ETH Zurich Main Building, Zurich - Modern office building with repeating windows and trees.
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ETH Zurich Main Building Zurich

4.7
·987 reviews·Zürich, Switzerland

Explore the grand architecture of ETH Zurich's Main Building and enjoy panoramic city views from the Polyterrasse.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, access to more areas

CrowdMedium
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ETH Zurich Main Building, Zurich - Modern office building with repeating windows and trees.

ETH Zurich Main Building Zurich

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, access to more areas

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the grand architecture of ETH Zurich's Main Building and enjoy panoramic city views from the Polyterrasse.

4.7
(987 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful places and views I have ever seen!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ride the Polybahn

Take the funicular from Central for great views & access to ETH. Often included with Zurich Card!

🌟 Free Einstein Exhibit

Visit Einstein's locker on F-floor for a free, fascinating peek into history.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Polyterrasse Viewpoint

Polyterrasse Viewpoint

Terrace by the ETH Zurich Main Building

Panoramic city views, especially magical at sunset. A must-see for any visitor to Zurich.

Einstein's Locker Exhibit

Einstein's Locker Exhibit

ETH Zurich Main Building, F-floor

A unique, free exhibit offering a glimpse into Albert Einstein's student life.

ETH Zurich Main Building Architecture

ETH Zurich Main Building Architecture

ETH Zurich Main Building

Explore the majestic neoclassical architecture and impressive atrium of this renowned university.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing ETH Zurich's Main Building

Most university grounds are open to the public during weekdays. You can access common areas like lecture halls (without disturbing classes), coffee spaces, and the main building's impressive atrium. Check specific building access times, especially on weekends, as some areas may be restricted to students or specific departments. Reddit

Experiencing the Polyterrasse View

The Polyterrasse offers breathtaking panoramic views of Zurich, especially stunning at sunset. Access it via the Polybahn funicular from Central. While the funicular has a fee, it's often included with the Zurich Card, making it a cost-effective way to reach the viewpoint and the ETH main building. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, access to more areas
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular city views
Crowd
High
When
Saturday mornings
Why
HG building accessible
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you ever been to #zurich 🇨🇭#schweiz @Zurich Tourism #budgettravel #visitzurich #zurich_switzerland #switzerland #swiss #schweizer #schweizerdeutsch #zurichguide #traveltips #culturaldifference
@whereiswanda
43.1K likes • 920.5K views

🎯 Ride the Polybahn

Take the funicular from Central for great views & access to ETH. Often included with Zurich Card! TikTokInstagram

🌟 Free Einstein Exhibit

Visit Einstein's locker on F-floor for a free, fascinating peek into history. Instagram+1

Content creator, travel extraordinaire, and Lonely Planet bestie @marissameizz took on the challenge of visiting Zurich for the first time ever. Here’s her first timer’s guide to #Zurich 🇨🇭#switzerland #lindt #chocolate #travel #firstimein
@lonelyplanet
14.7K likes • 424.1K views
The original locker of Albert Einstein at the ETH Zurich. It is the smallest, but nicest Einstein Museum ETH Zurich Main Building - 24.04.25 #alberteinstein#oroginal#locker#nice#lovely#informativ#little#musrum#ethzurich#visitzurich
jw__photos__
4 likes • 82 views

🚶 Explore the Main Building

Wander through the impressive atrium and public areas. It's free and photogenic! Reddit

📸 Sunset Views

The Polyterrasse offers stunning sunset vistas over Zurich. Arrive early for the best spots! Reddit

Save this for your next visit to Zurich! Totally FREE activity! Ever wondered where Albert Einstein kept his books? At ETH Zurich, you can visit Einstein’s preserved student locker on the F-floor of the main building. This small exhibit offers a unique peek into the life of one of history’s greatest minds. Don’t miss the chance to explore this fascinating piece of history. #AlbertEinstein #ETHZur...
newinzurich
2.4K likes • 88.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ride the Polybahn

Take the funicular from Central for great views & access to ETH. Often included with Zurich Card! TikTokInstagram

🌟 Free Einstein Exhibit

Visit Einstein's locker on F-floor for a free, fascinating peek into history. Instagram+1

🚶 Explore the Main Building

Wander through the impressive atrium and public areas. It's free and photogenic! Reddit

📸 Sunset Views

The Polyterrasse offers stunning sunset vistas over Zurich. Arrive early for the best spots! Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee

Enjoy a coffee break at one of the campus's public coffee spaces or Mensas. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(987 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from the Polyterrasse, especially at sunset, and the majestic architecture of the ETH Zurich Main Building. The free Einstein locker exhibit is a unique historical highlight. While the building itself is impressive, some find access to specific areas limited outside of public hours.

"One of the most beautiful places and views I have ever seen! I visited as a tourist just for the city view. Having coffee on the terrace and riding down by cable car was such a lovely experience. The inside of the building is majestic and very impressive!"

Jalal Khouhak

"One of the best technical universities in the Europe.

Also view is very nice during sunset!
We went up with the cable car and walked down. View was stunning and you can enter inside on some occasions"

Mathe sharvadze

"Just a few minutes from the city center by the charming Polybahn funicular, you’ll reach the scenic terrace right across from ETH Zurich, offering a sweeping view over the city rooftops—well worth the ride! Right next to the viewpoint is ETH Zurich itself (Einstein’s alma mater), with its majestic architecture and impressive atrium. If you have time, take a quick walk inside—it's free and photogenic."

Alfred Ng

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Majestic architecture
Free Einstein exhibit

What People Dislike

Limited weekend access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The ETH Zurich Main Building is easily accessible from Zurich's main station. You can walk up to the campus or take the Polybahn funicular from Central square. The Polybahn offers a scenic ride and access to the Polyterrasse viewpoint. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, the Polybahn funicular is often included in the Zurich Card, making it a cost-effective way to reach the ETH campus and enjoy the city views. TikTok

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from Zurich's main station to the ETH campus, allowing you to see more of the city. Reddit

The Polybahn funicular is the most direct and scenic way to reach the Polyterrasse, offering fantastic views as you ascend. Instagram

While there might be limited street parking, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to Zurich's excellent network and the convenience of the Polybahn. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, most of the ETH Zurich campus grounds, including the main building's public areas and the Einstein locker exhibit, are free to enter for visitors. InstagramReddit

Generally, most university grounds are open to the public during weekdays. However, specific departments or labs might be restricted. Look for signs indicating restricted areas. Reddit

The main building (HG) is usually accessible on Saturdays until 6 PM. Access on Sundays or to other buildings may be restricted to students or specific departments. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated 'visitor center' in the traditional sense, the main building itself serves as a hub, and staff are generally helpful. The free exhibits are the main draw for visitors. Reddit

Public access is generally during standard university operating hours on weekdays. The HG building has extended hours on Saturdays. It's best to check specific building access if you have a particular area in mind. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you can admire the majestic neoclassical architecture, explore the impressive atrium, and visit the free exhibit showcasing Albert Einstein's student locker. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, it's a unique and free exhibit that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Albert Einstein. Many visitors find it a highlight. Instagram+2

The Polyterrasse, located by the main building, offers spectacular panoramic views of Zurich, especially beautiful during sunset. TikTokReddit

ETH Zurich occasionally hosts public science events and experiments, particularly for younger audiences. Keep an eye on their official website for announcements. Instagram

While you can't access restricted student areas, visitors can use public spaces like coffee areas and Mensas for a short period. For dedicated study, student access is required. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The ETH campus has several 'Mensa' (cafeterias) and coffee shops that are open to the public, offering affordable meal options. Reddit

While the main building itself doesn't have a restaurant with a view, the Polyterrasse offers a stunning backdrop for enjoying a coffee or snack purchased from nearby campus facilities. Reddit

ETH Mensas typically offer a variety of hot meals, salads, and snacks, catering to diverse tastes. They are a budget-friendly option for lunch. Reddit

Yes, there are coffee shops and kiosks on campus where you can purchase drinks, pastries, and light snacks. Reddit

Most ETH Mensas offer vegetarian options, and often vegan choices are available as well. It's best to check the daily menu for specific offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Polyterrasse offers iconic panoramic shots of Zurich. The main building's atrium and exterior architecture are also highly photogenic. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed in public areas of the ETH Zurich Main Building, especially in the atrium. Be mindful of any signs prohibiting photos in specific areas. Reddit

Yes, the exhibit is designed to be viewed and photographed. The locker itself is a unique subject for a memorable shot. Instagram+1

Sunset is highly recommended for dramatic lighting and city views. However, daytime offers clear vistas and a different perspective. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around educational institutions. It's advisable to check local regulations and ETH Zurich's specific policies before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting ETH Zurich can find engaging experiences, especially with the free Einstein locker exhibit on the F-floor. It's a unique way to introduce children to a famous historical figure in a tangible way. Instagram+1

While the main building is architecturally impressive, younger children might enjoy the Polybahn ride for the novelty and the Polyterrasse views. Consider packing snacks or utilizing the campus Mensas for affordable meal options. TikTokReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

ETH Zurich is a fantastic destination for budget travelers as many of its key attractions are free to access. This includes wandering through the impressive main building, exploring the atrium, and visiting the Einstein locker exhibit. InstagramReddit

The Polyterrasse viewpoint offers incredible city views without any entry fee (though the Polybahn funicular has a charge, it's often covered by a Zurich Card). Dining at the campus Mensa or coffee shops provides affordable meal options compared to city center restaurants. TikTokReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Polyterrasse is a prime spot for capturing panoramic shots of Zurich, especially during the golden hour or sunset. The ETH Zurich Main Building itself offers stunning architectural details, from its neoclassical facade to its grand interior atrium. Reddit+1

Don't miss the Einstein locker exhibit for a unique and historically significant photo opportunity. The Polybahn funicular also provides interesting angles for capturing the journey and the city below. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Polybahn Funicular and Polyterrasse

The Polybahn, also known as the UBS Polybahn, is a charming funicular railway that connects Central square with the terrace of the ETH Zurich Main Building. It's more than just transportation; it's an experience that offers stunning aerial views of Zurich as you ascend. Many visitors recommend riding it at least once, especially for the breathtaking sunset vistas from the Polyterrasse. TikTokInstagramReddit

The Polyterrasse itself is a spacious viewing platform that provides an unparalleled panoramic perspective of the city's rooftops, the Limmat River, and on clear days, even the distant Alps. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals to relax, take photos, and soak in the beauty of Zurich. The proximity to the ETH Main Building makes it a convenient stop for a quick photo opportunity or a leisurely break. Reddit+1

While the Polybahn requires a ticket, its cost is often offset by its inclusion in the Zurich Card, a popular tourist pass. This makes it an accessible and highly recommended part of any Zurich itinerary, offering a memorable introduction to the city's charm and grandeur. TikTok

Exploring Einstein's Legacy at ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich holds a special place in the history of science as the alma mater of Albert Einstein. For visitors, a unique and free attraction is the exhibit dedicated to him on the F-floor of the main building. This small but significant display features his original student locker, offering a tangible connection to one of history's greatest minds. Instagram+1

This exhibit is more than just a locker; it's a window into Einstein's student days, providing a quiet moment of reflection on his journey. The display also often includes a mention of Mileva Marić, Einstein's first wife and a fellow student, adding another layer of historical context. It's a subtle yet powerful tribute that resonates with many visitors. InstagramReddit

Accessing this exhibit is straightforward, as it's located within the publicly accessible areas of the main building. It's a testament to ETH Zurich's commitment to preserving its rich heritage and sharing it with the world, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in science and history. Instagram

Architectural Grandeur of the Main Building

The ETH Zurich Main Building is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture, designed by Gustav Gull and completed in 1916. Its imposing facade and grand scale immediately convey a sense of academic prestige and historical significance. Visitors are often struck by the majestic interior, particularly the central atrium, which serves as a central gathering space and a visual focal point. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the building houses numerous lecture halls, study rooms, and administrative offices, reflecting its primary function as a hub for learning and research. The impressive atrium is a popular spot for students and visitors alike, offering a sense of the university's vibrant academic life. It's a space that feels both grand and welcoming. Reddit

For tourists, the main building offers a free opportunity to step inside a world-renowned institution and appreciate its architectural beauty. It's a place where history, science, and art converge, making it a worthwhile exploration for anyone visiting Zurich. Reddit

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