Book a trip from Melbourne to Zurich with Cathay Pacific , fares from AUD2,170

Travellers have several options to reach downtown from Zurich Airport. For those preferring a more direct route, taxis are available outside the terminal and typically take around half an hour depending on traffic. If you prefer travelling by public transport, the train takes about 10-15 minutes to reach Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main train station), with trains running every 10 to 30 minutes. For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the bus service connects the airport to various points in the city, taking about 40 minutes.

Grossmünster is one of Zurich’s most iconic landmarks and a centerpiece of the city’s rich history. This Romanesque-style Protestant church, located in Zurich’s Old Town near the Limmat River, was constructed starting around 1100 and inaugurated around 1220. According to legend, it was founded by Charlemagne after his horse knelt over the tombs of Zurich’s patron saints—Felix, Regula, and Exuperantius—linking the church deeply to the city’s heritage. The church’s twin towers are a recognised symbol of Zurich, with neo-Gothic tops added in the late 18th century after original wooden steeples were destroyed by fire. Inside, visitors can admire the Romanesque crypt, modern stained-glass windows by Augusto Giacometti (1932), and intricate bronze doors created by Otto Münch in the 1930s and 1950s. Grossmünster also houses a museum dedicated to the Swiss-German Reformation, which began here in the early 16th century under the leadership of Huldrych Zwingli.

If you’re travelling with children, Conny-Land is Switzerland's largest amusement park and a fantastic destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Constance, this park offers a variety of attractions to suit all ages. One of the highlights is the opportunity to interact with sea lions, including unique experiences like swimming with them and participating in training sessions. The Sea Lion Show is a must-see, showcasing these playful animals in an entertaining performance. For adrenaline enthusiasts, Conny-Land features exciting rides such as the Cobra, Switzerland's first vertical roller coaster, and the Antares, which offers breathtaking heights and thrills. Families will enjoy gentler attractions like the Pirate Ship and the Wild Water Ride, ensuring fun for younger visitors as well.

Stretching from Zurich Hauptbahnhof, the main train station, to Lake Zurich, Bahnhofstrasse is renowned for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and charming cafes. As you stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, you'll encounter high-end brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., alongside Swiss favourites such as Bucherer and Hublot. It's the perfect place for some retail therapy, whether you’re looking for designer fashion or unique Swiss souvenirs. For a break from shopping, take a moment to enjoy a coffee at one of the many cosy cafes or dine at stylish restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Be sure to stop by the enchanting Lucy Christmas lights if you’re visiting in winter; the street transforms into a magical wonderland.

Cathay Holidays brings the convenience of finding the perfect hotels for your stay. Located at Letzigraben 177 in the Albisrieden district, Residence Appartements features modern rooms and studios equipped with kitchenettes, including full-sized refrigerators, stovetops, microwaves, cookware, and utensils—perfect for guests who prefer self-catering. Rooms also offer heated floors, soundproof windows, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and blackout curtains, ensuring a cosy and quiet stay. The property includes amenities like a garden, terrace, vending machines, self-parking (fees apply), laundry facilities, and express check-out. It caters well to both short and longer stays, offering a convenient, home-like environment.  For those seeking an opulent alternative, Kameha Grand Zurich showcases Swiss-inspired elements throughout its rooms and themed suites. Guests can indulge in exceptional amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness centre and the soothing Kameha Spa, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring. The hotel also boasts several dining options, such as L'UNICO, where guests can savour freshly prepared Italian dishes in a Mediterranean atmosphere. Located just 5.5 km from Zurich Airport and a short drive from the city centre, Kameha Grand provides easy access to attractions like the beautiful Lake Zurich, the historic Old Town, and the vibrant shopping district on Bahnhofstrasse. The nearby Glattpark offers green spaces for leisurely walks or picnics, making it a perfect spot to unwind. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Zurich beckons food enthusiasts with its diverse array of restaurants that offer a fusion of culinary delights from around the globe. Inspired by the Spanish and Moroccan roots of Chef Zineb ("Zizi") Hattab, Restaurant DAR specialises in a sharing menu format that encourages guests to sample a variety of colourful and flavorful dishes, drawing on Spanish and Moroccan culinary traditions. For those with an appetite, try the DAR Sharing Journey, a curated selection of about 15 dishes designed for sharing, with a focus on diverse, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Signature plate options include the BBQ sandwich with mushrooms and caramelised onions, the spicy Merguez Fez Medina sandwich, corn tostada topped with kefta and yoghurt, and the hearty Moroccan fava bean soup. For those seeking a delightful dining experience in Zurich, Baur's Brasserie & Bar offers a refined dining experience that artfully reinterprets classic European cuisine with a modern twist. Located within the prestigious Baur au Lac hotel, the restaurant combines contemporary chic with warm, inviting decor highlighted by burgundy and soft green tones, Murano glass chandeliers, and unique modern art pieces. Menu highlights cater to a variety of tastes, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared to perfection. Signature dishes include succulent beef tartare served at the dining counter, cherry wood-smoked salmon, and a selection of fine charcuterie and cheeses. Seafood lovers can indulge in specialities like lobster paired with Datterini tomatoes and sole meunière, while meat enthusiasts will appreciate high-temperature, perfectly sizzled steaks and the famous Beef Wellington available on Wednesdays.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Zurich.

• Currency: Swiss Franc (₣, CHF). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230V Types C and J
• Time zone: GMT+1
• Language: German