Discover Zurich Old Town with Kids: Dragons, Romans & Hidden Alleys

When kids think of Zurich, they probably picture the zoo or the lakeside playgrounds. But the old town of Zurich is a real adventure — full of secrets that go back 2000 years. Here's how to explore the old town with kids in a way that's both fun and educational.

The Lindenhof: Zurich's secret viewpoint

High above the Limmat lies the Lindenhof — a quiet square shaded by old linden trees, with sweeping views across the entire old town. Kids love the coin-operated binoculars and the giant stone chessboard. What many don't know: 2000 years ago, the Romans built a fort here called "Turicum" — the origin of the name Zurich!

Family tip: The climb up the stairs from Rennweg is steep but short. At the top you'll find benches, shade and a fantastic view — perfect for a break.

The largest church clock in Europe

Kids are amazed when they learn that St. Peter's Church in Zurich has the largest clock face in Europe. With a diameter of 8.7 metres, the clock is so large you can see it even from Lake Zurich. The minute hand is nearly 4 metres long — longer than most kids (and grown-ups)!

Fun fact: In the past, a fire watchman lived in the tower and looked out for fires. If he saw smoke, he rang the bell to warn the city.

The Grossmünster: Where the dragons live

The Grossmünster with its two iconic towers is THE landmark of Zurich. For kids, the legend is the most exciting part: Charlemagne is said to have discovered the graves of the city's patron saints Felix and Regula here. And old stories tell of a dragon who lived in the tower and protected the city!

For a small fee, you can climb one of the towers and enjoy the view. Doable for kids from age 6, but it's a steep climb.

The Niederdorf: Zurich's most colourful alley

The Niederdorf is Zurich's most famous old town alley and a hit with kids. Colourful houses, small shops, street performers and ice cream parlours turn every walk into an adventure. Best visited on weekdays when it's less crowded.

The Rathaus: Built right over the river!

Kids are stunned when they hear that Zurich's town hall stands on pillars in the middle of the Limmat river. Long ago, boats could row right underneath it! The ornate blue-and-gold facade with its decorated windows impresses both young and old.

Discover the old town playfully: the "Dragon of the Grossmünster" puzzle tour

If you want to experience the old town in a particularly exciting way, try our "Dragon of the Grossmünster" puzzle tour. The little dragon DRAGO leads your kids through 9 stations — from Lindenhof down the Schipfe, through the Augustinergasse and Niederdorf, all the way to the Grossmünster and the Wasserkirche. At each station there's a riddle to solve and a letter to collect. Designed for families with children aged 6 to 10.

The tour runs entirely in your browser (no app download required), uses GPS navigation and costs CHF 29 for the whole group (up to 6 people). Also available as a personalised birthday edition!

Explore the old town tour