Timeline
07:48
Arrive at the Schanzengraben canal. Walk down the stairways from Gessnerallee to the water's edge. Find a quiet spot along the banks to wait for the first light. The sun rises in the WSW, casting a soft glow on the old fortification walls and the water below.
08:08
Watch the sunrise. The golden light begins at 16:12 on this date, but the initial sunrise at 08:08 marks the start of the day. Enjoy the quiet moment by the tiny creek before the city noise starts.
08:38
Head to Zunfthaus Zur Waag for breakfast. This authentic Swiss restaurant is open from 11:30. Since it is still before opening time, you might want to grab a coffee from a nearby kiosk or simply wait outside. Once it opens, sit down for a proper meal. They serve food in two courses to ensure your meal stays hot.
09:38
End your morning by walking the length of the Schanzengraben canal all the way to the lake. It is a short, pleasant stroll that connects the historic fortifications to the water.
Local tip
The Schanzengraben is a hidden gem of Zurich's history, but it is best experienced early. The walk from the canal to the lake is flat and easy, perfect for a post-sunrise stretch.
Check before you go
- Zunfthaus Zur Waag opens at 11:30. If you arrive earlier, you will need to wait or find an alternative breakfast spot.
- The Schanzengraben canal walk is accessible from Gessnerallee near the main station.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Zurich (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).