Once a year, Lake Zurich belongs not to boats, swans, and SUP boards, but to people. On July 1, 2026, up to 9,000 participants will swim the famous 1,500 meters from the Mythenquai beach to the opposite shore at Tiefenbrunnen. No competition, no timing. Just the lake, the swimmers, and one of the city’s most popular public events.
The City of Zurich Lake Crossing is a cult classic. Anyone who has ever glided into the deep-blue water alongside thousands of others, leaving the noise of the city behind and heading toward the opposite shore with steady strokes, immediately understands why this event has been sold out for years. The route spans 1,500 meters across the lake, and anyone who is a strong swimmer and at least 12 years old is welcome to participate.
The organizing committee announces on the Monday before the event whether the swim will take place. A water temperature of at least 21 degrees is required. If Lake Zurich is too cold or the weather is unfavorable, two alternate dates are available: July 8 and August 19. Ticket sales begin at 12 p.m. on the Monday before the lake crossing. If you’re too late to click, you’ll miss out: Spots are limited to 9,000 people and, based on past experience, sell out quickly.
A ticket costs 25 francs; ZKB customers pay 20 francs. This includes a numbered swim cap, luggage transport to the finish line, and, after the swim, a bowl of broth and vegetarian risotto. Teens between the ages of 12 and 15 can participate for free, but must always be accompanied by an adult while swimming.
The logistics are carefully timed: Twelve starting groups ensure that the lake isn’t swamped by 9,000 people all at once. The first swimmers jump into the water at 2:30 p.m., and the last at 5:55 p.m. Each ticket has a mandatory check-in window; anyone who misses it loses their starting spot.
Safety is a top priority: Lifeguards are stationed in boats every 70 meters, and the water police regulate boat traffic. If you get tired, simply swim to the nearest boat. Wetsuits are allowed, but fins, snorkels, and swim floats are not.
At the end of the swim, Tiefenbrunnen awaits—a beach, a cup of broth, and the satisfying feeling of having experienced Lake Zurich from the inside. Tickets go on sale Monday, June 29, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.