Helvetiaplatz market offers seasonal produce, cheeses and ready to eat snacks on Tuesdays and Fridays. It suits travellers who prefer casual, low commitment eating. Use it to assemble simple picnics or try small portions before deciding on a full restaurant meal.
Where to get: Helvetiaplatz marknad
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes is a classic Zurich style dish of sliced veal in a creamy sauce, often paired with Rösti. It reflects local restaurant cooking more than market stalls. Look for it on menus in traditional eateries around the Altstadt and central districts.
Where to get: Restauranger i Gamla stan i Zürich
Rösti
Rösti is a pan fried grated potato cake associated with Swiss German regions. In Zurich it often appears as a side to meat dishes or eggs. It is naturally gluten free and widely available in city centre restaurants and simple diners.
Where to get: Matställen i centrala Zürich
May in Zurich is defined by warmer days and a surge of festivals. Highs reach 18°C (64°F), with lows around 8°C (46°F). The city’s public spaces fill with cyclists, dancers, and market-goers. Zürich Tanzt and Cycle Week energize the streets, while intermittent rain keeps parks lush. Crowds are moderate to high during headline events, so plan reservations and indoor alternatives. It’s a month for embracing Zurich’s active, creative spirit.
Pro tips for visiting Zurich in May
Reserve tickets for Zürich Tanzt and Cycle Week performances and workshops.
Use the ZVV check-in day pass for multiple same-zone trips; it’s valid until 05:00 next day.
Pack a light jacket and umbrella for intermittent rain.
Book central accommodation early during festival periods.
Visit Helvetiaplatz market in early afternoon for quieter browsing.
Prioritize museums and indoor venues as contingency for rainy spells.
Zurich in May at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 18°C
Minimum temperature: 8°C
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Daylight
Around 15 hours 8 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 5:48am
Sunset: 8:56pm
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Key events
Zürich Tanzt, Cycle Week, IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship window, Zurich Opera performances May
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Crowds
Balanced crowds, with manageable queues and a mix of tourists and local visitors in the city.
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What to pack
Light jacket, umbrella, comfortable shoes, sun protection
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Seasonal treats
Fresh strawberries at markets, festival street food, Swiss cheese at Helvetiaplatz
Citywide dance festival with performances and workshops. Studios and theatres host different styles, from contemporary to social dance. Classes and shows can sell out, so book tickets or spots ahead if you want to participate.
Cycling themed festival with events for commuters, sport riders and families. Expect test tracks, talks and urban cycling activities. It increases bike traffic around the centre, so pedestrians should watch crossings more carefully.
Helvetiaplatz market May
Dates:May 1, 2026 to May 31, 2026
Event type:Festival
Location:Helvetiaplatz marknad
Late spring market with a broad mix of fruit, vegetables and prepared food. It is a good stop on a flexible walking day. Arrive mid morning to balance stall variety with fewer commuter crowds.
During the international championship window in May, Switzerland hosts games that can impact visitor numbers and accommodation, including in Zurich. Exact Zurich venues vary, so check schedules. If you attend matches, book hotels near rail links for easier late returns.
May performances sit at the transition between indoor season and increasing outdoor activity. Longer evenings make pre show lakefront walks appealing. Weekend performances can coincide with festivals, so start times and transport may compete with other events.
With spring weather sometimes unstable, May exhibitions at the Swiss National Museum are a reliable backup. You can easily combine them with other central attractions or festivals, then return to the station area without long transfers.
Plan ahead: must-visit experiences for Zurich in May
