Do

Local
When the temperatures drop, ice skating is a popular pastime in Zurich. Try the Dolder rink high above the city.

On the cheap
If you fancy a movie, Monday evening is definitely your best bet – all seats in all cinemas cost just 13 Sfr, which at least for Zurich is a good deal. You could try cosy cinema Xenix which often shows retrospectives of English language directors.

Lads
Snow! Nothing like it for a bit of fast-moving fun! If there is any in Zurich, head for Uetliberg by train. There's a sledge run from the top station, sledges can be rented there (good shoes and caution recommended). Otherwise get out at Ringlikon and just use a plastic bag to whoop your way down the short run there.

For couples
If the weather is awful or the shopping has been too much - step into the warmth and calm of the hamam Münstergasse, a steam bath with an oriental flair in the centre of town. With the different pools and massages it's a great place to wind down and even better if you have someone special to accompany you.

Over the top
At the Tonhalle you can enjoy some excellent classical concerts. If you are in Zurich at the year's end, attend the New Year's Eve concert of the in-house Tonhalle Orchestra or the New Year's concert of the Zurich Chamber Orchestra – both promise to be very enjoyable.

Unexpected
Edi’s Weinstube or wine tavern, is a great place to have a few glasses, whether wine or otherwise at unusually decent prices. But some things are also a little indecent here. Step inside and you’ll find a small museum displaying pornographic art – as well as a very discrete entrance to the porn cinema next-door.