Autumn in Zurich brings with it a delightful celebration of wine and culture: the Expovina Weinschiffe. This annual wine fair has been tradition since the 1950s, and this year, it runs from October 31 to November 14 at Bürkliplatz. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Zurich, this event promises a fun experience for wine enthusiasts and casual tasters alike. We attended the event without the kids to enjoy a couples night.
One of the most captivating aspects of Expovina Weinschiffe is its unique venue. The event takes place on nine stationary ships, each offering a distinct charm, ranging from modern vessels to historical boats. As night falls, these ships come alive with beautiful string lights, creating a magical atmosphere that enhances the views of Zurich.
Inside these floating venues, visitors can explore approximately 160 wine stands, featuring a staggering 4,000 different types of wine from around the world. This was our first visit to the event, and we were immediately struck by the scale and variety of wines available for tasting. During our visit, we sampled wines from diverse regions including Armenia, Italy, France, the United States, Georgia, Greece, and Australia. The sheer breadth of options and scale of the event was overwhelming, and I recommend planning your visit ahead of time to prioritize which stands you’d like to explore. It was also challenging maneuvering through the crowds of fellow wine lovers, but we found some delicious wine which we purchased at a discount. Wine can be purchased at the various booths typically with a special event discount which can either be delivered or picked up at a later date.
To complement our wine-tasting experience, we made a reservation at the ship that served as a restaurant which specialized in fondue and Italian cuisine. The fondue was delicious and provided a wonderful break from our wine tasting. The views from our table were beautiful with the city lights twinkling in the background. For those looking for a quick bite between tastings, there were also several food stalls outside offering a variety of snacks.
Purchasing tickets for Expovina Weinschiffe was straightforward; we opted for online tickets that included unlimited tastings. For those who want to elevate their experience further, there are options to purchase upgrades such as masterclass tastings led by knowledgeable sommeliers. Upon arrival, we appreciated having access to a coat check at the entrance; as we soon discovered, the ships can get quite warm with so many people enjoying themselves indoors.
We chose to arrive at Expovina Weinschiffe via public transit, which was convenient and efficient. Zurich’s public transport system is well-organized and makes it easy to reach Bürkliplatz without any hassle. For those who prefer driving, there are several large parking garages nearby that accommodate visitors.
Our experience at Expovina Weinschiffe was memorable. The combination of exquisite wines, delicious food, and stunning lakeside views created an enjoyable date. If you find yourself in Zurich during this time next year make sure to carve out some time for this unique celebration of wine and culture on Lake Zurich.
