Kreis 1: The Historic Core

Zürich's Altstadt (Old Town) is the main reason you're here, thanks to Gothic treasures like the Fraumünster, shopping galore, and an amazing collection of restaurants, and it's all right on the lake. Less dignified and livelier, Zürich's east bank Niederdorf and Oberdorf neighborhoods are noted for both their cultural goodies, including the star-studded opera house and the Kunsthaus (Museum of Art), and their lively bars and restaurants.