Things to do in Zurich

Zurich makes an easy day trip from Lucerne: trains run every half hour and the ride takes 45 minutes to an hour depending on the connection. Start on the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the more expensive shopping streets in Europe, then cross into the Niederdorf's narrow lanes on the river's east bank. The Grossmünster's twin towers are free to climb for CHF 5 and give a proper view over the old town roofs.

Next door, the Fraumünster charges CHF 5 to see the five stained-glass windows Marc Chagall completed in 1970, tucked into the choir and easy to miss if you rush. The Kunsthaus, Switzerland's largest art museum after its 2021 extension, costs around CHF 23 entry. For a different angle, the Uetliberg tram (line S10) climbs to a ridge with a lake panorama in 25 minutes, while Zurich West's old industrial halls now hold bars and galleries.

One day covers the centre comfortably; a second only makes sense for the Uetliberg or Zurich West at a slower pace.