Zurich Film Festival: Great cinema in Switzerland
Every year, Zurich becomes a stage for the art of film. Here you can enjoy screenings and events – exclusively thanks to your Platinum Card.
Everything you need to know at a glance
The Zurich Film Festival (ZFF) brings international cinema, gala premieres, and emerging talent to Zurich. In 2026, it will take place from September 24 to October 4. Over the course of eleven festival days, this renowned film festival will screen around 100 curated films – ranging from potential Oscar contenders and auteur films to children’s and family films.
In addition to screenings at venues such as Sechseläutenplatz, the Kongresshaus, and Zurich cinemas, visitors can look forward to talks, meet-and-greets with filmmakers, and award ceremonies. American Express Platinum Card members can also enjoy an exclusive surprise film premiere.
The Zurich Film Festival celebrates international cinema
In 2026, the renowned Zurich Film Festival will take place for the 22nd time. For eleven days, you can experience great cinema in Zurich. From September 24 to October 4, the festival honors filmmakers and brings together talent, industry experts, and around 135,000 visitors. It is one of the most important film festivals in the German-speaking world.
About 100 carefully curated films will be screened, including those considered Oscar contenders. During the festival, you can look forward to gala premieres featuring international industry luminaries, watch original auteur films, discover hidden gems and new talent, and enjoy a wide-ranging supporting program.
This includes public moderated events with filmmakers, directors, and actors, as well as talks where you can exchange ideas with other film enthusiasts. The heart of the festival is Sechseläutenplatz. Additional venues are located throughout Zurich, such as the Kongresshaus Zürich, “Kino Corso,” “Arena Cinemas,” and “KinoKoni.”
The program for the 2026 Zurich Film Festival will be announced on September 9, and advance ticket sales begin on September 14. You can pay for tickets with your American Express Card – whether you’re attending a talk, a single screening, or want access to one of the many screenings with the comprehensive festival pass. You can also purchase vouchers.
Interesting fact: You can still buy tickets on the spot. Every day at 8 a.m., unused press allocations are released for public sale.
Attend the Zurich Film Festival with your Platinum Card
With American Express, you can look forward to a special event again this year as part of the Zurich Film Festival. Platinum Card members have the opportunity to experience an exclusive surprise film premiere. The exact film title will be announced shortly before the festival begins.
Interesting fact: With your Platinum Card, you’ll regularly have the opportunity to attend exclusive events like these and book tickets for unforgettable experiences through the Travel & Lifestyle Service.
Awards for filmmakers at the festival
In addition to numerous premieres, screenings, and talks, the Zurich Film Festival features various award ceremonies for filmmakers. These include the Feature Film and Documentary Film Competitions, in which 14 curated films are nominated in each category, including first, second, and third works. The main prize for the “Golden Eye” in each of these categories is endowed with CHF 25,000. Audience awards are also presented in these categories.
Interesting fact: The “Golden Eye” is also awarded in various honorary categories, such as for the lifetime achievements of filmmakers who have had a particularly significant impact on the industry and film history.
The Zurich Film Festival for kids
The event is also well worth a visit with children. Every year, the Zurich Film Festival presents a selection of outstanding international children’s and family films. They are shown in their original language with live German dubbing. This extensive festival program is sure to delight even the youngest film fans.
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Zurich Film Festival: A great event for film fans
The Zurich Film Festival delights visitors with major premieres, surprising discoveries, and special encounters. Whether it’s international film stars, emerging talent, or family-friendly screenings – the program offers something for every taste. As a Platinum Cardholder, you’ll also enjoy an exclusive premiere night. Be sure to secure your tickets in advance and experience the art of film right in the heart of Zurich.
With the Platinum Card, you not only gain access to exclusive events but can also look forward to many other benefits that make your everyday life and travels even more comfortable. The perks of this premium credit card include dining benefits, comprehensive insurance benefits, and free access to airport lounges.
Frequently asked questions and answers
The Zurich Film Festival will take place from September 24 to October 4, 2026. Over the course of eleven festival days, you’ll experience great cinema, premieres, and events in Zurich.
Advance ticket sales for 2026 begin on September 14. Ticket prices vary by category. For example, a ticket for the regular film program costs CHF 27.–. The Festival Pass, which offers a comprehensive film festival experience, is available for CHF 590.–. You can also purchase gift certificates.
In 2026, American Express will once again host an exclusive event for Platinum Card Members as part of the Zurich Film Festival.
