A traditional weekly open-air market on Oerlikon's central square, popular with residents for fresh vegetables, fruit, cheese, flowers, and bread from regional farmers
The Wochenmarkt Oerlikon takes place on the pedestrian Marktplatz Oerlikon in northern Zürich, a neighbourhood that was a separate industrial town before joining the city in 1934. The market offers a more local alternative to the central tourist markets, with stalls run by farmers and producers from the canton of Zürich and neighbouring regions. Visitors will find seasonal vegetables and fruit, regional cheese and cured meats, eggs, honey, fresh bread, cut flowers, and potted herbs, with several snack stalls selling coffee and warm food. The quality is high and prices are reasonable by Swiss standards, with fruit and vegetables typically CHF 3-8 per kilogram and cheese CHF 25-40 per kilogram. It is a good place to see Zürich daily life, as residents shop with trolleys and chat with vendors they know. Because it is held on Tuesdays and Fridays during the daytime, visitors should check the current City of Zürich schedule before going, as hours and holiday closures vary. Oerlikon is easy to reach from the Hauptbahnhof in about seven minutes by S-Bahn or train, and the market adjoins the Oerlikon station and the Messe Zürich area. Bring a bag and small bills; most stalls accept cards or Twint but cash remains the quickest way to pay. The market also pairs well with a walk through the Oerlikon Park or a coffee in the surrounding cafés.
| Hours | Tuesday and Friday, daytime hours (check the City of Zürich market calendar) |
|---|---|
| Price | Free entry; produce CHF 3-40 per kg (approx $4-50) |
| Address | Marktplatz Oerlikon, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland |
Location
Marktplatz Oerlikon, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland
47.4113, 8.5446 View on map
Highlights
- Buy regional fruit, vegetables, cheese, and honey from farmers
- Experience everyday Zürich life away from the old-town crowds
- Sample coffee and warm snacks from market stalls
- Combine with a stroll in nearby Oerlikon Park
- Reach it by S-Bahn in about seven minutes from the Hauptbahnhof
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the morning for the best choice
- Bring a bag and some small bills or use Twint
- Confirm market days before travelling, as holidays alter the schedule
- Taste regional cheeses and ask for vacuum packing for travel
- Check opening times for individual stands that may close early
When to visit
Morning on Friday gives the widest choice and the liveliest atmosphere.
Accessibility
Marktplatz Oerlikon is a flat pedestrian square with step-free access, though market stalls and queues can narrow the walkways.
Frequently asked questions
Which days does the Oerlikon market run?
It is held on Tuesdays and Fridays during the daytime; visitors should confirm the current schedule on the City of Zürich site.
Is it suitable for souvenirs?
It is best for food gifts such as cheese, honey, and bread, rather than traditional souvenirs.
How do I get there?
Take the S-Bahn or train to Zürich Oerlikon station, then walk to the adjacent Marktplatz Oerlikon.