Can an anglophone get by in Zurich for a weekend?

[Shrek]

My son is studying abroad in Italy and is pondering a visit to Zurich next weekend.

He speaks English and some Italian but no German.

Can he muddle through well enough to make a short visit enjoyable?

[NYC_SKP]

1. I think he'll be just fine.

Especially with some Italian (which demonstrates more than the typical American tourist), but his English will serve him well enough.

[Turbineguy]

2. No problem

Just don't buy a Swiss Army knife at the airport on the way to the plane. I had no problems getting around on the trains either.

[blondie58]

3. i think he'll be fine

The Swiss all speak English. Zurich is a beautiful city.

[elleng]

4. Sure; the Swiss are multi-phonic,

and very business/commerce-minded. Little problem anywhere in Europe with English.
EXPENSIVE, tho.

[Shrek]

5. Thanks for all the info

Just got off the phone and he is having a great time.

No language issues and he even threw in a day trip to Austria.

[Retrograde]

6. A little basic German is useful

like "please" and "thank you", but in the tourist areas he should be alright. Swiss German is very different that German German, and foreigners aren't expected to understand it.

I recommend a boat trip on Lake Zurich if he has the time!