Zurich - the city of superlatives and contrasts: Here, runners can explore both the charming city center and the quiet, leafy districts - or really get going on scenic running routes on the Uetliberg. Discover Zurich in a whole new way in your running shoes.
The Uetliberg is simply part of running in Zurich.
Zurich
Zurich not only impresses as an international financial center, but is also considered one of the most liveable cities in the world - and this is particularly evident when you lace up your running shoes. The city uniquely combines historic old town streets, futuristic architecture and an impressive density of green spaces that are perfect for sporty discovery tours.
Along the River Limmat, around the sparkling Lake Zurich or up to the Uetliberg, a variety of running routes await, charmingly combining the experience of nature with urban flair. If you venture away from the classic sights, you will discover hidden courtyards, secluded parks and street cafés that invite you to linger.
Despite its international appeal, Zurich remains compact and surprisingly relaxed - ideal for exploring the city spontaneously on foot, without long journeys or the hustle and bustle of the big city. Public transport takes runners quickly to the starting point of their next lap if they want to go a little further afield.
Zurich thrives on its diversity: over 170 nations** characterize the cityscape, German is the official language, but hardly anywhere else are English, French or Italian so naturally present in everyday life.
If you are looking for inspiration for running in Zurich, you will find a selection of routes, tips and pictures below that showcase Zurich's sporty running soul.
Quick Facts
Running Eldorado Zurich
The vibrant city on the Limmat and Sihl rivers offers an impressive variety of running routes - from short jogs to long distances with plenty of elevation gain for those who like a challenge.
If you pass the centrally located Platzspitz, a loop through the National Museum is a must: Although running is not the main focus of the Swiss National Museum, you will find lots of exciting information about the Alpine country.
Cosy and winding alleyways in the old town between the Limmat and Bahnhofstrasse: while large parts of Zurich are ideal for running, the streets here are narrow and tranquil - perfect for loosening up your legs after a run and soaking up the atmosphere in one of the countless small cafés.
Life is pulsating just a few hundred meters away: People stream past the bustling Bahnhofstrasse in the heart of Zurich. Thanks to the excellent public transport network, the start and finish points for runners can be reached quickly and easily.
Quiet and central: the Chäferberg above Zurich offers impressive views of the city on Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps behind it. Between allotment gardens and wooded hills, countless running routes of all distances are waiting to be discovered.
Zurich's local mountain is the 870-metre-high Uetliberg in the west of the city. In front of it, the city center of the Alpine city with almost half a million inhabitants stretches all the way to Lake Zurich.
The Lindenhof is a historic square in the middle of Zurich's lively old town and offers a wonderful view of the city. A true oasis of peace and relaxation - and a popular meeting place for passionate chess players.
Frau Gerolds Garten is an urban beer garden in the middle of the trendy Zurich West district. Numerous running routes along the Limmat pass right by here sooner or later - a perfect spot to relax under the summer sun and chat with friends.
On Bahnhofstrasse, runners quickly feel like a colorful bird among the gold showcases and designer bags. While diamonds sparkle on the left and handbags cost more than an annual gym subscription on the right, you inevitably wonder whether you are making a fashion statement with a sweaty T-shirt and running shoes - or whether you just look out of place.
The contrasts could hardly be greater: Luxury is staged here, while you yourself are simply trying to reach the next intersection without window shopping.
The mountains of the Central Swiss Alps tower majestically behind the elongated Lake Zurich. They can be easily reached from Zurich in just under an hour - and open up an almost endless playground for [trail running](/trail running), mountain hiking and anyone who likes to head for the heights with running shoes or a hiking rucksack.
Running in Zurich
Zurich is a lively city with impressive surroundings. Between the glistening Lake Zurich, the nearby Alps and the varied districts in and around the city center, there are countless opportunities for morning or evening jogs - and of course longer runs too. There is also an active running community and a variety of running-related events, making Zurich a real hotspot for anyone who wants to do more than just wear their running shoes for a walk.
Sightseeing as a running tour
Jogging in Zurich is real multitasking for body and mind: While your legs rack up the kilometers, your eyes fill up on impressions - from historic alleyways and shimmering lakeside promenades to futuristic architecture. This combines training, sightseeing and fresh air in one - there's hardly a more efficient way to discover a city!
Jogging before a business meeting
In Zurich, the density of companies is high and schedules are full. Many business travelers only visit the city for short workshops or intensive meetings. This makes it all the more valuable to supplement your stay with a morning or evening run: an efficient way to clear your head, recharge your batteries and make the most of your short stay.
Zurich Marathon
The internationally renowned Zurich Marathon should of course not be missing from any running guide for Zurich. This major event has been held every April for many years and attracts thousands of runners and even more enthusiastic spectators. Most of the route runs along the northern shore of Lake Zurich - only the last few kilometers lead into the heart of the city.
Vitaparcours and fitness routes
If you want to cleverly combine running and full-body training, you will find what you are looking for on one of the numerous Vitaparcours around Zurich. These fitness trails usually lead through shady forests and offer various stations along the route for arm, leg, abdominal and back training - perfect for combining endurance and strength in a single session.
Zurich's local mountains
For a quick [trail running lap](/trail running) in between.
Impressions
Highlights
Whether you're out for a run or just for fun: you shouldn't miss these unique hotspots in Zurich.
Aussersihl Viaduct
If you look at the aerial photo on Wikipedia from around 1900, it's hard to believe that there would have been fields to the right and left of the viaduct, which is also popularly known as the Letten Viaduct. Nevertheless, today's conversion for pedestrians and cyclists has been a success and also allows runners to make rapid progress above the omnipresent Zurich traffic.
The Aussersihl Viaduct is best incorporated into your running route so that you can jog the entire distance from Neugasse to the end after crossing the Limmat. In between, there are repeated ascents and descents onto the roads below.
Cassiopeia bridge
There are only a few shoreline areas on Lake Zurich where you can walk or cycle directly along the lake. The stretch between Bürkliplatz and the beautifully situated campsite Fischer's Fritz is one of them - with the Cassiopeia footbridge as the highlight, as here we walk directly over the water.
Directly in front of it, you pass the Rote Fabrik, an alternative cultural center in a former factory building.
Schanzengrabenpromenade
Running in the middle of Zurich city center without bumping into anyone: this is sometimes possible early in the morning, while the usual rush hour battle takes place on the streets above. From the 16th century onwards, this was one of the moats used to fortify the city of Zurich - although certainly no one was thinking about athletic running laps back then.
Today, we can enjoy a bit of nature in the city center here - but be careful: while you can have your peace and quiet in the morning and evening, at lunchtime, when the weather is nice, huge numbers of people spend their lunch break here on the benches along the river. Jogging is then only possible in the style of an obstacle course.
Uetliberg
The Uetliberg - Zurich's very own local mountain - is a true paradise for runners. Just a few minutes from the city center, a green oasis opens up with well-developed trails that challenge heart and legs in equal measure. Whether it's crisp climbs for those who love altitude or gentle paths along the ridge - everyone will find the perfect route here.
Once you reach the top, the Uto Kulm rewards you not only with a spectacular view over Zurich, the lake and all the way to the Alps, but also with the great feeling of being at the top.
Travel Information: Zurich
Destination
Tourist information
In the main station
8001 Zürich
Current weather
Running stores
Running clubs
Outdoor and seaside resorts
Questions? Answers!
The best time of year to visit Zurich is spring or early summer. This is when the city is at its best: the parks are in bloom, the temperatures are pleasant and the cafés are full of life. Lake Zurich also invites you to linger, and the surrounding mountains are perfect for your first [trail running](/trail running) or hiking tours. In short: Zurich vibrates - without the heat stress or winter cold.
Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world - a stay is therefore not cheap. For a mid-range hotel, you can expect to pay around CHF 150 to 250 per night, while meals in restaurants can quickly cost CHF 20 to 50 per person. But if you plan cleverly, you can also save money: With a Zürich Card you get discounts on many attractions and free travel on public transport. There are also numerous beautiful parks, free city tours and swimming pools that cost nothing.
In short: Zurich is expensive, but with a little planning it's worth every penny!
Most of the runs take place in typical urban terrain. Special equipment is therefore not necessary here, only good running shoes and possibly a cell phone and credit card can be helpful in case of doubt to get back to the starting point by public transport or to go for a coffee afterwards.
For the trail running routes such as the Uetliberg, we recommend trail running shoes with a non-slip sole and, depending on the length of the route, a trail running rucksack for a light jacket and food.
You can find a selection of carefully selected route suggestions on beAnywhere, such as the 5km city run through Zurich, a sightseeing run via Chäferberg, Höngg and Limmat or the classic Uetliberg trail run.
You can find more running routes on the website of Zürich Tourism or in this blog post from the Zurich running shoe company On.
Zurich is a true runner's paradise - and you can often find the best routes right on your doorstep! Apps such as Strava or Outdooractive provide inspiration. What's particularly nice is that you can also simply go on a discovery tour yourself. Lake Zurich, the Limmat or the Uetliberg offer countless opportunities to put together your own perfect route. With a little curiosity, you are guaranteed to find your personal favorite route.
Definitely! Highlights include the Zurich Marathon, the New Year's Eve Run through the festively illuminated old town and the Greifensee Run just outside the city. From short fun runs to challenging (half) marathons - there's something for everyone here.
Ideal for short walks are the lakeside promenade, Platzspitzpark near the main railway station or the paths around the Zürichberg. Quickly accessible and beautiful! On our 5km running route through Zurich city center you don't even have to leave the city.
Absolutely! The Uetliberg is perfect for trail running beginners and advanced runners. The transition towards Felsenegg also offers great, varied trails with guaranteed panoramic views.
Zurich offers good running weather almost all year round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant. In summer it gets warm, but the proximity to water and forest ensures refreshment. In winter, you can often run your laps in cool, clear conditions - sometimes even with a bit of snow magic.