Zurich: bar tour

If you’re considering a way to experience Zurich after sunset beyond just wandering the streets, this bar tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally joined this particular outing, the reviews and details paint a picture of an engaging, well-organized experience that offers a taste of local life, a few drinks, and some insider tips.

What I find appealing about this tour is how it combines social fun with cultural insight—visiting four different bars favored by locals and tasting the famous Swiss Kirsch liqueur. Plus, the inclusion of a welcome drink and a handy list of other recommended spots in Zurich makes it feel like a well-rounded introduction to the city’s nightlife.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is the price point — at $244 per person, it’s a fair chunk of change. But if you’re the type who enjoys making new friends, discovering hidden gems, and learning about Zurich from a knowledgeable guide, this could be worth every franc. It’s definitely best suited for travelers who appreciate a lively, social vibe and want to experience Zurich’s evening scene with some guidance.

Key Points

• Authentic local spots: The tour focuses on bars that locals prefer, giving you a genuine taste of Zurich’s nightlife.
• Includes Swiss specialties: Sampling the famous Kirsch liqueur and enjoying a welcome drink adds a cultural touch.
• Good for social travelers: The tour’s setup encourages meeting new people and making friends.
• Flexible and informative: Along with the bar visits, you get suggestions for other activities and places in Zurich.
• 4-hour duration: It’s a manageable length that fits comfortably into an evening plan.
• Guided experience: Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll get stories and insights about the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Zurich Bar Tour

If you’re uncertain about what a typical evening out in Zurich might look like, this tour promises a curated experience that takes you to four distinctly different bars, each with its own vibe and charm. The idea is simple but effective: explore Zurich’s nightlife, taste local drinks, and learn a bit about the city along the way.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins conveniently in front of Zurich’s Tourist Information at Hauptbahnhof, the main train station. That location is easy to find, and the meeting arrangement means you’ll start the evening with a sense of orientation. The tour ends back at the same spot, making it easier to plan your evening afterward.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes — the tour involves walking, often through lively streets, and possibly standing for periods at each bar. The duration is about four hours, with the starting time varying based on availability, so it’s flexible enough to fit into most itineraries. Plus, the live English-speaking guide ensures that you’re well-informed and entertained.

The Bars You’ll Visit

While the specific bars are not named, the descriptions suggest each will be quite different, giving you a varied taste of Zurich’s nightlife. Expect to visit venues that are frequented by locals rather than travelers, which is a plus if you’re looking for authentic experiences.

At each bar, you’ll enjoy entrance, removing the hassle of planning individual spots, and the guide will share stories and tips that help bring the city’s nocturnal life alive. The inclusion of a welcome drink in the first bar (with options like local wine, beer, or non-alcoholic beverages) sets a friendly tone.

Tasting Swiss Liqueur and Other Highlights

The highlight for many will be the degustation of Kirsch Liqueur, a beloved Swiss spirit. The guide will likely share some interesting facts about this drink, enriching your tasting experience. This aspect is especially appealing to those curious about local flavors and traditions.

Authenticity is a key part of this tour. The goal isn’t to promote any one bar but to take you behind the scenes into local favorites—a genuine way to see Zurich’s nightlife from a resident’s perspective.

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Additional Perks

Beyond the bar visits, the guide provides a list of other bars and restaurants in Zurich suited to any taste, as well as tips for other activities—some even free. This makes the experience more valuable, turning your night out into a resource for the rest of your trip.

A thoughtful touch is the small present—a list of recommended spots—helping you extend your Zurich adventures beyond just the tour.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Let’s be honest—while this tour is well-reviewed, it’s not for everyone. Here’s an honest look at what works and what might be a consideration.

Things We Love

1. Authentic local experience. Visiting bars that locals favor means you get a more genuine vibe and a chance to see Zurich’s nightlife from a resident’s point of view. Reviewers mention the guide, Anna, who finds “very nice places” and shares engaging stories that make each stop memorable.

2. Quality tastings and drinks. The inclusion of a Swiss Kirsch Liqueur tasting adds cultural value, and the welcome drink in the first bar helps set a relaxed tone. The reviews echo that the bars are “selective and excellent,” which suggests a good standard.

3. Social atmosphere. The tour encourages mingling and making new friends. It’s a relaxed environment where travelers, often solo or in small groups, can enjoy the night together. One reviewer mentioned that they “had a great story for every place,” which hints at a personable, engaging guide.

4. Practical extras. The list of other bars and activities means you leave the tour with ideas for the rest of your stay. Plus, the tour is flexible with options to cancel up to 24 hours before, adding peace of mind.

Possible Drawbacks

1. Price point. At $244 per person, this is on the higher side for a four-hour bar crawl. For some, it might seem steep, especially if you prefer exploring independently or are on a tighter budget.

2. Group size and pace. While not specified, group tours can sometimes be a little crowded or rushed. If you prefer a very intimate experience, this might not fit, but the reviews suggest most travelers found it worthwhile.

3. Not suitable for children or those with medical restrictions. Since alcohol tasting is involved, it’s not for minors or anyone who can’t consume alcohol. Also, the tour isn’t recommended for people with claustrophobia, likely due to the bar environments.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Based on the glowing reviews—all rated 5 out of 5—many travelers seem to find this tour very worthwhile. The comments highlight that guides like Anna are knowledgeable and personable, and that the selected bars are “really cool” and “varied.”

You might find that the experience offers a unique way to see Zurich’s night scene, learn about local drinks, and connect with fellow travelers. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy social outings, cultural insights, and curated experiences rather than spontaneous wandering.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer to explore on your own, you could replicate some aspects of this experience independently—by visiting popular bars or asking locals for recommendations. But if convenience, guided storytelling, and a guaranteed fun night appeal to you, this tour seems to deliver well.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Zurich bar tour is a solid pick for adventurous souls who want to explore the city’s nightlife without the hassle of planning. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy socializing, are curious about Swiss spirits like Kirsch, and appreciate insider tips.

The tour balances fun with cultural elements, offering a lively, warm environment to start or conclude a day in Zurich. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a chance to see the city through a local’s eyes and enjoy the evening in good company.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour features tastings of Swiss spirits, there are non-alcoholic drinks available. However, you should inform your guide if you cannot consume alcohol for medical or personal reasons.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately four hours, with varying start times based on availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of Zürich Tourist Information at Zurich Main Train Station and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your evening afterward.

What’s included in the price?
You get a welcome drink at the first bar, a degustation of Kirsch Liqueur, entrance to all four bars, and a knowledgeable tour guide.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 due to the alcohol tastings involved.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How many people typically join the tour?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest it’s a social experience with friendly interactions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there will be walking and standing at different venues.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
No, the tour is conducted in English.

In the end, this Zurich bar tour offers a lively, culturally enriching way to spend an evening in Switzerland’s largest city. If you’re looking to meet new people, taste local drinks, and explore some of Zurich’s best-kept nightlife secrets, it could very well be worth the price. Just come with an open mind, comfortable shoes, and a sense of curiosity—you might find it an unexpectedly delightful night out.

You can check availability for your dates here: