Rooftops in Switzerland: Zurich seen from above
A small country at the heart of the Alps
A federal state in Central Europe made up of 26 cantons, Switzerland has a little over 9 million inhabitants across 41,285 square kilometres. Landlocked, it borders Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Italy and France; Bern serves as its capital. Four national languages coexist: German, spoken by the majority of the population, French, Italian and Romansh.
The Alps cover almost two thirds of the territory, making Switzerland the most mountainous country in Western Europe. The highest peaks, above 4,000 metres, rise in the Bernese Alps, the Valais Alps and in Graubünden, such as the Matterhorn, which reaches 4,478 metres near Zermatt. Between the Jura and the Alps, the Swiss Plateau, home to the country's largest lakes, is where most of the population and economic activity is concentrated.
Why head up to the rooftops
In a country where mountains and lakes shape every horizon, a terrace up high is the best way to take in the landscape at a glance: the spires and roofs of an old town, a lake where boats glide by, and the mountains in the distance when the sky is clear. In fine weather, people happily take their aperitif outdoors, and the sunset is best enjoyed with a glass in hand.
Zurich, the first stop
The country's largest city
Zurich, the most populous city in Switzerland and a major financial centre, lies at the northern end of the lake that bears its name, where the Limmat flows out of the lake. On its rooftops you will find bars and restaurants at the top of department stores and buildings on the Bahnhofstrasse, hotel terraces facing the old town or the lake, a panoramic bar in an observatory tower and, in Zürich-West, a restaurant on the 35th floor of the Prime Tower.
An open-air season
Several rooftop terraces only open in the warmer months, from spring to autumn, and close during the winter. Other venues have glazed dining rooms and welcome guests all year round, with the view as a bonus, even when the weather does not allow you to sit outside.
Practical tips
Prices, bookings and weather
Prices are displayed in Swiss francs: on Zurich's rooftops, a cocktail usually costs between CHF 17 and 25. Book when possible, especially for dinner and at weekends; some bars do not take reservations and seat guests in order of arrival. The terraces depend on the weather: check opening hours before you go and bring a light jumper for the evening.
