Schanzengraben Promenade Zurich
A tranquil urban oasis in Zurich, perfect for leisurely strolls and refreshing swims along a charming canal.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
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Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Schanzengraben Promenade Zurich
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil urban oasis in Zurich, perfect for leisurely strolls and refreshing swims along a charming canal.
"A surprisingly clean and refreshing urban dip, locals love this spot!"
🏊♀️ Take a Dip!
Yes, you can swim in the Schanzengraben! Locals enjoy it on warm days.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Stroll
Enjoy the tranquil waterside path, a perfect urban escape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Schanzengraben Promenade Stroll
A picturesque waterside path offering a peaceful urban retreat. Perfect for a leisurely walk amidst greenery.

Urban Swimming
Designated entry points along the promenade
Take a refreshing dip in the clean waters of the Schanzengraben. A unique city swimming experience for locals and visitors alike.

Männerbad Schanzengraben
Adjacent to the promenade
Zurich's historic open-air bath, offering a traditional swimming experience with a view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Urban Oasis
Best Time for a Dip or Stroll
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏊♀️ Take a Dip!
Yes, you can swim in the Schanzengraben! Locals enjoy it on warm days.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Stroll
Enjoy the tranquil waterside path, a perfect urban escape.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Even dogs enjoy a swim here!
💰 Beware of Begpackers
Be aware of potential encounters with 'begpackers' asking for donations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊♀️ Take a Dip!
Yes, you can swim in the Schanzengraben! Locals enjoy it on warm days.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Stroll
Enjoy the tranquil waterside path, a perfect urban escape.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Even dogs enjoy a swim here!
💰 Beware of Begpackers
Be aware of potential encounters with 'begpackers' asking for donations.
💧 Water Quality
The water is generally clean and suitable for swimming.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Schanzengraben Promenade for its serene atmosphere and the unique opportunity for urban swimming. It's seen as a peaceful oasis within Zurich, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a refreshing dip. Some caution is advised regarding potential encounters with 'begpackers'.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Schanzengraben Promenade is easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams or buses to nearby stops like 'Schanzengraben' or 'Alfred-Escher-Brücke'. It's also a pleasant walk from the city center, especially if you're exploring the Old Town.
Parking directly at the promenade is limited. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a nearby city garage and walk.
Yes, it's a walkable distance from Zurich HB, taking approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your pace. It's a scenic route that can take you through parts of the city.
The promenade is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Enjoy a smooth and easy exploration.
Trams and buses are very convenient. Consider using the Zurich Card for unlimited travel on public transport, which can also offer discounts on attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Schanzengraben Promenade is a public space and is free to access. You can stroll, relax, and enjoy the scenery without any entry fee.
Yes, the Männerbad Schanzengraben is a public bath and has an admission fee. Check their official website for current pricing and opening hours.
The promenade is open 24/7, allowing you to visit at any time. However, for swimming, it's best to go during daylight hours.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's a public space so standard rules of conduct apply. Be mindful of others and keep the area clean.
Yes, you can swim in designated areas of the Schanzengraben outside of the Männerbad. Many locals do this on hot days.
🎫 🏊♀️ Swimming & Water Activities
Yes, swimming in the Schanzengraben is generally considered safe and is a popular activity for locals during warm weather. The water is typically clean.
There are several spots along the promenade where you can safely enter the water. The area near the Männerbad Schanzengraben is a common entry point.
Yes, dogs are welcome to swim in the Schanzengraben. It's a great spot for your furry friends to cool off.
During summer, the water temperature can be quite pleasant, often around 24°C (75°F), making it ideal for swimming.
While there aren't extensive facilities directly on the promenade, the Männerbad Schanzengraben offers changing rooms and showers for a fee.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The promenade offers lovely views of the water, surrounding greenery, and city architecture. The reflections on the water, especially during golden hour, are particularly photogenic.
While not a panoramic city view, you can capture charming shots of Zurich's urban landscape blending with the natural elements of the promenade.
Drone usage may be restricted in urban areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone near the promenade or any residential areas.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful reflections and soft shadows.
You can capture views of nearby bridges, the historic Männerbad, and the blend of modern and older architecture along the canal.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful walk, go for a swim, have a picnic, or simply relax by the water. It's a great spot to escape the city bustle.
It can get busy on warm summer days, especially on weekends. Weekday mornings or evenings are generally quieter.
There are cafes and restaurants in the vicinity, though not directly on the promenade itself. You can also bring your own picnic.
Bring your swimwear and a towel. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for strolling along the promenade.
Public restrooms might be limited directly on the promenade. The Männerbad Schanzengraben has facilities for its patrons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't dedicated playgrounds, the open space allows for running around, and the Männerbad Schanzengraben offers a more controlled swimming environment if preferred. Packing a picnic is a great idea, as there are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. It’s a safe and enjoyable escape from the city's more crowded attractions.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Instead of expensive cafes, consider packing your own picnic to enjoy by the water. This saves money and allows you to savor the tranquil atmosphere. If you're looking for free activities in Zurich, a stroll or a dip in the Schanzengraben is a perfect addition to your itinerary.
🐶 Pet Owners
It's a refreshing change from many city parks where dogs might have limited access to water. Remember to bring a towel for your dog after their swim and ensure they are well-behaved around other visitors and swimmers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Schanzengraben: A Zurich Gem
One of the most unique aspects of the Schanzengraben is its popularity for urban swimming. On warm days, the canal becomes a natural pool, with people of all ages taking a dip to cool off. The water is generally clean, and there are several accessible entry points along the promenade. For a more traditional experience, the historic Männerbad Schanzengraben, an open-air bath, is located adjacent to the promenade, offering a classic Swiss swimming experience.
Beyond swimming, the promenade is ideal for a peaceful walk, especially during the quieter hours of the morning or late afternoon. The gentle flow of the water, the surrounding trees, and the occasional glimpse of city architecture create a picturesque setting. It’s a perfect spot for a moment of reflection or a casual outing with friends and family. Be aware, however, that some travelers have noted encounters with 'begpackers' in the area, so staying vigilant is advised.
Swimming in the Schanzengraben: A Local's Guide
When planning your swim, remember that facilities are minimal directly on the promenade. The Männerbad offers changing rooms and showers for a fee, which can be convenient. Otherwise, be prepared to change discreetly or arrive in your swimwear. Dogs are also welcome to join in the fun, making it a great spot for pet owners.
It's important to note that while swimming is popular, the depth of the canal can vary. Stick to areas where entry is easy and safe. The experience is less about laps and more about enjoying a casual, refreshing swim in a unique city setting.
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