us zurich travel

Navigate to myswitzerland.com

Destinations

Your swiss holiday time.

Holiday destinations

• Summer holiday destinations
• Winter sports & ski resorts
• Family destinations

Attractions

• Top attractions
• UNESCO World Heritage sites / biospheres
• Travel by train, bus or boat
• Top museums
• Swiss Parks
• Scenic nature

Experiences

Additional content about subnavigation experiences.

• Family excursions
• Food & Wine
• Group excursions
• Guided tours

Summer & Autumn

• Bicycle & Mountain bike
• Adventure & Sports Summer
• Zoo & animal experiences
• Ski and snowboard
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoe and winter hiking
• Tobogganing
• Winter excursions
• Christmas in Switzerland

Cities & culture

• Parks, Gardens and Squares
• Architecture

Experience Tour

• Car, motorcycle - Grand Tour
• Train, bus, boat – Grand Train Tour
• Mountain excursions

Accommodation

• Typically Swiss Hotels
• Wellness & Spa
• Family Hotels
• Bike Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Inspiring Meeting Hotels
• Swiss Historic Hotels
• Luxury hotels
• Winter sports hotels

Other types of accommodation

• On the farm
• Bed and Breakfast
• Mountains huts
• Group accommodation

Transport & Stay

• Travel to Switzerland
• Barrier-free travel
• Tickets public transport
• Service & support
• Money and shopping

About Switzerland

• General facts
• Custom and tradition
• History of Switzerland
• The Swiss Art and Culture Scene
• Health Travel
• Sustainability

Weather & Climate

• Climate in Switzerland
• Snow Report
• Water and pool temperatures
• City offers
• Touring offers
• Wellness offers
• Nature and outdoor offers
• Offers for families

Where are you from?

• België (Nederlands)
• Belgique (Français)
• Deutschland
• Netherlands
• Russia (Россия)
• Schweiz (Deutsch)
• Suisse (Français)
• Svizzera (Italiano)
• Switzerland (English)
• United Kingdom
• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• China 中文简体
• China 中文繁体
• Gulf countries العربية
• Japan 日本
• Korea 한국어
• United Arab Emirates
• New Zealand
• International

Language, region and important links

• Slovenština

Service Navigation

• Help & Contact

The city by the water combines urban living with nature. Zurich is abuzz with activity day and night with its countless events, many museums and diverse gastronomic scene, as well as Switzerland’s most vibrant nightlife. And if you’re after rest and relaxation, you can be in the Swiss mountains in less than an hour.

Grossmünster

Landmark of the city

Zurich's Old Town

Historic squares and buildings

Fraumünster Church

Church with windows by Marc Chagall

Bahnhofstrasse

The city's shopping mile

Lake Zurich

For boat trips, swimming, enjoyment

Zurich's home mountain

Advertisement

The sechseläuten in zurich, street parade, weltklasse zürich – “groundbreaking” athletics event, zurich film festival, zurich at a glance, why zurich, art and culture, the gourmet city.

Zurich has a large and diverse gastronomic scene. Whether classic Swiss, Italian, Asian, Moroccan or Lebanese: there’s something here for everyone. Zurich’s traditional dish of Züri Gschnätzlets is, of course, available in many restaurants. And there are also some great options available for those wanting something vegan or vegetarian. Street food festivals are a huge part of Zurich’s culinary variety.

Zürich City Guide app

The Zürich Card  can be bought through the Zürich City Guide app directly, making it easy to do so. With the app, you’ll have all of the information and discounts relating to the Zürich Card to hand on your mobile phone at all times. Available in the following app stores: the Google Play Store and App Store .

Auszeichnungen

*** Leading

GDS Sustainability

Impressions

• 3 Jul Stadtzürcher Seeüberquerung Zurich, 03.07.2024
• until 4 Aug (de)codiert Zurich
• until 14 Jul coveted. cared for. martyred. Zurich
• until 14 Jul Kiki Kogelnik Zurich

Experiences & Activities

Hallenstadion zürich, saturday city tours, heimat- und ortsmuseum wiedikon, swiss health system tour: hirslanden clinic zürich, private group tours at eth zurich.

Discover Zurich’s open-air bars

Fondue fun at chalet züriberg, leaf to root, forest adventure trail, greulich design & boutique hotel 3 stars.

Zurich, Zurich Region

Sorell Hotel Zürichberg 4 Stars

Placid hotel design & lifestyle zurich 4 stars, ameron zürich bellerive au lac 4 stars, hotel seidenhof - member of sorell hotels 4 stars, la réserve eden au lac zurich 5 stars, baur au lac 5 stars, the dolder grand 5 stars.

1 Night, Price per double room

from CHF 626

Mandarin Oriental Savoy 5 Stars

Park hyatt zurich 5 stars, current offers, zurich christmas in zurich tour, zurich architecture in zurich tour, zurich history of money in zurich tour, zurich zürich food tour, time...., zurich time… lounge.

valid: 03.07.2024 - 31.12.2024

Zurich Zurich Love Stories Tour

Zurich züri bar quest – scavenger hunt through zurich’s bars, zurich “zurich as a place of refuge” city tour, zurich zurich for children tour, zurich e-bike-tour city.

• Restaurants

BOCUCI Bottega & Cucina

Hato – fine asian cuisine, restaurant schlüssel, chalet züriberg, hiltl dachterrasse, the alehouse - palmhof: das craft-bier pub, hotel uto kulm, top of zurich, casa gourmet, travel information: zurich, destination.

Zürich Tourismus Im Hauptbahnhof 8001  Zürich +41 (0)44 215 40 00 [email protected] Website

• Hotel booking
• Holiday rentals
• Swiss Hostels
• Bed and breakfast
• Railway timetable

Local Information

• Parks and Squares
• Request brochures

Winter sports

• Swiss Ski School
• Lakesides / Swimmingpools
• Climatic data
• Swisstravelcenter Hiking Maps
• Swisstravelcenter Mountainbike Maps
• Swisstopo Hiking Maps

Discover Zurich Region

36 Hours in Zurich

By Noele Illien Updated Jan. 4, 2024

• Share full article

Despite being Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich is often overlooked as a stopover between the airport and the winter playgrounds in the mountains, but this picturesque banking hub bordering Lake Zurich has much to offer visitors who choose to stay awhile. Its strong cultural scene includes world-class museums and a much-lauded orchestra, the Tonhalle . A converted brewery harbors contemporary art galleries, and surprisingly beautiful frescoes hide in a most unexpected place. While there is something happening year-round in Zurich — such as photography exhibitions , festivals like ZüriCarneval and architectural open houses — there’s plenty of seasonal fun to be had in the colder months, whether it’s eating fondue on a vintage tram or hiking to a winter wonderland atop a local mountain, before tobogganing down.

Recommendations

• L ö wenbr ä u kunst , a former brewery that has been converted into a contemporary art complex, features galleries, museums and a bistro.
• Pavil l on Le Corbusier is a museum dedicated to and designed by the Swiss-French Modern architect Le Corbusier, in an unparalleled location right on the lakeshore.
• Sprüngli is a high-end cafe with a decadent version of bircher muesli, a breakfast dish of oats and fruit, and quite possibly the best hot chocolate in town.
• Freitag , the Swiss accessories brand known for making bags out of recycled truck tarps, has its flagship store in a tower made out of shipping containers.
• Blüemlihalle , meaning “flower hall,” is a beautiful Augusto Giacometti fresco that is tucked away inside the city’s police headquarters.
• Kunsthaus , which recently opened an extension designed by the architect David Chipperfield , is Switzerland’s largest art museum, with an internationally renowned collection.
• “ Heureka ” is a huge kinetic sculpture by Jean Tinguely that marks the spot for a great view across Lake Zurich.
• Uetliber g is a small mountain that looks over the whole city and lake and has plenty of refreshment options at the summit.
• Seebad Utoquai , a bathhouse right on the lake, is busy in the summer and attracts the city’s hardiest swimmers in the cooler months.
• Bauernsch ä nke is a cozy, modern bistro popular for its pulled pork wrapped in lettuce.
• Fondue Tram offers visitors a way to explore the city while dining on a melted-cheese classic.
• Odeon is a more-than-century-old cafe and bar that has attracted many famous political and literary figures over the years.
• Sternen Grill is a family-run sausage joint with delicious bratwursts and other Swiss favorites.
• Schnupf is a laid-back restaurant in the lively Langstrasse neighborhood where you can seamlessly flow from cocktails at the bar to steak frites for dinner.
• Stereo plays vinyl records and has espresso martinis and Moscow Mules on tap.
• AP House is a store by the watchmaker Audemars Piguet inside the marble-clad former cashier hall of what was once Switzerland’s oldest bank.
• Edition VFO , a nonprofit that aims to make high-quality art more accessible, sells monotypes and limited-edition prints.
• Storchen Zurich has 64 luxury rooms, some overlooking the lake. Its location in the heart of the old town means it is within walking distance of much of the city center. Rooms start at 750 Swiss francs, or about $883, and include breakfast.
• Signau House & Garden is a boutique bed-and-breakfast in a 1912 villa that has been beautifully modernized and furnished. The nine rooms overlook the villa’s garden, which is surprisingly large given its location only a few tram stops away from the city center. Rooms start at around 295 francs.
• Guesthouse Zollhaus , with 14 simple but modern rooms, is within walking distance of the main train station and is also close to the Langstrasse area. Rooms with an en suite bathroom start at around 133 francs, but options with a shared bathroom are available for less.
• For short-term rentals , look for Airbnbs in Kreis 1, the city’s most central district, or for something a bit more residential with many restaurants, bars and boutiques, consider the Kreis 3 district, also known as Wiedikon.
• In Zurich, you’ll see why Swiss public transportation has a reputation for working like clockwork. The city is easy to navigate via its comprehensive network of trams , trains , buses and boats . Getting into the city center from the airport is also quicker and cheaper by train than by car. As an alternative to the standard day pass transportation ticket (from 9.20 francs), you can buy a Zurich Card , a one- or three-day travel pass that includes free or reduced admission to a number of the city’s museums (from 29 francs). Uber is also widely available and usually more affordable than taxis.

Have a weekend to explore a destination? We’ve got the perfect travel itinerary.

Colorado Springs: ​​Colorado’s second-largest city, which brims with outdoor activities , is enticing visitors with a new museum and revamped hotels.

Minneapolis: Springtime is best for exploring this Midwestern city’s lakeside trails, robust arts scene and top-notch restaurants .

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art in this city with stunning views in every direction .

Advertisement

A cruise on Lake Zurich is an unforgettable experience for guests both big and small.

Weekly Markets

Locally sourced produce, such as cheese, vegetables, fruit, meat, bread, and wine is best bought at the weekly market.

Open-Air Movie Theaters in Zurich

In summer, there are open-air movie theaters on the lake, by the river, and in urban quarters.

Hiking Near Zurich

These hikes are just 90 minutes away from Zurich, and offer the most breathtaking vistas.

Breakfast Eateries

Brunch, breakfast buffet or à la carte: these cafés and restaurants offer breakfast in Zurich.

Discover Zurich

On the Zürich City Guide app, Zurich travelers can find not only key information and a digital city map, but also the practical Zürich Card city pass. If you are new to Zurich, visit the Tourist Information or take a city tour to get insider knowledge about the city.

Zürich Card

All benefits, information, and prices at a glance.

Book Current Excursions

These city tours and excursions are currently taking place in Zurich and can be booked quickly and easily here.

Zürich City Guide App

The practical app for Zurich, featuring an interactive city map, up-to-date tips, and a wealth of information.

What are you looking for?

25hours Hotel Langstrasse

Accommodation

Alden Hotel Splügenschloss

Hotel Platzhirsch

Fred Hotel Zürich Leonhardstrasse

Hotel Krone Unterstrass

Moxy Rapperswil

Park Hyatt Zurich

Sorell Hotel Zürichberg

Always worth seeing in zurich:.

Airport Shopping

The stores and restaurants at Zurich Airport are open 365 days a year from early to late.

Casino Zürich

American Roulette, Black Jack or Punto Banco – Switzerland's largest casino makes gamblers' hearts beat faster.

Lindt Home of Chocolate

The experience world for all chocolate fans, featuring the world’s largest Lindt shop and more.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Europe Chevron

Switzerland Chevron

Zurich Chevron

Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Zurich, Switzerland

Switzerland’s largest city may not (yet) draw the crowds of its other Western European counterparts, but it has more than enough of its share of panache to lure travelers and keep them engaged, entertained, and edified. The eminently walkable city, in spite of streets that zig and zag, is also increasingly bike-friendly. To wit: in 2024, Zurich will host Cycle Week, the national biking festival, and serve as the location for the annual Road and Para-Cycling Road World Championships. But you don’t need to ride competitively to enjoy Zurich’s myriad charms—gorgeous waterfront location, historic Old Town, sophisticated shopping, and artsy neighborhoods among them.

Best savored slowly over the course of a couple of days with a loose itinerary, the Swiss city’s Biennial returns this October to bring over 200 works of art from 50 artists. Works will be on display at the Kunsthalle Zurich, but if you miss the event, consider a spring venture when the city is in its full, glorious magnolia- and cherry-blossom bloom. Come summer, the lakefront buzzes with swimmers, sun bathers, and people watchers, cementing Zurich’s year-round appeal.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Thanks to direct flights from the US, Zurich has largely functioned as a stopover en route to the country’s Alpine skiing villages—but the city is worth a stop on its own.

The best things to do in Zurich, Switzerland

For many travelers to Switzerland, Zurich—thanks to direct flights from the US—has largely functioned as a stopover en route to the country’s Alpine villages for world-class skiing and legendary aprés . But Zurich also shines all on its own. A self-guided walking tour in Old Town, part of which is pedestrian-only, is an opportunity to get a feel for the city beyond its reputation as one of the world’s banking centers. The Limmat River runs through Old Town, where historic squares are nestled in with shops like Le Creuset, Max Chocolatier, and locally-owned retail boutiques. Panoramic views reward visitors making the 187 step climb to the top of Grossmunster , a cathedral said to have been built on the graves of the city’s patron saints.

After walking or cycling through Zurich, make another climb up to one of the city’s highest points where a day pass to the The Dolder Grand’s Spa provides the perfect respite for tired feet. The plunge pool circuit is a godsend in the warmer months, and not just for its euphoric-inducing properties. Book a treatment—the organic urban skin facial or a custom massage—or just have a spa lunch before checking out the meditation room, hidden like a speakeasy at the end of a winding path.

Opportunities for art fixes abound, but the best place to wander is Kunthaus Zurich . Housing one of the country’s largest art collections across two buildings following its recent expansion, the art museum displays works from Andy Warhol, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and other major artists from around the world. Grab a cocktail or snack from Kunsthaus Bar in the Chipperfield Building before venturing to the original building across the street.

Frau Gerolds Garten is an urban beer garden serving traditional Swiss cuisine like fondue.

Where to eat in Zurich

Even the lactose-challenged among us have a hard time passing up a traditional fondue set, but Switzerland cuisine proffers much more than the country’s famous cheese in melted form ( Frau Gerolds Garten , however, doesn’t disappoint on this front). Switzerland’s prices can also cause sticker shock in even the most well-heeled travelers, which is why it’s essential to take advantage of attractively priced lunches, like the one at Rosengarten where three course menus change weekly but are always a steal.

In spite of its prime waterfront location on the shores of Lake Zurich, Mediterranean-leaning Chez Fritz , doesn’t mail in the menu. Seasonal items are reflected on a relatively small menu, but whether opting for the pork steak with truffles and chanterelles or the quail preparation, you’ll find thoughtful food priced affordably.

Both Zunfthaus Zur Waag and Kronenhalle are Zurich institutions serving traditional Swiss cuisine, including a variety of veal dishes, in fine dining atmospheres. For more casual fare, there’s Restaurant Rosso . From the owners of Bar Basso and Osso is this hip pizza joint featuring set course menus; option 3 —house salad, pizza slices, main course, and dessert for 70 CHF—is a wise choice.

Take advantage of your hotel’s breakfast buffet the next morning or go in search of fresh pastries and caffeine from Buchmann Beck Rennweg or Steiner Flughafebeck . Carry out a sandwich from the former—made on freshly baked bread, it’ll prove clutch later in the day.

The Dolder Grand hotel celebrates its 125th birthday in 2024.

Where to stay

While the hilltop location of the city’s grand dame will do a number on your quads if walking is the preferred mode of transport, The Dolder Grand , as grand as its name suggests, really is in a class of its own—and affords some of the best views of the city and its leafy surroundings. Celebrating its 125-year anniversary next year, The Dolder Grand has effectively found a way to marry old and new in a way that works, even if Duane Hanson’s 'Traveller'—a life-like sculpture hanging out by the bar—makes you do a triple take. Not content to rest on its Michelin stars at The Restaurant (one of six on-site dining options) Chef Heiko Nieder recently debuted a seasonal pop-up here, called Blooms; the all-vegan outdoor restaurant is both a sign of the times and a love letter to a garden of produce that came alive just in time for the recent opening.

For more affordable options there's the funky 25 Hours, Zurich , which resides in an arty enclave in Zurich West. The boutique property features modern furniture, colorful drapes, funky artwork, and Schindelhauer bikes for use. A more intimate, serene stay can be found at the five-star Widder Hotel . Its prime location in Old Town means easy access to restaurants, shopping, and the Kunsthaus. Comprising just 35 guest rooms and 14 suites, the luxe property feels like a true city escape, even if, by night, the Widder Bar, which takes its signature mocktails as seriously as its signature cocktails, suggests otherwise. And with the Schweizerhof brand of hotels strong in Switzerland, the Zurich outpost, nearly 150 years old, brings class, elegance, and attentive hospitality—minus any pretension.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

A Complete Travel Guide to Zürich – Insider Tips & Map

Traveling to Zürich? This travel guide will give you all the information you need. From what to see and do to where to eat, where to stay, plus a lot of practical travel tips.

Whilst Zürich is almost too small to be considered a city by any other country’s standards, don’t be fooled – there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.

In fact, this is the case for most Swiss cities and in many ways adds to their charm.

This complete travel guide to Zürich will take you from one end of the city to the other, highlighting some of the most popular spots and also a few of my own personal favorites.

The first piece of advice I could give anyone going on a trip to Zürich is simple: don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path!

Traveling to Zürich – Everything You Need to Know

Sights to see in zürich, 1. the main event: grossmünster*.

No postcard or picture of Zürich would be complete without the Grossmünster towers standing proudly in the background.

The inside of this church is somewhat understated, but climb to the top of the towers and you won’t be disappointed by the spectacular views.

2. Fraumünster*

Fraumünster is a smaller church with a rich history and an ancient crypt museum.

It is set on the edge of the lively Münsterhof square.

3. Lake Zürich

Zürich wouldn’t be a Swiss city without a lake.

And with boat trips, a Chinese garden, and plenty of cafés to choose from, Lake Zürich has a lot to offer at any time of year.

4. Lindenhof Hill

The perfect place to escape from city life and get some quiet time , Lindenhof Hill is my favorite spot in Zürich.

It also offers you some prime photo opportunities (you guessed it, of those lovely Grossmünster towers) or the chance to simply watch the world go by.

5. Niederdorf

Cross over the Limmat River on your way down from Lindenhof and you’ll find yourself in the heart of the old town – Niederdorf.

Lined with eateries, bars and shops , Niederdorf is a lovely place to wander through and take in the atmosphere.

Tip: some eateries and bars open on Sundays but not all. Check them on Google maps for opening hours.

6. Bellevue / Zürich Opera House

Once you reach the end of Niederdorf, you’ll be met with a sea of people and traffic.

Bellevueplatz is home to many businesses, cafés, and the best part: the Opera House.

If the magnificent façade of the Opera House sparks your interest, you can book a behind-the-scenes tour to see where the magic happens.

7. Book a Tour of Zürich

if you really want to get to know the city one of my best tips is to book a tour.

There is this great city tour that includes a cruise and a visit to the Lindt chocolate museum for some delicious chocolate tasting!

Or, if you’d rather not join a group tour, this private tour around Zürich in a tuk-tuk is a lot of fun!

8. Üetliberg

A short train journey from the main train station (around 25 minutes) will take you on an adventure to Zürich’s very own mountain.

Although it’s nowhere near as impressive as the other mountains Switzerland has to offer , you won’t be disappointed by the views from the top of Üetliberg.

Best Cafés in Zurich

There aren’t too many places to grab a coffee – Zürich definitely has more bars than cafés. But the cafés that they do have are well worth a visit.

1. Babu’s*

This is my all-time favorite café . A big claim, I know, but after your first visit, you’ll see why.

Babu’s caters for your on-the-go working breakfast to your after-work apéro – and everything in between.

The place itself is always packed, so if you do have your heart set on trying it out, make a reservation!

2. Café des Amis*

A little piece of Paris in the heart of Zürich.

Café des Amis is particularly famous for its weekend brunch, which ranges from traditional French pastries, bread, and Swiss cheese to a lighter birchermüesli.

The cafe is only a short tram journey from the main station.

3. Café & Conditorei 1842*

Set in the heart of Niederdorf, Conditorei 1842 is about as idyllic as a café can be.

It opened in 1842, hence the name.

Stepping into the café for the first time is like being transported back in time ; velvet curtains, a grand piano, and the most delicious cakes make for a very grand afternoon.

Best Restaurants in Zürich

1. Zeughauskeller*

This restaurant was formally a storage place for weapons, and legend has it the crossbow of national hero William Tell was once stored here.

Zeughauskeller is a must-visit for any tourist visiting Zürich (and for many locals).

The restaurant offers traditional Swiss food, and dining here is more of an experience than just a meal out!

A bit of a claim to fame for the city, Hiltl is credited as the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant.

Service is a ‘help yourself’ affair and you can enjoy rooftop views from the Dachterrasse branch!

If you fancy something a bit more exotic than traditional Swiss delicacies, Saigon is the place to be.

The restaurant itself is small and minimalist and the selection of Vietnamese food on offer is delicious –it does fill up quickly so time your visit well!

Tip: if you love fondue and wine, check out this Fondue & Wine Tuk-Tuk Tour . A unique way to experience Zürich!

Best Bars in Zürich

1. Raygrodski

Potentially the most hipster bar to ever exist.

There is something captivating about the atmosphere in Raygrodski, even if you can’t really hear yourself think.

The extensive cocktail list strays from the classics in favor of creative mixes and presentations.

If you have your heart set on visiting this bar at the weekend, reserve a table – it WILL be busy!

2. Jules Verne Panorama Bar*

This bar really is something special.

Boasting a panoramic view of the city and almost too many drinks to choose from, this is the perfect place to go for celebratory drinks and a must-see for tourists traveling to Zürich.

As a result of its reputation, it is a bit pricey… but well worth it.

3. Frau Gerolds Garten

At first glance, you might mistake Frau Gerolds for a scrap yard that someone has tried to dress up with fairy lights.

In theory, you wouldn’t be completely wrong. But once you step through the gate you’ll be fascinated by the wonderland that awaits you.

From the popup stores and outdoor bars to the quirky terrace with views over Hardbrücke, this place is certainly something special.

Museums in Zürich

A visit to one of Zürich’s many museums could just turn that boring rainy day around. Here are my top 3:

1. Landesmuseum*

The Swiss National Museum where you can learn all about Swiss history and traditions. The museum is closed on Mondays.

2. FIFA Museum*

One for the football fans – includes a detailed history of football as well as classic memorabilia. The museum is closed on Mondays.

3. Kunsthaus Zürich*

This art museum plays host to one of the most important art collections in Zürich. With a little bit of everything, it’s sure to please every art enthusiast. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Shopping in Zürich

Zürich might not be the first place you think of for a shopping spree, but it is home to one of the world’s most expensive shopping streets: Bahnhofstrasse.

The street is a designer lover’s dream; lined with shops including Cartier, Tiffany’s and Chanel, but also with more affordable shops including Zara and H&M.

Where to Stay in Zürich

If you are only traveling to Zürich for a few days I’d recommend staying in the city center.

Two popular hotels in the center of Zürich are citizenM and Hotel Schweizerhof . Both are good 4-star hotels that you can easily reach from the train station.

But, for a small city, Zürich has a good selection of hotels, plus a few guesthouses and hostels.

I would recommend using Booking.com to find a place to stay in Zürich.

Practical Tips for Visiting Zürich

1. travel passes.

The Zuri Pass gives you free travel on buses and trams in central Zürich.

For those of you who fancy exploring the rest of Switzerland, pick up a Swiss Pass (available for various lengths of time) and enjoy unlimited travel around the country. The only thing you may have to add is a supplement for cable cars to explore the mountaintops.

2. Money Money Money

The rumors are true: Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world.

Don’t come here expecting a cheap city break to Zurich – that’s not what this part of the world is about. It’s all about the experience.

3. Sundays in Zurich

Like in a lot of European countries, Sunday is a family day in Switzerland.

In Zürich (and in most other cities/towns in Switzerland) almost everything is closed on Sunday.

But, shops and restaurants in train stations and airports as well as the places marked above with an * will remain open.

4. Swiss German

Brushing up the German you learned in school/uni will only get you so far in Switzerland.

The famous Schwiizerdütsch (Swiss German) is far from easy to learn or understand and also varies between Cantons.

Luckily, most locals also speak High German and English, so there shouldn’t be too much pointing and miming!

I hope you found this guide to Zürich helpful and have a great trip!

• 10 Places to Visit for the Best Views in Switzerland
• Interview With an Expat About Life in Zürich
• 4 Lesser-Visited European Capitals Worth Traveling to
• How to Plan a Perfect Trip

A Complete Travel Guide to Zürich on a Map

  Like this complete travel guide to Zürich? Pin it!

This blog post about traveling to Zurich contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Contact: [email protected]

Created by Mar y San Design

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Zurich Airport Guide

Public Transportation

Neighborhoods to Explore

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

Guide to Lake Zurich

Day Trips From Zurich

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in Zurich

Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and the point of entry or departure for the majority of travelers visiting the country. It's also one of the great cities of Europe with history dating back to the Roman era as well as a preserved medieval old town, and important monuments and churches. Zurich also offers stunning scenery (both from viewpoints in the city and the surrounding mountains), Swiss and international cuisine, and museums showcasing rich culture and history. There's also palpable modernity in Zurich, as evidenced in its young, educated population and in new developments and urban reclamations like Europaallee and Zurich West .

Whether your travel tastes lean toward history, culture, or the outdoors, Zurich is a must-see city on your tour of Switzerland. Here's the info you need to plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit:  The months of July and August see pleasantly warm weather and are the most popular months to visit. In late November and all of December, Christmas markets are open all over the city, and streets and buildings are strung with lights and decorations. In January and February, skiers use Zurich as a city base for outings to the surrounding mountain ski resorts, so the city can be crowded and pricey. Spring and fall are shoulder seasons, when the crowds are less dense and hotel prices are generally lower, but the weather can be especially rainy and overcast. Read more about the best time to visit Zurich and our guide to the weather and climate in Zurich.

Language: Zurich is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland (the other part is French-speaking), so German is the official language of the city  . But the language you'll hear in Zurich is Zurich German, a local dialect of Swiss German. English is widely spoken, particularly among people in industries catering to tourists.

Currency:  The common currency in Zurich and the rest of Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF)  . Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, so it does not use the euro as currency. While some stores and businesses will accept euros, they will give you change in francs. U.S. dollars are not accepted anywhere. Your best bet is to go to an ATM when you arrive in Zurich and withdraw some francs. Most businesses of any kind will let you pay with credit and debit cards, though you may find that American Express cards are less widely accepted.

Getting Around:  If you arrive to Zurich by train or plane, your first introduction to the city will be Zurich Hauptbahnhof, the busy main train station. From here, you can reach virtually any part of central Zurich by foot or via one of the numerous, frequent trams that ply the city. Zurich's comprehensive tram network is enhanced by a periphery network of buses and regional and cogwheel trains, as well as boats that cruise the Limmat River and Lake Zurich. There is no need for a rental car in Zurich unless you plan day trips to areas not reachable by public transport, plus you'll find parking in the city scarce and expensive. For more on getting around Zurich, read our guide to public transportation in the city.

Travel Tip:  Zurich's city center is compact and mostly flat. In the Altstadt (Old Town), many zones are pedestrian-only, making for pleasant walking, and people-watching from sidewalk cafes.

Things to Do

If you're spending a few days in Zurich, you'll want to spend your time taking in a few museums, exploring historic neighborhoods and enjoying the scenery along Lake Zurich and the Limmat River. Luxury fashion and accessory shopping draws tourists to Zurich, but there are also areas where you can find antiques and one-of-a-kind goods from local designers and artisans.

Here's a look at some of our favorite things to do in Zurich:

• Explore the Altstadt. The oldest and most characteristic neighborhood of Zurich, the Altstadt (Old Town) sits on both sides of the Limmat River and is home to medieval churches, public buildings, and historic guild-houses dating from the 12th to 19th centuries. Much of the area is pedestrian-only.
• Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich. Commuter and tour boats sail the clear waters of Lake Zurich all year long, and a ride on this postcard-perfect lake is a must-do activity in Zurich. Boats are a fast, easy, and entirely pleasant way to access many easy day trips from Zurich .
• Head up to Uetliberg. At 2,850 feet above sea level   but just 30 minutes by tram from Zurich's main station, Uetliberg mountain is a favorite outdoor destination for Zurichers and visitors alike. There are family-friendly hiking trails, casual eateries, and terrific views of Zurich, the lake, and more distant mountain peaks.

For a more detailed look at activities in and around the city, check our guides to the top things to do in Zurich and the best neighborhoods in Zurich .

What to Eat and Drink

Cuisine in Zurich, as in the rest of Switzerland, is heavy on meat, cheese, potatoes, and bread. Must-try dishes include fondue , which is a blend of melted cheese, wine, and seasonings served hot and gooey. It's eaten with chunks of bread, small boiled potatoes, and other vegetables and served in a communal pot. Raclette is another Swiss favorite; it's a thick slice of grilled, melted cheese served with cured meat, potatoes and vegetables. Sausages of all varieties dominate restaurant menus in Zurich, and they're often served with rösti , a type of crispy potato pancake. Chocolate, of course, is a treasured treat in Switzerland, and you shouldn't leave Zurich without trying some high-quality offerings from a fancy chocolate shop. Zurich also has an international food scene, with plenty of great restaurants for Indian, Thai, and Chinese food.

Whether wine, beer, or coffee is your drink of choice, Zurich presents a multitude of options. The city's historic cafes, such as Odeon and Conditorei Schober , are ideal places to sip a coffee or tea, while in the summertime, outdoor beer gardens pop up along the lake and riverfront. The Swiss are justly proud of their wine—in Zurich, red Blauburgunder (Swiss German name for pinot noir), and aromatic whites such as Müller-Thurgau, Räuschling, and Completer are good choices for those wishing to sample a regional wine.

Where to Stay

As in most European cities, hotels in Zurich run the gamut from basic and (kind of) cheap to lavish and ultra-expensive. The city's poshest and priciest hotels are found in the Altstadt (Old Town), but even this area has some affordable options. Expensive hotels are also scattered along both sides of the lakefront, especially on the eastern Seefeld shoreline. For more of a modern city feel and generally lower prices, look west of the Altstadt to the area anchored by Europaalee and Langstrasse. The latter, once Zurich's red-light district, now has a lot of small hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, plus the hip 25hours Hotel Zürich Langstrasse .

For more ideas on where to stay, check our guide to Zurich's best neighborhoods.

Getting There

You'll most likely arrive to Zurich by plane or train. Domestic, European, and international flights arrive to the modern and efficient Zurich Airport (Flughafen Zürich), located about 7 miles (11 kilometers) from the city center. A taxi from the airport into the city will cost between 40 Swiss francs and 60 Swiss francs, depending on traffic. It's faster, and much cheaper, to take one of the trains that leave roughly every three to five minutes for the 12-minute ride into the city. As you leave the arrivals area, just follow the signs for trains. Airport trains arrive to Zurich Hauptbahnhof Station (abbreviated Zurich HB), the city's main station. From there, you can catch a cab or tram, or walk to your final destination.

Most trains from other parts of Switzerland and Europe also arrive to Zurich HB—it's a huge transportation hub. Signs will direct you to station exits, where you'll find dozens of tram stops. Within the station, there's a shopping mall, restaurants, and transportation and tourist information offices.

Not only is a rental car not necessary in Zurich, it's ill-advised. Public parking spaces are hard to find and private parking—either at your hotel or a private lot—is very expensive. With the city's walkability and efficient tram system, a car is not needed. If you're driving to Zurich from outside the city, park your car and leave it parked during your stay in Zurich.

Culture and Customs

Visitors from the U.S. might find the people of Zurich and the rest of Switzerland a bit more formal and reserved than the American norm. You'll likely be better received at restaurants and theaters if you dress neatly and a little more professionally than you might typically for a vacation—shorts, T-shirts, and baseball caps are not the norm here, no matter how warm in it is. Avoid talking loudly on your cellphone or using the speakerphone mode when you're in public places, including trams.

Note that a service charge is almost always included at restaurants, so tipping is not required. However, if you were pleased with the service or if you were a particularly large party, it's nice to leave a tip of 5 to 10 percent.

Money-Saving Tips

Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but there are a few ways you can save money here during your stay.

• Ride the trams. Instead of taking costly taxis, take advantage of Zurich's extensive tram network to get where you're going. A single tram ticket, good for one hour, costs 4.30 Swiss francs (about $4.50).
• Consider the Zurich card. The Zurich Card travel pass includes unlimited free travel on the city's network of trams, buses, boats, and regional trains.
• Pack a picnic. Avoid pricey restaurants by packing a picnic lunch or early dinner and enjoying it in one of the city's lakeside or riverside parks.
• Dine out at lunch. Restaurants in Zurich are expensive. But if you've got your heart set on a particular fine dining experience, you'll generally find lunchtime menu prices are lower than at dinnertime for the same food and ambiance.

The Federal Council. "The Federal Constitution of the Swiss Confederation, article 1" .

International Monetary Fund. "Switzerland." June 4, 2019.

Zuerich. " Uetliberg – Zurich's Very Own Mountain ."

How to Travel From Zurich to Paris by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

How to Use Swiss Trains and the Swiss Travel Pass

The Top 15 Things to Do in Zurich

The 8 Best Neighborhoods in Zurich

Switzerland Travel Guide

11 Great Day Trips From Zurich

One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Best Time to Visit Zurich

Getting Around Zürich: Guide to Public Transportation

12 Things to Do Around Lake Zurich

The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

The 10 Best Restaurants in Switzerland

Lake Como Guide: Planning Your Trip

Vienna Guide: Planning Your Trip

United flights to Zurich from $ 601 *

Changed bag rules and optional services          Cruise open_in_new Packages open_in_new

Best fares Packages: bundle & save Premium cabin offers

United's most popular flights to Zurich (ZRH) 

Chicago (ORD) to

San Francisco (SFO) to

New York/Newark (EWR) to

Los Angeles (LAX) to

Washington, D.C. (IAD) to

Houston (IAH) to

Denver (DEN) to

Boston (BOS) to

Orlando (MCO) to

Austin (AUS) to

Dallas (DFW) to

Miami (MIA) to

Cincinnati (CVG) to

Philadelphia (PHL) to

Tampa (TPA) to

Cleveland (CLE) to

Phoenix (PHX) to

San Diego (SAN) to

Raleigh (RDU) to

Boise (BOI) to

*Prices have been available for round trips within the last 48 hours and may not be currently available. For Economy class, fares listed may be Basic Economy, which is our most restrictive fare option and subject to additional restrictions . Additional baggage charges and fees for other optional service may apply. Other terms and conditions may apply.

Business class deals on flights to Zurich (ZRH) 

Seattle (SEA) to

Honolulu (HNL) to

Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to

Things to do after your flight to Zurich (ZRH)

Fly to Zurich, Switzerland, with United Airlines from over 200 airports within the United States and an additional 100 airports internationally.

Zurich’s top attractions

• Stroll through the well-preserved Old Town, complete with historic architecture including the Fraumünster, St. Peter Church and Zurich Town Hall.
• Take the kids to Zoo Zurich and the Planetary Way.
• Head to Üetliberg, a local mountain, for panoramic city views.
• Visit Lake Zurich for outdoor activities and gorgeous scenery.
• Go shopping in the luxury stores along Bahnhofstrasse.
• Experience the nightlife of Niederdorf and Zurich-West.

Best time to travel to Zurich

Zurich hosts events and festivals throughout the year. Sechseläuten, the traditional spring celebration, features a parade and bonfire to celebrate the end of winter. Other spring happenings include Zurich Pride, and summer brings many outdoor events, including house- and techno-music festival Street Parade. Art lovers should visit in the fall for Zurich Film Festival or Kunst Zürich (Art Zurich).

Find more flights to Zurich (ZRH) with United

More flights to Zurich with United Airlines

• San Francisco - Zurich
• New York/Newark - Zurich
• Washington, D.C. - Zurich
• Chicago - Zurich
• Los Angeles - Zurich
• Houston - Zurich
• Boston - Zurich
• Denver - Zurich
• Orlando - Zurich
• Austin - Zurich
• Dallas - Zurich
• Miami - Zurich
• Cincinnati - Zurich
• Philadelphia - Zurich
• San Antonio - Zurich
• Tampa - Zurich
• Cleveland - Zurich
• Phoenix - Zurich
• San Diego - Zurich
• Raleigh - Zurich
• Boise - Zurich
• Honolulu - Zurich
• Fort Lauderdale - Zurich
• Kansas City - Zurich
• Pittsburgh - Zurich
• Portland, OR - Zurich
• Saint Louis - Zurich
• Seattle - Zurich
• Salt Lake City - Zurich
• Durango - Zurich
• Indianapolis - Zurich
• Jacksonville - Zurich
• Nashville - Zurich
• Buffalo - Zurich
• Columbus - Zurich
• Panama City - Zurich
• Oklahoma City - Zurich
• Orange County - Zurich
• San Jose, CR - Zurich
• Toronto - Zurich
• Atlanta - Zurich
• Charlotte - Zurich
• Colorado Springs - Zurich
• Idaho Falls - Zurich
• Omaha - Zurich
• Richmond - Zurich
• Steamboat Springs - Zurich
• Jackson - Zurich
• Greenville - Zurich
• Milwaukee - Zurich

$194+ Cheap flights from the United States to Zurich (ZRH)

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a cheapflights user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight departing on 11/19. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., what is the cheapest month to fly from usa to zurich.

Flights from USA to Zurich lean towards being more expensive in June. Prices are generally better when you fly from USA to Zurich in January, with the cheapest ticket starting at $422.

What is the cheapest time of day to fly from US to ZRH?

Regardless of the time of day you decide to fly, the ticket price will remain around the same. Book flights from USA to Zurich as you normally would.

Cheap USA to Zurich flights in July & August 2024

Find cheap flight options from usa to zurich specifically for the months of july and august 2024. explore affordable fares based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,969,167 searches. prices were last updated on julio 3, 2024., scroll through some of the best deals on flights from usa to zurich in 2024. more deals are always being added, so be sure to check back regularly., usa to zurich 2024 flight deals, discover exclusive flight deals for travel between usa and zurich in 2024. find excellent offers based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,969,167 searches. data last updated julio 3, 2024., usa to zurich flights leaving soon, find last-minute flight options from usa to zurich for spontaneous travel. discover available flights and compare prices based on user searches. secure great deals and offers for spontaneous trips with quick booking options. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,969,167 searches. data last updated julio 3, 2024., check out these flights departing soon from usa to zurich. users should be sure to double check the price, date, and time of their last-minute flight., one-way flights to zurich from usa, search for one-way flight options from usa to zurich. find affordable one-way fares based on user searches. compare prices and availability to plan your one-way journey according to your preferred dates and budget. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,969,167 searches. data last updated julio 3, 2024., users traveling one-way from usa to zurich can select one of these great deals. those seeking round-trip flights from usa to zurich should utilize the search form at the the top of the page., find flights from usa to zurich within your budget, customize your flight search to find flights from usa to zurich that fit within your specific budget. explore options based on user searches and filter the results based on your desired price range. find flights that match your budget for a cost-effective journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,969,167 searches. data last updated julio 3, 2024..

$349 - $552

Newark Zurich

1 stop 10h 05m

1 stop 30h 25m

Boston Logan Intl Zurich

Boston Logan Intl

1 stop 14h 45m

1 stop 18h 00m

1 stop 18h 30m

1 stop 10h 45m

New York John F Kennedy Intl Zurich

New York John F Kennedy Intl

1 stop 11h 15m

1 stop 11h 35m

1 stop 17h 30m

1 stop 31h 20m

Nonstop 7h 35m

Nonstop 9h 15m

1 stop 9h 15m

Miami Zurich

1 stop 13h 30m

1 stop 14h 20m

New York LaGuardia Zurich

New York LaGuardia

1 stop 12h 30m

1 stop 13h 08m

Flights are sorted by cheapest first

Deals found on 7/2

No data available for this route at this time. Please check back soon.

Best time to book a flight from USA to Zurich

Have a flexible travel schedule discover the best time to fly to zurich from usa with our price prediction graph., reviews of airlines servicing zurich, get insights into the airlines that provide service to zurich. read reviews, discover amenities, and learn about the overall travel experience offered by airlines. use this information to make informed decisions when choosing an airline for your flight to zurich. reviews last updated julio 3, 2024., get a feel of what it's like to fly with scandinavian airlines, vueling and icelandair from usa to zurich by reading reviews from past customers. in addition to providing an overall rating, users have also rated airlines in terms of entertainment options, comfort, food, crew/service, and boarding process..

Entertainment

One of the worst flights ever. I got to the airport early for my 6:48 pm flight and tried to get on the 4:30 ish flight. The gate agent was one of the worst customer service people in my 20 yrs of flying Delta. Very rude and wouldn’t even talk to me about riding standby. Then flight took off 3 hrs late and when Landed in Atlanta, the gate people wouldn’t even try to get me on the plane. It was still there but door was closed. For all of my almost 2 million miles, the worst experience from Delta. I am highly disappointed as it was not my fault I have to sleep in Atlanta and not Jacksonville Florida

Related info for your journey

Find useful and relevant information for your journey from usa to zurich. access travel guides, tips, and recommendations to enhance your travel experience. get information about local attractions, weather, transportation options, and more., what airport do you fly into for flights to zurich from united states.

If you book a flight to Zurich from United States, you will be flying to Zurich, which is the city’s only airport. Zurich (ZRH) is located 5.9 mi from the center of Zurich.

Can I find flights from USA to Zurich for under $400 on Cheapflights?

Yes, there are multiple flights from USA to Zurich for under $400. The cheapest flight booked recently is on Scandinavian Airlines for just $349, but on average you can expect to pay $381.

Are there nonstop flights from USA to Zurich for under $600 on Cheapflights?

Cheapflights has at least 20 direct flights from USA to Zurich under $600. A good price for a nonstop flight from USA to Zurich is less than $623.

Are there last-minute flights available from USA to Zurich for under $800?

There are currently 20+ open flights from USA to Zurich within the next 7 days for less than $800.

How popular is this USA to Zurich flight route?

The United States to Zurich flight path was viewed by 78 users in the past month. Keep an eye out for changes in search interest prior to high and low season.

What are the most popular routes from USA to Zurich?

While some choose either Newark - Zurich or Los Angeles - Zurich, New York John F Kennedy Intl - Zurich is the most popular route from USA to Zurich.

What are the cheapest flights from USA to Zurich?

The cheapest flight price from USA to Zurich is $422. On average you can expect to pay $3,227. The most popular route, (New York John F Kennedy Intl - Zurich), can usually be booked for $360.

What does LAX to ZRH mean?

Great question - LAX to ZRH just means Los Angeles Airport to Zurich Airport. Now you’ll know what these unique codes when you look for flights! While you’re still figuring out your travel plans, it’s not a bad idea to learn the names and codes of other airports around these areas: Miami Airport (MIA), New York John F Kennedy Intl Airport (JFK), San Francisco Airport (SFO), Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS), Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport (ATL).

Can I find deals for flights from USA to Zurich that include extra baggage allowance?

The amount of baggage you can bring on your USA to Zurich flight depends on the airline and the type of fare you've chosen. After entering your flight details, you'll be able to view the specific baggage policies for each deal in the search results. Keep in mind that certain deals may offer additional baggage allowance.

Can I find deals on flights from USA to Zurich with specific airlines?

Yes, Cheapflights allows you to browse and filter USA to Zurich flight deals by airline. After entering your origin and destination, use the available filters to view flights offered by airlines.

Can I find deals for flights from USA to Zurich that include hotel bookings?

Yes. In addition to deals on USA to Zurich flights, Cheapflights offers vacation packages that include both flights and hotel.

How can I find direct flights from USA to Zurich?

After entering your origin and destination, apply the non-stop filter on the search result page to find direct flights from USA to Zurich.

Can I find deals for business class flights from USA to Zurich?

Yes. Cheapflights offers flight deals from USA to Zurich by cabin class. In addition to browsing deals, you can also filter by cabin class on the search results page after making a search.

Can I find deals for flights from USA to Zurich that allow pets onboard?

Many airlines flying from USA to Zurich offer the option to travel with pets. After selecting a flight deal, you can find more information about the airline's pet policy on their official website or by contacting the airline directly. Please note that additional fees and restrictions may apply.

Can I find deals on last-minute flights from USA to Zurich?

Yes, you can often find last-minute deals on USA to Zurich flights on Cheapflights. However, these deals can vary and may not always be available. We recommend checking back frequently or signing up for price alerts for the most up-to-date deals.

How recently were the USA to Zurich flight deals updated?

The USA to Zurich flight deals you see on this page were last updated on 7/3.

What are the most popular airlines that fly from USA to Zurich?

LEVEL, American Airlines and Air Canada are the most popular airlines when flying from USA to Zurich.

What is the cheapest month to book a flight from USA to Zurich?

Currently, November is the cheapest month in which you can book a flight from USA to Zurich (average of $640). Flying from USA to Zurich in June is currently the most expensive (average of $1,323). There are several factors that can impact the price of a flight, so comparing airlines, departure airports and flight times can provide users with more options.

Browse thousands of different options on Cheapflights for your next trip

Toggle through the tabs below to find thousands of options on cheapflights for your next trip., top 10 airlines flying from usa to zurich, discover the top 10 airlines that operate flights from usa to zurich. compare their services, reliability, and customer satisfaction ratings to choose the airline that best suits your travel preferences and needs. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,969,167 searches. data last updated julio 3, 2024., popular flight searches, check out other popular destinations found by fellow travelers in 2024, search flights from usa to zurich by cabin class, find flights from usa to zurich, based on your preferred cabin class, be it economy, premium economy, business, or first class., hourly flight availability from usa to zurich, find hourly flight availability from usa to zurich. discover flight options and departure times throughout the day, allowing you to choose a departure time that suits your schedule. data last updated julio 3, 2024., book a flight to one of these trending destinations, user searches for flights to these destinations increased 20% or more in the past 90 days compared to other destinations, book with flexibility, travel smart.

• MyNewMarkets.com
• Claims Journal
• Insurance Journal TV
• Academy of Insurance
• Carrier Management

Featured Stories

• Beryl Becomes Earliest Ever Cat 5 Hurricane in Atlantic
• Cancer Victims Lose Bid to Block J&J Talc Bankruptcy

Current Magazine

• Read Online

Zurich to Buy AIG’s Travel Insurance Business for $600 Million

Zurich early Wednesday said it is purchasing the global personal travel insurance business of American International Group (AIG) for $600 million.

The deal, according to Zurich, may include an additional payment if specific targets are met after the sale, which is expected to close by the end of 2024. .

Zurich called travel insurance a “priority” and said AIG’s Travel Guard business will expand its U.S. footprint as a part of Zurich’s travel insurance provider, Cover-More Group, making it a leader in the line.

“This transaction is a great strategic fit, which enhances Zurich’s existing capabilities and makes us a leading travel insurance provider across all regions,” said Cara Morton, CEO of Zurich Global Ventures. “The acquisition expands our retail customer base and aligns with our ambition to continuously enhance our offerings, while providing world-class protection during every step of our customers’ travels.”

Cover-More’s capabilities will be enhanced by AIG’s global IT platform. The deal also includes AIG’s global service centers. AIG said the transaction excludes travel coverages offered through AIG’s A&H business.

AIG CEO Peter Zaffino said the sale is “another important strategic step in positioning AIG for the future.” He said AIG will work closely with Zurich “to ensure a seamless transition for employees, customers and our global distribution partners.”

Zurich said the bolt-on should result in annual gross written premiums of about $2 billion for the new Cover-More Group.

Bank of America analysts said Zurich looks to have made a “sensible acquisition” that could increase earnings per share 1-2% after integration.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions AIG

Was this article valuable?

Thank you! Please tell us what we can do to improve this article.

Thank you! % of people found this article valuable. Please tell us what you liked about it.

Here are more articles you may enjoy.

Written By Chad Hemenway

Chad is National News Editor at Insurance Journal. He has been covering the insurance industry since 2007, reporting on trends and coverage in most lines of insurance as well as natural catastrophes, modeling, regulation, legislation, and litigation. Chad can be reached at [email protected]

Latest Posts:

• State Farm Seeking Large Rate Increases in Wildfire-Prone California
• US P/C Underwriting Results: Two Years in a Row Over $20 Billion in the Red
• Big ‘I’ Report: Independent Agency Channel Placed 62% of Premiums in 2023
• Dellwood Insurance Files to Dismiss ‘Insufficient’ Case Brought by AIG

Interested in Mergers ?

Get automatic alerts for this topic.

• Categories: National News Topics: AIG , Business Moves & Mergers , travel insurance , Zurich
• Have a hot lead? Email us at [email protected]

Insurance Jobs

• P&C Reserving Proposition Leader - Philadelphia, PA
• Outside Property Claim Representative Trainee – Tacoma, WA and Olympia, WA - Tacoma, WA
• Large Loss Property Adjuster – Field Estimating – Lexington/Louisville/Cincinnati - Kentucky, KY
• Inside Auto Appraiser - Independence, OH
• Retirement Actuarial Client Delivery Leader - Memphis, TN

• Cyber Risk Strategies to Minimize Business Disruption, Control Liability and Litigation Exposure
• D&O Risks to Consider When Exploring the New Frontier of Gen AI
• Securing Life Insurance Alternatives for Clients in War Risk Zones
• Property Restoration Industry: A Culture in Need of Repair?
• Underwriters' Dilemma: Is AI a Cyber or Tech E&O Risk?

• U.S. P/C Underwriting Results: Two Years in a Row Over $20 Billion in the Red
• Hurricane Beryl Roars Toward Jamaica on Destructive Path
• NHTSA Closes Recall Query Into About 420,000 Volkswagen Vehicles
• Jury Awards $68.5M to Family of Worker Who Fell to Death at Philly Construction Site

• July 11 Cyber Liability in 2024: The Expanding Need for Coverage
• July 18 HO-14: More Than a Mature HO-4
• July 25 Climate Change Challenges for the Insurance World

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My Portfolio
• Latest News
• Stock Market
• Biden Economy
• Stocks: Most Actives
• Stocks: Gainers
• Stocks: Losers
• Trending Tickers
• World Indices
• US Treasury Bonds
• Top Mutual Funds
• Highest Open Interest
• Highest Implied Volatility
• Stock Comparison
• Advanced Charts
• Currency Converter
• Basic Materials
• Communication Services
• Consumer Cyclical
• Consumer Defensive
• Financial Services
• Industrials
• Real Estate
• Mutual Funds
• Credit Cards
• Balance Transfer Cards
• Cash-back Cards
• Rewards Cards
• Travel Cards
• Credit Card Offers
• Best Free Checking
• Student Loans
• Personal Loans
• Car Insurance
• Mortgage Refinancing
• Mortgage Calculator
• Morning Brief
• Market Domination
• Market Domination Overtime
• Asking for a Trend
• Opening Bid
• Stocks in Translation
• Lead This Way
• Good Buy or Goodbye?
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Yahoo Finance

Zurich insurance buys aig travel business in $600 million deal.

By John Revill

ZURICH (Reuters) -Zurich Insurance on Wednesday announced a $600 million deal to buy AIG's global personal travel insurance and assistance business.

The business will be combined with Zurich's travel insurance provider Cover-More Group (Cover-More) and will expand its footprint in the United States, Zurich said.

The acquisition, which is expected to close before the end of 2024, will result in combined annual gross written premiums of approximately $2 billion for the enlarged Cover-More Group.

"Travel insurance is a priority for us," said Cara Morton, CEO Zurich Global Ventures.

"This transaction is a great strategic fit, which enhances Zurich's existing capabilities and makes us a leading travel insurance provider across all regions," she added.

(Editing by Ludwig Burger)

$272 Find cheap flights from Zurich to the United States

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from zurich to the united states departing on 9/10. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to the united states.

Save 21% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Free to use There are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Best United States Flight Deals

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking united states flights, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from zurich to the united states.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Zurich to the United States.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Zurich to the United States?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to the United States from Zurich is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Zurich to the United States?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to the United States with an airline and back to Zurich with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Zurich to the United States?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to the United States from Zurich up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to the United States

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found tickets from Zurich to the following destinations at these prices or less: New York $641 one-way - $575 round-trip; Chicago $755 one-way - $673 round-trip; Philadelphia $689 one-way - $667 round-trip
• On average*, there is no price difference when choosing to fly in the morning or the evening on this flight route.

Top 5 airlines serving from Zurich to the United States

More extra space was awesome. Even though I was on the first groups to board, bin compartments were already occupied by passengers seated on other seat numbers. That is unacceptable.

My seat was changed at the last minute and I was moved to the last row, right next to the bathroom despite selecting my seat well in advance. I was also made to check my carry on due to space but when I got on the plane there was significant empty overhead space. Picking up my carry on from the luggage carousel added time to my trip which had already been extended due to delay.

All good on Delta's part. Passengers could be a little more courteous to each other.

Screen didn’t play movies, do I was pretty boated the entire flight.

Inconsiderate staff, plane was very hot, poor decision-making from the crew.

Flight was delayed due to needing a replacement flight crew. Delta changed the aircraft type in Detroit. One hour delay. But once in the air, good flight

The fight was about 2 1/2 hours delayed, but that was weather related. The flight was also overbooked. But we were in Comfort plus so the flight was fine for us.

Meh. A late flight meant I missed my connections, and a 2pm LAX arrival turned into gettin in after midnight.

Flight was 3 hours late so only had an OK experience

It was very cold because the air conditioner was on high power, and my son got sick.

Checked me out of my connecting flight despite having enough time to transfer, had to check in again at the gate. Then they lost my luggage.

Thank you for waiting for us after our first flight was delayed

The layover should have been one where I could have actually reached my connecting flight in time if all flights were in time.

The pilot was wonderful and enthusiastic and introduced himself over the intercom. We all felt in good hands. Crew were all super friendly and especially the young , gentleman crew member. Everything Swiss airlines represents. Hospitality, friendly and professional. Thank you. Truly a memorable short flight.

Didn’t get my luggage from layover in Zurich until 3 days later even though my luggage was marked priority and short layover, but my husband got his when we landed

seats are too tight and uncomfortable everything else went well.

we were late to get to this connecting flight and SWISS decided to wait for us . Very nice of them

SO disappointing. I spent so much money on this ticket, for them to cancel and not be able to rebook me in time. They were very unhelpful, and condescending throughout the whole Swiss airport. Will not be flying again.

The plane was so hot upon boarding. Their boarding process was so unnecessarily long. Service was subpar.

Everything from the price to online checkin and the flight being on time to the crew and food was very good. The comfort level is fine--the seats are very close to each other in Economy. But I guess you get what you pay for.

Great, my mom's flight was cancelled last min and the next day was my wedding day. The customer service and the desk at the airport did everything possible to get my mom on the soonest flight and she could make it to my wedding. Thank you

The flight from QRO to IAH had some turbulence on the way up and again a lot of turbulence when landing.

It was soooo hot I was sweating even at altitude. I know you want people to sleep, but keeping it that hot is stupid!

Two hour flight delay, it was awful and loss of sleep.

flight delayed, was put on another flight after standby queue, luggage was misplaced and arrived to me 3 days later

Clean and plenty of room for handbaggage. Leg room was cramped compared with the 777 from Frankfurt.

Lunch/dinner was OK, the snack before landing in Houston was not good. A simple sandwich would have been better.

-The cabin was ice cold - When we arrived in Houston there was no gate available -We had to wait 90 minutes for our luggage to arrive.. In the future I will avoid flying with Air Canada at at costs

United Airlines was fantastic, however, UnderPricer was a nightmare. I got to the airport 4 hours before my flight. We are moving to New Zealand so had quite a bit of baggage (16 checked items) and so wanted to have plenty of time to get everything taken care of properly. When I went to check in they (United) could only find a ticket for me. The 5 tickets for my children were never officially ticketed. I called Underpricer and they told me it was United's fault and United told me that Underpricer just needs to reissue the tickets, but they refused to. I asked the Underpricer agent to transfer me to his supervisor as I was not getting the help I needed. He told me the supervisor was busy but that he would call me back in 30 minutes. 30 minutes came and went with no phone call. After an hour I called Underpricer back but they would not let me talk to the person I had talked to before, just told me that he was talking with the supervisor and technical support. I called again an hour later, was told the same thing. I tried again later, with only about 30 minutes until my flight was scheduled to leave (meaning I had been at the airport for more than 3 hours with my 5 children trying to get ticketed and board the flight). Also, my husband had moved to New Zealand 3 months prior, I haven't seen him in 3 months, my children hadn't seen their dad in 3 months, we were all extremely eager to get on that flight and get to New Zealand. The situation with the tickets did not get resolved until after it was too late to check our luggage and board our flight. We were devastated. My 11 year old son was in tears at not being able to be on his way to see his dad. Thankfully we were rebooked for the next evening, but that night it felt devastating. We'd been at the airport for 4 hours waiting. My in-laws waited with me and then helped me reload all our baggage and took us home to stay with them for the night. On the newly booked flights we could not sit together - my children were spread throughout the plane. So, even though I had paid extra to select our seats after buying my seats from Underpricer only two of us were able to sit together (thankful that my 11 year old wasn't all by himself, but not happy that my 14 & 16 year old daughters were seated by strangers). I really feel that Underpricer should refund me what I paid for the seating ($120 USD). It was a very frustrating situation and I plan on never using Kayak or Underpricer ever again.

3.5 hour delay known 12-16 hours before departure $15 meal vouchers which did not even cover cost of sandwich. Unable to reach agent for 1.5 hours, only then to be informed any rerouting to my destination would cost an additional $1000. Finally got rebooked on a 7.5 layover in Denver only to find out my original connecting flight was also delayed so I stood by and got on my original connection arriving only 3 hours late instead of 5 hours late. Overall journey was unnecessarily stressful and lenngthy!

The flight attendants were by our seats often and we had everything we needed. Food was above average and the seats were extremely comfortable. The entertainment was vast, and allowed us to enjoy our time although it took less time then we thought to get home. Good experience and early too!!

Delayed by over 4 hrs, missed all international connections. Horrible customer service.

Every employee acted as if they did not want to be there, from the counter door luggage check in to the gate agent.

Everything was great except boarding for the flight from Charlotte to Raleigh and seating from New Orleans to Charlotte.

Gate check in of luggage was smooth at DCA and luggage came out fast in IND.

Awful. We had an 8 hour mechanical delay- no vouchers and no kind/courtesy/professional representatives in the entire airport. Not only was it a terrible experience for both my 7 year old and myself, I still have not heard back from American about how they’re going to correct it- I’ve sent 2 or 3 emails about our experience- which was just awful. Not to mention according to national traveling laws, we should be reimbursed… but of course they’re not responding.

PBI to Charlotte was smooth. Charlotte to IAH was an entirely different story though, and I still have not heard back from American on how they’re going to fix it.

The flight was delayed two hours, with no information as to why. The gate also changed several times which was aggravating. Would not fly through DFW again.

My flights had excessive delays, alleged mechanical problems, and overall terrible customer service

Terrible, they canceled my flight due to an issue they had, couldn't fly me into the same place within 24 hrs so had to fly in 2.5 hrs away from my destination and spend even more money. The customer service was terrible (except at the airport in Charleston). Had to call to get my checked baggage fees reimbursed 2 wks later in which one customer service agent was very rude, wouldn't listen and then hung up on me. The second lady I spoke with was actually able to help me with that part thankfully. Would not recommend flying AA.

It's been a while since I've seen flight attendants who seem to enjoy their job. James was outstanding. He wasn't only friendly, but he also smiled sincerely as we worked with passengers. It was refreshing to see him and the other attendants.

Very tight space and cold. But we were in economy

a/ c way too cold in Miami airport. Ridiculous cold temperatures. I was suffering the hole time.

Flew premium economy from LHR - PHX. Beautiful new a350. Lovely friendly staff. Actually pretty delicious food. Loved it

At the airport checkin they didn’t have all the details I’d given during the very time consuming online checkin (very slow site), and they lost my bag….

Since I did not get an opportunity to review the trip from Los Angeles to Barcelona with British Airways operated by Iberia, I will add comments here. That experience was not good. Iberia placed me on a plane/airline called LEVEL - it was a bad experience and I will not be travelling with a company I do not know about. The difference in service and comfort from British Airways to Iberia/LEVEL was like night and day. I was very disappointed...I paid a lot of money for the tickets to be so uncomfortable while flying for hours over the ocean. The experience with British Airways was excellent, what I was expecting it to be for a trip of this length...I think being partner with airlines that provide poor service could affect the British Airways' image...

My flight was cancelled for the second time in the Raleigh to NY route .. Cancelled going from Raleigh to NY and then cancelled again from NY to Raleigh going home. Weather was the stated cause but the weather did not seem overly bad anywhere. They blamed lightning but I lived in Florida and planes constantly took off and landed in lightning conditions. I got the feeling that the flight was under booked and it was simply cancelled... The folks at the gates were nice and helpful (not their fault) but it was extremely frustrating and painful to get around those two cancellations. I missed one whole day of my vacation and had to rent a car going home in order to make it back in time to pick up my pet. The hotel I had to get going and the rental car I needed going home were both not covered by American making my vacation much more expensive. I do not think I will ever use American Airlines again.

Entertainment was limited, especially for toddler age children but the rest was great.

Horrible service. Lack of courtesy and professionalism from some cree members

Shocking. Bumped off the flight as they had overbooked and given my seat to someone else. Rebooked for 24 hours later with no effort to get me there the same day. Staff don't care if you are going to miss events...they give you a hotel voucher and that's it.

Book cheap flights from Zurich to the United States

Recent round-trip flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights from zurich to the united states, last minute flight, train and bus deals, zurich - united states flights.

Zurich (ZRH) Switzerland

Return flight deals:

United States - Zurich

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 
• Worldwide  » 
• Switzerland  » 

Browse destinations:

• United States

Zurich Insurance buys AIG travel business in $600 mln deal

• Medium Text

Sign up here.

Editing by Ludwig Burger

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Markets Chevron

TSX climbs to four-week high as metal mining shares jump

Canada's main stock index rose to a near four-week high on Wednesday, with metal mining stocks leading a broad-based rally as the U.S. dollar fell ahead of employment data that could support prospects of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

2024 Best Hotels in Zurich

Hotels ranked on industry awards, guest reviews and hotel class ratings

Unbiased content created by U.S. News editors

Photo tours of select hotels by local experts

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Discover the best hotel for you:

Widder Hotel

Baur au Lac

The Dolder Grand

Storchen Zurich

Park Hyatt Zurich

Hotel Helmhaus

EMA House Hotel Suites

Belvoir Swiss Quality Hotel

Alden Suite Hotel Splügenschloss Zurich

Marktgasse Hotel

Alex Lake Zürich

Zurich Marriott Hotel

Renaissance Zurich Tower Hotel

Neues Schloss Privat Hotel Zurich, Autograph Collection

Hilton Zurich Airport

Travel Guide

• # 4 in Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Switzerland's largest city is set on the banks of two rivers and a lake , with the snow-topped Swiss Alps rising in the background. The modern city sprawls into the surrounding foothills, but in the heart is the historic city center, which features clean cobblestoned streets that hug a hilly terrain, with medieval church spires pointing heavenward. Despite its reputation for being a banking hub, a Google base and a capital for top-notch chocolate, Zurich is also a very modern city that chooses to meander through life at a punctual, steadied pace. Travelers desiring an authentic experience should strive to do the same. 

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

President Biden blames overseas travel for disastrous debate: 'I nearly fell asleep on stage'

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden on Tuesday blamed jet lag from his recent travels overseas for his disastrous debate performance last week, even though he returned to the United States 12 days before taking the stage with former President Donald Trump.

Biden, facing immense pressure from Democrats following his poor debate showing, made the excuse while addressing donors at a campaign fundraiser in McLean, Virginia outside Washington.

"I didn't have my best night," Biden told supporters. "I wasn't very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple of times, going through I don't how many times zones.

"I didn't listen to my staff. And then I came back and I nearly fell asleep on stage," Biden said, prompting laughs from some of the donors. “It’s not an excuse but an explanation."

Biden then apologized to supporters, saying he was sorry for his June 27 debate performance, but stressed it was “critical” to win the election against Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

Biden's remarks could invite even more scrutiny over whether the 81-year-old president is up to the rigorous traveling, packed schedules and other demands of a second term in the White House.

Leading up to the debate, Biden spent six days at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland preparing with White House aides. He arrived there on the night of June 20 and left the morning of June 27 for Atlanta, the site of the debate.

Biden was in Italy from June 12 to 14 to attend the Group of Seven nations summit, returned back to the U.S. early in the morning June 15, and immediately took Air Force One to Los Angeles to attend a glitzy Hollywood fundraiser. Biden returned to the White House on June 16, made a quick stop at his Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home on June 18, and then went on to Camp David.

Biden was in France from June 5 to 9 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-day with allies and meet with French President  Emmanuel Macron .

Biden has vowed he's not bowing out of the race despite growing concerns from Democrats, including on Tuesday from the first Democrat in Congress to call for him to withdraw, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas.

Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Cancellations

Zurich Insurance buys AIG travel business in $600 million deal

By John Revill

ZURICH (Reuters) -Zurich Insurance on Wednesday announced a $600 million deal to buy AIG’s global personal travel insurance and assistance business.

The business will be combined with Zurich’s travel insurance provider Cover-More Group (Cover-More) and will expand its footprint in the United States, Zurich said.

The acquisition, which is expected to close before the end of 2024, will result in combined annual gross written premiums of approximately $2 billion for the enlarged Cover-More Group.

“Travel insurance is a priority for us,” said Cara Morton, CEO Zurich Global Ventures.

“This transaction is a great strategic fit, which enhances Zurich’s existing capabilities and makes us a leading travel insurance provider across all regions,” she added.

(Editing by Ludwig Burger)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Current Weather »

Coldwater, mi.

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Wave of summer travel expected over July Fourth holiday as hot inflation loosens grip

FILE - Travelers line up for security clearance at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Friday, June 28, 2024, in Atlanta. Travel activity is expected to heat up to record levels around the Independence Day holiday as consumers take advantage of cooler prices for airfares, gasoline and hotels. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)

• Copy Link copied

NEW YORK (AP) — Travel activity is expected to heat up to record levels around the Independence Day holiday as consumers take advantage of cooler prices for airfares, gasoline and hotels.

AAA expects a record number of people to hit roads and airports during the week between Saturday June 29 through Sunday, July 7. The motor club forecasts that roughly 70.9 million people are planning to travel, the most since before the pandemic.

The hot travel forecast comes amid broader worries that consumers are becoming more cautious on spending outside of necessities, which is a key factor to a cooling economy. Inflation has eased significantly from its peak in 2022, notably on costs for travel and vacations.

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel.

The forecast, along with encouraging financial updates from cruise lines, bodes well for a sector that would typically suffer if consumers start cutting back on discretionary items and services.

Airports are seeing record numbers of travelers this summer. The Transportation Security Administration screened nearly 3 million people at U.S. airports June 23, an all-time high. The agency expects the number of air travelers to surpass 3 million at some point over the July 4 holiday week.

Consumers continue to face pressure from inflation on a wide range of goods, but travel-related items including airline tickets and hotel costs have eased significantly from a year ago. Hotel room prices were 1.2% lower in May compared with a year ago, according to recent government inflation data. Those costs have been trending lower since the beginning of the year.

Gasoline prices, which can have an outsized impact on consumer budgets, have generally eased from a year ago. Regular gasoline prices currently average $3.51 per gallon nationally, down 2 cents from a year ago, according to AAA.

Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Marriott, and Hilton will likely be the biggest beneficiaries of consumer demand for travel this summer, according to Morgan Stanley. Still, the “rising tide of demand should continue to lift all boats,” the report said.

Cruise lines are also poised to benefit. Carnival recently raised its profit forecast for the year and said bookings for 2024 are the best on record in terms of both price and occupancy. It said total customer deposits reached an all-time high of $8.3 billion during its fiscal second quarter and it expects capacity to grow 4.8% in 2024. Competitor Royal Caribbean has also raised its forecasts for the year.

An official website of the United States government Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Summer Travel 2024: Record Air Travel, Fewer Cancellations, Better Airports, More Passenger Protections

Year-to-date flight cancellation rate is just 1.4% during a record-breaking summer travel season​​​​​

WASHINGTON – Despite record-breaking levels of air travel this year, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) numbers show that the flight cancellation rate for the first half of 2024 was just 1.4% – nearly the lowest rate in over a decade. The latest data from airlines reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation shows that weather continues to be the leading cause of flight cancellations.

On June 23, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened more than 2.99 million individuals in a single day at U.S. airports – the most airline passengers the agency has screened in its history. TSA expects to screen more than 32 million individuals this Independence Day travel season, which is a 5.4% increase over last year. At the same time, airfares are down 6% over the last year and below pre-pandemic prices.

“This year’s record-breaking air travel is another good sign for our economy as more Americans take to the skies than ever before,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “To help avoid travel headaches, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken historic action to modernize airports and expand passenger protections for a smoother travel experience.” 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $25 billion in U.S. airport infrastructure over five years. This unprecedented investment is not only improving runways and air traffic control towers but also adding gates and adding flight capacity, modernizing baggage systems, replacing passenger boarding bridges, reconfiguring security screening areas, improving safety, and more to finally deliver world-class airports in the U.S. and meet anticipated demand in the decades to come. Just this week, the Federal Aviation Administration announced $289 million in airport infrastructure grants in 40 states and an additional $1 billion in available funding to modernize airport terminals. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly 200 terminal projects are already under construction to modernize America’s airports and make air travel safer and smoother. 

The Biden-Harris Administration has taken historic action to improve airline passenger rights and oversight of the airline industry: 

• The rule makes clear that airline passengers are entitled to a refund when their flight is canceled or significantly changed and they no longer wish to take that flight or be rebooked, when their checked baggage is significantly delayed, or when extra services they paid for – like Wi-Fi – are not provided. The rule also requires refunds to be automatic, prompt, in the original form of payment, and in the full amount paid. Airlines must comply with the rule by late October.  
• Provisions of the final rule on airline refunds were fortified through the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 that President Biden signed into law on May 16, 2024. 
• The rule creates a more competitive airline market by requiring airlines to disclose critical extra fees – like change fees and baggage fees – upfront to ensure consumers can better understand the true cost of air travel. The rule also bans “bait-and-switch” advertising tactics and requires airlines to clearly tell passengers upfront that a seat is included with the cost of their ticket. This rule is expected to save consumers over half a billion dollars every year.  
• Launched the flightrights.gov dashboard, after which all 10 major U.S. airlines guaranteed free rebooking and meals when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their customer service plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to through enforcement action.  
• Secured nearly $4 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including over $600 million to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.  
• Issued nearly $170 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations since President Biden took office. In comparison, between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.  
• Set up a system to expand the Department’s capacity to review air travel service complaints by partnering with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general , which will help hold airlines accountable and protect the rights of the traveling public.