Zoological Museum University of Zurich
Discover a world of natural wonders at the free Zoological Museum University of Zurich, featuring dinosaurs, global wildlife, and interactive exhibits...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Zoological Museum University of Zurich
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a world of natural wonders at the free Zoological Museum University of Zurich, featuring dinosaurs, global wildlife, and interactive exhibits.
"A free, engaging, and educational escape perfect for families and animal lovers."
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Admission is completely free, making it a top budget choice in Zurich. Donations are welcome!
🚠 Ride the Polybahn
Take the funicular for scenic views up to the museum. It's part of public transport!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Skeletons
Fossil Exhibits
Marvel at impressive dinosaur and sea dinosaur fossils that spark wonder in all ages.
Global Wildlife Collection
Animal Exhibits
Explore a vast array of taxidermied animals and skeletons from around the world.
Interactive Learning
Various Displays
Engage with hands-on stations and interactive displays, especially fun for kids.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Getting There is Part of the Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Admission is completely free, making it a top budget choice in Zurich. Donations are welcome!
🚠 Ride the Polybahn
Take the funicular for scenic views up to the museum. It's part of public transport! +1
👶 Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids love the dinosaurs, animals, and interactive exhibits. Great for curious young minds!
📚 German Language Focus
Most exhibits are in German. Consider a translation app if needed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Admission is completely free, making it a top budget choice in Zurich. Donations are welcome!
🚠 Ride the Polybahn
Take the funicular for scenic views up to the museum. It's part of public transport! +1
👶 Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids love the dinosaurs, animals, and interactive exhibits. Great for curious young minds!
📚 German Language Focus
Most exhibits are in German. Consider a translation app if needed.
☀️ Indoor Escape
Perfect for hot sunny days or snowy afternoons. A great indoor activity!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Zoological Museum for its impressive collection of fossils and taxidermied animals, highlighting it as a fantastic, free educational experience for all ages, especially families. While some note the lack of air conditioning and primarily German signage, the overall sentiment is positive, emphasizing its value as a budget-friendly and engaging attraction.
"Wonderful collection of fossils for dinosaurs and sea dinosaurs! Great exhibition for animals from all over the world. Highly recommended for kids, adults and all animal lovers! On the bird collections were fantastic as well"
Chianvern Wong
"The Natural History Museum of Zurich offers a calm and engaging escape that's perfect for families, especially on hot sunny days or snowy afternoons. With free admission and spacious, peaceful exhibits, it’s a great place to explore without the crowds or cost. Kids will find the dinosaur skeletons, animal displays, and hands-on stations both fun and educational, making it an ideal indoor activity for curious young minds. Whether you're looking to avoid the heat, shelter from winter weather, or simply enjoy a quiet, interesting outing, this museum is a smart and enjoyable choice."
Sa Sh
"The Natural History Museum at the University of Zürich is an absolute gem! The exhibits are beautifully curated, showcasing an impressive collection of fossils, minerals, and wildlife specimens that captivate visitors of all ages. The interactive displays and informative panels make learning about biodiversity and Earth's history engaging and fun. Highlights include the stunning dinosaur skeletons and the detailed evolution exhibits. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for families, students, or anyone curious about the natural world. Highly recommend a visit!"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at the University of Zurich. You can take the Polybahn funicular from Central station, which offers great views and is covered by the Zurich Card. It's a short walk from the funicular's upper station. +1
Public transport is not included with museum entry, but the Zurich Card provides unlimited public transport and free museum visits, including this one.
Yes, if you are in the city center, you can walk to the university area. The Polybahn funicular is a popular and scenic way to ascend to the museum's vicinity.
Parking in Zurich can be expensive and limited. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach the museum. If driving, look for public parking garages in the city center.
Yes, several tram and bus lines stop near the University of Zurich area, making it easily accessible via Zurich's extensive public transport network.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Zoological Museum University of Zurich offers free admission for all visitors. Donations are encouraged but not mandatory.
No, advance booking is not required as the museum has free entry. You can visit anytime during opening hours.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official university website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Since admission is free, there are no specific discounts for students or seniors. Everyone can enjoy the museum at no cost.
Yes, the Zurich Card provides free entry to many museums, including the Zoological Museum, along with unlimited public transport.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features a vast collection of animal models, skeletons, and fossils, including impressive dinosaur skeletons and taxidermied specimens from around the globe. There are also interactive displays for children.
Absolutely! Children often find the dinosaur skeletons, animal displays, and interactive stations very engaging and educational. It's a highly recommended family activity. +1
Many exhibits are primarily in German. While some may have English labels, it's advisable to be prepared for a German-language focus or use a translation app.
Some visitors have noted that the museum can get warm, especially on hot days, as air conditioning may be limited.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your interest level and how much time you spend at each exhibit, especially if you have children with you.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
Tripods and professional photography equipment may be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to use handheld shots.
The dinosaur skeletons, the woolly mammoth, and the diverse taxidermy displays offer great photo opportunities. The view from the Polyterrasse near the university is also iconic.
The museum lighting is designed for exhibit preservation and viewing. While generally adequate, some areas might be dimmer.
Short videos for personal social media are usually permitted. However, avoid disruptive filming and always be mindful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🤓 Students & Curious Minds
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Zurich on a Budget
When it comes to dining, look for local bakeries and supermarkets for affordable meals and snacks. Many visitors find that enjoying a picnic by Lake Zurich or in one of the city's many green spaces is a delightful and economical way to dine.
Family Fun at the Zoological Museum
These exhibits are not only visually striking but also serve as a great introduction to paleontology and zoology for young minds. Beyond the static displays, the museum incorporates interactive elements that keep children entertained and learning.
From exploring bugs under a microscope to engaging with other hands-on stations, there are plenty of opportunities for kids to actively participate in their discovery. The spacious layout and free admission make it an ideal spot to let children roam and explore without the pressure of expensive tickets or overwhelming crowds, especially during weekday afternoons. Navigating Zurich's Public Transport
When considering longer train journeys within Switzerland, such as from Zurich to other cities, look into the Saver Day Pass. Purchasing this pass in advance can offer substantial savings, providing unlimited travel across the country for a fixed price, which is often much cheaper than standard point-to-point tickets.
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