Zurich stands out as a fantastic city for those seeking authentic drinking experiences. With its mix of cozy taverns, trendy bars, and lively nightlife districts, Zurich offers more than just the standard pub scene. What makes it especially appealing are the local guides and small-group tours that give you insider access and a deeper understanding of Swiss drinking culture. We particularly like the Zurich Beer Tour, which combines craft beer tasting with local history, and the Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour, perfect for making new friends while exploring Zurich’s vibrant social scene. Whether you want to sample Swiss liqueurs or discover the coolest bars locals prefer, Zurich’s drinking tours make for a memorable night out.
For travelers who want a laid-back evening with plenty of opportunities to mingle, the Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour is a top choice. If craft beer is more your style, the Zurich Beer Tour offers an in-depth look at Zurich’s brewing scene. And for those interested in exploring Zurich’s favorite bars with a local guide, the Zurich: bar tour provides a rundown of the city’s best nightspots.
1. Zurich: Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks
At number one, the Zurich: Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks combines fun, socializing, and a convenient way to discover Zurich’s nightlife in just four hours. For about $37 per person, you’ll visit three lively hotspots, with your guide leading the way. This tour is especially good if you’re traveling solo or want a relaxed, social night out. It’s a popular choice, with a 4.5/5 rating from 69 reviews, many praising the guide’s friendliness and the lively karaoke bar.
What sets this tour apart is the emphasis on meeting new people and enjoying Zurich’s vibrant scene without the stress of planning. You’ll sample shots and snacks at each stop, making it easy to keep the energy up. It’s perfect for travelers who want an informal, fun night with a good mix of locals, expats, and fellow visitors. The tour’s affordability and social vibe make it an excellent value for those looking to experience Zurich’s nightlife in a low-pressure environment.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for social travelers, first-timers, or anyone wanting a lively intro to Zurich’s bar scene without breaking the bank.
2. Zurich: bar tour
Coming in at number two, the Zurich: bar tour offers a curated experience visiting four bars favored by locals. Priced at $244 per person, it delivers a deeper dive into Zurich’s bar culture over four hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour is especially well-rated—holding a perfect 5/5 from four reviews—and is designed to give a comprehensive taste of what Zurich’s nightlife has to offer.
During this tour, you’ll explore different venues, each with its own unique vibe, from cozy neighborhood pubs to stylish cocktail lounges. Your guide provides recommendations and insights about Swiss drinks, including the famous Swiss liqueur. The tour not only introduces you to Zurich’s best bars but also offers suggestions on how to spend your time in the city beyond the tour.
The high price reflects the quality of the experience and the personalized guidance. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a more intimate, in-depth bar-hopping experience and value expert advice on Zurich’s drinking scene. The exclusive access and detailed insights make this a standout option for lovers of craft cocktails and local spirits.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want an upscale, curated bar-hopping experience with expert tips and a focus on local favorites.
3. Zurich Beer Tour – tasting tour with a local beer expert
At number three, the Zurich Beer Tour is a three-hour walk through districts 4 and 5, focusing on Zurich’s craft beer scene. For $158, you’ll sample at least eight 10cl tasters, learning about the brewing process and Zurich’s beer history from Sandro, a passionate local beer expert. This tour is ideal for beer aficionados who want to go beyond the usual and discover unique brews in authentic settings.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of tasting, learning, and exploring hidden beer bars. Sandro’s knowledge brings Zurich’s beer culture alive, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an educational experience. Guests rave about the personalized attention and the variety of beers—some quite adventurous—that they get to try. The tour also reaches some of Zurich’s less touristy districts, giving you a view of the city’s local scene.
While the price is on the higher side for a three-hour tour, the genuine beer education and quality of the tastings make it worthwhile. It’s perfect for travelers who want to understand Swiss brews and enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best suited for beer lovers eager to learn about Zurich’s brewing traditions and taste a diverse selection of craft beers in a friendly, guided setting.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Zurich
When selecting a drinking tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much social interaction you want. If you’re after a fun, casual evening and meeting new people, the Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour offers great value. For a more sophisticated experience with detailed local insights, the Zurich: bar tour is ideal. And if craft beer is your passion, the Zurich Beer Tour provides an educational, tasting-rich experience.
Timing also matters—these tours run in the evening, but check availability in advance. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordability of the pub crawl, while those seeking a premium experience may prefer the curated bar tour. For beer lovers, booking early is recommended since the beer tour’s popularity can fill up.
Final thoughts
Zurich’s nightlife offers a wide array of options for different tastes and budgets. The Pub Crawl is perfect for social, budget-friendly fun, while the bar tour appeals to those wanting an upscale, personalized experience. Meanwhile, the craft beer tour is a must for beer enthusiasts wanting to learn and taste Zurich’s best brews.
Whatever your preference, these tours give you a fantastic way to explore Zurich’s nightlife beyond the typical bar scene. Booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot, especially during peak travel times. So, gather your friends or go solo—Zurich’s lively drinking scene awaits.
Happy drinking and exploring in Zurich!