⚡ Your Rainy Day Emergency Kit
Short on time? Here is the cheat sheet to saving your day.
⚠️ Urgent Booking Tip: On rainy days, the top indoor attractions sell out by 10:00 AM. Book these immediately if you see availability:
- For Chocolate Lovers: Lindt Home of Chocolate Ticket (The #1 rainy day activity).
- For Smart Savers: Zürich Card (Free trams/buses + free entry to most museums).
- For Relaxation: Hürlimann Thermal Bath & Spa (Soak in a rooftop pool while it rains on your head).
- For Families: FIFA Museum Tickets (Interactive and high-energy).
Don’t Let the “Schnürliregen” Get You Down
You’ve traveled all the way to Zurich, only to be met with grey skies and a steady Alpine drizzle (locals call it Schnürliregen – rain in strings).
Walking the Limmatquai or hiking Uetliberg suddenly feels less like a dream and more like a soggy chore. But here’s a local secret: Zurich is actually built for “bad” weather.
From world-class chocolate vaults to thermal baths housed in former breweries, some of the city’s best experiences happen entirely indoors. This guide covers exactly what to do in Zurich when it rains, so you can stay dry without missing out on the culture.
1. The Sweetest Escape: Lindt Home of Chocolate
If there is one place that makes you forget the weather, it’s the Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg. This isn’t just a museum; it is a sensory cathedral dedicated to cocoa.
Upon entering, you are greeted by a 9-meter tall chocolate fountain (yes, it’s real liquid chocolate). The tour takes you through the history of Swiss chocolate, ending in a “tasting heaven” where you can sample unlimited pralines.
- Why it’s perfect for rain: The entire experience, including the massive shop and cafe, is indoors.
- Getting there: Take the train to Kilchberg (covered walk) or the bus directly to the entrance.
- Cost: ~$17 CHF – Free transport with Zürich Card
💡 Pro Tip: This is the most popular attraction in Switzerland on rainy days. Do not show up without a ticket.
2. Soak in History at Hürlimann Thermal Bath & Spa
Located in the old stone vaults of a former brewery, the Hürlimannbad & Spa is the ultimate relaxation spot. The interior features giant wooden tubs and cavernous stone rooms that feel like a Roman bathhouse.
The highlight, however, is the Rooftop Infinity Pool. There is something magical about sitting in 35°C (95°F) bubbling water while cold rain falls on your face, looking out over the misty rooftops of Zurich.
- Best for: Couples and weary travelers.
- Note: It gets crowded on weekends; try to go before noon or late evening.
3. Cultural Shelters: The Best Indoor Museums
Zurich has over 50 museums, and many are included for free with the Zürich Card. Here are the best ones for staying dry:
The FIFA Museum
Even if you aren’t a die-hard football fan, this museum is impressive. It is highly interactive, featuring the original World Cup trophies and a “pinball” style gaming zone where kids (and adults) can test their passing skills.
- Great for: Families with energetic kids.
Kunsthaus Zürich
Switzerland’s largest art museum recently opened a stunning extension designed by David Chipperfield. You can easily spend 3–4 hours here getting lost among Monets, Munchs, and Picassos. The airy, modern architecture brightens up even the gloomiest days.
Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)
Located right next to the main train station (Zürich HB), this castle-like building explores Swiss cultural history. It’s a literal maze of history that you can get lost in for hours.
4. Zurich with Kids: Burning Energy Indoors
Rainy days with toddlers or teens can be tough. Here is where to go to save your sanity:
- Masoala Rainforest (Zoo Zürich): It might be 10°C and raining outside, but inside the Masoala Hall, it is a tropical 25°C. This massive indoor ecosystem allows you to walk among monkeys, lemurs, and exotic birds.
- Technorama (Winterthur): A 20-minute train ride from Zurich, this is one of the best science centers in Europe. It is strictly hands-on – kids are encouraged to touch everything.
5. Cozy Gastronomy: Fondue and Cafés
When the temperature drops, the cheese comes out.
- Frau Gerolds Garten (Winter Stübli): Usually an outdoor venue, in winter/rain they set up a cozy wooden chalet serving classic fondue.
- Café & Conditorei 1842: For a classic experience, head to this historic cafe in the old town for the best hot chocolate (heisse Schoggi) in a room that looks like your grandmother’s fancy living room.
- Im Viadukt: Built into the railway arches, this indoor market hall offers dozens of food stalls, fashion boutiques, and restaurants. It’s trendy, covered, and perfect for lunch.
Comparison: Choosing Your Rainy Day Activity
| Activity | Best For | Vibe | Price Range |
| Lindt Home of Chocolate | Everyone | Sweet & Fun | $$ |
| Hürlimann Spa | Couples | Relaxing / Luxury | $$$ |
| FIFA Museum | Families | High-Energy | $$ |
| Kunsthaus | Art Lovers | Quiet / Reflective | $$ |
| Im Viadukt | Foodies | Trendy / Social | $ – $$ |
FAQ: Surviving Zurich in the Rain
Does the Zurich Card cover the Lindt Museum? The Zurich Card offers a discount (usually 10%) and covers the transport to the factory, but it does not cover the full entry ticket.
What is the best free thing to do in Zurich when it rains? Visit the Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich. Their three large futuristic dome greenhouses (tropical, subtropical, and savanna) are free to enter and keep you warm and dry.
Is the lake cruise worth it in the rain? Yes! The boats on Lake Zurich (ZSG) have heated indoor cabins with large windows. You can enjoy a coffee and watch the moody, misty landscapes float by.
Final Tip: The Transport Hack
If it is pouring rain, do not rely on Uber (which is very expensive in Zurich). The public transport system is impeccable.
I highly recommend buying the Zürich Card for 24 or 72 hours. It gives you unlimited travel on trams, buses, trains, and even the boats, meaning you can hop on and off to dodge the showers without worrying about buying tickets every time.
Ready to book your rainy day rescue? Check availability for the chocolate tour below:
