Discover Germany | Special Theme | City Guide – Focus on Zurich 2022
WINTERTHUR: A CITY FULL OF DELIGHTS Just 20 minutes by train from Zurich or 40 minutes by car from Lake Constance lies Winterthur: a vibrant city with an industrial past that, thanks to its inspiring old town and cultural diversity, has become a major attraction for many. TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: HOUSE OF WINTERTHUR
There is a cornucopia of possibilities for a perfect day in Winterthur. Not least 15 museums, among them the Oskar Reinhart Collection «Am Römerholz» – a true gem of the Swiss art scene that is housed in the Winterthur patron Oskar Reinhard’s former villa, that in itself is most certainly worth a visit while you’re in the area. The Kunst Museum Winterthur exhibits one of the most beautiful public collections of modern art in Switzerland. These include works from the 17th century to the present day, among them notable works such as the famous painting Chalk Cliffs on Rügen by Caspar David Friedrich. Moreover, thanks to the existence of two other artistic gems, the Fotomuseum and Fotostiftung Schweiz, which are dedicated to photography rather than painting, Winterthur is home to an inter48 | Issue 89 | January 2022
nationally renowned competence centre for photography. Winterthur, however, has a lot more to offer than its spectacular museums – a colourful blend of markets, for example. In winter, the relaxed atmosphere at the Winterthur Christmas Market or the Winter Market is the perfect setting for a glass of mulled wine and a pleasant stroll through the old town. Arts and crafts
markets beckon visitors with their varied offer of either extravagant or conventional art. All types of markets, be it the quarterly, weekly, or flea markets, have one thing in common though: they offer mainly regional specialities and products from local producers. Those who want to get to know Winterthur even better, should book a guided city tour. A night watchman guides interested parties through Winterthur by night; the guided city walk ‘Flanieren und Probieren’ (Amble and Sample) gives you insights into the changes in our eating and drinking culture; and the ‘Sulzerareal-Führung’, through the former industrial area which is so full of history. These tours make one fact pretty obvious for all to see: this city is special! The variety of idyllic alleys, charming cafés and restaurants, as well as the distinct shops, make for a postcard-like picture. They are an invitation to stay and enjoy this city’s cosy atmosphere, a city that offers each and every visitor ample options for a perfect day. www.winterthur.com
