Katharina Blansjaar

An impressive array of striking monuments and pretty parks are among the top attractions to see during a day in Zurich. Museum culture is a key highlight of the city, with fine art especially well represented. Highlights include the massive historical collections in the Kunsthaus, as well as the contemporary art shows in the Kunsthalle and the Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst, while the Museum fur Gestaltung prominent for design. Museums come in all varieties here. Perhaps the most quirky Zurich museum of all is the Tram Museum, much beloved by kids, as is Focus Terra and its natural science exhibitions. If you want closer contact with nature there are many options. Zoo Zurich is a family favourite, while relaxing outdoor spaces include Chinagarten and Botanisher Garten Zoo. Check out our guide for information on all of these and many more.

It has been a rather cold and rainy May, and too many outdoor events and markets were cancelled because of bad weather so most of us have not yet enjoyed the delights of lounging around on the the sun decks at Zurich's famous public swimming areas known as badis, let alone had a swim in the lake or river. But June is here to make up for it all, so get your beach towels out and stock up on sun cream. In case all this lazing around in the sun becomes a tad too boring, we have some great ideas for how else to spend the next month in the city: Saturday Style Ride Founded under the name Gentlemen’s Run by local style guru Jeroen van Rooijen in 2011, this bicycle extravaganza has become a must for fashionable bike lovers. There is no dress code, but vintage inspired looks and retro bikes are sported by most participants on their 13-kilometre ride around town. The most excitingly dressed and outstanding cyclists will be awarded prizes by the Style Ride’s partners and sponsors. Unfortunately, all 300 starter badges are already sold out for this year's event on June 13, but if you apply now, you will be put on a waiting list and informed as soon as there is a space available for you. D Summer Hub  The ZSG’s shipyard is turning into a party location again – the Summer Hub is back! This unique mix of fashion, music and art is open to all over 18, and a pop up restaurant is catering for culinary needs. Art director Nicolas Duc and Fashion Designer Eliane Diethelm (Little Black Dress) wil

Pricey – but including freebiesAfter a few weeks in an almost paralysing state of shock, we have now all come to terms with it: we live in the world’s most expensive city. Following the currency-shock, The Economist magazine found it necessary to quickly correct its recently published rating and put Zurich on top of the list. So what has happened since? Nothing much really. Our European friends seem a little more worried about visiting us (typical question: will I be able to buy a cup of coffee?), but they need not fear, as some of the best spring activities in town come for free: get a bike from Züri rollt and cruise around town, visit the Botanical Garden or take a hike up Üetliberg. And don’t forget to attend the 'Sechseläuten' on April 13th. Buying a cup of coffee for the quite typical price of CHF 5 might hurt a little less with this knowledge.  Last minute visits However, some of the best current exhibitions do come with an entry fee. While the permanent collection of the Kunsthaus can be visited for free on Wednesdays, a glimpse of its 'Japanese Inspirations' with works of Monet, Gauguin, Van Gogh and a beautiful selection of Japanese woodcuts will cost you (a well invested) CHF 22. And do hurry – it’s only on until early May. Other exhibitions you must see before they close: 'Kosmos' at the Museum Rietberg (until May 31st) and the beautiful 'Paper Cuts' at the Landesmuseum (until April 19th).Not on a diet While those exhibitions might deliver food for thought, many lo