This medieval lakeside town on Lake Zurich has a 13th-century castle, the longest wooden pedestrian bridge in Switzerland, and Europe's largest rose garden.
Rapperswil sits on Lake Zurich, where medieval streets wind up to a 13th-century castle. You'll find roses blooming in three gardens from June to October, children feeding animals at Knie's Zoo, and locals strolling across Switzerland's longest wooden bridge. The car-free old town is 36 minutes by train from Zurich.
Getting Around the Medieval Center
The old town centers around Hauptplatz, where you'll find cafes and restaurants in buildings dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. Small alleys branch off from the main square, leading to quiet corners and local shops. Walk up 53 steps from the square to reach Rapperswil Castle, which houses the Polish Museum. The medieval streets are car-free, making it easy to explore on foot.
Three Rose Gardens to Explore
From June to October, three gardens display 600 different varieties of roses. The main garden near the castle includes tactile signs and raised flower beds for visually impaired visitors. The Capuchin Monastery garden grows climbing roses along its walls, while the Town Hall garden features old European rose varieties arranged in geometric patterns.
Activities on Lake Zurich
Walk or cycle across the 841-meter wooden bridge connecting Rapperswil to Hurden. Stop at the small Heilig Hüsli chapel, where pilgrims rest on the Way of St. James. Watch boats pass underneath or take a boat ride yourself - two paddle steamers and regular boats connect Rapperswil with Zurich.
Family Activities and Zoo
At Knie's Children's Zoo, 5 minutes from the train station, children can feed goats, pet ponies, and ride elephants. The zoo focuses on animal interactions, with designated feeding times and petting areas. In summer, take the 700-meter toboggan run at Atzmännig, or try the beginner-friendly ski slopes in winter.
Events Throughout the Year
Listen to live music at the blues'n'jazz festival in June, when musicians perform in squares and courtyards across the old town. The Seenachtsfest brings fireworks over the lake every three years in August, drawing 100,000 visitors. In December, the Christkindlymärt fills the old town with 200 stalls selling crafts, mulled wine, and local food.
Transportation from Zurich
Trains depart every 15 minutes from Zurich Main Station, with a journey time of 36 minutes. During summer, boats leave from Zurich's Bürkliplatz for a two-hour journey to Rapperswil.
