Zurich is the worlds best city in which to live, with the highest quality of life, according to recent studies -- which also makes it a perfect place to visit. While most people know Zurichs reputation as a modern banking center, you will be surprised to discover the historic charms of its extensive Old Town, among the largest in Switzerland. Zurich is ranked number one because of its superb cultural, economic and environmental conditions, and for high scores on other important social criteria, as determined by the Mercer Human Resource Foundations annual study. This financial capital makes a convenient final destination in our Alpine journey, for it is another attractive town, with a quaint old section by the river, and is just 30 minutes away from the airport for our flight home. We spend the evening, with time for dinner and a stroll along the banks of the river in the Old Town, enjoying its pedestrian atmosphere. These cobblestone lanes lined with old buildings provide a picture-perfect experience to complete our tour. Zurich is an ideal place to stay -- especially when you consider the main visitor attraction: a beautiful Old Town of cobbled lanes lined with historic buildings and numerous fine shops and restaurants. It is delightful to wander in this large pedestrian zone that is filled with enchanting little alleys which lead through an ancient town founded during the Middle Ages. Visitors can take pleasure in its wonderful lifestyle, enjoying friendly, efficient services while exploring many fascinating sights. This charming, compact city is situated on the picturesque waterfront shores of Lake Zurich, with the Limmat River running through the center of town and the snow-capped Alps visible in the distance. The Old Town extends about five blocks in from both sides of the river and stretches for about a mile. The right bank, or east side, of the river has the larger cluster of old buildings and is considered the prime district for visitors. Much of your time can be devoted to exploring its many little side alleys and shops. Across on the left bank you will find Zurichs most famous street, the Bahnhofstrasse, running about 1,200 yards from the main train station to the lake, and lined with elegant stores, department stores, restaurants and small boutiques. It is a lively yet quiet street scene for it is limited to pedestrians and trams. This is shopping central for ladies clothing as well as a business center for many major banks and offices. Billions of dollars in gold bullion are stashed away in corporate basements beneath your feet. The neighborhood between Bahnhofstrasse and the river offers a lovely chunk of the Old Town to wander through, with several important historic sites to see.