Since Winterthur (the place we're staying at) is 20 minutes away by train from Zurich, it is only natural that we explore Zurich first. The train ticket costed me CHF 12.60 with my Half-fare card. Hence a normal trip from Winterthur to Zurich Hauptbahnhof (often abbreviated as HB which means Central train station in English) would otherwise cost CHF 25.20 without the half-fare card.

I opted for the half-fare card since it is the most cost-efficient pass for me as I'm definitely going to break-even. However, if you're not staying for long, you could check out other Swiss travel pass options here. Also if you're planning on travelling Europe, you can check out Eurail passes here. These passes can be purchased at the train stations which are usually opened everyday of the week. Also, do note that transportation here is expensive so do provision for that.

Train ticket. (Note: Zurich HB is in zone 110) You're paying for all the zones the train passes through

oh have I mentioned that there's Starbucks on the train?

Zurich Hauptbahnhof

Zurich is a charming city where the Limmat river and Lake Zurich meet. It is the largest city in Switzerland and is often confused as its capital. (Note: Bern is the capital of Switzerland). The streets of Zurich, lined by swanky shops, very much remind me of Orchard Road back home in Singapore. You can find brands like Chanel, Prada, and everything else wonderful here. (There are like 4 H&Ms in one street!) Even if you're not out shopping, admire the Swiss architecture and its old charm.
Lake Zurich is a mere 10 minutes walk down from Zurich HB. Otherwise, you can take the many trams available. The city is very interconnected and the tram maps at the stops around the city make commuting even more a pleasure. If you've purchased a ticket in Zone 110 (see map of zones in ZVV network here), you can have the thrill of hopping on and off the trams without having to pay for each trip!

Sit by the river and enjoy your lunch while soaking up the sun and admire the beauty of Lake Zurich backdropped by grand buildings rich in history. If you're travelling in April to October, hop on the Limmat river cruise to get a wholesome experience of the city where the river and the lake meet. Round trips for adults cost CHF 4.30 and CHF 3.00 for children (age 6-16), half-fare travelcard holders and dogs (yes, dogs can even enter malls here). Do check the Limmat River Cruise website for more information.



While you're in Zurich, visit the Landesmuseum or the Swiss National Museum and learn about their rich history and strong banking system. The interior is a cross between a mansion and a castle. The Landesmuseum is located just behind the Zurich HB so you really have no reason to miss it. Adults are required to pay an entrance fee of CHF 10 while children up to the age of 16 can enter free. More information on the Landesmuseum here.

Apart from the array of museums available in Zurich, there are also the iconic cathedrals - Fraumunster and Grossmunster to visit.

Rest assured, you won't be bored in this city. The old town charm and the beautiful lake will keep you occupied enough throughout your stay here.

Landesmuseum Zurich

 Here's us signing off with our Frappucino in tow (yes, frappucino in winter, what were we thinking!).

Join us on our journey next as we hunt down HALAL meat!