Walking tours in Zurich deliver the best bang for your buck, with local guides taking you straight to the historic heart of Switzerland’s financial capital. The most worthwhile options include private Old Town walking tours (perfect for history buffs), spooky nighttime ghost tours (great for families), and scenic train excursions to nearby alpine viewpoints. I’m especially fond of the small-group chocolate tours – they combine cultural insights with delicious Swiss treats while keeping the experience intimate. The interactive city scavenger hunts also offer a fun twist on traditional sightseeing, particularly good for teens and active travelers. Below are my favorite guided experiences in Zurich, tested and proven to give you the most authentic Swiss experience.
Good To Know
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Offering private and customized walking tours in Zurich and St. Gallen, allowing travelers to explore the cities at their own pace and interests.
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Providing group and family-friendly tours, including a 90-minute lake cruise and funicular ride in Zurich, catering to various fitness levels and age groups.
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Showcasing scenic train and nature tours, such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, highlighting the stunning alpine landscapes of Switzerland.
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Providing unique audio and self-guided tours, including a scavenger hunt in Zurich and an exploration of the “dark side” of the city.
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Addressing customer service concerns, such as variable hotel quality and limited wheelchair accessibility, while also noting the potential for overcrowding and long wait times in certain tours.
St. Gallen Private Historical Walking Tour With a Local Guide – Zurich
Exploring the historic streets of St. Gallen on a private tour led by a local expert is an exclusive opportunity.
The walking tour covers Zurich’s neighbor city, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage. Travelers can expect a tailored itinerary based on their interests and pace, with stops that may vary depending on weather conditions.
While entry tickets aren’t included, the tour provides access to the city’s key landmarks and museums.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
With a 5-star rating from 2 reviews, this immersive experience is recommended for most travelers, except those with impaired mobility.
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Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Dark Side of Zurich
For travelers seeking a deeper exploration of Zurich’s history beyond the city’s picturesque landmarks, the Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Dark Side of Zurich offers an immersive experience.
Operated by myFive, this 12-reviewed tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s darker past, sharing stories related to witch-hunts and executions.
Featuring a qualitative audio guide, clear route explanations, and an optional Fraumunster inside visit, the tour allows visitors to explore at their own pace using a mobile device.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers.
With a 92% traveler recommendation, this audio tour provides a unique perspective on Zurich’s history.
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St. Gallen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour
The St. Gallen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour is a private tour that takes place in St. Gallen, Switzerland.
Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars based on 7 reviews, the tour includes the World City Trail app for navigation.
Available from October 12, 2022, to September 1, 2025, the tour runs 24/7.
The meeting point is Bahnhofplatz, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland, and the tour returns to the same location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with the exception of those with back problems.
Confirmation is received at booking, and instructions are provided to download the mobile app and select the starting location.
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Private Custom Tour in Zurich With Local Guide
A popular private custom tour option in Zurich, Switzerland allows travelers to explore the city with a local guide at their own pace.
The tour, which starts from $80.82 per person, includes assistance with ticket booking, local transportation, and optional food/drink breaks.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some praising the guides’ historical knowledge and personalization, others have criticized the communication skills and historical depth.
The host has expressed regret for negative experiences and emphasized their commitment to guest satisfaction, reaching out to dissatisfied customers for resolution and improvement.
The tour is customizable based on traveler preferences and can accommodate strollers, wheelchairs, and service animals.
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4-Day Glacier and Bernina Express Self-Guided Tour From Zurich
Set out on a captivating self-guided journey from Zurich, exploring the stunning alpine landscapes and iconic train routes of Switzerland.
This 3-night tour takes you to the charming villages of Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Lugano, with journeys on the renowned Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
Enjoy breathtaking vistas, historical viaducts, and serene lakes along the way. Your package includes accommodation with daily breakfasts, one train ticket per itinerary, and a Swiss Coupon Pass for discounts.
While lunch on the Glacier Express isn’t included, the flexibility to return to any Swiss Airport, train station, or border makes this an ideal self-guided adventure.
With an average 4.5-star rating, this tour offers a well-planned itinerary and stunning scenery praised by past travelers.
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Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) Private Guided Half-Day Tour – Zurich
Nestled along the banks of the Rhine River, the Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) private guided half-day tour from Zurich promises a captivating exploration of one of Europe’s most impressive natural wonders.
Departing from Zurich, the scenic route takes travelers through Northern Switzerland, culminating at the majestic Rhine Falls. Guests can marvel at the thundering cascades from panoramic trails and a glass elevator at Castle Laufen.
The tour includes transportation in a luxury Mercedes-Benz, entrance tickets, and the services of a professional driver-guide. With 4.5-star reviews and accessibility features, this private tour offers a personalized experience to discover the region’s natural beauty and history.
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Zurich Small-Group Guided Walking Tour Including Lake Cruise
Travelers can enjoy a comprehensive Zurich experience with the Small-Group Guided Walking Tour Including Lake Cruise. Over 2 hours, the tour takes guests on a walking exploration of the city, culminating in a 90-minute lake cruise.
Led by a local licensed guide, the tour includes a funicular ride and lunch, allowing travelers to soak in Zurich’s scenic beauty. The maximum group size of 15 ensures a personalized experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, who provide engaging historical context, and the stunning vistas of Lake Zurich and its surroundings, making this tour a well-rounded introduction to the city.
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8-Day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Self-Guided From Zurich
The 8-Day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Self-Guided from Zurich offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s scenic landscapes and cultural attractions.
This 4.0-rated tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers with a self-guided itinerary that includes 7 overnight stays and train tickets for the GoldenPass Line, Gotthard Panorama, and Glacier & Bernina Express.
Highlights include an excursion to Jungfraujoch and breakfast daily.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including children accompanied by an adult.
Feedback praises the organized schedule, lodging, and staff assistance, though some wish for more time in visited cities.
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Swiss Alps Panorama Tour With Private Guide From Zurich
Explored by private tour, the Swiss Alps Panorama Tour from Zurich offers travelers a comprehensive look at the breathtaking Alpine region.
Operated by Swiss Xplorer, the full-day excursion takes guests to picturesque villages like Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen Valley, with scenic drives and optional train rides.
Priscilla, the knowledgeable guide, provides cultural and historical context through an audio tour, while also capturing memorable photos and sharing local anecdotes.
Consistently earning high ratings, the tour is praised for its personalized experiences, catering to diverse interests and abilities.
With private transportation, parking, and lunch included, the Swiss Alps Panorama Tour offers exceptional value and flexibility, making it a must-do experience for visitors to Zurich.
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3-Day Glacier Express Self-Guided Tour From Zurich
For those seeking a self-guided journey through Switzerland’s stunning alpine landscapes, the 3-Day Glacier Express Self-Guided Tour from Zurich offers an immersive and flexible travel experience.
This tour includes a train ticket, overnight stays with breakfast in Zermatt and St. Moritz, and a seat reservation on the renowned Glacier Express.
Reviewers praise the breathtaking scenery and comfortable travel, though note some issues with customer service and hotel quality in St. Moritz.
The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, and travelers should be prepared for tight train connections, especially with late arrivals.
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Glacier Paradise Mount Titlis Guided Tour From Zurich Including Lucerne
Glacier Paradise Mount Titlis Guided Tour from Zurich offers travelers a captivating journey to the highest viewpoint in Central Switzerland.
The 9-hour tour includes a cable car ride up the snow-capped peaks, with a revolving ROTAIR Gondola providing 360-degree views. Along the way, guests explore the scenic countryside and visit the picturesque town of Lucerne.
Despite occasional long wait times and overcrowding, most travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s ability to adapt to weather conditions.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, dress warmly, and consider off-peak visits for a more enjoyable experience.
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Zurich Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
The Zurich Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour offers travelers an engaging and interactive way to explore the city’s landmarks at their own pace.
This self-guided walking tour, accessed through the Explorial App, takes participants on a journey through Zurich’s historic streets, with a variety of challenges and questions to promote competition and encourage photo-taking.
The tour, which lasts 1-2 hours, starts and ends at the Zurich Town Hall, and is available daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
With an average rating of 5.0 from 8 reviews, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant individuals.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Rapperswil Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
The Rapperswil Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour offers travelers an engaging and interactive way to explore the charming town of Rapperswil, located just a short distance from Zurich.
Available from April 2022 to June 2025, this private tour allows visitors to discover the town’s key landmarks at their own pace using the Explorial app. Priced from $16.30 per person, the tour can be booked with a Lowest Price Guarantee and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option.
Participants can enjoy free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start. While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with the exception of those with back problems or pregnant individuals.
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My Scenic Switzerland I 6 Day Guided Tour With Accommodation
Offered by My Scenic Switzerland, this 6-Day Guided Tour with Accommodation provides travelers a comprehensive exploration of Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern.
The tour includes 4-star hotel stays, airport transfers, air-conditioned transportation, and professional guide services. Highlights include a 2-hour walking tour of Zurich and an optional excursion to Jungfraujoch in Interlaken.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, the experience caters to a small group. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Travelers should note the non-refundable policy and plan accordingly. This 6-day guided tour offers an immersive Swiss experience for those seeking a seamless and well-curated itinerary.
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Rheinfall (Private Guided Tour From Zurich)
Exploring the stunning Rhine Falls from Zurich, this private guided tour takes travelers on a captivating journey to witness Europe’s largest plain waterfall.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, bottled water, and lunch, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience. Priced at €394.23 per person, the tour offers flexibility with free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.
Guests are typically met at their hotel, and the team will hold name signs for easy recognition. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and infant seats are available for families.
Visitors can book now and pay later to secure their spots while maintaining flexibility.
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Stein Am Rhein Private Guided Walking Tour With a Professional Guide
Delving into the historic town of Stein am Rhein, this private guided walking tour with a professional guide invites travelers to uncover the charming medieval architecture and captivating stories that define this Swiss gem.
Operated by Global Guide Services, the tour offers a customizable experience, allowing guests to tailor the itinerary to their preferences.
With a maximum of 15 participants, the private tour ensures an intimate and personalized exploration.
Conveniently meeting at the Stein am Rhein Tourism office, the tour includes gratuities and entrance fees, promising a seamless and enriching experience.
Given the tour’s popularity, early booking is recommended to secure availability.
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Jungfraujoch Private Tour With a Guide From Zurich by Helicopter and Limo
Whisking travelers away from Zurich, this private tour lets them soar above the Swiss Alps via helicopter before settling into a luxurious limousine for the journey to the Jungfraujoch.
This all-inclusive experience covers transportation, a private guide, and food and drink. Pickup is available from select Zurich hotels, and the tour runs from May 9, 2019 to September 15, 2025.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and additional details are available upon request.
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4-Day Goldenpass Tour Self-Guided Tour From Zurich
This self-guided GoldenPass Tour from Zurich takes travelers on a 4-day journey through the stunning Swiss landscapes of Lucerne, Interlaken, and Montreux.
Along the way, they’ll experience the contrasting Swiss German and Swiss French cultures. Highlights include scenic Lake Thun, Lake Geneva, and visits to traditional villages like Château d’Oex and Montbovon.
The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Lucerne and Interlaken, plus 1 night in Montreux. A train ticket, seat reservation on the GoldenPass Line, and 50% discounts on mountain railways, boats, and buses are also provided.
This tour offers independent travel starting from any Swiss Airport, train station, or border, with all travel documents sent via email before departure.
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Switzerland Wonderland I 9-Day Guided Tour With Accommodation in Switzerland
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Switzerland’s captivating landscapes and cultural riches, the 9-Day Guided Tour “Switzerland Wonderland I” offers an all-encompassing experience.
Starting in Zurich, this tour takes travelers on a journey through Switzerland, with accommodations in 4-star hotels, private transportation, and English-speaking driver-guide services.
Highlights include visits to Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, and Vaduz, as well as cheese and chocolate factory tours in Gruyères, and access to the SPA thermal baths in Ovaverva.
The itinerary also includes a Glacier Express Panoramic Train ride, an optional Gornergrat excursion, and a maximum of 12 travelers per tour.
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Swiss Cheese & Wine Discovery I 8-Day Guided Tour in Switzerland
The “Swiss Cheese & Wine Discovery I 8-Day Guided Tour in Switzerland” takes travelers on an immersive exploration of the country’s renowned culinary heritage.
This 8-day guided tour starts in Zurich and accommodates up to 12 participants in 4-star hotels. The tour includes airport transfers, private transportation, and an English-speaking driver-guide.
Highlights include a walking tour in Zurich, visits to a cheese factory in Gruyères and a wine tasting in Lavaux, as well as rides on the Harder Kulm funicular and the Eiger Express tricable gondola.
With a moderate fitness level required, the tour provides an optimal balance of activities and leisure, delivering an unforgettable Swiss cheese and wine experience.
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Private Guided Tour in Zurich Downtown With Pick up
A private guided tour in Zurich’s downtown area provides travelers with a comprehensive introduction to the city’s historic landmarks and vibrant culture.
Priced from $232.79 per person, the tour includes private transportation, WiFi, bottled water, and infant seats.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.
With a total of one review and a 4.0/5 rating, the tour offers good photo opportunities and a visit to a local restaurant, though the commentary could be improved.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the experience.
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St. Gallen Private Walking Tour With a Professional Guide
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of St. Gallen, Switzerland can embark on a private walking tour with a professional local guide.
This customizable experience allows visitors to tailor the itinerary to their interests, with a guide on hand to provide insights and lead the way. Priced from $349.70 per group of up to 15 people, the tour includes gratuities and entrance fees, making it an accessible option.
The meeting point is at the Bankgasse 9 tourist information office, with the tour returning to the same location. Wheelchair and stroller users can participate, and service animals are welcome.
Availability may be limited, so early booking is advised.
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Limousine Service – Shopping Assistance & Tour Guide in Zurich & Surroundings
For those seeking a premier transportation and sightseeing experience in Zurich and its surrounding areas, the Limousine Service – Shopping Assistance & Tour Guide package offers a tailored, private tour.
This luxury service includes bottled water, snacks, lunch, and alcoholic beverages during the ride. Guests can enjoy high-speed WiFi and special advice based on schedules.
The service operates from 6 AM to 2 PM, 7 days a week, and is priced from $640.17 per group. The tour starts and ends at the Oase, Museumstrasse 1 in Zurich.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
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Zurich Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour
The Zurich Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour offers an engaging and interactive way for visitors to explore the city’s most iconic sights.
Available from October 2022 to July 2025, the tour can be accessed through a navigation app and is designed for private groups.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and allows service animals.
However, past reviewers have noted some issues with the technology, including stops being incorrectly marked on the map.
With an overall rating of 2.0 based on limited feedback, this self-guided experience may not provide the seamless, high-quality tour some travelers expect.
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Zurich Private Walking Tour With a Professional Guide
With over 3,000 years of history, Zurich offers visitors a captivating blend of modern and medieval charm.
Explore the city’s rich heritage on a customizable private walking tour with a knowledgeable guide. Key highlights include the banking district of Paradeplatz, the famous shopping street Bahnhofstrasse, and the historic churches of Fraumünster and Grossmünster.
Capture picturesque views of the Limmat River and Lake Zurich, and enjoy the flexibility to tailor the tour to your interests.
This stress-free experience includes a dedicated local guide, private tour, and complimentary gratuities and entrance fees.
Accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-friendly, the tour departs from Paradeplatz and ends centrally in Zurich.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Zurich?
The best time to visit Zurich is typically from May to September, when the weather is mild and sunny, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions and activities. However, the winter months can also be a magical time to explore Zurich’s festive markets.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals for Guided Tours?
Many tour providers in Zurich offer discounts and package deals to attract visitors. These can include combo tickets with museums, reduced rates for students and seniors, and bundled tours that cover multiple attractions at a lower overall cost.
Do the Tours Accommodate Travelers With Special Needs?
Many guided tours accommodate travelers with special needs. They often offer options for wheelchair users, those with hearing or visual impairments, and provide assistance to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary of a Guided Tour?
Yes, most guided tour providers allow customers to customize their itinerary. Travelers can work with the tour company to adjust the activities, duration, and focus of the tour to suit their unique interests and needs.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tours?
Most guided tours offer pick-up and drop-off services, making it easy to get to the starting point. Customers can also choose to make their own way there, with tour companies often providing detailed directions and public transportation information.
The Sum Up
Zurich offers a range of guided tour options to suit different interests and budgets. Visitors can explore the city’s history, landmarks, and hidden gems with the help of knowledgeable local guides or self-guided tours. Whether you prefer a private, custom experience or a more budget-friendly group tour, there’s something to cater to every traveler’s needs. These guided tours provide an engaging and informative way to discover the best of Zurich.