From the mountains to the lake, top-class food and art, you really could say Zurich speaks Seattle’s language (even more so if you understand German). And with the addition of a new direct flight from SeaTac to Switzerland’s largest city, courtesy of Edelweiss Air, easy travel translates to a summer of exploration in one of Europe's most beautiful and culturally rich destinations.

The heartbeat of Zurich lies by the water. Sound familiar? The city’s beloved “badis” — public lake and river baths — become lively meeting points for locals and visitors alike as the temperature rises.

Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Limmat River or Lake Zurich, lounge on floating decks, or rent a kayak and paddle alongside the resident swans. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, hop on a boat cruise and explore the nearby lakeside towns — Rapperswil and its captivating castle and rose gardens make for a particularly memorable day trip.

As the sun sets over the Alps, the allure of the water (and an ice-cold drink) will only grow stronger, so track down some refreshment at an open-air bar like Haus am Fluss or Samigo Amusement.

For those who love to move, Zurich offers endless outdoor activities. Cycling through its parks offers an encouraging look at how nature can thrive in an urban environment. For a loftier perspective, head to higher ground on Uetliberg, where hiking trails and an observation tower reveal stunning views of distant peaks. Plan ahead and pack bread, fruit, cheese, and other accouterments to enjoy a picnic in the surrounding forest.

Zurich’s appeal goes far beyond the scenery, though its surroundings are an undeniable influence on the artwork in this cultural capital. The Kunsthaus Zurich hosts major international exhibitions as well as pieces by Swiss masters.

If your preferences lean modern, the edgy Zurich-West district is home to innovative galleries, design studios, and the striking Löwenbräukunst housed in an old, brick-faced brewery building. You may even stumble upon art installations in converted industrial spaces that redefine the idea of a museum.

Music also takes center stage in Zurich's summer calendar, when jazz nights, classical symphonies, and concerts under the stars spill into plazas and courtyards. The iconic Street Parade, held on the second Saturday in August, brings over a million people to the lakefront for a massive techno party, filling the streets with colorful beats and the pure joy of self-expression.

The Theater Spektakel, held the following weeks likewise on the shores of Lake Zurich, is one of Europe’s leading festivals for contemporary performing arts, drawing troupes from across the globe. Whether you’re into dance, plays, or avant-garde circus, you’ll find something that moves you.

To truly understand a place, arguably one must know its taste, and between the fine dining, cafes, street fairs, and artisan markets, there are plenty of opportunities to get well acquainted. “Zürcher Geschnetzletes,” or sliced veal, is a traditional dish that you won’t want to miss. Don’t worry, there are plenty of plant-based bites too, like those served at Haus Hiltl, the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world (it was established in 1898).

Of course, sometimes it’s more satisfying to have a hand in the local cuisine, so join a chocolate making workshop at the Lindt Home of Chocolate or reserve a guided tasting of Swiss wines grown in the sun-soaked vineyards just outside the city.

Zurich may seem similar to Seattle in a lot of ways, but it’s different enough to make it worth the departure — the kind of getaway where you’ll never feel homesick, nor will you feel guilty about it. And want to know the best part? It doesn’t have to be the end of your journey. In fact, with Zurich’s extensive railway connections, the rest of Switzerland’s magic is only a train ride away.

About Edelweiss Air

• Name: Edelweiss Air

• Sister Company of: Swiss International Air Lines

• Alliance Membership: Member of Star Alliance

• Route: Nonstop flights from Zurich to over 90 destinations

• Seasonal Operation: June 2 – September 15 (Twice Weekly: Mondays & Saturdays)

• Book Now: Your flights with Edelweiss to Zurich