Best Winter Museum Exhibitions in Zürich for 2026
Zürich transforms into a cultural hub during the colder months. You can explore world-class art and history through winter museum exhibitions in Zürich this season. These indoor spaces offer warmth and inspiration for every traveler. Start your journey at the Travel by Season homepage for more Swiss travel tips.
Art Highlights at Kunsthaus Zürich
Kunsthaus Zürich stands as Switzerland's largest art museum. It hosts impressive collections ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. This winter, the museum features several exclusive temporary displays. You will find masterpieces by Alberto Giacometti and other famous artists here.
The museum opens from Tuesday to Sunday each week. Standard adult tickets cost approximately 23 CHF for special exhibitions. Students and seniors can enjoy reduced entry fees of 18 CHF. Use our Kunsthaus winter guide to plan your visit efficiently.
Visit the new Chipperfield building for a modern architectural experience. This wing houses the famous Bührle Collection and French Impressionist works. The bright spaces make viewing art a joy during gray winter days. Plan for at least three hours to see everything properly.
- Address: Heimplatz 1, 8001 Zürich
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Late on Wed/Thu)
- Cost: 23 CHF per adult
Swiss National Museum History Displays
The Swiss National Museum sits right next to the main station. Its castle-like architecture looks stunning under a dusting of winter snow. Inside, you can explore the rich history of Switzerland through the ages. The museum offers several winter museum exhibitions in Zürich for 2026.
Families often enjoy the interactive storytelling sections within the museum. Children can learn about Swiss legends and historical figures through games. Check out the Swiss National Museum family events for seasonal activities. These programs run throughout January and February for all ages.
The permanent "History of Switzerland" exhibition is a must-see for newcomers. It uses modern technology to bring old artifacts to life. You can also visit the museum shop for high-quality Swiss souvenirs. It is a perfect place to escape the cold wind.
- Address: Museumstrasse 2, 8001 Zürich
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (8:00 PM on Thu)
- Cost: 10 CHF per adult
Interactive Sports History at FIFA Museum
Football fans will love the FIFA Museum in the Enge district. This museum celebrates the history and culture of the world's most popular sport. It features over 1,000 exhibits and numerous interactive stations for visitors. It is one of the top winter museum exhibitions in Zürich.
You can test your skills at the giant pinball machine or virtual stations. The museum displays the original FIFA World Cup Trophy during special times. Read about the FIFA Museum interactive exhibits before you go. This helps you find the best games and displays quickly.
The museum also hosts a cozy sports bar and a bistro. You can enjoy a warm drink after exploring the three floors of history. The location is very easy to reach by tram from the center. It stays open until 6:00 PM most days of the week.
- Address: Seestrasse 27, 8002 Zürich
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mon)
- Cost: 24 CHF per adult
Unique Indoor Cultural Experiences
Zürich offers many unique cultural spots beyond the large art galleries. Small galleries in the Old Town host intimate winter museum exhibitions in Zürich. These venues provide a quiet escape from the busy shopping streets. You can discover local Swiss artists in these charming historic buildings.
The Museum Rietberg focuses on non-European art in a beautiful park setting. Its winter displays often highlight traditional crafts from Asia and Africa. You can find more indoor cultural activities on our website. This includes hidden gems that many tourists often miss during winter.
Consider visiting the Pavillon Le Corbusier if the weather stays dry. While mostly an outdoor structure, its interior design remains a masterpiece of modernism. Many smaller museums offer free entry on certain days of the week. Always check the official Zürich Tourism website for current schedules.
- Rietberg Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Rietberg Cost: 18 CHF per adult
- Location: Gablerstrasse 15, 8002 Zürich
How to Save with the Zürich Card
Visiting multiple museums can become expensive for travelers on a budget. The Zürich Card offers a great way to save money during your trip. It provides free or discounted entry to most winter museum exhibitions in Zürich. You also get unlimited travel on all public transport in the city.
You can choose between a 24-hour or a 72-hour pass for your stay. A 24-hour card costs 29 CHF for adults and 19 CHF for children. This pays for itself after visiting just two major museums and taking trams. Learn how to use the Zürich Card to maximize your savings.
Most museum shops also offer small discounts to cardholders during the winter. You can buy the card at the airport or the main train station. Digital versions are available through the official city transport app as well. It makes moving between different cultural sites very simple and fast.
- 24-Hour Card: 29 CHF
- 72-Hour Card: 59 CHF
- Includes: Trams, buses, trains, and boats
Winter Events and Light Shows
Winter in Zürich is not just about indoor museum galleries. The city hosts various outdoor light shows and festivals during the colder months. You can combine a museum visit with a trip to a local market. Many people enjoy the Zürich winter events happening throughout the city.
The Illuminarium light show at the National Museum is a highlight of the season. It features stunning projections and music in the museum's inner courtyard. You can visit the history exhibits during the day and the show at night. This creates a full day of Swiss culture and modern entertainment.
If you visit in February, look for the local carnival celebrations. These events add a festive atmosphere to the streets near the museums. You might see traditional costumes and hear lively music while walking between galleries. Check the Switzerland Tourism site for regional event dates.
- Illuminarium Dates: Nov – Dec
- Carnival Dates: Mid-February
- Location: Citywide and Landesmuseum
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free winter museum exhibitions in Zürich?
Yes, some museums offer free entry on specific days or for certain age groups. For example, the focusTerra museum is usually free for all visitors. You can find a list of free museum days to help plan your budget-friendly winter trip.
What is the best museum in Zürich for families in winter?
The Swiss National Museum and the FIFA Museum are excellent choices for families. Both offer interactive displays that keep children engaged for hours. They also provide indoor cafes where families can rest and warm up during the cold winter days.
Can I use the Zürich Card for all winter exhibitions?
The Zürich Card covers permanent collections at most major museums for free. However, some special temporary winter exhibitions may require a small additional fee. Always present your card at the ticket desk to receive the best possible discount for your visit.
Which museum is closest to the Zürich main train station?
The Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum) is located directly behind the main train station. It is only a two-minute walk from the platforms. This makes it a very convenient stop for travelers arriving by train during the winter season.
Zürich offers a rich variety of cultural experiences during the winter season. From world-class art at the Kunsthaus to interactive sports at the FIFA Museum, there is something for everyone. Use our Zürich winter travel tips to make the most of your 2026 visit. Enjoy the warmth and beauty of these incredible exhibitions today.