The entrance of Photobastei represents the place well; you push a door that might seem like one from a private building and end up in a stairwell where direction indications aren’t so clear. It feels artsy, with a lot of flyers laying around for all sorts of events. I recommend going up to the second and third floor of the building, where you will find exhibitions and a place to sit with either a photography book or a drink. Once again, the entrance might feel weird, but you really just have to walk in.
On the second floor, there is an exhibition space dedicated to independent artists that wish to share their experiments in contemporary art and non-commercial photography. Next to it, there is a library with a lot of photography books that can freely be skimmed through on one of the couches. If you come in the afternoon, there is a chance that nobody’s there to guide or watch you - a real immersion in the Swiss culture of trust.
One floor up also hosts an exhibition space. Depending on the current exhibition, it might be either free or with an entrance fee. Even if the exhibition doesn’t interest you, I still highly recommend popping to this floor which also features a large open space with lots of couches, mats, pictures, and mirrors on the wall… Everything to make you feel cozy, with a drink that you can order at the bar. Something in this place feels underground, alternative.
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Besides the building itself, Toni Areal hosts an abundant amount of events, often linked to the art students. There is an amazing rooftop as well!
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At Villa Tobler Park you will find benches to relax among well-trimmed bushes, beautiful statues, and a fountain featuring a golden mosaic and a dragon.
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Zurichberg might be less touristy than Uetliberg but is still popular among locals. Picnics, couples, and runners can be expected, especially on Sundays!
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Chemiserie+ is a cool small thrift store with reasonable prices and an assortment of good quality clothes for a wide range of tastes. Let slow fashion be!
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Irchel Park, a world made of natural meadows, hills, and small lakes, is first and foremost part of the scientific campus of the University of Zurich.
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In the outdoor space, small tables are hidden under lush vegetation, and in the summer you can also grab figs from the fig tree without leaving your seat.
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Vita volta is a neighbourhood organic shop where you will find fresh products including bread, vegetables, and fruits which are local most of the time.
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"Sauna Utoquai" Zurich is an oasis in the city at the southern end of the public baths called Bad Utoquai (known as the "Badi" among its regulars)...
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Seefeld, to which The Opera House serves as a gatekeeper, will please urban souls with a mix of neoclassical and functionalism aesthetics, oak-shadowed streets, and an excess showcase of small local boutiques.
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The view opens up from a terrace, which overlooks a tiny vineyard, the lake, and the city. In addition to this, you can explore the entire silhouette of Zürich’s very own mountain - Uetliberg.
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What brings the shopping experience to a truly next level, is the mini-restaurants scattered throughout the store. You will find a tea room, premium sushi, a grill at the butchers, and gourmet pasta.
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180 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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