5 of the best museums in Switzerland
Of the many museums in Switzerland, these five stand out for their cultural significance.
National Museum Zurich: Swiss cultural history in a fairytale castle
The National Museum Zurich, which claims to be the country's most-visited museum of cultural history, has had a firm place in the Swiss cultural landscape since it opened in 1898.
And since the opening of the extension in 2016 and the renovation of the historic old building in 2019, the museum has shone in new splendor. With its battlements and towers, the building is somewhat reminiscent of a fairytale castle.
But it is not just the building that is unique: the museum, which is one of the best museums in Switzerland, has six permanent exhibitions displaying thousands of objects relating to Swiss cultural history, from prehistoric times to the present day. There are also annually changing exhibitions and cultural events in the idyllic inner courtyard.
Kunsthaus Zürich: the largest art museum in Switzerland
Since 2021, the Kunsthaus Zürich has been able to call itself the largest art museum in Switzerland with an ensemble of new and existing buildings. The important museum has an exquisite collection of Swiss and international art from more than eight centuries of art history.
Highlights include the largest Munch collection outside of Norway, the most extensive collection of works by Alberto Giacometti, Impressionist and Classical Modernist paintings by Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall, as well as Pop Art by Warhol and Hamilton.
The Kunsthaus Zürich also delights lovers of medieval sculptures and panel paintings: In addition to the permanent collection, it also offers changing exhibitions.
Interesting fact: Until at least mid-2026, the exhibition "Glacier Dreams" by Refik Anadol can be seen at Kunsthaus Zürich as an immersive installation that appeals to all the senses. And you are invited to engage with the melting glacier.
Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne: a technology museum dedicated to traffic, transportation and energy
With its interactive exhibition on traffic, transportation and energy, Switzerland's most visited museum is perfect for a day trip to Lucerne with the whole family. One of the best museums in Switzerland, the museum focuses on mobility in Europe in numerous exhibitions, theme parks and simulations.
The film theater integrated into the Museum of Transport, the planetarium and the Swiss Chocolate Adventure also attract children to this cultural institution. The newly designed Rail Hall has been particularly popular since June 2025: it provides a comprehensive insight into the history and significance of the Swiss railroads.
Historic vehicles, exciting stories and interactive stations show how rail transport has developed and the role it still plays today. One highlight is the completely renovated Gotthard Railway model layout. With a length of almost 32 meters and a width of 3.5 meters, it is one of the largest model railroads in Switzerland.
Fondation Beyeler near Basel: modern and contemporary art
The Fondation Beyeler in Riehen near Basel is both an art museum and a foundation. The focus of the prestigious museum is on visitors' encounters with modern, contemporary art, nature and architecture. The collection comprises more than 400 works by over 90 artists.
The changing exhibitions are usually only on display for a few months and, like the various nature excursions and concerts, are considered outstanding. However, it is not only the top-class program that is unique, but also the location of the estate: idyllically situated in a park with water lily ponds and a view of the vineyards at the foothills of the Black Forest.
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Museum of Communication in Bern: the history of human interaction
The Museum of Communication in Bern appeals to the whole family: The museum shows the history of human interaction with lots of fun and interactive elements. From the body language of early man to exchanges with computers, all facets of communication are examined.
Other exhibition areas are dedicated to the world of stamps, the culture of writing and telephoning. Even dance as a form of expression has already been addressed in the "Dance" exhibition at the Bern museum, which is one of the best museums in Switzerland.
The diverse world of museums in Switzerland
Switzerland has more than 1,000 museums. You can visit world-famous art museums such as the Fondation Beyeler or major museums in Zurich as well as many specialized collections, for example for watchmaking or Alpine culture.
The museums presented here are only a subjective selection; many other cultural institutions in Switzerland are also of great importance, such as the Kunstmuseum Basel or the Musée d'art et d'histoire in Geneva.
There is much more to discover culturally on your trip through Switzerland, such as the opera in Zurich or the numerous interactive museums in Switzerland . Don't forget your Platinum Card from American Express, which offers you the luxury you deserve when traveling.
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Frequently asked questions and answers
The largest museum in Switzerland in terms of floor space is the Kunsthaus Zürich. Following its expansion, it has a total area of around 26,000 square meters.
Most visitors flock to the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne. The museum records around one million admissions every year.
The exact number changes every year, but most recently Switzerland had around 1,100 museums.
