Free museums in Switzerland

The Zürich Wilderness Park, located near the city of Zürich in Switzerland, is a unique combination of the Sihlwald forest and the Langenberg Wildlife Park. The Sihlwald forest is the largest mixed deciduous and coniferous forest in the Swiss Mittelland, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. On the other hand, the Langenberg Wildlife Park holds the title of being the oldest Swiss wildlife park, providing a glimpse into the rich wildlife of the region.

The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich is a botanical garden located in the Swiss municipality of Zürich. It is not just a garden, but also a home to a botanic library, a herbarium, and the International Organizations for Succulent Plant Research (IOS). This makes it a place of interest not only for plant enthusiasts but also for those interested in botanical research and literature.

Maison Tavel, located at 6 rue du Puits-Saint-Pierre in the heart of the Old Town, is the history museum of Geneva. It is part of the Museums of Art and History, a network of museums that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the city. The museum is housed in the oldest preserved private residence in Geneva, making it a unique testament to medieval civil architecture in Switzerland.

The Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the city of Geneva is a significant institution and museum in the city. Founded in 1817, it has a rich history and has been a part of Geneva's cultural landscape for over two centuries. The garden was initially located in a former area of Bastions Park but was transferred to the Console site in 1904. The garden's current location is adjacent to Lake Geneva and the park of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

Visit the bird sanctuary to have look more than 40 exotic species. Kids will love especially toucans or parrots.

The Museum of the History of Science in Geneva is a unique institution dedicated to the exploration and understanding of the history of science. It offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of scientific thought and the development of various scientific disciplines over the centuries.

The Johann Jacobs Museum, situated in Zurich-Seefeld, is a cultural history museum. It offers a unique perspective on the history of global trade routes, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the world's cultural history.

The Ethnographic Museum is situated in the heart of downtown Zurich, within the premises of the Old Botanical Garden, known as 'zur Katz'. The building, which was first constructed in 1864, has undergone various changes over time, adding to its historical charm and architectural interest. Its location and unique setting make it an intriguing destination for visitors.

The Old Botanical Garden Zurich, also known as 'zur Katz', is a botanical garden located in the Swiss city of Zurich. It was established in 1833 and is situated in the former Bollwerk 'zur Katz' (City Quarter, District 1). The garden is a significant part of Zurich's history and offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

The Natural History Museum of Fribourg, established in 1823, serves to educate the public about nature, with a particular focus on the natural heritage of the Fribourg region. This museum is a testament to the region's rich biodiversity and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna.

The Botanical Garden Bern, also known as BOGA, is a significant part of the University of Bern in Switzerland. It serves as a place of research and education, as well as a green oasis in the city. Visitors can explore a wide variety of plant species in this garden, making it an interesting destination for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.

The Wildpark Peter und Paul is situated on the Rosenberg hill, to the northeast of St. Gallen in the Rotmonten district. This park serves as a significant local recreation area for the city, providing a natural and serene environment for visitors to enjoy.

The Watermill Museum Brüglingen, also known as Mühlemuseum Brüglingen, is situated in the picturesque lower plain of Brüglingen. This location is within the sub-district of "Neue Welt" in Münchenstein, which is part of the canton of Basel-Country in Switzerland. The museum is housed within a former watermill, adding to its historical charm and authenticity.

The Zürich Wilderness Park, located near the city of Zürich in Switzerland, is a unique combination of the Sihlwald forest and the Langenberg Wildlife Park. The Sihlwald forest is the largest mixed deciduous and coniferous forest in the Swiss Mittelland, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. On the other hand, the Langenberg Wildlife Park holds the title of being the oldest Swiss wildlife park, providing a glimpse into the rich wildlife of the region.

The Fotomuseum Winterthur, located in Winterthur, Switzerland, is a museum dedicated to the art of photography. Established in 1993, the museum serves as a platform for showcasing the work of contemporary photographers and artists, as well as works by 19th and 20th-century masters. It also features applied photography in various fields such as industry, architecture, and fashion.

The Swiss Shooting Museum, located in Bern, is a unique institution dedicated to the history and practice of shooting in Switzerland. It provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of shooting as a sport and a military discipline in the country. The museum's collection, which is under cultural heritage protection, includes a wide range of artifacts, from firearms and ammunition to medals and uniforms.

The Swiss Theatre Collection (STS) is a significant cultural institution in Bern, Switzerland, dedicated to documenting the creation of Swiss theatre. It comprises an archive, a library, and a museum, offering a comprehensive insight into the country's theatrical history and current practices.

The Polish Museum in Rapperswil, Switzerland, is a cultural institution that was established on October 23, 1870. It is located in the town of Rapperswill in the canton of St. Gallen. The museum has been serving continuously since its establishment, except for two periods between 1927–1936 and 1952–1975.

The Art Museum Solothurn, which opened its doors in 1902, is recognized as one of the city's most significant cultural institutions. It offers a rich blend of historical and contemporary art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Moulagenmuseum, located at the University of Zurich, is home to one of the largest collections of moulages in the world. These life-like three-dimensional representations of disease patterns were created between the years 1918 and 1948. The collection is a significant cultural asset and provides a unique insight into the history of medical education and dermatology.

The Skulpturhalle Basel is a museum located in Basel, Switzerland, that specializes in the display of casts of ancient sculptures and statues. This unique museum offers visitors the opportunity to view and appreciate the beauty and intricacy of ancient art forms, providing a glimpse into the past through these carefully preserved pieces.

The Thurgau Archaeology Museum is situated in the heart of Frauenfeld's old town. It is one of the six cantonal museums in the canton of Thurgau, making it a significant cultural institution in the region.

The Nähmaschinen-Museum, located in Dürnten, is a technology museum that provides a comprehensive look into the history of the mechanical sewing machine. It is an ideal destination for those interested in technology, history, and the evolution of everyday objects.

The Museum zur Farb, located in Stäfa, Canton of Zurich, is a memory institution. It has a public mandate to collect, document, and research the local cultural heritage. This mission makes it a significant destination for those interested in understanding the local and regional history of Stäfa.

The Ortsmuseum Hinwil is a memory institution situated in Hinwil, in the Zurich Oberland. The museum is housed in an 18th-century Flarz and Riegelhaus, a traditional Swiss building, along with three additional outbuildings. This setting provides a unique and authentic backdrop for the museum's exhibits, immersing visitors in the historical context of the region.

Wildpark Bruderhaus is a 6-hectare animal park nestled in the heart of the Eschenberg forest. It is located south of Winterthur in the Heiligberg district. The park serves as an important local recreation area for Winterthur and is open all year round, offering free admission to all visitors.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Basel, founded in 1589, is a public botanical garden located in Basel. It holds the distinction of being the oldest botanical garden in Switzerland. The garden is part of the Botanical Institute of the University of Basel and is adjacent to it. It is open all year round and offers a variety of plantations and four greenhouses.

Wildpark Roggenhausen is a wildlife park situated approximately 3 km southwest of the Swiss city of Aarau, towards Eppenberg-Wöschnau in the small Roggenhausental valley. This location makes it a convenient destination for visitors staying in or around Aarau, offering a chance to experience local wildlife in a natural setting.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Basel, located in Basel, is a public botanical garden that was established in 1589. This makes it the oldest botanical garden in Switzerland. The garden is part of the Botanical Institute of the University of Basel and is adjacent to it. It is open all year round and consists of an outdoor area with various plantings and four greenhouses.

Le Bois du Petit-Château is a Swiss zoo located in the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds, in the canton of Neuchâtel. The zoo was established on the 7th of September, 1891, making it a place of historical significance in the region. It offers visitors a chance to explore a variety of animal species in a well-maintained environment.

The Tierpark Lange Erlen is a wildlife park located in the city of Basel. It covers an area of about 20 hectares in the Lange Erlen riverside forest on the southern bank of the Wiese River. This location provides a natural and serene environment for the animals and a unique experience for visitors.

The Weierbachhaus is home to the Ortsmuseum Eglisau. This baroque building, marked with the year 1670 on the southeastern gable side, is considered the date of construction. The building was inhabited for about 200 years by the well-known Eglisau citizen families Bader, Lauffer, and Hartmann, who also had their own vineyards and used the house, which is directly adjacent to Eglisau's vineyards, for viticulture.

The Naturmuseum Thurgau in Frauenfeld is a regional museum that focuses on the natural history of the Thurgau region. It is one of six cantonal museums in the canton of Thurgau, making it a significant cultural institution in the area. The museum's exhibitions are dedicated to showcasing the diverse nature of the region, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the local environment and its history.

The Neuchâtel Botanical Garden covers an expansive area of 8 hectares. This space is divided into natural environments, areas specifically managed to promote biodiversity, and sections dedicated to botanical collections. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes and plant species within the garden's boundaries.

The Wildpark Mühletäli is a wildlife park situated in Starrkirch-Wil, at the end of Wildparkstrasse, on the municipal border to Olten in the Swiss canton of Solothurn. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors from both Starrkirch-Wil and Olten, providing a convenient and enjoyable day out for families and nature enthusiasts.

Brienz Wildlife Park, situated above Lake Brienz in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, was established in 1896. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in a natural setting, surrounded by the stunning Swiss landscape.

Museum of ceramics. Remarkable for the building itself. An exquisite residence from 18th century with Sardinian garden.

The Paleontological Museum Zurich is a part of the Paleontological Institute and Museum of the University of Zurich (UZH). It is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating world of paleontology within an academic setting.

This playful building houses wide collection of Erwin Rehmann's sculptures and graphics. Temporary exhibitions are worth the visit as well.

The Migros Museum of Contemporary Art in Zurich is a hub for international contemporary art. It is dedicated to the exhibition, collection, and dissemination of works from this genre. The museum's mission is to provide a platform for contemporary artists from around the world, showcasing their work to a broad audience. It is a place where art lovers can immerse themselves in the latest trends and developments in contemporary art.

Don't miss out the chance to immerse into the watch-making industry right next to Omega headquarters. Rich exhibition of watches.

Centre Pasquart is a cultural hub situated in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland. It is a place where art, culture, and history converge, offering a unique experience for visitors. The center houses several institutions including the Art Center, the Art Center Collection, the Photoforum, the Society of Fine Arts Bienne, the Filmpodium, and free space.

The Elektromuseum in Baden, Canton of Aargau, Switzerland, is a part of the Industrial Culture Path Limmat-Wasserschloss, which consists of over 40 different sites. This location offers a unique insight into the industrial history of the region and is a significant part of the cultural heritage.

The Ortsmuseum Hinwil is a memory institution situated in Hinwil, in the Zurich Oberland. The museum is housed in an 18th-century Flarz and Riegelhaus, a traditional Swiss building, along with three additional outbuildings. This setting provides a unique and authentic backdrop for the museum's exhibits, immersing visitors in the historical context of the region.

The Museum Höfli, also known as Bezirksmuseum «Höfli» Bad Zurzach, is a museum situated in Bad Zurzach in the canton of Aargau. It is housed in a former canon's house, the St. Fulgentiushof or Höfli, near the Verenamünster. The museum is managed and maintained by the Historical Association of the District of Bad Zurzach.

Museum Gais, situated in Gais, Switzerland, is home to a collection that has been recognized as a cultural asset of regional importance by the Swiss government. This classification signifies the museum's significant contribution to the region's cultural heritage, making it a noteworthy destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the area.

The Feuerwehrmuseum Basel is a unique destination that offers a deep dive into the history of firefighting. The museum's exhibits, some of which are on permanent loan from the Historical Museum Basel, date back to the 13th century. This provides a comprehensive view of the evolution of firefighting techniques and equipment over the centuries.

Dottenwil Castle is situated in the municipality of Wittenbach, St. Gallen. It is nestled on a hill 1.5 km north of Wittenbach, adjacent to the hamlet of Dottenwil. This location offers a scenic view of the surrounding area, making it a great spot for tourists who appreciate nature and historical architecture.

The Naturmuseum Solothurn offers a variety of exhibitions that showcase the region's diverse flora, fauna, fossils, and minerals. These exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the natural history of the region, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in learning more about the local environment.

The Musée Bolo, also known as the Swiss Museum of Computing, Digital Culture, and Video Games, is a private museum located in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is dedicated to the digital revolution, showcasing a wide range of exhibits related to computing, digital culture, and video games. The museum is a testament to the evolution of technology and offers a unique insight into the history of computing.

The Cantonal Museum of Zoology in Lausanne is a public institution under the cantonal department of culture. It is recognized as a cultural asset of national importance, reflecting its significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of Switzerland's natural heritage.

Museum Wetzikon is a memory institution located in Zurich. It has a public mandate to collect and preserve cultural heritage. This makes it a significant place for those interested in understanding the cultural history and heritage of the region.

Burg Maur is a small castle situated in the quaint village of Maur, nestled in the district of Uster in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland. This historical site, built around 1250, offers a glimpse into the past with its sturdy stone walls and unique architectural features. The castle was initially constructed as a square residential tower with sides measuring 8.9 meters and built on 1.40 meter thick foundations made of boulders and hewn corner blocks.

The Ortsmuseum Küsnacht is a museum situated in the municipality of Küsnacht, in the Swiss canton of Zurich. It is a cultural asset of regional significance, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.

Creaviva is a children's museum located in the Paul Klee Center in Bern. It is designed for visitors aged four to 88 and serves as a hub for practical, experience-oriented, and interactive art education. The museum aims to guide visitors towards a better understanding of art and self through their own creative activities.

The Historic Museum Thurgau is the history museum of the Swiss canton of Thurgau. It manages a collection of over 52,000 objects, regularly organizes exhibitions, conducts research, and disseminates cantonal history to a wide audience. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of Thurgau.

The museum offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. This includes group tours, interactive workshops, and accessible activities. In addition, scientific lectures are often held as part of the special exhibitions. These activities provide a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about the earth and its processes in a fun and engaging way.

The Ausstellungsraum Klingental is a unique artist-run space located in Basel. It is organized by a dynamic group of artists, art historians, and art mediators, whose collaborations evolve over generations. This unique setup allows for a diverse and ever-changing array of exhibitions and projects, making each visit to the museum a unique experience.

The Museum of Art and History in Fribourg, also known as MAHF, is a renowned institution that houses a collection of art works and historical objects. These items are primarily sourced from the canton of Fribourg, providing a unique insight into the region's rich cultural and historical heritage.

The Civil Defense Museum in Zurich, Switzerland, is a unique attraction located in an underground, three-story deep civil defense round bunker in the Wipkingen district. This historical structure has been managed by the city of Zurich since 2005 and is the only civil defense museum in Switzerland. Its unique profile makes it a one-of-a-kind museum in Europe.

The Archaeological Collection of the University of Zurich houses a diverse range of art and crafts from various ancient civilizations. These include Egypt and Mesopotamia, as well as ancient Asia Minor, Greece, and Italy. The collection is part of the Institute of Archaeology of the University of Zurich, making it a significant destination for those interested in ancient history and archaeology.

The Sust is a building of national cultural significance and serves as the local history museum of the municipality of Horgen in the Swiss canton of Zurich. It is located just a two-minute walk east of the Horgen See train station, near the former harbor. The museum offers a deep dive into the history of Horgen and its surrounding areas, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in Swiss history and culture.

The Rebbau- und Heimatmuseum in Spiez, located in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, is a unique cultural destination. Since 1986, it has been housed in a winemaker's house, built in the typical Simmental construction style. This architectural style is characteristic of the region, providing visitors with a glimpse into the area's rich history and tradition.

The Ortsmuseum Dietikon is a local history museum situated in the municipality of Dietikon, in the Swiss canton of Zurich. It is housed in the Villa Strohmeier, a neoclassical style building constructed in 1927 by banker Walter Strohmeier-Schefold. The museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of Dietikon, making it a significant point of interest for tourists.

The Ortsmuseum Meilen, located in the municipality of Meilen in the Swiss canton of Zurich, is a local history museum. It is housed in a Biedermeier house from the 19th century, offering a unique setting for the exploration of local history.

The Typewriter Museum is a unique institution located in the city of Lausanne, Switzerland. It offers visitors a chance to explore the history and evolution of typewriters and calculators, with a special focus on the Perrier collection. The museum is a testament to the technological advancements of the past and provides a fascinating insight into the tools that were once essential for communication and computation.

A gem for the fans of the famous German writer and Nobel Prize laureate T. Mann. Archive contains his manuscripts, diaries and many more.

Although this museum is not very big, it boasts a quite large collection of old gramophones, LPs and radios.

The Sammlung Friedhof Hörnli is a museum situated in the municipality of Riehen, close to Basel. It exhibits a collection of significant objects that represent the Swiss and Basel burial culture. This museum provides a unique insight into the customs and traditions of Swiss funerary practices.

This museum illustrates the history of Longines by displaying the wide range of products, documents and advertisements.

Kunst Raum Riehen is the municipal exhibition building of the Swiss municipality of Riehen. It is managed by the local art commission, which has been organizing art exhibitions since 1972. This long-standing tradition of promoting art makes it a significant cultural institution in the region.

The Ortsmuseum Hallau is situated in the churchyard of the village church St. Moritz, in the municipality of Hallau, within the canton of Schaffhausen in Switzerland. This location offers a unique setting for the museum, surrounded by the historical and cultural significance of the church and the village.

The Pfahlbaumuseum Lüscherz is an archaeological museum situated on Lake Biel in the municipality of Lüscherz, within the administrative district of Seeland in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich archaeological history of the region while enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Biel.

This modern museum tells the story of our past. Comprehensible exhibition ranges from fossils to minerals.