Is the Langstrasse neighborhood safe for tourists?

Yes, Langstrasse is generally safe for visitors during the day and evening. While it is Zurich's former red-light district and can be rowdy on weekend nights, it is heavily patrolled and very popular with locals. Use standard urban common sense, especially late at night.

What is the best time to do a walking tour in Zurich Aussersihl?

The best time is late afternoon, around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. This allows you to see the daily markets at Helvetiaplatz before they close and experience the neighborhood's famous transition into a nightlife hotspot as the sun sets.

Can I see street art on this walking route?

Absolutely, Langstrasse and the surrounding side streets are some of the best places in Zurich for street art and urban murals. The area around Photobastei and the railway underpasses frequently features new work by local artists.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

Yes, especially during the day. The stop at Bäckeranlage park is very family-friendly with a playground and cafe. However, parents should be aware that Langstrasse does contain sex shops and nightlife-oriented businesses that are visible from the street.

Are there many places to eat along Langstrasse?

Langstrasse is one of Zurich's most diverse culinary destinations. You will find everything from traditional Swiss bakeries to high-end 'hipster' burger joints and some of the city's best international street food, particularly around Piazza Cella.

Is this Zurich walking route wheelchair accessible?

The route is almost entirely flat and follows standard city pavements, making it highly accessible. The main public spaces like Helvetiaplatz and Kasernenareal are easy to navigate, though some smaller historic bars may have limited interior space.

Do I need tickets for any of the stops?

Most of the route covers public squares and parks that are free to enter. However, if you wish to see the exhibitions at Photobastei 2.0, you will typically need to purchase a ticket at their entrance desk.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Discover the raw, pulsating heart of Zurich on this self-guided walk through the Aussersihl district. Langstrasse is a place of vivid contrasts, where the city’s industrial past and red-light history collide with a modern wave of creative energy and nightlife. This neighborhood stroll takes you away from the polished banks of the Limmat and into a world of grit, glamour, and grassroots activism. You will explore how a former military barracks transformed into a cultural hub and how a simple street corner became the center of Zurich’s social evolution. This walking route is perfect for those who want to see the 'real' Zurich beyond the luxury watches and chocolate shops. As you navigate the route, you will encounter Helvetiaplatz, the city's traditional site for political demonstrations and vibrant local markets. You will also pass through areas that still retain their edgy reputation, providing a window into the complex social fabric of the city. The walk highlights the transformation of the area, showcasing how once-notorious spots have been reclaimed as community parks and artistic venues. From the legendary Olé-Olé-Bar to the cutting-edge exhibitions at Photobastei, this audio walk offers a deep dive into the stories that define Zurich’s most misunderstood quarter. Whether you are interested in urban sociology, local history, or simply looking for the best spots for photography and people-watching, this self-guided adventure provides the context you need. Explore at your own pace, stopping for a coffee at a hipster café or a beer at a traditional dive bar. This experience captures the essence of a neighborhood in flux, making it a must for anyone wanting to understand the modern identity of Switzerland's largest city. While many visitors stick to the Old Town, this walking tour Zurich alternative reveals a side of the city that is loud, colorful, and unapologetically authentic. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The historic Kasernenareal military complex turned cultural hub

Helvetiaplatz, the political and social heart of Zurich’s Fourth District

The legendary Olé-Olé-Bar, a staple of Zurich's nightlife since the 1960s

The green oasis of Bäckeranlage park

Photobastei 2.0, a premier destination for photography and urban art

A firsthand look at the gentrification and evolution of the Langstrasse quarter

Tour Stops (6)

Kasernenareal

Begin your self-guided adventure at the Kasernenareal, a massive former military complex that has stood as a bastion of Zurich's history since the 19th century. Once a place for soldiers and horses, this sprawling area is now a vibrant public space. The main building, the Zeughaus, is a stunning example of military architecture, but the real story is its modern use. Today, it hosts theater productions, festivals, and the city’s famous Christmas markets. As you walk through the courtyard, notice how the city has reclaimed this space for the people, turning a site of rigid discipline into a center for creative expression and leisure.

Helvetiaplatz

A short walk leads you to Helvetiaplatz, the symbolic heart of Zurich's labor movement and political activism. This square is dominated by the Volkshaus, a traditional 'house of the people' that remains a key venue for concerts and discussions. Look for the 'Monument to Labor' and the statue of Helvetia herself. On Tuesdays and Fridays, this space transforms into a bustling food market where locals buy fresh produce from regional farmers. It is a place where the diverse threads of Zurich’s social fabric—from wealthy bankers to local activists—neatly intertwine under the shadow of the St. Jakob church.

Piazza Cella

Now you enter the core of Langstrasse at Piazza Cella. Named after the legendary social worker and 'Angel of Langstrasse' Emilie Cella, this small square sits at a notorious intersection. Historically, this was the epicenter of the red-light district. While the area has seen significant gentrification, you can still feel the raw energy that has defined this street for decades. It's a place of transition where old-school sex shops sit adjacent to trendy boutiques. Note that the street life here is dynamic; while usually safe, it is always lively and serves as a reminder of the district's unpolished past.

Olé-Olé-Bar

No neighborhood stroll through Langstrasse is complete without passing the Olé-Olé-Bar. This is one of Zurich’s most iconic drinking establishments, famously run for decades by the formidable landlady Ruth ‘Gulliver’ Meyer. In its heyday, it was a sanctuary for cabaretiers, sailors, and the neighborhood’s colorful characters. The bar retains its retro charm and serves as a living museum of Zurich’s nightlife history. While the interior has seen updates, the spirit of the place remains a testament to the era before Langstrasse became a mainstream destination. It’s a perfect spot to observe the blend of long-time locals and the new hipster crowd.

Bäckeranlage

Escape the bustle of the main street for a moment in Bäckeranlage. This park is the 'living room' of the Aussersihl district. It hasn't always been so peaceful; in the late 20th century, it was a focal point for social challenges within the city. Today, thanks to community efforts, it is a lush green space where families picnic, children play, and locals enjoy the community center's bistro. The park represents the successful 'revitalization' of the district, balancing the needs of a growing urban population with the preservation of communal green space. It’s a great place to pause and reflect on the neighborhood's journey.

Photobastei 2.0

Finish your walk at Photobastei 2.0, located in an industrial building near the railway tracks. This isn't your typical hushed museum; it is a dynamic 'house of photography' that hosts rotating exhibitions ranging from world-famous artists to local underground talent. The industrial aesthetic of the building perfectly captures the 'Hipster Heights' phase of Langstrasse’s evolution. Because the exhibits change frequently, there is always something new to discover. It’s a hub for Zurich’s creative community and the perfect place to end your exploration of a neighborhood that refuses to be defined by just one identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

A full self-guided walk of Langstrasse and its key landmarks typically takes between 90 and 120 minutes. The distance is roughly 2.5 kilometers, allowing for plenty of time to stop at parks like Bäckeranlage or browse galleries like Photobastei.