THERE aren't too many places on this planet where you can get 'the comfort of a city but also get to see the lakes, river, wooded hills and views of the mountains'.

According to Switzerland's ambassador to Singapore, Mr Daniel Woker, 59, his hometown Zurich is one such spot.

He should know. The diplomat has travelled all over the world, officially staying in more than 10 countries in the last 30 years. He has been here five years.

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is considered to be the country's commercial and cultural centre. Here are his suggestions on how to make the most of a trip to Zurich:

1. Take a lake and river tour

This could be a half- or full-day trip or even a cruise with dinner thrown in. Depending on what you opt for, expect to pay anything between $10 and $100.

2. Hop onto a tram

Zurich offers three modes of public transport: local trains, buses and trams. Mr Woker recommends the trams and suggests getting a one-day pass for about $10 so you can see the city.

3. Soccer fever

SIGHTS: Some great ways to see Zurich include a lake or river cruise, and by tram, says Mr Daniel Woker (above), Switzerland's ambassador to Singapore.

Zurich has been Fifa's home since 1932 and the much-anticipated European Football Championship will be held in the city next month. Soccer buffs should make it to the Letizigrund Stadium, but those who can't can still join the revelry at the Uefa Fan Zone by Lake Zurich or at the city's bars and clubs.

4. Shopping

Start with Bahnhofstrasse. 'This shopping stretch is like Singapore's Orchard Road. You can get all the Swiss and international brands here,' says Mr Woker.

If you are looking for a more colourful shopping experience, head to Aussersihl and Zurich-West, home to many young artists who have created a vibrant art, culinary and fashion scene in the area. For a flea market experience, head to Burkliplatz or shop in the old town.

5. Get a Swiss souvenir

'Don't leave without getting a Swiss Army knife, but remember not to have it in your hand baggage,' cautions Mr Woker.

If you are a watch lover, add a Swiss watch to your collection or opt for a Swatch, which should set you back by about $100. For those with a sweet tooth, 'your trip wouldn't be complete without Lindt chocolates', he adds.

6. Museum hopping

'If you enjoyed seeing the works of Alberto Giacometti at the Singapore Art Museum, start with Kunsthaus Zurich, which has a large collection of the master's works as well as one of the largest collections of modern art,' he says.

7. Zurich Festival

June 20 to July 13 is Zurich's annual celebration of music, art, theatre, opera and dance. You can catch special concerts, exhibitions and performances throughout the city in venues such as the famous Opernhaus Zurich, Kunsthaus Zurich, Theater am Neumarkt and some stunning open-air venues.

8. Food

While there are lots of restaurants in Zurich, Mr Woker recommends two:

• Kronenhalle. Those who have dined here include painter Pablo Picasso, writer James Joyce and actress Ursula Andress. Admire the art of Picasso and Chagall, which adorn the walls, as you eat. Dinner with wine will cost around $100 per person. 
• Sonnenberg, next to Fifa's headquarters. Don't leave without tucking into Swiss-style roesti potatoes with meat and a Swiss cheese platter. Dinner with wine will cost about $50 per person.

This article was first published in Life!, The Straits Times on May 13, 2008.