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Zurich scores with its prime location on Lake Zurich, the Alps in the background, the countless nearby relaxation regions, its metropolitan colourfulness and is thus a sought-after city break destination.

The beautiful city in the valley of the Limmat and Sihl rivers, interwoven between the hills of Uetliberg and Zürichberg, offers exclusive shopping, leisure and sporting activities as well as a unique and varied cultural programme. In terms of quality of life, the city repeatedly comes out on top in worldwide surveys.

Hoi zämme, I'm Sarah and I'd like to share my impressions of the small metropolis in the heart of Europe with you! With my MRSÉY mobile phone chain over my shoulders, I set off on my journey of discovery: Zurich - the secret capital of Switzerland! The city is full of life: A third of the population comes from abroad and it is precisely the clash of different traditions and mentalities that gives the city its sense of cosmopolitanism, something to be proud of.

@mrs.saarrahh

Surrounded by mountains and picturesque churches

My first excursion starts with an absolute insider tip - the Lindenhofplatz. This is a park, situated on high ground, on the western bank of the Limmat, which offers an impressive view of Zurich's old town: the Limmat and the Limmatquai, the famous ETH (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) and, of course, the Grossmünster with its memorable aura and characteristic twin towers. They watch over this beautiful city. Originally known as the "Zurich Church", the name was changed to Grossmünster in 1322 and is now one of the city's landmarks. Here, on Lindenhofplatz, you can sit on the wall and simply enjoy the view. I take the opportunity: reaching for my mobile phone chain, I take out my iPhone and immortalise the unique view.

With my first enchanting impressions, I head for one of Zurich's oldest quarters, the "Schipfe". The name is funny and according to information from the net it means: to "push" the boats to the shore and then back into the water. Formerly an important trading place, "Schipfe" is now a cosy place to shop, eat or just take a walk along the Limmat. It is located at the foot of the Lindenhof. Many nicely furnished little shops literally entice you to shop. One of them is the "Marktlücke". A sustainable shop where you can find charming accessories, all handmade, especially creative one-offs, quality gifts, bags, postcards and much more. And the best thing is: with your purchase you do good, as this shop supports small Swiss businesses.

On the trail of the Confederates

What I can't miss on my trip to Zurich, apart from my fancy mobile phone chain, is the old town. I stroll through the small streets of the "Niederdörflis", as the locals affectionately call it. Niederdorf is part of Zurich's old town and stretches all the way to Bellevue. These many, narrow but well-kept alleys have a flair of their own and make me forget the time. I am fascinated by the colourful facades and the charming front buildings. But that's not all! A multitude of exclusive boutiques invite you to shop. Here you will find unusual but unique shops. An infinite number of restaurants, some of which are located in cosy courtyards, cafés with small wooden chairs tempt you with a colourful selection of food and drink.

I spontaneously decide on the "Saftlade" on Marktgasse. The shop is colourful and inviting. A variety of fresh organic products, all homemade and self-mixed, without sugar and additives. I order a delicious vegetable bagel with baked vegetables, soy yoghurt, nuts and sprouts, plus a smoothie "the red miracle" made from beetroot, apple and carrots. Only to be recommended! I am thrilled by the homely atmosphere of the Niederdorf. The people radiate a serenity that is hard to imagine in a metropolis.

A true gem: the magnificent opera house

Well invigorated, I think it's time for the next cultural programme. To get to one of the most impressive buildings in Zurich, I take the tram. During the ride, I notice furtive glances from passengers directed at my bag: my iPhone mobile phone chain. It makes me proud to have such a chic and above all practical companion!

The admirable building is a real feast for the eyes, both inside and out, and is an integral part of Zurich's cultural cityscape. It opened its doors in 1891. Initially known only as the Municipal Theatre, it was given the name Opera House at the beginning of the 20th century. In addition to operas and ballet performances, concerts and children's programmes also take place here.

The remarkable building with its gigantic pillars is a real gem. I had reserved a ticket and was guided through the enormous building. The tour lasted an hour and a half and took us to the stage, the costume shop, the scenery warehouse, tailoring, props and make-up. I was overwhelmed by the decorations on the walls and ceiling, the huge chandeliers and the stage. A real treat!

Delighting the palate in the multicultural city on the waterfront

Freshly styled, it's time for a delicious "Zürcher Geschnetzeltes". It wasn't easy in Zurich, with its variety of trendy restaurants, to decide on the right one. The path leads me to "Rosaly's", a listed townhouse on Bellevue. A chic restaurant where everything is prepared with love. The Geschnetzeltes literally melts in your mouth and the Rösti were nice and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. A real treat for the palate! After that, I can't stand it any longer and walk to the lake, which I originally wanted to save for last. I sit down on a bench, street musicians are playing in the background, swans are circling in front of me and the mountains are in the distance. Dreamlike!

Bahnhofstrasse with a difference

If you're as much of a shopping queen as I am, then I recommend you take some time for a different Bahnhofstrasse. In Bahnhofstrasse you will find exclusive boutiques, everything that makes a woman's heart beat faster: shoes, jewellery, clothes, confectioneries, accessories and of course watches. Quality, elegance and exclusivity are just a few nouns that can best describe it. I choose the "Modissa". Here I find exclusive designer fashion. I immediately fall in love with a coat by Max Mara and it also goes perfectly with my new mobile phone necklace!

My next stop is "Im Viadukt". This is also a shopping mile where shops and cafés are inserted into viaduct arches. I finish my shopping tour with "Tarzan", a label with high-quality products, and round off my excursion with the "Markthalle" restaurant. Here I let myself be spoilt: Aubergines au gratin with ricotta and parmesan. I sit back and let my impressions sink in.

Uf Widerluege

There are many things I can recommend from Zurich: the Waid lookout point, from here you can see the city, the Alps and the lake. In Niederdorf, take a leisurely stroll through the alleys and have a drink in a café. In Grossmünster, go up to the Karlsturm and enjoy the view from the platform. Buy the best champagne truffles at the "Teuscher" and relax by the lake.

I am overwhelmed by Switzerland, by Zurich, by the charm, the people and the Swiss cosiness. The cleanliness and the magnificent nature! With this in mind: Adie mitenand!