A Funicular Start to a Day of Discovery

Zurich, a city that effortlessly marries the old with the new, was my playground for the day. I met Constantin, our guide, a Romanian who has called Zurich home since 2010. With just one other person on the tour, a finance professional from Canada, it felt more like a day out with friends than a guided tour. We kicked off our adventure with a ride on the Polybahn funicular. This charming little train whisked us up to a panoramic terrace, offering a breathtaking view of Zurich’s old city. From this vantage point, Constantin pointed out one of the city’s 12,500 water features, a testament to Zurich’s commitment to beauty and functionality.

As we strolled through the city, Constantin shared fascinating insights about Zurich’s hidden bomb shelters, cleverly integrated into the urban landscape. We marveled at ancient clocks that still keep time with the sun’s help and admired vintage street signs and murals that added a splash of color and history to the streets. Our walk along the river led us to the Roman wall, a relic of Zurich’s storied past. Climbing to the top, we were rewarded with a stunning view of the city and the river below.

A Journey Through Time and Art

Our next stop was St. Peter’s Church, home to the largest clock face in Europe, even larger than Big Ben. The church, dating back to 1336, stood as a proud reminder of Zurich’s rich history. We continued to the Fraumunster Church, famous for its Chagall windows. The vibrant stained glass was a feast for the eyes, and Constantin’s stories about the mural of the beheading and its historical significance added depth to our visit.

The tour took a turn for the scenic as we boarded a train to Adliswil station, followed by a gondola ride up to Felsenegg. At 800 meters, the views were nothing short of spectacular. We spent a leisurely half-hour soaking in the vistas and enjoying a cup of tea. The tranquility of Felsenegg was a stark contrast to the bustling city below, offering a moment of peace and reflection.

A Scenic Return to the City

Our descent from Felsenegg was as delightful as the ascent. We walked to the bus station and hopped on Bus 156, which took us to the ferry dock. Boarding the Albis, we embarked on a 40-minute cruise on Lake Zurich. The gentle sway of the boat and the picturesque stops along the way made for a relaxing journey back to the city.

Back in Zurich, Constantin joined us on a tram ride to Central Station. Before parting ways, he pointed us towards a side street lined with promising restaurants, a perfect end to a day of exploration. Zurich had revealed its many layers to us, from its historical roots to its modern-day charm. This city, with its vibrant neighborhoods and hidden gems, had captured my heart, and I left with a promise to return.