In a landlocked country such as Switzerland you have to be clever in how to enjoy the water surrounding you.
In Zurich, public swimming areas known by locals as badis utilize the nearby lake or river to create an amazing swimming scene.
Often, these badis will have diving boards to jump off of, docks to lounge on, and nearby restaurants to grab a bite to eat from. Some badis are gender-specific or cater more to families.
While badis are open year round, the peak swimming season is from May to September. During these summer months, some badis will cost a small fee while others will remain free to use.
Below are three badis to explore the next time you are in Zurich.
Strandbad Tiefenbrunnen
Situated on Lake Zurich, this badi is prefect for the whole family as it has a 200-foot-long water slide that spills into the lake and a large enclosed kiddie pool. Admission costs 4 CHF – 8 CHF per person depending on your age.
Seebad Enge
This badi is composed of two pools, one for strictly women and one for both women and men. These pools are designed to be used for swimming laps. Unlike other badis located on Lake Zurich, stand-up paddleboarding lessons and yoga classes are offered. Admission costs 8 CHF per person.
Unterer Letten
As Zurich’s oldest badi, it is very popular among the locals. Situated on the Limmat River, swimmers will be carried downstream once jumping off of the diving board. If you want to stay out of the sun, the pergolas offering shade are available to use. Admission is free.