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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, access to more areas
ETH Zurich Main Building Zurich
Best Time
Fewer crowds, access to more areas

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the grand architecture of ETH Zurich's Main Building and enjoy panoramic city views from the Polyterrasse.
"One of the most beautiful places and views I have ever seen!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
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
Experiencing the Polyterrasse View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🚶 Explore the Main Building
Wander through the impressive atrium and public areas. It's free and photogenic!
📸 Sunset Views
The Polyterrasse offers stunning sunset vistas over Zurich. Arrive early for the best spots!
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!
🌟 Free Einstein Exhibit
Visit Einstein's locker on F-floor for a free, fascinating peek into history.
🚶 Explore the Main Building
Wander through the impressive atrium and public areas. It's free and photogenic!
📸 Sunset Views
The Polyterrasse offers stunning sunset vistas over Zurich. Arrive early for the best spots!
☕ Grab a Coffee
Enjoy a coffee break at one of the campus's public coffee spaces or Mensas.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from Zurich's main station to the ETH campus, allowing you to see more of the city.
The Polybahn funicular is the most direct and scenic way to reach the Polyterrasse, offering fantastic views as you ascend.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
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.
The Polyterrasse, located by the main building, offers spectacular panoramic views of Zurich, especially beautiful during sunset.
ETH Zurich occasionally hosts public science events and experiments, particularly for younger audiences. Keep an eye on their official website for announcements.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The ETH campus has several 'Mensa' (cafeterias) and coffee shops that are open to the public, offering affordable meal options.
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.
ETH Mensas typically offer a variety of hot meals, salads, and snacks, catering to diverse tastes. They are a budget-friendly option for lunch.
Yes, there are coffee shops and kiosks on campus where you can purchase drinks, pastries, and light snacks.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The Polyterrasse offers iconic panoramic shots of Zurich. The main building's atrium and exterior architecture are also highly photogenic.
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.
Yes, the exhibit is designed to be viewed and photographed. The locker itself is a unique subject for a memorable shot.
Sunset is highly recommended for dramatic lighting and city views. However, daytime offers clear vistas and a different perspective.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Polybahn Funicular and Polyterrasse
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.
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.
Exploring Einstein's Legacy at ETH Zurich
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.
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.
Architectural Grandeur of the Main Building
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.
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.
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