Did you know the city of Zurich has a population of 340,000. It is the biggest city in Switzerland and is the economic centre of the country. With its location directly on Lake Zurich, the metropolis has a wonderful natural setting. On a cultural level, Zurich has plenty to offer and one of the best known sights is the Fraumünster. Germany's King Ludwig donated this church in 853 and it houses a 5793-pipe organ as well as stained glass windows by the artist Marc Chagall.

Did you know no other city anywhere in the world beats Zurich in terms of quality of life? In fact Zürich has topped the Mercer Quality of Living survey in each of the past five years. This prestigious consulting company investigated 215 large cities, using criteria such as Leisure and Recreation, Safety, Cleanliness, Political and Economic Stability and Medical Care. Visitors can take advantage of an astonishing variety of cultural and culinary choices and there are a wide range of opportunities for all kinds of entertainment, recreation and relaxation.

Did you know that one of Switzerland's best loved treats can be found on the Paradeplatz (Parade Square) in Zurich? Founded in 1836, the confectioners Sprüngli moved to the Paradeplatz on Bahnhofstrasse in 1859 and began producing chocolate delights for sale. Today, the company headquarters can be found in the same place, tempting visitors from all over the world, above all for the 'Luxemburgerli', a speciality made from beaten egg white which is served in a variety of different flavours. As well as such attractions, Zurich has a fine reputation as a shopper's paradise. This is largely down to the elegant boutiques and designer shops of the Zurcher Bahnhofstrasse, stretching 1.4 km from the Central Train Station all the way to Lake Zürich.

Did you know that the world's athletic élite meet every year in Zurich? The traditional Weltklasse Zürich meeting at the Letzigrund Stadium is one of the highlights of the international sports scene. Every year, the very best athletes in the world gather in the hope of getting their names into the history books. Since the first event in 1928, there have been 23 world records set at the Letzigrund, including the 100m world record by Armin Hary in 1960, the 4x100m relay record by the United States in 1991 and the 5,000m world record by Haile Gebrselassie in 1997.

Did you know that Zurich has had the most Nobel Prize winners in Europe? The city is particularly regarded for science and research and can boast 25 former winners of the prestigious annual award since 1901. There are currently 40,000 students in this famous university city and educational centre.