ETH Zurich

ETH Zürich is s one of the leading international universities for technology and the natural sciences in the city of Zürich, Switzerland. The imposing Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) building was constructed in 1864 from plans drawn up by Gottfried Semper. The University of Zurich (UZH) was established 50 years later in an adjacent and no less impressive edifice, visited by over 30,000 workers and students daily.

ETH Zurich hosts today around 20,000 students from over 120 countries, including 4000 doctoral students. To researchers, it offers an inspiring working environment, to students, a comprehensive education. As of November 2019, 21 Nobel laureates, 2 Fields Medalists, 2 Pritzker Prize winners, and 1 Turing Award winner have been affiliated with the Institute, including Albert Einstein. 

Polyterrasse

The Polyterrasse is a popular vantage point with a view over the old town to the Uetliberg and the Limmat Valley. It is administered by the ETH center. This square is part of the ETH Zurich and is a popular hangout for many students before and after lessons. It’s a platform with a scenic view, perfect to: Watch fireworks, have a picnic, get some sun, read a while 

From Central, take the historic “Polybahn”. When you arrive, exit to the right, and a few steps later, you arrive on Polyterrasse. This place warms up quickly thanks to its southwards orientation and is a nice place to relax on a sunny day.

Special tip

Below Polyterrasse, there’s a student’s bar called BQM, a great place to grab a quick bite.