Camping Guide | Kanton Zürich

The Canton of Zurich is located in German-speaking Switzerland and is the country's economic hub. It borders the cantons of Schaffhausen, Thurgau, St. Gallen, Schwyz, Zug, and Aargau. The region is excellently connected in terms of transport, making arrival very easy. By car, you can reach the Canton of Zurich from Germany via the A81 and A5. Coming from Austria, the A14 and A1 are the best routes. Motorways are subject to a toll; a vignette is required (approx. 40 CHF per year). From Munich, the driving time is about 4 hours via the A96 and A1. Those starting from Frankfurt can reach Zurich in around 4 hours via the A5 and A3. Hamburg is about 9 hours away via the A7 and A5. The Canton of Zurich is also very easy to reach by train. Zurich Main Station is an international hub with direct connections from many European cities, such as the ICE from Germany. The journey from Munich takes about 4.5 hours, from Frankfurt about 4 hours, and from Hamburg about 7 hours. Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the largest airport in Switzerland and offers numerous international connections. From the airport, you can reach Zurich city center in just 10 minutes by S-Bahn. Within the Canton of Zurich, it is best to get around by public transport: S-Bahn, bus, and tram are available everywhere and are reliable. For longer distances, the well-developed cycle paths are also a great option.

The Canton of Zurich can be roughly divided into different regions, each with its own charm. The Zurich Weinland in the north is known for its rolling hills and picturesque wine villages. Here you will find numerous campsites that are ideal for those seeking peace and nature lovers. Places like Andelfingen and Eglisau invite you to enjoy leisurely walks and wine tastings. Families feel particularly at home here, as there are many child-friendly offers. The Zurich Unterland, northwest of Zurich, is characterized by industry and commerce but also offers some green oases. Kloten, known for the airport, is the center here. For campers looking for proximity to the city without wanting to sacrifice nature, there are several interesting campsites. The city of Zurich itself forms the pulsating heart of the canton. Here you will find a variety of cultural offerings, shopping opportunities, and gastronomic highlights. Although there are no campsites in the city itself, the surrounding regions are quickly accessible. Lake Zurich, in the southeast of the canton, is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. Places like Rapperswil-Jona and Meilen offer a variety of campsites with lake views. Couples and water sports enthusiasts feel particularly comfortable here. Activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddling are very popular. The Zurich Oberland, east of the lake, is known for its hilly landscape and numerous hiking trails. Places like Winterthur and Uster offer a good mix of culture and nature. Here you will find campsites for every taste, from small, nature-oriented sites to larger facilities with extensive infrastructure.

The camping landscape in the Canton of Zurich is diverse and offers the right pitch for every taste and budget. In total, there are around 50 campsites, many of which are idyllically located by lakes or rivers. You will find both large resort sites with pools, entertainment, and extensive leisure facilities, as well as small, nature-oriented sites that are ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Motorhome pitches are also available in large numbers, often with direct connections to public transport. Prices for a pitch vary depending on the season and facilities. In the high season (July/August), you should expect prices between €35 and €50 per night, while in the low season (May/June, September/October) you can often get a spot for €25 to €35. The size of the plots also varies greatly. On larger sites, the pitches are often partitioned and offer enough space for a tent, caravan, or motorhome. Smaller sites, on the other hand, often offer free choice of space and a nature-oriented camping experience. Many sites offer both sunny and shady pitches. The infrastructure of the campsites is generally good to very good. The sanitary facilities are mostly modern and clean, Wi-Fi is often available but not always free. The power supply is usually sufficiently dimensioned (10-16 amperes). A reservation is recommended, especially in the high season, as the most popular sites book up quickly. However, there are always last-minute opportunities, especially during the week or in the low season.

To use the motorways in the Canton of Zurich and throughout Switzerland, a vignette is required. This costs approx. 40 CHF (approx. 42 €) and is valid for one calendar year. You can purchase it at petrol stations, rest areas, and online. Diesel prices in Switzerland are generally slightly higher than in Germany. Petrol stations usually have long opening hours, and many are even open 24 hours. Supermarkets such as Migros, Coop, and Lidl are available everywhere and offer a wide selection of food and camping supplies. Opening hours are mostly from Monday to Saturday; many supermarkets are also open on Sundays, especially in tourist areas. German gas cylinders cannot simply be exchanged in Switzerland. You will need an adapter or you can buy or rent a Swiss gas cylinder. Disposal stations for wastewater and chemical toilets are available at many campsites. There are also disposal facilities at some rest areas. Mobile network coverage is very good in the Canton of Zurich. Roaming is usually not a problem, but check the costs with your provider in advance. Medical care is excellent. Hospitals and pharmacies are easily accessible. Wild camping is generally prohibited in the Canton of Zurich. However, there are a few exceptions, for example in the mountains above the tree line. But inform yourself exactly beforehand, as the fines for violations can be high. Tap water is generally of very good quality and can be drunk without hesitation.

The low season (May/June and September/October) is ideal for a camping holiday in the Canton of Zurich. The campsites are less crowded, prices are lower, and the weather is often pleasantly mild. Especially in spring, the meadows and trees are in full bloom, while in autumn, the vineyards glow in the most beautiful colors. A lesser-known place is Lake Türlersee, a small lake southwest of Zurich. There is a beautiful campsite here and numerous hiking trails. The lake is ideal for swimming and relaxing. You can reach it from Zurich via the A3, exit Affoltern am Albis, then follow the signs to Türlersee. A visit to the weekly market in Winterthur is a must. Here you will find regional specialties, fresh vegetables, fruit, and cheese. The market takes place every Saturday morning on Neumarktplatz. A local festival you shouldn't miss is the Zurich Sechseläuten, a traditional spring festival held every year in April. The highlight of the festival is the burning of the Böögg, a snowman symbolizing winter. Culinary-wise, you should definitely try Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a dish made of veal, mushrooms, and cream sauce. It is traditionally served with Rösti, a potato dish. Locals like to visit the Restaurant Linde in Zurich, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine. A worthwhile day trip is a visit to the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe. It is located about 30 km north of Zurich and is easily accessible by car or train. The journey takes about 45 minutes. You can admire the waterfall from various viewpoints or take a boat trip.