Highlight in Zurich: Visit to the opera house
Take a look behind the scenes at Zurich Opera House or attend a performance.
Cultural institution in Zurich: the impressive opera house
The Zurich Opera House opened in 1891. Located directly on Lake Zurich, this impressive opera house is one of the city's most exciting attractions and an important cultural institution in Switzerland. Every year, around 15 to 17 new opera, ballet, and concert productions are staged here, including contemporary performances, classics, baroque works, and world premieres.
Special events and workshops are also held. The program includes more than 300 events that you can attend at Zurich Opera House throughout the year. Impressive: around 800 employees work at the opera house to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
A look behind the scenes: visiting the Zurich Opera House
Guided tours are available, allowing you to visit Zurich Opera House not only for a performance, but also to experience what goes on behind the scenes. You will be guided through the props, costume and make-up departments for around an hour – and even have the chance to stand on the stage yourself.
There are also special tours of the opera house tailored to families and children. Or tours that take a closer look at specific areas, such as stage technology or make-up artistry. The tours are usually conducted in German and English.
Private tours are also available at the Zurich Opera House. To arrange one, please contact the institution to request an individual appointment. These tours even allow you to visit the costume workshop and the furniture and scenery warehouse. These tours are also offered in Italian and French.
"Opera for All": how Zurich makes culture accessible to everyone
Once a year, Zurich Opera House organizes the open-air event "opera for everyone." In 2026, for the first time, it will take place over several days, from June 26 to 28. Live broadcasts of opera and ballet performances at the opera house will be shown free of charge outside the opera house on Sechseläutenplatz.
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Must-do in Zurich: a visit to the opera
Visiting the opera in Zurich is an excellent way to spend a festive evening for two at an opera or ballet performance. Beforehand, you can enjoy dinner together at one of Zurich's best GaultMillau restaurants. Or you can take a look behind the scenes at the opera house. This will give you exciting insights into the history and workings of this cultural institution.
As a culture lover, you should also visit the Kunsthaus in Zurich. Always by your side when you travel? Your Gold Card or Platinum Card from American Express. With it, you can enjoy attractive benefits in everyday life and when traveling, such as advantages with car rental partners and insurance companies.
Frequently asked questions and answers
Yes, the Zurich Opera House offers a variety of guided tours that allow you to take a look behind the scenes. There are also special tours for children and families. You can also book private tours.
No, there is no dress code per se for visiting the Zurich Opera House. However, the atmosphere is festive and elegant, so it is best to choose appropriate clothing.
The open-air event "Opera for All" will take place for the first time in 2026 over several days, from June 26 to 28.
