Altstadt (Old Town)

The historic old town with medieval architecture and cultural sites. Very safe and walkable, prices reflect the tourist location. Good starting point if you want central Zurich with easy access to everything.

Altstadt is the medieval old town with cobblestone lanes, guild houses, and church spires on both sides of the Limmat River. It's compact and mostly preserved, not heavily reconstructed. Locals still use the weekly markets and traditional cafes, though it's also the main tourist area. Niederdorf on the east bank has shopping during the day and bars packed into narrow alleys at night. People sit alone at cafes here - it's normal. The area has good lighting and foot traffic most hours, but watch your belongings in crowds. Staff speak English since tourists come through constantly. You can walk the whole Old Town in a day though there are quiet corners and courtyards off the main routes.