Swiss National Museum
Landesmuseum Zürich
A castle-style museum beside the main station, presenting Swiss history and culture from prehistory to the present.
The Zurich branch of the Swiss National Museum opened in 1898 and was designed by architect Gustav Gull. From the outside it looks like a fairy-tale castle. In 2016, a modern new wing was added, creating a striking contrast with the old building. The permanent exhibition 'Swiss History' traces the process from the founding of the federation and the Reformation to the emergence of Swiss neutrality. 'The Collection' displays medieval altarpieces, armor and weapons, stained glass, clocks, and traditional costumes. The archaeology section holds artifacts from prehistoric lakeside pile dwellings. A lavish 16th-century wood-paneled room has also been moved here in its entirety. The museum regularly hosts high-quality special exhibitions. Admission is about CHF 10 to 13, and it's free with the Zurich Card or a Swiss Travel Pass. There's a café inside. Behind the museum is Platzspitz Park, where you can stroll by the confluence of the Limmat and Sihl rivers. It's a 2-minute walk from the north exit of Zurich Main Station, which makes it ideal for a visit while waiting between trains.
Opening hours
Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00, until 19:00 on Thursdays; closed Mondays
Nearby sights
- Zürich Hauptbahnhof
- Bahnhofstrasse
- Lindenhof
- Niederdorf (Old Town)
- ETH Polyterrasse
- St. Peter Church
- Fraumünster
- Confiserie Sprüngli Paradeplatz