Stroll through the serene Chinese Garden in Zurich
Zurich is famous for its spotless streets, world-class banking, and breathtaking alpine views. But, just steps from Lake Zurich is something unexpected—a Chinese temple garden. Yes, that’s right.
Think of pavilions, koi ponds, and a peaceful vibe that makes you feel like you’re in another world. The Chinese Garden in Zurich isn’t just a hidden gem. It was a gift from Zurich’s sister city, Kunming.
Looking for a place to wander or relax and an extra moment of silence? This lakeside deserves a spot on your itinerary while in Zurich.
Where is the Chinese Garden?
The Chinese Garden is situated in the Seefeld District, adjacent to the lake at Bellerivestrasse 138. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Zurichhorn and the Promenade. It’s bordered by Lake Zurich to the south, Zurichhorn Park to the east, and the Seefeld residential area to the north.
What is the main landmark near the Chinese Garden?
The main landmark near the Chinese Garden is Zurichhorn Park. It’s a favourite place to go among locals and tourists for lazy days or simply strolling around. There are spaces for picnics, cafes, and a boat dock where you can go on a lake cruise.
How to get to the Chinese Garden
By Foot: From Bellevue Square, exit toward Sechseläutenplatz and turn right onto the Lake Promenade (Uferstrasse). Walk east for 20 minutes, passing Café Odeon and the Limmat River outlet. The Chinese Garden will be on your right, just after the Seeufer restaurant.
By Tram: From Bellevue Square, take tram line 2 toward Tiefenbrunnen or line 4 toward Zürich Flughafen. Ride for 3 to 4 stops and get off at Chinagarten. Cross the street, and you’ll see the Chinese Garden entrance directly ahead.
By Train: From outside Zürich, arrive at Stadelhofen station. Exit toward Forchstrasse, then turn right onto Lake Promenade and the lakeside bike path. Walk straight for 10 minutes, passing the Zürichhorn park area. The garden should be on your left.
By Car: Drive toward Bellerivestrasse or Seefeldstrasse, which run parallel to the lake near the Chinese Garden. There are paid parking options available for you: Parkhaus Zürichhorn (underground parking at Bellerivestrasse 138) and Parkplatz Zürichhorn (an open-air lot located along Bellerivestrasse).
By Bike: Follow the lakeside bike path (Uferstrasse/Limmatquai) from Bellevue or Stadelhofen. Along the way, you’ll pass by Café des Amis and Bicycle Café. Then, you’ll reach the Zürichhorn park area.
Things to Do Near the Chinese Garden
Walk around Zurichhorn Park
Address: Bellerivestrasse 170, 8008
Contact Details: +41 44 412 11 11 (City Parks office)
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Pricing: Free
A few steps away from the garden is the Zurichhorn Park, which is one of the most loved areas in the city. Locals come here to unwind—picnics on the grass, walking along the lake, or renting pedalos for a fun-filled boat ride.
During the summer, Zurichhorn attractions are the most sought-after activities. This includes the outdoor cinema in Zurich that’s free for all. Who wouldn’t want to watch a movie that you don’t have to pay for and under the stars?
There’s plenty of space for kids to play and run around, with shaded paths if you want to take a stroll, and an incredible lake view when lounging. Some have said that it’s one of the most beautiful and tranquil spots in the area.
Take a stroll at Lake Zurich Promenade
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Address: Mythenquai 333
Contact Details: +41 44 487 13 33
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Pricing: Free
If you’re in the mood for a scenic stroll, the Lake Zurich Promenade is one of the best places to go. This lakeside path, located from Burkiplatz to Zurichhorn, offers guests a continuous view of the stunning Alps.
It’s a favourite even for locals who jog or walk their dogs in the area. Along the way, you’ll pass by famous architecture like the Pavillon Le Corbusier, making it an easy but engaging route for Zurich walking tours.
Travellers often praise the area, saying that “the walk along the lake is the highlight.” People love Lake Zurich for its peaceful and tranquil vibe, along with the occasional sightings of swans and sailboats on the horizon.
Explore art at Pavillon Le Corbusier
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Website: https://pavillon-le-corbusier.ch/en
Address: Hoschgasse 8, 8008
Contact Details: +41 43 446 67 67
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 8:00 PM
- Monday: closed
Pricing: ₣
Just a few minutes’ walk from the Chinese Garden is the Pavillon Le Corbusier, an art museum that’s frequently visited by locals and tourists. It’s the last project designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier.
The outside already screams of creativity, with all the colourful panels and geometric style of the building. Once you get inside, you’ll see exhibitions on design, different art, and models that reflect Corbusier’s creative mind.
Pavillon Le Corbusier offers reduced admission fees (from CHF 15 to CHF 10) for students, seniors, apprentices, and people with disabilities. They also offer free admission every Thursday at 5:00 PM.
Stand-up Paddle on Lake Zurich
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Address: Bachstrasse 7, 8038
Contact Details: +41 44 451 90 90
Operating Hours:
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Pricing: ₣₣
In Lake Zurich, a company known as Supkultur lets locals and tourists try an activity that’s one for the books: stand-up paddleboarding. Prices vary from CHF 30 to CHF 35 per hour.
Paddleboarding is one of Lake Zurich’s fastest-growing water sports, and for good reason. It’s relaxing and allows full-body fitness for everyone. Beginners can easily learn how to paddleboard within minutes, while pros can cruise around with no assistance.
On a day trip, you’ll be able to see swimmers, yachts, and locals going on a picnic on the lakeside. You can also go moonlight paddling. These are events hosted by the staff that allow you to experience the beauty of the lake after dark.
Where to Eat near the Chinese Garden
Restaurant Bar Miracle
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Website: http://www.miracle-seefeld.ch/
Address: Fröhlichstrasse 37, 8008
Contact Details: +41 44 382 20 05
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 5:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Pricing: ₣₣
Restaurant Bar Miracle is a low-key local favourite known for their thin-crust pizza. Regulars appreciate how the pizza is crisp and light. The place isn’t that big, but crowds are drawn in by the food and the vibe.
Their menu extends beyond pizza as well. They also serve homemade pasta, as well as seasonal specials like octopus salad and truffle fettuccine.
The interior of the place has a chill that you’ll love. Wooden tables, soft lighting, and the aroma of garlic from the kitchen create a homey ambience that makes slow dinners more enjoyable.
Some guests say that Restaurant Bar Miracle “feels like your favourite neighbourhood spot, even if it’s your first time here.”
Blindekuh Zurich
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Website: https://www.blindekuh.ch/
Address: Mühlebachstrasse 148, 8008
Contact Details: +41 44 421 50 50
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM: Tuesday to Saturday
- Sunday: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM: Sunday
- Monday: Closed, but is available for group bookings
Pricing: ₣₣₣
Fun fact: Blindekuh means “blind cow” in German, named after an old children’s game. However, the restaurant offers a more heartwarming revelation regarding the restaurant name: it’s run by visually impaired staff.
You dine in darkness—meaning no phones, no smart watches, no candles. The concept is simple but has a powerful message for everyone. When you dine in the Blindekuh, you step into a dark room guided by your server, and then the experience begins.
All dishes become a guessing game for guests, and most diners say that it’s surprising how much sharper and more flavorful the food becomes because of the setup. Others describe the experience as disorienting but exciting at the same time.
Ristorante Amalfi
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Website: https://www.bindella.ch/gastronomie/amalfi
Address: Mainaustrasse 23, 8008
Contact Details: +41 43 497 96 86
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: closed
Pricing: ₣₣₣
Amalfi is a family-run restaurant that has been in operation since 1970. Housed in a cosy setting, they’re known for serving authentic Campanian and Southern Italian dishes—veal cutlets, homemade gnocchi, and seafood salads.
Locals and regulars of the restaurant love the signature meal “Spaghetti alle vongole” (spaghetti with clams), because of the rich flavours and fresh ingredients used. Other highlights include grilled branzino, truffle tagliolini, and “Saltimbocca”.
Their wine list is also a big part of the overall experience. They have a wide selection of southern Italian reds and whites, including vintage series from their vineyard in Tuscany. You’ll also find Aperol spritzes, Negronis, and espresso martinis on the menu.
Backerei Hug Seefeld
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Website: https://filialen.baeckerei-hug.ch/
Address: Tramhaltestelle Schaffhauserplatz, Schaffhauserpl. 3, 8006
Contact Details: +041 259 00 00
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Pricing: ₣₣₣
Just a short stroll from the Chinese Garden, Backerei Hug is a neighbourhood gem that’s loved by locals. Their place smells like freshly baked bread and pastries–golden croissants, nutty rye loaves, and buttery quiches.
They are part of the well-known Hug family bakery group, a Swiss institution that has been baking since 1877. Fresh goods are delivered to the restaurant from the original Lucerne Bakery location, offering top-quality bread and other staples.
As with drinks, they serve strong Swiss coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, and iced drinks. Discounts are also available for bringing a reusable cup—a great way to promote an eco-friendly movement.