The Kunsthaus Zürich: a museum of superlatives
The Kunsthaus Zürich on Heimplatz is home to important works from different eras.
More than 100 years of artistic enjoyment
It was the oldest art association in Europe, the Zürcher Kunstgesellschaft, that laid the foundations for the Kunsthaus Zürich. The members of this society had been meeting regularly since 1787 to discuss art and collect paintings.
Over the years, a large number of works were collected, so that the Zürcher Kunstgesellschaft decided to build a museum on Heimplatz in Zurich. The institution was conceived from the outset as a museum and art gallery, with changing exhibitions and a collection. The Kunsthaus Zürich still follows this principle today.
Since then, the collection, which was still modest at the time, has been regularly expanded with important acquisitions. And of course the building grew with it: Over the years, the freely divisible large exhibition hall was added, including an auditorium and a spacious restaurant. Further extensions followed. The last one was opened in 2021.
Since then, the ensemble of new and existing buildings has been able to call itself the largest art museum in Switzerland. It is famous not only for its exhibits, but also for its imposing architecture. The interplay between the historic building and the modern extension is particularly impressive. The beautiful inner courtyard also invites visitors to linger.
The collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich
The Kunsthaus Zürich has an exclusive collection of Swiss and international art from more than eight centuries of art history. Medieval and modern art go hand in hand: paintings, sculptures, installations as well as works on paper, photographs, videos and digital works can be viewed in various presentations.
Among the most important works are those from the 19th and 20th centuries: The works of artists such as Alberto Giacometti, Marc Chagall, Ferdinand Hodler and Giovanni Giacometti offer a deep insight into the development of modern art. Paul Klee and Edvard Munch are a particular focus.
Of course, exhibits by artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso are also represented. Other highlights of the art collection are the Pop Art paintings by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein as well as the world's largest Dada collection.
Changing exhibitions: Immersive spaces and action art
In addition to the permanent collection, there are also temporary exhibitions at the Kunsthaus Zürich. At the beginning of 2025, for example, the museum unveiled the immersive digital space "Glacier Dreams" by Refik Anadol: a multi-sensory viewing experience on the subject of climate change.
In 2025, a major retrospective was also dedicated to the Swiss action artist Roman Signer at the Kunsthaus Zürich. And Monster Chetwynd, whose provocative works challenge traditional art forms, offers a true art experience with a fresh perspective.
In general, the temporary exhibitions are not subordinate to any genre or boundaries. Instead, they show new, sometimes radical approaches from all regions of the world: challenging, experimental, abysmal - but never boring.
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Educational work at the Kunsthaus Zürich
The Kunsthaus Zürich attaches great importance to educational work. People of all ages can take part in guided tours, workshops and lectures, and there are also special programs for schools, such as creative work in the studio.
The Kunsthaus Zürich even offers early education programs for kindergartens. There are also digital formats that provide virtual access to the collection.
The Kunsthaus Zürich: Switzerland's cultural highlight
With its diverse collection, innovative exhibitions and dedicated educational work, the Kunsthaus Zürich is the cultural highlight of the city. As one of the most impressive museums in the whole of Switzerland, it presents numerous artistic treasures to the public and creates a space for creative exploration of current issues in the art world.
Incidentally, you can combine your trip to Zurich with other indoor activities in Switzerland or with a visit to the most beautiful sights in Zurich. Don't forget your Platinum Card from American Express, which offers you the luxury you deserve when traveling.
Frequently asked questions and answers
The Kunsthaus Zürich is the largest art museum in Switzerland with an extraordinary collection of works from different eras and changing exhibitions.
The Kunsthaus is located on Heimplatz in the center of Zurich.
That is a matter of taste. But the collection includes some important works of art by Picasso, Monet and van Gogh as well as other highlights of art history.
