Shopping in Zurich

Zurich does not have a single “shopping district.” Instead, shopping is spread across three key zones: the Zurich Main Station area (Zürich HB), where underground and street-level shopping fits naturally into travel days; the city center and Bahnhofstrasse, a classic shopping street with department stores; and large shopping centers outside the historic core, built for longer visits and family comfort.

These areas are well connected by public transport. Still, the Itinerary Expert recommends renting a car if you’re traveling as a family-especially if you plan to visit larger malls outside the center or expect to shop with bags and strollers.

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ShopVille is a two-level underground shopping complex directly beneath Zurich’s main station, open 365 days a year, including Sundays and public holidays. For families, this is one of the most practical shopping spots in the city.

You’ll find supermarkets, pharmacies, clothing stores, bookstores, souvenirs, cafés, and fast food-all in one compact area. It’s especially useful on arrival or departure days, during bad weather, or when you’re waiting for a train connection.

Plan 1.5-2 hours if you want to combine a food break with basic shopping and a calmer pace. Public toilets at the station cost CHF 1.50, and lockers are available, though prices vary by size and duration.

Navigation can feel confusing underground, and peak hours bring crowds. Late evenings and weekends may also feel less comfortable in the surrounding outdoor areas, which is worth considering when traveling with children.

This bold orange-and-black handbag instantly caught my eye – it looks like a piece of modern art, not just an accessory.

Bahnhofstrasse runs directly from Zurich Main Station toward Lake Zurich and is the city’s most famous shopping street. While it’s known for luxury boutiques, the street is more mixed than many expect.

Closer to the station, you’ll find mid-range fashion, large department stores, and practical shopping options. Further toward the lake, the focus shifts toward luxury brands and flagship stores.

If you’re shopping with family, department stores are often the easiest entry point: Jelmoli offers a broad range for men, women, and children; Manor tends to feel more accessible for souvenirs and cosmetics; Globus leans higher-end, including food sections.

A 2-3 hour walk with browsing, a coffee stop, and short breaks works well for families. The main limitation is that this area can be less engaging for younger children, and it’s not ideal for strollers during peak times.

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Sihlcity – Is it the most family-friendly mall?

Sihlcity is one of Zurich’s largest shopping and leisure complexes, created on the site of a former industrial area. It combines retail, restaurants, a cinema, and indoor play areas, which makes it a strong choice for families.

Families often appreciate the large supermarkets, the indoor children’s play zones, the cinema with family screenings, and outdoor dining areas. If you plan to combine shopping, food, and kids’ activities, set aside half a day.

Parking is available on site, but it is paid and can feel expensive. Elevators can also get busy with strollers, especially on weekends.

Glattzentrum – Is it worth leaving the city center?

Located outside central Zurich, Glattzentrum is one of the largest shopping malls in Switzerland and is often described as a favorite for families.

It stands out for its scale (over 90-100 stores), free parking for several hours, indoor slides and child-friendly areas, and a mix of shopping categories-fashion, electronics, and large supermarkets, including a LEGO store.

Plan 4-5 hours for a comfortable visit. It’s reachable by public transport, but with children and shopping bags, a car is significantly more convenient. The biggest downside is that weekends can be crowded, and the layout may feel overwhelming if you arrive late.

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Markthalle im Viadukt

Located under historic railway arches, Markthalle im Viadukt offers a more local, atmospheric shopping experience. This isn’t a classic mall-it’s a curated mix of food stalls, local products, and small boutiques.

It’s best for local food products, edible souvenirs, and casual lunches. Plan 1-1.5 hours. The main limitation is that it’s not ideal for big shopping lists or children who need entertainment.

Europaallee (Near Zurich HB)

Europaallee is a modern urban quarter next to the main station, combining retail, cafés, and offices. It feels like an extension of the city rather than a mall.

It’s a good choice for outdoor and lifestyle brands, relaxed café breaks, and short shopping stops-especially if you want something lighter than a full mall visit.

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Based on what families commonly focus on, Zurich shopping often leans practical and food-oriented rather than luxury splurges.

Supermarkets such as Coop, Migros, and Aldi are especially useful for ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and picnic food. Prepared meals are often around CHF 9-13, which is typically far cheaper than restaurants.

For Swiss food souvenirs, families often choose chocolate and cheese: chocolate bars can be around CHF 2-3 in supermarkets, while cheese starts from about CHF 10/kg and up. For small souvenirs, magnets and small gifts often start around CHF 5-6, while Swiss knives commonly range from CHF 20-90 depending on size and type.

Walking through this fashion exhibition felt like stepping inside a colorful gallery — outfits, bags, and design all in one place.

Most shops close on Sundays, except at stations and airports. Prices generally include tax and service, so the price you see is the final price. Grocery stores are efficient, but checkout moves quickly-be ready to pack as items are scanned. Bring reusable bags, or expect to purchase them.

Public transport is reliable, but the Itinerary Expert still recommends renting a car if you plan to visit large malls or expect to carry purchases-especially when traveling as a family.

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I always use ShopVille at Zurich Main Station on travel days. When arriving or leaving with kids, this underground mall is a lifesaver: supermarkets, pharmacies, food, and clothes in one place, open every day. Toilets cost CHF 1.50, so keep coins ready.

For a full family shopping day, I drive straight to Glattzentrum. Free parking for several hours completely changes the experience with children. Slides inside the mall keep kids busy while adults shop. It’s big, so I go early and take breaks-otherwise it gets crowded and overwhelming by afternoon.

I treat Bahnhofstrasse as a walk, not a shopping mission. With kids, we stroll from Zurich HB toward the lake, browse one or two department stores, then stop for food or photos. Prices are high, but the atmosphere is calm and elegant.

I rely on Swiss supermarkets for lunches instead of restaurants. Coop and Migros have excellent ready-made meals that save money and time, and kids are usually happier with quick, predictable food.

When shopping with strollers, I choose Sihlcity over the city center. Wide spaces, elevators, play areas, cinema, and restaurants make it far less stressful than navigating narrow streets or crowded underground passages.

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I last explored shopping in Zurich in September 2023, and what stayed with me most was how naturally it fits into family travel. This is not a city where shopping demands a full day of stress. It blends into movement, food breaks, and everyday life. I remember arriving at Zurich Main Station (Zurich HB) and immediately relying on ShopVille-snacks for the kids, groceries, and a quick pharmacy stop without leaving the station.

With children, I avoid turning shopping into a goal. Bahnhofstrasse works best as a calm walk toward the lake, browsing one department store, then stopping for food or photos. For a proper family shopping day, I prefer Glattzentrum or Sihlcity: space, food options, indoor entertainment, and room to breathe. Supermarkets like Coop and Migros are another quiet strength-ready-made meals saved us time and energy more than once.

Shopping in Zurich is not about bargains. It’s about comfort, rhythm, and quality-an easy fit between family time, walks, and simple pleasures. Zurich is a wonderful place to experience at your own pace, and the Itinerary Expert would be glad to help you create a personalised itinerary here and across Switzerland.

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