated: 11-Jan-2009
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