Werdinsel Zurich
Werdinsel: Zurich's vibrant island escape for swimming, BBQs, and sunbathing on the Limmat River.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Werdinsel Zurich
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Werdinsel: Zurich's vibrant island escape for swimming, BBQs, and sunbathing on the Limmat River.
"An unbeatable little island in the middle of the river, perfect for chilling, swimming, and BBQs."
🚗 Parking Woes
Avoid parking hassles; use public transport or walk. Illegal parking is a major issue . :car:
👙 Nude Area Etiquette
Stick to the western tip for naturism. Respect the designated zones . :bra:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Limmat River Swimming
Werdinsel
Dive into the refreshing Limmat River for a fun swim, with a strong current that adds to the excitement for all ages .

Naturist Beach
Western tip of Werdinsel
Enjoy a clothing-optional experience in a designated area, offering a unique way to connect with nature .
BBQ and Picnic Spots
Designated grill areas
Fire up the grill at available BBQ stations, perfect for a summer picnic with friends and family .

Relaxing Green Spaces
Island's grassy areas
Lounge on the green grass, read a book, or simply soak up the sun in this urban oasis .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Werdinsel Crowds
Embrace the Naturist Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Woes
Avoid parking hassles; use public transport or walk. Illegal parking is a major issue.
:car:👙 Nude Area Etiquette
Stick to the western tip for naturism. Respect the designated zones.
:bra:🔥 BBQ Spot Securing
Arrive early for BBQ spots, especially on weekends. Grills are available.
:fire:📱 Limmat River App
Use the LimmatBuddy app for water temps, levels, and float routes.
:iphone:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Woes
Avoid parking hassles; use public transport or walk. Illegal parking is a major issue.
:car:👙 Nude Area Etiquette
Stick to the western tip for naturism. Respect the designated zones.
:bra:🔥 BBQ Spot Securing
Arrive early for BBQ spots, especially on weekends. Grills are available.
:fire:📱 Limmat River App
Use the LimmatBuddy app for water temps, levels, and float routes.
:iphone:👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
🍦 Gelato Stop
A Gelateria di Berna truck is often parked nearby for a sweet treat.
:icecream:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Werdinsel is a highly-rated urban oasis in Zurich, praised for its refreshing Limmat River swimming and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors love the convenience of BBQ facilities and the natural green spaces for lounging. However, it can get extremely crowded on summer weekends, and parking is a significant issue.
"A nice place to sit and relax in the middle of zurich, during summer the limmat canal is swimmable and you can take a swim recently temperature of the canal where about 21 c, so very doable, the current is quite strong but is really fun also for kids and adults alike to be pushed by the river current to the following entry point. Water is very clean but sadly it can become so overcrowded that you cannot find a place to lay down with your own towel"
davide frongia
"Very nice place to chill and swim. Would visit it every time."
youssef abady
"Excellent place for swimming outside. Try swimming both with the stream as well as against the stream. There are good showers in more locations along the river bath. Thank you."
Frank Calberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Werdinsel is easily accessible by public transport. Tram lines and buses serve the area. Many visitors recommend using public transport due to limited and often problematic parking.
Walking or cycling is also a great option if you're nearby.Parking at Werdinsel can be very challenging, especially on weekends. Illegal parking is a common complaint, leading to congestion and safety issues.
It's strongly advised to use public transport instead.Yes, cycling is a fantastic way to reach Werdinsel. There are usually bike racks available, and it's a pleasant ride along the Limmat River. It's a much less stressful option than driving.
While not a primary mode of transport, you can enjoy boat tours on the Limmat River that may pass by or offer views of Werdinsel. For direct access, public transport or cycling is recommended.
From Zurich city center, take public transport (trams or buses) towards Altstetten or the surrounding areas. Check local transport apps for the most direct routes. It's generally a quick and efficient journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Werdinsel is a public park and island, so there is no entrance fee. You can visit and enjoy its amenities for free.
Werdinsel is generally accessible at all times as it's a public park. However, specific facilities like public restrooms or BBQ areas might have limited hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No booking is required to visit Werdinsel. It's a public space. However, if you plan to use the BBQ facilities, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on busy days, as they can get occupied quickly.
The main restriction relates to the designated naturist area on the western tip, where clothing-optional is permitted. Otherwise, it's a public park with standard rules against littering and excessive noise.
The Zurich Card primarily offers free public transport and museum access. While it covers transport to Werdinsel, it doesn't grant special access or discounts for the island itself, as it's a free public space.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely! Swimming in the Limmat River at Werdinsel is a major attraction during summer. The current is strong but fun, and the water is generally clean.
Yes, the western tip of Werdinsel is a designated naturist area where clothing-optional swimming and sunbathing are permitted.
Yes, Werdinsel has designated BBQ areas with fire pits and metallic supports. They are popular, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
You can swim, sunbathe, have picnics, BBQ, relax on the grass, and enjoy the natural surroundings. It's a great spot for a leisurely day out.
Yes, there are showers available along the river bath areas, which are convenient after swimming. Changing facilities might be more basic, so be prepared.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
While there aren't formal restaurants directly on the island, a Gelateria di Berna truck is often present, offering ice cream and treats.
It's best to bring your own food and drinks or utilize the BBQ facilities.Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged. It's a perfect spot for picnics, and you can also grill your own meals.
There are supermarkets and smaller shops in the nearby Altstetten area where you can purchase food and drinks before heading to Werdinsel.
Generally, consuming alcohol in public parks is permitted in Zurich, but it's important to do so responsibly and not cause disturbances. Always check local regulations if unsure.
When buying from supermarkets or shops in Altstetten, you'll find a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. If you're looking for prepared food, some cafes in the area might offer these choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant scenes of people swimming in the Limmat, the lush green island landscape, and the lively atmosphere of the BBQ areas. The contrast between the urban setting and the natural river island is also photogenic.
It is highly inappropriate and disrespectful to take photos of individuals at the naturist beach without their explicit consent. Always be mindful of privacy and ask permission before taking any photos of people.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. However, the lively daytime atmosphere is also great for capturing the energy of the place.
Drone usage in public parks and over residential areas is often restricted. It's essential to check Zurich's local drone regulations before flying one to avoid penalties.
The Limmat River itself, the island's greenery, and the people enjoying the water are the main subjects. The bridges connecting to the island also offer good vantage points.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. The BBQ facilities are also a great way to have a fun, interactive meal with the family. Ensure children are aware of the designated naturist area on the western tip and guide them accordingly.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic and utilizing the free BBQ facilities can save a significant amount of money compared to dining out in Zurich. If you're looking for free activities in Zurich, Werdinsel should be high on your list. Consider using public transport, which is often covered by a day pass if you plan on exploring more of the city.
☀️ Sun Worshippers & Naturists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Swimming in the Limmat River
Water quality is a key concern for river swimming. While the Limmat at Werdinsel is generally clean, recent rain can sometimes affect it by washing in debris and affecting clarity. It's advisable to check local conditions or use resources like the LimmatBuddy app for real-time updates on water temperature and levels before you go. The experience is enhanced by the availability of showers along the river bath areas, making it convenient to rinse off after your swim.
Naturism at Werdinsel
For those new to naturism or seeking a comfortable experience, Redditors suggest staying close to the regulars on the riverside if you feel insecure. While changing in public without a towel is common and generally accepted within the nude area, sticking to the designated zone is recommended for those who wish to fully embrace the naturist experience without causing discomfort to others. The island offers quiet corners, making it a peaceful retreat for naturists.
BBQ and Leisure
Beyond grilling, the island's expansive green spaces are perfect for lounging, reading, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Many visitors describe it as an 'unbeatable little island' for chilling out with friends or family. The combination of swimming opportunities, BBQ facilities, and ample green space makes Werdinsel a versatile destination for a full day of relaxation and recreation in Zurich.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit