Today marks Day 21 of my Eurotrip and the official end of this year’s Summer Series. I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions. It’s been an incredible journey, filled with stunning sights, unforgettable experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime, but I’m definitely feeling the weight of travel fatigue and am ready for the comforts of home.
The day started with our last buffet breakfast. Of course, I couldn’t resist one more indulgence of “cheese for breakfast,” a habit I’ve happily embraced during this trip. After checking out of our hotel, we left our luggage in a locker at the Hauptbahnhof (HBF), which gave us the perfect opportunity to wander the streets of Zurich one last time.
Being a Sunday (and as we have discovered over this trip, typical of many European cities), many of the shops and attractions were closed. However, ShopVille (the mall under the HBF) and a few local cafés were open, allowing us to pick up a last-minute souvenir or two and grab a coffee.
We found a quiet spot by the river to sit, sip on a beverage, and soak in the final moments of Zurich’s laid-back vibe. It was the perfect way to reflect on the journey so far before starting the long trek home.
We caught a train to Zurich Flughafen (the airport) mid-afternoon, where we awaited the first leg of our journey back: Zurich to Dubai. We had a bit of a time since the flight wasn’t until the evening, but we made the most of it with some duty-free shopping and a few drinks at the “bye bye bar.” (The airport also had an Observation Deck which helped while away some time!)
And with that, the journey that started so many days ago, is almost complete. There’s something oddly comforting about that final stop before the homeward flight, as if it gives a sense of closure to the whole trip.
Though I’m excited to get home, I know I will carry fond memories of this summer’s adventures. Here’s to more travels, more stories, and more moments of reflection. Until next time, Europe…
My favourite photo of today is of this cool water feature at ShopVille – Zürich Hauptbahnhof:
Switzerland’s rich history and cultural heritage come alive through its stunning museums and iconic landmarks. Among these, the Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum) stands out, offering an immersive look into Switzerland’s evolution over the past millennium. From medieval times to modern-day trends, this museum encapsulates the story of Swiss craftsmanship, everyday life, and cultural movements that have shaped the nation.
We started today at the Landesmuseum which offered over 7,000 exhibits, spread across more than 2,000 square meters of exhibition space. The museum itself is a testament to Swiss history, with its architecture dating back to the late 19th century. Designed by architect Gustav Gull, the museum harmoniously blends late medieval elements with early Modernism, creating an environment that complements the collections on display. In 2016, architects Christ & Gantenbein added an extension, ensuring that the museum’s modern additions respect the aesthetic integrity of Gull’s original design.
The exhibition offers a fascinating journey through Swiss history, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Visitors can explore the Market (Markt) through the ages, witnessing how consumer habits have shifted over time. The iconic Locarno Kiosk, for example, is a nod to the trends of the past, while larger collections showcase the evolution of Swiss craftsmanship and metalworking, including fine pieces from Bossard goldsmiths.
One of the standout collections was the extensive collection of rings in chronological order! From all eras and styles, it was a very impressive display. Some of the 50s – 70s rings were just WILD!
Other collections that stood out were the porcelain, and antique arms and uniforms. These artifacts tell stories of daily life and the changing nature of fashion from the 1600s to today. The museum also features an array of portraits and artifacts, each room thoughtfully designed to reflect a different facet of Swiss heritage.
The Pestalozzi Room and Oetenbach Room offer insights into the lives of two influential Swiss figures, while the grandeur of Lochmann Hall takes visitors back to the architectural splendour of past centuries. The museum also displays rooms and parlours from Swiss castles, showing how the country’s aristocracy lived through different periods.
For history buffs, the Archaeology of Switzerland section is a must-see. Flint knives, stone axes, bronze pendants, and ceramic vessels tell the stories of life in ancient Switzerland, with artifacts gradually changing over the centuries. Each exhibit piece contributes to understanding the development of civilization in the region.
After a quick bite to eat, we next visited the FIFA Museum; an essential stop for any football (soccer) fan. The museum traces the development of football rules, the history of the World Cup, and the sport’s evolution over the years. Since its inception, the World Cup has grown in importance, with the inclusion of the Women’s World Cup in 2021 marking a pivotal moment in sports history. 2024 also marked the 120th anniversary of the FIFA World Cup, offering a chance to reflect on the rich legacy of football. Interactive games and skill challenges bring the sport to life, making this museum a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages. There were also some fun, footy-themed toilet doors here too!
The PolyBahn was operating today, so we then took a quick trip to the top of the hill and a stroll around the university where Einstein himself attended.
After a day filled with history and culture, it was time to unwind. We relaxed to the Bar Foy-er again for some pre-dinner drinks before our “last supper” at Rheinfelder Bierhalle. Known for its hearty Swiss fare, it was the perfect place to cap off our day.
My favourite photo is of this medieval room from the Landesmuseum:
Hubby’s choice today was the impressive armory display in the main hall of Landesmuseum:
Today’s adventure began with a simple but indulgent breakfast – more cheese! It’s a Swiss staple, and I was more than happy to start my day with a delicious bite… or three. After that, I hopped on a tram and train combo bound for Kilchburg, home of the Lindt Experience. The building alone is stunning, and it didn’t take long before I was immersed in the world of chocolate!
The Lindt Experience is true heaven for anyone who loves chocolate (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?). The highlight was undoubtedly the massive chocolate fountain, which is not only a feast for the eyes but also an impressive marvel of engineering. Did you know that:
Chocolate was once a drink – The cocoa plant has a fascinating history, and its seeds were once used to make a bitter beverage that was far removed from the sweet treats we know today.
Cocoa Farming is a Global Industry – Cocoa comes from the cacao tree, primarily found in tropical regions. It’s a challenging crop to farm, and many countries rely heavily on its production.
Swiss Chocolate Pioneers – Switzerland is known for its chocolate craftsmanship, thanks to pioneers like Daniel Peter, Henri Nestlé, François-Louis Cailler, Philippe Suchard, and of course, Rudolf Lindt. These innovators shaped the chocolate industry, making Swiss chocolate world-renowned.
There were plenty of tasters and samples, so I was in chocolate heaven, savoring every bite and learning about the history behind each creation.
After indulging in a chocolate overload, it was time for our half-day tour of Zurich and its surrounding areas. Zurich is a city of contrasts – modern and historic, bustling yet tranquil.
Zurich is split by two rivers, the Limmat and the Sihl. The Limmat River flows from Lake Zurich and cuts through the heart of the city, while the Sihl River runs along the city’s southern edge. Both rivers add to the city’s charm, and there’s nothing like walking along the banks taking in the picturesque views.
Zurich’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, isn’t just a transportation hub, it’s a massive shopping mall with two levels of stores. It’s amazing how this city blends the old with the new, making even a simple train ride a chance to explore!
Zurich is a cultural hub with over 60 museums and 40 art galleries. After all, this city is home to some of the most prestigious institutions in Switzerland, including two universities. ETH Zurich, the city’s largest university, is ranked among the top 10 universities worldwide and is housed in an architecturally stunning building.
We did a 40min walking tour of the Old Town and learned some interesting facts. Zurich has a rich history, starting with German settlers after the fall of Roman rule. The city became a centre of trade, with crafts and trades organised into guilds. These guilds are still an essential part of Zurich’s identity today, especially when it comes to organising the city’s famous festivals, like the Ringing of the Bells.
We visited the Grossmünster, a church said to be built on the tomb of Zurich’s patron saint. This church was pivotal in the Swiss Reformation, a movement that gave rise to Calvinism. We wandered through David Square, named after the famous “David Fountain.” This square was once the site of a wine trading market, which gives us a sense of Zurich’s long history as a centre for trade and commerce.
We also visited Lindenhof, the site of an ancient Roman fortress, and Frauenmünster Square, an important market square in the medieval era. Frauenmünster was another important stop. Originally a Benedictine convent founded in the 8th century, it’s now a church known for its stunning Marc Chagall stained-glass windows.
I was also able to enjoy some more birdwatching…
We then took a short bus ride from the city centre to the wealthy “Gold Coast” of Zurich, on the eastern side of Lake Zurich. This area is home to some of Switzerland’s most affluent residents, including famous figures like Carl Jung, Roger Federer, and Tina Turner, who lived here for 22 years. As we drove past Tina Turner’s former villa (which is now for sale for a cool 75 million Swiss Francs), I couldn’t help but marvel at the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Lake Zurich is the fifth-largest lake in Switzerland, and a ferry ride across the lake is the perfect way to see the city from a different perspective. Interestingly, there are no bridges across the lake – just a single crossing point, making the ferry a popular way to travel from one side to the other.
Lake Zurich, which is 50 metres deep on average, is fed by the waters from the Alps. The lake’s clarity is unmatched, and it’s a popular spot for swimming, particularly in the public baths and beaches along its shore. The lake hasn’t frozen completely since 1963, but we were witness to some very brave souls going for a swim!
On the western side of the lake lies the “Silver Coast,” a more commercial area of Zurich. This part of the city is where many expats choose to live, attracted by the stunning views, proximity to the city centre, and tranquil atmosphere. It gains its name from being surrounded by mountains and living perpetually in shadow.
One of the day’s highlights was a visit to Felsenegg, a scenic peak on the opposite side of the lake. We took a cable car up to the top, travelling 1,000 feet in just six minutes! The views, despite the slight haze, were breathtaking, and the silence of the area provided a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. I even had the chance to explore some Nordic walking tracks, grounding myself in nature and taking in the stunning surroundings.
We did have a bit of a mishap when we missed the cable car back to the main tour. As we were arriving at the station, the cable car was already starting to pull away. Luckily, the next one was only a few minutes behind, and our guide reassured us that it wasn’t our fault -the cable car had just left a little early! Still, it was a bit of a tense moment, but one that ended with a laugh.
The day ended with a visit to Big Ben’s Westside (around the corner from our accommodation), where we tried some local beverages. The Swiss Merlot was the perfect way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. The Swiss Franc currency is very strong against the Australian Dollar (nearly 1 franc for every 2 of our dollars) so I am also glad my $50 hamburger was delicious!
Zurich has a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity and it was a most enjoyable day.
After dinner we found a great (and cheap) place to drink: Bar Foyer (literally in the bar area of our hotel’s foyer). We have a Coop supermarket across the road, offering much more reasonable beverage prices, and I had plenty to choose from.
My favourite photo from today is crossing the lake and a little ray of sunshine…
Our day in Zurich started with a filling buffet breakfast (I may have had a little too much cheese, but hey, when in Switzerland!)
After fueling up, we hopped on a tram and headed straight for the historic Old Town, with one of our group members acting as our guide. Having spent a year in Zurich on a student exchange, she knew all the hidden gems and local spots, making the experience feel much more personal.
We began our exploration on Niederdorfstrasse, a charming street lined with quaint bars and cosy eateries. The vibe was relaxed, and we found ourselves wandering in awe of the beautiful buildings and unique shops. Zurich’s Old Town is a perfect blend of history and modernity, and we quickly realised we could spend an entire day just soaking in the atmosphere here.
Next up were some of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Grossmünster, Fraumünster (the “Lady Church”), and St. Peter’s Church. The latter is home to Europe’s largest clock face, an impressive sight to behold. We admired the intricate architecture and soaked in the historical significance of these stunning churches.
A quick stop at Teddy’s Souvenir Shop offered a selection of classic Swiss memorabilia, followed by a visit to Stadelhofen Kandonschule, where Cat had done her exchange. The school held great sentimental value and allowed us a closer connection to Zurich’s local culture.
Cat’s old Art classroom
Afterwards, we took a leisurely stroll down to Zurich’s lake (Lake Zurich, of course), where we basked in the sunshine under a brilliantly blue sky. The peaceful setting was ideal for a bit of birdwatching. I spotted a tufted duck, a Mediterranean gull, and some graceful white swans gliding across the water; nature’s simple pleasures.
Tufted DuckHitching a ride
From there, we meandered through Bahnhofstrasse, Switzerland’s most expensive shopping street. Naturally, we were just window shopping, but it was fun to imagine what it would be like to indulge in some luxury items. Along the way, we paused at Paradeplatz, the richest address in the world as it is home to Switzerland’s infamous banking institutions. The atmosphere felt both luxurious and imposing, a reminder of the city’s financial prowess.
Zurich is known for its abundance of city fountains; around 1,200 of them, providing fresh drinking water throughout the city. We made sure to stop at seven different fountains during our walk, marvelling at their unique designs and shapes. It’s clear that Zurich values both aesthetics and practicality in its public spaces.
No trip to Zurich would be complete without a visit to Victorinox, the iconic Swiss brand known for its Swiss Army Knives. Founded in 1884 Victorinox became famous for producing versatile, high-quality knives. Today, their range spans beyond knives to watches, luggage, and even fragrances.
We ended our day by taking in the stunning views from Lindenhof, a peaceful hilltop park that offered a panoramic vista of the city. It was the perfect spot to reflect on all we’d seen and done.
To cap off the day, we enjoyed a refreshing beer at Wolf Bierhalle before heading to a nearby Mexican restaurant for dinner. It felt like a fitting end to a day full of discovery, history, and a little indulgence. Again, the toilet signs made for some entertainment!
My favourite photo from today was of this very friendly building:
It was another big travel day today, this time from Vienna to Zurich, with a scenic stopover in Innsbruck. The journey began early with a smooth ride from Schwedenplatz to Huetteldorf on the U-Bahn.
We grabbed a quick coffee and pastry for brekky-on-the-go, before boarding the OBB – Westbahn. The train was simply impeccable – clean, silent, organised, efficient, and respectable. There was even a moment when one of our group members got shushed (and for once, it wasn’t me!).
As we left Vienna, the snow started falling again – quite heavily. It soon turned the landscape into a winter wonderland. The train smoothly glided across the Austrian countryside, passing through picturesque towns like St. Pölten, Amstetten, Linz, Wels, Attnang-Puchheim, Vöcklabruck, Salzburg, Kufstein, Wörgl, and Jenbach. The views were nothing short of breathtaking as we threaded our way through the Alps. It was like something out of a postcard, with crystal-clear, aqua waters running through snow-covered streams and rivulets.
A Quick Stop in Innsbruck
We made a brief stop for a couple of hours in Innsbruck, a city nestled among the Alps. Founded as a trading center in the Middle Ages, Innsbruck became an imperial city under the Habsburgs. It’s rich in history and culture, and today it’s known for its stunning alpine scenery and as a gateway to world-class skiing.
Of course, I couldn’t resist picking up a magnet to add to my collection. It’s become a little ritual of mine to buy one in every city I visit, and this one came from a charming little Tabak and Lotto shop. Inside, there’s a lucky dip-style barrel where you pick your own “lotto ticket” (we’d call these scratchies in Australia), adding a bit of fun to the souvenir hunt.
I also managed to find a Primark store (a must for any traveller, in my opinion), where I grabbed a few more pairs of some amazing leggings that have been my lifesaver during this trip. They’ve allowed me to wear dresses and stay warm, which is no small feat when travelling through Europe in winter!
Into the Swiss Alps
After our brief stop, it was time to board the express train for Zurich. This part of the journey was pure magic; breathtaking views of the Alps from the panoramic train. The scenery was truly spectacular, with snow-capped peaks and lush valleys around every corner. Luckily, by the time we arrived in Switzerland, the days were a bit longer, so we were able to enjoy two full hours of daylight, watching the sun dip lower in the sky before it finally set.
A 10-minute sojourn through Liechtenstein offered a charming way to cross between Austria and Switzerland, and technically added another country to our list! We were whisked through this tiny, scenic principality with the majestic Alps looming around us. In just moments, we had crossed from Austria’s rolling vineyards into Switzerland’s mountainous terrain, with Liechtenstein acting as a bridge between the two.
By the time we checked into our hotel in Zurich, it was well past 8 p.m. We were all famished, so grabbed a quick takeaway from a kebab shop around the corner. I opted for a “Lamm Pepito” (lamb panini), which was just what I needed to end the day on a high note.
I am looking forward to exploring Zurich over the next few days before I head home. There’s so much to see and do here, and I can’t wait to take it all in!
My favourite photos from today was this delightful duet of toilet signs from our OGG train:
Hubby’s pick was this one of the Alps (after Innsbruck):
By Sarah 