Zurich is a city on the water in summer. If you live here, work here or arrive for a few weeks, you quickly notice that the next place to cool down is rarely far away. Between the Limmat, Lake Zurich, small islands, lawns and river baths, there are many places where an ordinary weekday can suddenly feel like a holiday.
For guests of Apartments Zurich, this is especially practical: many swimming spots are easy to reach by tram, bus or bike. A small towel, swimwear and a little time are often all you need for a break by the water.
Werdinsel and Au-Hongg river bath
Werdinsel in the north of the city is one of the most relaxed places to swim in Zurich. Between the Limmat and the canal, you will find a green recreation area with plenty of space, trees, walking paths and swimming spots. The Au-Hongg river bath on Werdinsel is especially pleasant if you want a little more nature while still staying inside the city.
The area works well for families and longer afternoons. There are places to play, barbecue areas and plenty of room to lie down. Entry to the river bath is free. As everywhere along the Limmat, however, take the current and water level seriously and only swim where it is safe.
Oberer Letten
Oberer Letten is Zurich in its most urban summer form. It sits directly on the Limmat, is easy to reach from the city centre and is full of life on warm days. People meet here after work, jump into the water, sit on the terrace or stay longer than planned.
The river bath offers a swimming lane in the Limmat and a lively atmosphere. It is ideal if you want not only to see Zurich, but to experience a piece of local everyday life. Oberer Letten is not the right place for complete peace and quiet, but it is excellent for an uncomplicated swim in the middle of the city.
Unterer Letten
A little further downstream is Unterer Letten. This historic river bath near Escher-Wyss-Platz feels calmer and more classic than Oberer Letten. It is a good spot for anyone looking for a quick, clear swim before continuing through Zurich on foot.
Here too, you swim in the Limmat. Unterer Letten is therefore mainly suitable for confident swimmers. If you are unsure about swimming in a current, choose a lakeside swimming spot or a supervised public bath with an easier entry instead.
Chinawiese and Blatterwiese at Zurichhorn
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Blatterwiese, better known as Chinawiese, lies directly on the right shore of Lake Zurich at Zurichhorn. It is one of the city’s most popular lawns: large, green, open and with a view of the lake. Families, groups, joggers, walkers and swimmers share the space in a very Zurich way.
Chinawiese is especially good for picnics, reading, sunbathing and a jump into the lake. Depending on the exact spot, access to the water is over stones or small lakeside entry points. If you are out with children, you will appreciate the large lawns, the nearby playground and the relaxed character of Zurichhorn.
Saffa Island and Landiwiese
On the left side of the lake, near Wollishofen, you will find Landiwiese and the small Saffa Island. The island is reached by a short bridge and is one of the more charming swimming spots on Lake Zurich. Here, Zurich feels a little wider and quieter, especially outside peak times.
Saffa Island and Landiwiese are lovely places for a few hours by the lake, a picnic or sunset by the water. They are more like free, unsupervised swimming spots than classic public baths. Check the conditions on site and do not plan on full lido infrastructure.
Practical tips for a swimming day
The current in the Limmat can be strong. Only swim if you are confident in the water and pay attention to official notices on site. For river baths, it is worth checking opening status and water temperature in advance on the City of Zurich’s website.
At the lake, water shoes can be useful because entry points can be stony. On hot days, popular places such as Letten, Chinawiese and Saffa Island get busy. If you prefer it quieter, go early in the morning, later in the evening or during the week.
Our tip for guests: keep swimwear and a light towel ready in summer. After your swim, the way back to your furnished apartment is short. The apartment is cleaned regularly and bed linen and towels are changed, so you can enjoy the Zurich summer without extra effort.