Dübendorf has long been integrated into Zurich’s cityscape. Little now remains of the rural idyll which existed here before construction of the first Swiss airport began in 1910. Since then, Dübendorf has been known as the birthplace of Swiss military and later civil aviation.

The boom in aviation considerably accelerated the economic and structural development of Dübendorf. Dübendorf was the site of the national airport until the airport at Kloten opened in 1948. From then on, Dübendorf became Switzerland’s largest and most important military airfield, whose exceedingly noisy operations only ceased in autumn 2006.

The Dübendorf Flieger Flab Museum presents Swiss military aviation and anti-aircraft history. On over 40 planes and helicopters, visitors can see how rapidly technology developed from wooden double-deckers to ultrasonic interceptors.

Dübendorf lies on both sides of the Glatt, which serves as a varied and valuable recreational area. Nearby is the attractive Greifensee lake, a little further away, the Zurich Oberland offers an invitation to hiking, cycling and inline-skating tours or pleasant strolls. Dübendorf is also an ideal departure point for visits to Zurich, with the city centre reached by local train, tram or bus within 10 to 15 minutes.

The 13th-century Lazarite Church, a Dübendorf landmark under protection as a national monument, is found in Gfenn. The meticulously renovated church is a popular venue for weddings and concerts. More sightseeing attractions in the town include the ruins of Dübelstein Castle which was destroyed by fire in 1615. The ruins were excavated and restored in 1942/43.