The perfect weekend for FIFA Museum director Marco Fazzone in Zurich

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This article is part of FT Globetrotter. Zurich guide

Through my work, I travel constantly, exploring cities in Europe, Asia and, most recently, the United States and Oceania. But the place I know best and where I enjoy spending a weekend whenever the opportunity arises is Zürich, the Swiss city that wonderfully combines tradition and modernity, art and nature and where I can enjoy my three true passions: football. , culture and culinary arts.

After an early morning croissant and an espresso doppio in Bellevue Square Right in front of Lake Zurich, my weekend begins with a visit to the art house, a treasure trove of international artistic wonders. I could spend weeks there. Its extensive collection features a wide range of art, from classical to contemporary, creating an ideal bridge between my past life at Art Basel and my current role at the FIFA World Football Museum.

As a fan of art in all its forms, I am especially captivated by the works of Marc Chagall, Alberto Giacometti and Claude Monet. The Kunsthaus not only serves as a testament to Switzerland’s cultural heritage, but also as an inspiring center for creativity and expression.

Once back in Bellevue, I usually take a leisurely 20-minute walk into the city center along the serene shores of Lake Zurich. Its waterfront offers a charming getaway for Zurich residents and guests alike. In the vicinity of Bellevue and the Opera House are Bürkliplatz, the city’s main boat dock, and the dock park. City hall, with its charming pavilion. Bürkliplatz is a vital hub for the boats that grace the lake. The Stadthausanlage hosts a weekly edition food and flower marketas well as a Flea Market From May to October.

My next stop is Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich), next to the Limmat River in the city center, where I delve into the rich tapestry of Swiss history and culture. The exhibitions are a fascinating journey through time and show the transformation of Switzerland from its prehistoric roots to its modern identity. I am always particularly drawn to the collection of Swiss watches, a testament to the country’s legendary craftsmanship. For me personally, it is an integral part of my passionate Swiss identity.

On Saturday night I head to my favorite Italian restaurant in Zurich, conti, located directly behind the Opera House. This restaurant is very special, quiet and elegant, but also lively and welcoming. It has a fantastic seasonal menu: homemade pasta, particularly tagliatelle. to the black tartufo, is highly recommended as is a bottle of Radici Riserva from Campania. It is the ideal setting after a wonderful day of art and culture.

Now is the time to move! The second day of my perfect weekend in Zürich is dedicated to breathing and exploring more facets of the city and its surroundings. My morning starts with a delicious breakfast in one of the restaurants in the lively Idaplatz, which is my favorite square in the center of Zurich to meet people and enjoy the cultural diversity of the city. Idaplatz has long served as a crucible of social engagement, offering not only a variety of outdoor events but also a variety of culinary delights.

Any of the alternative or trendy cafes in this district are the perfect, energetic start to a Sunday of fresh air, football and culture. He Calvadosto sports bar, stands out as a paradise for football fans. It is a perfect place to meet friends in the afternoon, sitting on the terrace in summer or indoors, with its cozy interior decorated with photographs of legendary footballers and athletes. Later, it will undoubtedly be full of fans who will be able to watch an almost complete schedule of games.

He Zurich Opera, a world-renowned cultural institution, is my next destination. I had already passed it last night on the way to dinner, but now it is worth enjoying a closer look at the façade of this extraordinary classical building in daylight. And, of course, the operatic repertoire, rich in works by Italian luminaries such as Verdi, Rossini, Puccini and Donizetti, speaks to my Italian heritage.

On a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, a visit to one of Zurich’s two top-class football clubs is a must. Whether it’s a home match of FC Zürich or Grasshopper Club Zürich, experiencing the city’s passion and enthusiasm for football is both rewarding and fascinating.

For an outdoor activity, I head to the Uetliberg, Zurich’s picturesque and popular mountain, offering the most stunning views of the city, the lake and the distant Alps. The hour-long hike is exhilarating and the panoramic views are a reminder of the stunning natural beauty that lies beyond the city limits. Another favorite hiking destination, just a two-hour train ride away, is Ticino, a region known for its fascinating landscapes of lush forests, crystal-clear lakes and charming villages.

To end my perfect second day in Zurich, I like to have dinner at Stern grill. This place is simply incredible – it’s down to earth, with people of different backgrounds and styles flocking to enjoy the best beef sausage in town with the spiciest mustard, homemade potato salad and a beer from one of Switzerland’s newest regional breweries. Simply a true classic for every true Züricher in the heart of the old town.

FIFA Museum, Seestrasse 27, 8002 Zurich. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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