HR Giger Bar
Step into a biomechanical nightmare at the HR Giger Bar, a surreal art installation designed by the 'Alien' creator.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Atmosphere truly comes alive
HR Giger Bar
Best Time
Atmosphere truly comes alive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a biomechanical nightmare at the HR Giger Bar, a surreal art installation designed by the 'Alien' creator.
"Best bar I’ve been in for years! Great music in totally surreal surroundings."
🎯 Order the 'Alien Coffee'
A must-try signature drink, often served with meringue and cream for a unique taste experience. ☕
🎶 Music Matches the Vibe
Expect heavy metal/rock music that perfectly complements the dark, surreal ambiance. :musical_note:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 612 reviews
Type
Bar
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Biomechanical Architecture
Entire Bar Interior
Immerse yourself in Giger's signature style, from skeletal arches to Harkonnen chairs. It's a living art installation.
Harkonnen Chairs
Seating Areas
Iconic, heavy chairs designed for a never-realized 'Dune' film, offering a throne-like experience.
The 'Alien Coffee'
Bar Menu
A signature drink experience, often served with meringue and cream, blending art with taste.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Biomechanical Ambiance
Gruyères Charm & Giger's Dark Art
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Order the 'Alien Coffee'
A must-try signature drink, often served with meringue and cream for a unique taste experience. ☕
🎶 Music Matches the Vibe
Expect heavy metal/rock music that perfectly complements the dark, surreal ambiance. :musical_note:
💰 Priced for the Experience
Drinks can be pricier, but you're paying for the unique atmosphere and art. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the Surrealism
The entire bar is a photo opportunity; be respectful of other patrons while snapping pics. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Order the 'Alien Coffee'
A must-try signature drink, often served with meringue and cream for a unique taste experience. ☕
🎶 Music Matches the Vibe
Expect heavy metal/rock music that perfectly complements the dark, surreal ambiance. :musical_note:
💰 Priced for the Experience
Drinks can be pricier, but you're paying for the unique atmosphere and art. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the Surrealism
The entire bar is a photo opportunity; be respectful of other patrons while snapping pics. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Museum Visit
Located near the HR Giger Museum, visit both for a complete immersion into the artist's world. :museum:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the HR Giger Bar's incredibly unique and immersive biomechanical atmosphere, often described as stepping into the world of 'Alien.' The 'Alien Coffee' and the surreal decor are highlights, with many appreciating the music and friendly staff. However, some find the prices high and the dark theme potentially intense.
"Cool place! I had the “alien coffee” with meringue and cream. At 10 CHF, I thought that was priced really reasonably! The meringue cookies with cream was so yummy! Our server explained how we can eat the cream with cookies as well as mix it into the coffee. Had no problem ordering in English."
Sarah Sori Kim
"Best bar I’ve been in for years! Great music in totally surreal surroundings. Felt like being on the Prometheus! Great staff, surprisingly decently priced drinks for Switzerland & brilliant music all make this a must visit!"
Leonie Purvis
"You come for vibes and friends.
The service and the atmosphere is amazing. The concepts of drinks are interesting. Definitely a bit on the pricier side vs the coffee comparison but they are more of a bar than anything.
So come for drinks, not so much coffee.
So what you’re paying for is the experience and the friendly bar lady and her excellent taste of music :) she’s awesome ~"
Angela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The HR Giger Bar is located in Gruyères, Switzerland. You can reach Gruyères by train, often with a change in Bulle. From the Gruyères train station, it's a short walk to the medieval village where the bar is situated.
There are two HR Giger Bars. The original HR Giger Bar opened in Chur in 1992, and another is located in Gruyères, near the HR Giger Museum, which opened in 2003. Most visitors refer to the Gruyères location when discussing the 'Giger Bar Museum'.
These locations are quite far apart in Switzerland. Travel between Chur and Gruyères typically involves multiple train changes and can take several hours. It's best to plan your itinerary to focus on one location or dedicate significant travel time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a ticket to enter the HR Giger Bar itself. It operates as a regular bar. However, if you wish to visit the adjacent HR Giger Museum, separate admission tickets are required.
Opening hours can vary, but the bar is generally open in the afternoons and evenings. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
There is no admission fee to enter the HR Giger Bar. You pay for your drinks and any food you order. The unique atmosphere and design are part of the experience you get with your purchase.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the HR Giger Bar. Visitors often share photos and videos online. However, be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive photography.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful. Avoid using flash photography that might disturb others or the ambiance. Some areas might have subtle restrictions, so observe your surroundings.
The entire bar is a visual spectacle! Key areas for photos include the biomechanical seating, the bar counter, and the unique ceiling and wall designs. The Harkonnen chairs are particularly photogenic.
🍽️ 🍸 Food & Drink
The bar offers a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Their signature 'Alien Coffee' is highly recommended, often served with meringue and cream. They also serve cocktails and other standard bar drinks.
While primarily a bar, they offer some snacks and desserts. The meringue with cream is a popular choice. Reviews suggest focusing on the drinks and the unique atmosphere rather than expecting a full dining experience.
Prices are on the higher side, typical for Switzerland and for a themed bar experience. For example, the 'Alien Coffee' might cost around 10 CHF. You are paying for the unique ambiance and artistic design.
Social
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