Take a flight to Zurich, where Swiss clichés meet 21st-century cool. Schipfe boasts boutique shops while the Altstadt is a ticket to Zurich's world-class galleries. Zuri-West is popular for its emerging designers and electric nightlife. Glimpse the Alps from Lake Zurich.

Things to do

Zurich holidays are brimming with culture, from medieval twin-towered Grossmünster to Zuri-West's pioneering Museum of Design Zurich. The Altstadt's cobbled lanes lead to Kunsthaus Zurich, showcasing Monet and Munch. Retreat to Riesbach's peaceful Botanical Gardens.

Shopping

Shopaholics book flights to Zurich for the Altstadt's speciality shops, chic department stores and sweet treats like macaroons. Zuri-West offers retro style and cult objects. Schipfe's galleries feature one-off crafts by local artists.

Restaurants

A flight to Zurich whisks food-lovers to the Altstadt, serving everything from Thai curries to Swiss fare in medieval surroundings. Head for Zuri-West for world flavours like sushi and tapas, or Riesbach for waterfront dining.

Nightlife

The Altstadt is the best place for beers in wood-panelled pubs or decadent cocktails in Art Nouveau bars. Zuri-West attracts Zurich's fashionable set with retro-style lounge bars, jazz dens and clubs playing house music. Classical music lovers should book a ticket to Zurich Opera House.

When to go

KLM has frequent flights to Zurich. Book an airline ticket to Zurich to catch events like the masked revelry of February's Fasnacht carnival, August's mammoth Street Parade and December's twinkling Christmas market.