A Day of Artistic Delights and Oyster Indulgence in Zurich

Ah, Zürich! A city that often conjures images of immaculate banking halls and suspiciously punctual trains. But beneath that polished veneer lies a vibrant pulse of creativity, a treasure trove for the discerning art lover. And who better to guide you through it than yours truly, Inna Sezane, Haarlem's finest art critic, fuelled by strong coffee and an insatiable appetite for the sublime (and, of course, oysters)? So, grab your most comfortable walking shoes – we’re embarking on a single, glorious day of artistic exploration, punctuated by excellent caffeine and, naturally, some briny delights. It’s December 27th, 2025, and the air, while crisp, holds the promise of something truly special.

Danilo Capece

9:00 AM: The Kunsthaus Zürich – A Grand Overture We begin our day at the Kunsthaus Zürich, a venerable institution that’s anything but stuffy. Think of it as the grand dame of Swiss art, but with a surprisingly playful wink. The building itself is a masterpiece of architectural evolution, from its historic core to the sleek new Chipperfield extension.

Practical Info: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Wednesdays until 8:00 PM). Admission is CHF 22 (about €23). It’s easily accessible by tram from the city centre.

Local Insight: The Swiss have a particular fondness for their own artistic heritage, so expect a robust collection of Swiss masters like Ferdinand Hodler and Alberto Giacometti. Don’t shy away from them; they’re the bedrock upon which modern Swiss art is built.

Why it Matters: The Kunsthaus boasts an impressive breadth of art, from medieval treasures to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. You’ll find everything from Rembrandt’s soulful portraits to Monet’s shimmering water lilies, and a significant collection of Expressionist works. It’s the perfect place to calibrate your artistic senses for the day.

Making the Most of It: Don’t try to see everything. Pick a few galleries that pique your interest and linger. The Giacometti collection is particularly moving – his elongated figures seem to capture the very essence of human struggle and resilience. And if you find yourself near the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist rooms, allow yourself to be transported by the light and colour.

11:30 AM: Coffee Break & a Glimpse of the Old Town (Altstadt) After a stimulating morning, it’s time for a crucial refuel. We’ll wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the Altstadt, also known as the "Niederdorf." This is where Zürich truly reveals its medieval heart.

Practical Info: The Altstadt is best explored on foot. You can grab a coffee at any number of delightful cafes.

Local Insight: The Altstadt is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old buildings. It’s a place to get delightfully lost, where every corner might reveal a quirky boutique or a centuries-old fountain.

Why it Matters: While not a museum, the Altstadt is an open-air museum of architecture and urban life. It’s the perfect antidote to the focused intensity of gallery hopping, offering a chance to breathe and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

Making the Most of It: Find a small, independent cafe. Avoid the chains. Order a strong Kaffee Crème (a Swiss café au lait) and a Gipfeli (a croissant, but trust me, the Swiss version is a revelation). Sit by a window and watch the world go by. Resist the urge to rush; this is about savouring the moment.

1:00 PM: The Museum für Gestaltung – Where Design Meets Art Now, let’s shift gears to something a little more…designed. The Museum für Gestaltung (Museum of Design) is a gem for anyone interested in the visual language that shapes our world.

Practical Info: Located in multiple buildings, the main site is near the main train station. Check their website for current exhibitions and opening hours, as they can vary. Admission is typically around CHF 10-15 (about €11-16).

Local Insight: Swiss design is renowned for its precision, functionality, and aesthetic elegance. This museum celebrates that legacy, from iconic posters to groundbreaking furniture.

Why it Matters: This museum explores the intersection of art and everyday life. It’s a reminder that design is a powerful form of creative expression, influencing how we communicate, interact, and perceive the world around us. You'll see everything from graphic design to fashion and product design.

Making the Most of It: Don't just look at the objects; think about the stories they tell. How did this poster influence public opinion? What problem did this piece of furniture solve? Engage with the exhibits actively.

2:30 PM: Oyster Interlude – A Salty Interlude All this art and culture can be demanding, can’t it? It’s time for a proper indulgence. Zürich, surprisingly, has some excellent spots for oysters.

Practical Info: Seek out a reputable seafood restaurant or a dedicated oyster bar. Many high-end restaurants will have a good selection.

Local Insight: While Switzerland isn't on the coast, its sophisticated culinary scene means you can find incredibly fresh oysters, often flown in daily. Look for places that advertise their daily catch.

Why it Matters: Because life is too short for bad oysters and mediocre art! A perfectly shucked oyster, with a squeeze of lemon and a splash of mignonette, is a sensory explosion. It’s a moment of pure, unadulterated pleasure that complements the intellectual stimulation of the museums.

Making the Most of It: Order a mixed platter if you’re feeling adventurous. Ask your server for recommendations. And for the love of all that is holy, don’t drown them in ketchup. Savour the subtle minerality and the briny kiss of the ocean.

4:00 PM: The Cabaret Voltaire – Dada’s Playground From refined design to pure, unadulterated chaos. The Cabaret Voltaire is where Dadaism, that wonderfully nonsensical art movement, was born. It’s a pilgrimage site for anyone who appreciates art that dares to be absurd.

Practical Info: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Check their website for current events and opening hours, as it’s often a lively performance space. Admission can vary depending on events.

Local Insight: In the midst of World War I, artists and intellectuals gathered here to protest the madness of war through art that was deliberately irrational and provocative. It was a rebellion against logic and convention.

Why it Matters: The Cabaret Voltaire is a living testament to the power of art to challenge the status quo. It’s a place that reminds us that sometimes, the most profound statements come from embracing the ridiculous. You might find poetry readings, experimental theatre, or simply the echoes of revolutionary ideas.

Making the Most of It: Go with an open mind and a sense of humour. Don’t expect polished perfection; expect raw energy and intellectual provocation. If there’s a performance on, embrace the experience, even if you don’t understand it all. That’s the point!

6:00 PM: A Stroll Along Lake Zürich & Apéro As the afternoon light softens, we’ll head towards the shimmering expanse of Lake Zürich. A gentle stroll along its banks is the perfect way to digest the day’s artistic and culinary experiences.

Practical Info: The lake promenade is easily accessible from the city centre.

Local Insight: In summer, this is where everyone comes to swim and sunbathe. In winter, it’s a place for quiet contemplation and enjoying the crisp air. The views of the Alps on a clear day are breathtaking.

Why it Matters: It’s a moment of serene beauty, a visual palate cleanser before our evening’s culinary adventures. It reminds us that art can be found not just in galleries, but in the natural world as well.

Making the Most of It: Find a bench and simply watch the swans glide by. If you’re feeling peckish again (a distinct possibility), find a lakeside bar for an Apéro. A glass of local Swiss wine or a refreshing beer is in order.

8:00 PM: Dinner – A Taste of Swiss Sophistication (and perhaps more oysters?) For our final act, we’ll indulge in a truly memorable dinner. Zürich offers a spectrum of culinary experiences, but for a connoisseur, it’s about finding that perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

Practical Info: Zürich has everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy traditional eateries. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on a Friday night.

Local Insight: While fondue and raclette are iconic, don’t limit yourself. Zürich’s restaurants are increasingly embracing international influences and modern interpretations of Swiss cuisine.

Why it Matters: Food is an art form, isn’t it? A beautifully presented dish, with perfectly balanced flavours, can be as satisfying as a masterpiece on canvas. It’s the culmination of our day’s sensory journey.

Making the Most of It: Consider a restaurant that focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients. And if the oyster menu is still calling your name, I wouldn’t judge. Perhaps a perfectly cooked Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal in cream sauce) for a taste of local tradition, followed by a decadent chocolate dessert.

And so, my dear friend, our day in Zürich concludes. From the solemn grandeur of the Kunsthaus to the anarchic spirit of the Cabaret Voltaire, from the quiet beauty of the lake to the exquisite pleasure of a perfectly shucked oyster, Zürich offers a symphony of experiences for the discerning art lover. Go forth, explore, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious, art-filled moment. Until next time, and with a toast to great art and even better oysters!