What’s On in Zurich Early to Mid July 2026
Wishing you a great weekend ahead! There is plenty on in the city from open air Music Festivals to Open Air Cinemas and lots more. In fact the biggest one, the Allianz Open Air Cinema has just opened at Zurichhorn. The FREE RundfunkFM festival opened on 16th July and the Art In the Park continues at the Baur au Lac Zurich till 22nd July. The Palm 3 has just opened at the Kongresshaus and Soluna Beach Club finishes this weekend on 18th July, as does the Montreux Jazz Festival. ZUGMagic continues till 26th July and if you’re looking for one of the best dining cruise experiences why not book the luxurious steamboat lunch cruise with the Legends of Lucerne?
In Basel, the Basel Tattoo is on from 17th – 25th July and in Gstaad the Menuhin Festival has just opened with lots of great musical concerts. The World Cup final is on Sunday! Why not visit to a rooftop bar ? Or a restaurant with an outdoor terrace ? Or maybe enjoy a great ice cream? Or maybe a cup of Matcha? If you need some inspiration for 50 day trips from Zurich take a look here. Lots more events and exhibitions listed below. Have fun whatever you do!
Fire and Grill Ban
Please note the Fire Ban that has been introduced by Stadt Zurich from 10am on Friday 17th July.
Explore Zurich and Beyond
50 Best Day Trips From Zurich
It’s the perfect time to explore Switzerland from Zurich – check out our guide to the 50 Best Day trips here.
- For locations 2 hours or more from Zurich take a look here.
- 31 ideas for excursions from Zurich.
- 31 ideas and activities for children and teenagers
- Ideas for trips further afield in Switzerland (2 hours or more away)
- For cloudy or rainy days in Zurich, some ideas and for wet weather here.
EVENT LISTINGS
Things To Do in Zurich Mid to End July 2026
ALLIANZ OPEN AIR CINEMA ZÜRICHHORN 16th JULY – 16th AUGUST: A great place to watch your open air cinema right by the lake at Zürichhorn – see the selection of films and the food offerings for 2026. See all the details here.
MENUHIN FESTIVAL GSTAAD 16th JULY – 5th SEPTEMBER: Celebrate 70 years of one of Switzerland’s most prestigious classical music festivals as the Menuhin Festival returns to Gstaad. The festival offers a varied program of world-renowned orchestras, internationally acclaimed soloists, intimate church concerts and spectacular performances. All set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re a classical music lover or just want an unforgettable summer experience, this is one festival not to miss. See all the details here.
THE PALM 3 SUMMER POP‑UP AT THE LUX TILL 15th AUGUST: Get ready for more summer vibes! From 15th July – 15th August, the popular Palm 3 pop‑up is on at the Lux Restaurant & Bar on the Kongresshaus terrace. With palm trees, lake views and a chilled party atmosphere it is the perfect place for sundowners or an evening out with friends. LUX Restaurant Zurich, Claridenstrasse 3, 8001 Zurich. See all the details here.
REEDS FESTIVAL ON PFÄFFIKERSEE 17th –19th JULY: One of Zurich’s biggest reggae, ska and world music festivals returns this summer with three days of live music, DJs, street food and a relaxed lakeside atmosphere. A great summer weekend for music lovers. More details.
D’OPENAIR IM DYNAMO 18th JULY: Cool off by the Limmat at Dynamo’s popular summer event with music, riverside lounging and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect if you’re looking for a laid-back Saturday in Zurich. From 3pm – 11pm, Free entry. Address: Wasserwerkstrasse 21, Zurich.
BASEL TATTOO 17th – 25th JULY: Don’t miss the magnificent Basel Tattoo taking place in Basel from 17th – 25th July. See all the details here.
MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL ENDS 18TH JULY: The 60th Montreux Jazz Festival on the beautiful shores of Lake Geneva with an incredible line-up has been featuring international stars including Sting, Lewis Capaldi, RAYE, Deep Purple, John Legend, Nick Cave, Van Morrison and many more. As well as ticketed concerts, you can enjoy hundreds of free performances, lakeside bars, food stalls, DJ sets and a fantastic festival atmosphere. It ends on 18th July. See all the details here.
FESTIVAL DA JAZZ 2025 – ST. MORITZ 17th – 26th JULY: Another great music event is on in St Moritz from 17th – 26th July in St Moritz. The Festival da Jazz brings international stars and rising talents to the alpine town. Head here for breathtaking mountain views and great jazz. More information on this and other music festivals here.
SPORT SHOP TIMEOUT SUMMER SALE UNTIL 18th JULY: Sport Shop Time Out in Uster has some great deals in its Summer Sale! So why not head down to Pfäffikerstrasse 30, 8610 USTER to check it out! Don’t miss!
SOLUNA BEACH CLUB ZURICH UNTIL 19th JULY: Looking for a summer beach club hangout by Lake Zurich? Head to Soluna Urban Beach Club at Tiefenbrunnen for beach vibes, DJs, sunset drinks, delicious pizza and plenty of opportunities to dance the night away. Relax by the water during the day or enjoy one of the many themed evenings and live music events as the sun goes down – the perfect summer escape in the city. The Beach Club area is adults only, 18+. Address: Soluna Urban Beach Club, Bellerivestrasse 264, 8008 Zürich. See all the details here.
CIVILIZATION – OUR LIFE IN FOCUS ENDS 19th JULY: A fascinating photography exhibition is taking place at the Museum für Gestaltung Zürich, exploring how we live today and the impact humans have on the planet. The exhibition presents both the achievements and the darker sides of contemporary life through artistic and documentary photography, revealing how modern civilisation has transformed landscapes, cities and everyday life across the globe. Ends19th July at the Museum für Gestaltung Zürich, Ausstellungsstrasse 60, 8005 Zurich. See details here.
WHERE TO WATCH THE FIFA FOOTBALL MEN’S WORLD CUP 2026: Don’t forget the Word Cup Final takes place this Sunday 19th July – take a look here to see our full guide on where to watch it.
ZURICH – ART IN THE PARK XXIV ENDS 22ND JULY: The beautiful park of the Baur au Lac once again becomes an open-air gallery for Art in the Park XXIV. Considered one of Zurich’s cultural highlights and an internationally acclaimed prelude to Art Basel, the exhibition brings together established and emerging voices in contemporary art in a unique lakeside setting. This year’s edition shines a spotlight on Norwegian artist Ida Ekblad, whose colourful and expressive works are inspired by movement, spontaneity and poetic energy. Best of all, entry is free. For more details see here.
STADTSOMMER ZÜRICH 17th–25th JULY: Free live concerts return to parks and open-air venues across Zurich as part of Stadtsommer. Everything from indie and electronic music to singer-songwriters in beautiful summer locations throughout the city. These are always popular – and completely free! Find out more about these and other Open Air concerts here.
(FREE) SUMMER CONCERTS AT BÄCKERANLAGE ON THURSDAYS UNTIL 23rd JULY: Free concerts take place at Bäckeranlage in Zurich on Thursdays. See details here.
(FREE) ZUGMAGIC WATER LIGHT SHOW ON NOW UNTIL 26th JULY: Experience one of Switzerland’s most spectacular FREE summer events. Zug Magic combines water fountains, light projections, music and storytelling into a breathtaking evening show on Lake Zug that attracts thousands of visitors each year. it takes place at Landsgemeindeplatz, along the promenade in Zug. See all the details here.
FILMFLUSS OPEN-AIR CINEMA UNTIL 26th JULY: One of Zurich’s favourite summer traditions returns to the Badi Unterer Letten. Watch great films beside the River Limmat under the stars while enjoying food, drinks and one of the city’s most atmospheric open-air cinema settings. Address: Badi Unterer Letten, Wasserwerkstrasse 141, 8037 Zürich. See more information on Open Air Cinema in Zurich here.
FERRIS WHEEL RAPPERSWIL UNTIL 26th JULY: See Rapperswil from a whole new perspective! The giant Ferris Wheel on the lakeside offers spectacular panoramic views over Lake Zurich, the Old Town and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for families, couples and photographers.At Hafenbereich, 8640 Rapperswil-Jona
FIRE ON THE ROCKS 31st JULY RHINEFALLS: Don’t miss this spectacular event which takes place just once a year on 31st July when the Rhine Falls are illuminated with fireworks. Read all about it here.
HUNDSTAGE IN DER MÜHLE UNTIL 31st JULY: Looking for a relaxed summer evening in Zurich? Head to the beautiful courtyard at Mühle Tiefenbrunnen for Hundstage – a free series of Thursday author readings and Friday live concerts. Enjoy food, drinks and a wonderful open-air atmosphere from 6pm onwards. At Mühle Tiefenbrunnen, Seefeldstrasse 219–233, 8008 Zürich. More details here.
SWISS NATIONAL DAY FARMER’S BRUNCHES 1st AUGUST: Why not experience a Farmer’s Brunch on Swiss National Day? See all the details here.
SWISS NATIONAL DAY 1st AUGUST: More ideas on things to see and do in Zurich and beyond to celebrate Swiss National Day – take a look here.
LA TAVOLATA DES VINS DU VALAIS 1st – 31st AUGUST: Wine and dine under the open skies in a vineyard or beautiful location in selected places all over Switzerland from 1st – 31st August. There is even a Tavolata taking place in Zurich on 27th, 28th and 29th August too. Find out all about these great events here.
SUMMER OPEN AIR CINEMAS IN ZURICH: The Summer Open Air Cinema Season is in full swing. See the details here.
LULU STREET PARADE TERRACE PARTY TICKETS NOW ON SALE: Watch Street Parade from one of Zurich’s most sought-after locations with a ticket to Chez Lulu’s private terrace at the Opernhaus. Enjoy unbeatable parade views, a lively atmosphere, a BBQ grill station, a special à la carte menu and drinks available to purchase throughout the day. Tickets are CHF 80 per person and include access to the terrace with both seating and standing areas. The party takes place whatever the weather, making it a great option if you’re looking for a more relaxed Street Parade experience away from the crowds. Address: Lulu Restaurant, Sechseläutenplatz 1, 8001 Zürich. Get your tickets here. Find out more about Street Parade here. 
AMERON BELLERIVE STREET PARADE DAY RAVE TICKETS NOW ON SALE: Experience the Street Parade from one of Zurich’s most exclusive lakeside vantage points at the AMERON Zürich Bellerive au Lac. Enjoy front-row views of the Love Mobiles, a welcome drink, an extensive buffet, live DJ sets by Pure Glow Radio, access to the hotel’s private terrace and plenty of Glow-themed surprises throughout the afternoon. The Day Rave runs from 13:00–21:00 and tickets cost CHF 175. Address: AMERON Zürich Bellerive au Lac, Utoquai 47, 8008 Zürich. Get your tickets here. Find out more about Street Parade here.
KUNSTHAUS: MARISOL NOW UNTIL 23rd AUG: New exhibition at the Kunsthaus. Big, bold, and slightly surreal. Marisol’s sculptural figures stare back – somewhere between pop art and quiet chaos. Worth lingering longer than you planned. Address: Heimplatz 1, 8001 Zürich. Find out more about the Kunsthaus here.
EXHIBITION: WAR AND SWITZERLAND AT LANDESMUSEUM: An exhibition at the Landesmuseum Zürich explores how warfare has shaped Switzerland from the late Middle Ages to today. From founding myths like the Rütli Oath to internal conflicts and the lasting impact of the Second World War, the exhibition brings together objects, documents and multimedia installations to offer a thought-provoking look at Switzerland’s relationship with war and neutrality. See all the details here.
STREET PARADE 2026 SATURDAY 8th AUGUST: Don’t miss Street Parade 2026! Taking place on 8th August there will be music, dancing and merriment from 1pm till very late. A couple of great places to watch it from are the AMERON in Zurich and LULU on Sechseläutenplatz. Read all about Street Parade 2026 here.
COOL DOWN AT THE BEACH CLUB AT THE HERMITAGE LUCERNE: Escape the heat and chill! Why not head down to Lucerne for a relaxing day at the beautiful Beach Club at the Hotel Hermitage in Lucerne? You can book a fantastic Day Bed Package with drinks and food – or alternatively just show up and head to the lakeside for a delicious meal directly on the water. It’s the perfect place to chill! Open daily (weather permitting) from 2pm weekdays and 12 noon at the weekends. See all the details here.
FLOAT DOWN THE LIMMAT AND KEEP COOL: Why not keep cool by floating down the Limmat ? All you need to know here.
BESTSELLING AUTHOR WILLIAM PAUL YOUNG IN ZURICH 17th AUGUST: Meet William Paul Young, author of the global bestseller The Shack, at an exclusive evening in Zurich. Enjoy an inspiring talk, an exclusive preview of his new book Return to the Shack before its worldwide release, plus a live Q&A. 17:30–19:30. In English. CHF 60. Hiltl Academy, Sihlstrasse 28, 8001 Zurich. See details here.
TOP ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS ZURICH : Check out these great rooftop restaurants and bars in Zurich. Perfect for a meal or a drink with a stunning views. See the list here.
RESTAURANTS WITH OUTDOOR TERRACES: Check out our list of restaurants with great outdoor terraces (we will be adding more to this all summer). Take a look here.
BADI SEASON: When the sun shines, there’s nothing better than going to the Badi. Check out this list of great Badis.
THE HIKING SEASON IS ON – 6 GREAT CIRCULAR HIKES: Check out these 6 great circular hikes not far from Zurich. See all the details here.
MAGIC PASS – MOUNTAIN PASS: If you love exploring the mountains in Summer and skiing in winter, don’t miss the Magic Pass which gives access to over 110 resorts in Switzerland, France and Italy it offers a full year of mountain access at very reasonable prices. Please note, however that the pricing increases in stages so the earlier you buy it, the cheaper it is. See all the details here.
SUMMER OPEN AIR MUSIC FESTIVALS SWITZERLAND: Check out our guide to Summer open air music festivals in Switzerland here.
CLASSIC CAR AND OLDTIMER FESTIVALS SWITZERLAND 2026: Check out these great Classic Car Festivals taking place all over Switzerland this summer. See all the details here.
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New In Zurich – Welcome!
Guide For The Newly Arrived in Zurich
If you have recently arrived in Zurich we have updated our Guide for people who are “New in Zurich”with all the key information you need when you arrive in Switzerland – take a look here.
Comprehensive guide for newcomers.
Check out our other top tips for newcomers here.
If you’re planning to leave Zurich take a look here.
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LEGENDS OF LAKE LUCERNE ON NOW UNTIL 15TH SEPTEMBER: If you’re looking for a truly special Swiss experience, Legends of Lake Lucerne is a five-hour luxury cruise aboard the historic paddle steamer Gallia. Limited to just 65 guests, the experience includes a regional five-course gourmet menu, free-flowing wine, champagne and soft drinks, fascinating storytelling about Lake Lucerne and its steamship history, and spectacular Alpine scenery throughout the journey. See all the details here.
ZURICH OPERA HOUSE PERFORMANCES: Check out the latest performances at Zurich Opera House here.
A PICTURESQUE HIKE ALONG THE WALENSEE: How about a beautiful Spring hike along the Walensee? Check out this picturesque hike from Wessen to Quinten here.
WHY NOT VISIT SOLOTHURN:? Solothurn is the most Baroque town in the whole of Switzerland and definitely worth a visit. Read all about it here.
LOOKING FOR A GREAT SUMMER READ? BEATRICE LESSI EXTREME ADVENTURES: Beatrice Lessi from Zurich has just published her new book Extreme Adventures and it’s a page turner! Get yours here for a great summer read!
INTERVIEW WITH DORIAN EICHHOLZER ROM THE SEEÜBERQUERUNG: Read our interview with Dorian Eichholzer who helps organize the Seeüberquerung Swim across the lake. Take a look here.
FOOD IN ZURICH AND BEYOND
BEST BURGERS IN ZURICH: We’ve updated our burger list – check it out here.
BEST CAFÉS IN ZURICH – UPDATED GUIDE: Check out our guide to some of the top cafés in Zurich. See our suggested cafés here.
TOP 12 MATCHA SPOTS IN ZURICH: Take a look at our guide to the top Matcha Spots in Zurich here.
REMISE ROSA URBAN GARDEN ZURICH: Just opened this summer, the new Remise Rosa urban garden not far from Hardbrücke is a great place to go for a relaxed drink or to eat out with friends. See all the details here.
LOOKING FOR A GREAT BAR IN ZURICH? Zurich has a vibrant bar scene – so if you’re looking for somewhere great to go for a drink, take a look here and check out our guide.
TOP ICE CREAM SPOTS IN ZURICH: Check out these awesome places for ices in Zurich.
FOOD & RESTAURANT GUIDE: Check out our Food and Restaurant Guide for more suggestions here.
MICAS GARTEN OPEN UNTIL 3rd OCTOBER 2026: One of Zurich’s most beloved summer hangouts is now open for the summer with food stalls, bars, music and a relaxed garden atmosphere. Perfect for after-work drinks or weekend lounging. Until 3rd October. See all the details here.
EXPLORE THE ALTSTADT IN ZURICH: If you’ve got visitors over, or you simply want to explore Zurich for yourself, why not spend a couple of hours of so in the beautiful old town in Zurich. Find out more here.
MUSIC AND JAZZ AT RANK ZURICH: See details of the upcoming music and entertainment at Rank Zurich.Take a look here.
TONHALLE ZURICH: See what’s on at the Tonhalle Zurich. See their latest program here.
INTERNATIONAL COMEDY CLUB IN ZURICH: The International Comedy Club Zurich has lots of new Stand Up events coming soon. Take a look here.
THINGS TO DO ON A RAINY DAY IN ZURICH: There’s plenty to do on a rainy or cloudy day in and around Zurich. Take a look here.
NEW IN ZURICH? NEW IN SWITZERLAND?
==>> SEE OUR NEWLY UPDATED GUIDE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE NEW IN ZURICH HERE
MORE TIPS FOR NEWCOMERS: See our our top tips for newcomers here as well as some more tips to help you feel at home here.
FIND OUT ALL ABOUT PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN ZURICH HERE: Tips on the different public transport options and types of tickets available in Zurich. Read the details here.
LANDQUART SHOPPING OUTLET OPEN SUNDAYS: Struggling to go shopping for more than basics on a Sunday, why not head to Landquart Fashion Outlet (open 363 days a year) see details here.
SHARED LAUNDRY FACILITIES: Find yourself sharing laundry facilities in your new apartment? Find out all about this Swiss phenomenon here.
WHERE TO SELL ONLINE IN SWITZERLAND: Find out where you can sell stuff online in Switzerland here.
SPEEDING FINES IN SWITZERLAND: Things you need to know about Speeding in Switzerland. Read the article here.
EXCHANGING YOUR DRIVING LICENCE: As soon as you arrive in Switzerland and receive your Ausweis, you should make arrangement to exchange your driving licence. See all the steps you need to undertake here.
RECOMMENDED HAIRDRESSERS: See our list of recommended hairdressers in Zurich here.
TRANSITIONING TO SWITZERLAND WITH CHILDREN: Top tips when transitioning to Switzerland with children. Read the article here.
NEWINZURICH READER OFFERS:
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