Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich's premier shopping boulevard, running about 1.4 km from the main railway station (Zürich HB) to Bürkliplatz on the shore of Lake Zurich, and it ranks among the world's most expensive and exclusive avenues. Created in 1864 by filling in the old moat known as the 'Fröschengraben' (Ditch of the Frogs) and opened in 1865, it lines up high-street chains and department stores near the station and increasingly exclusive fashion, watch and jewellery boutiques as you approach the lake. In February 2025 the landmark Jelmoli department store closed after 126 years and its building is now under major redevelopment, so expect construction hoardings at that site. Even without shopping, it makes a pleasant stroll down to the lakefront through the heart of the city.
Paradeplatz: the square at the street's midpoint, symbol of Swiss banking, home to major bank headquarters and the flagship Confiserie Sprüngli, famous for chocolate and Luxemburgerli macarons.
The luxury stretch toward the lake, with dazzling window displays of Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Hermès and some 30 other high-end brands.
Beyer Chronometrie watch-and-jewellery house with its clock and watch museum, showcasing Swiss horological heritage.
Bürkliplatz and Lake Zurich at the southern end: waterfront views, boat piers, and Alpine panoramas on clear days.
The winter 'Lucy' Christmas lights: thousands of glittering LED crystals strung for about a kilometre, one of Zurich's signature seasonal sights.
Good to know
RulesMost shops in Switzerland close on Sundays. Plan your Bahnhofstrasse shopping for Monday–Saturday; on Sundays, use the 'ShopVille' mall beneath the main station, which is open 365 days a year.
SafetyWatch for pickpockets around the main station and on crowded trams. Keep bags in front of you and split your passport and cards between pockets or bags.
CautionYou must buy a valid tram/bus ticket before boarding, even for short rides; fare inspectors issue steep fines for riding without one. Prepare a ZVV single/24-hour ticket, a Zürich Card, or a Swiss Travel Pass in advance (confirm fares and coverage close to your visit).
MannersService is included in restaurant prices, so tipping isn't mandatory—rounding up when satisfied is enough. Keep conversations quiet on trams, as is the local custom.
SeasonLate November to early January is the best time for the 'Lucy' lights, but days are short and cold, so dress warmly; summer is ideal for a lakeside walk. The street is flat end to end, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
SafetyAs a luxury shopping street, prices here are very high. Set a budget in advance, and when buying costly watches or jewellery, carefully check tax-free refund paperwork and authenticity guarantees.
Practical info
The boulevard begins right in front of Zürich Hauptbahnhof (Zürich HB), with trams 2, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 13 serving stops at Rennweg, Paradeplatz and Bürkliplatz. Most of it is pedestrianised and takes roughly 20 minutes to walk end to end; individual shop hours and transit fares should be checked for the latest information before you go.
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