Novartis Pavillon
Experience a futuristic journey through drug discovery with cutting-edge tech and stunning circular architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Novartis Pavillon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a futuristic journey through drug discovery with cutting-edge tech and stunning circular architecture.
"It's simply amazing, straight from a sci-fi movie. An absolute must-visit if in Basel."
🚗 Parking Hassles
Underground parking is nearby but poorly indicated. Look for signs for the main campus entrance.
✨ Interactive Tech
Embrace the AR and touchscreens; they're key to the futuristic learning experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Futuristic Interactive Exhibits
Experience AR and touchscreens bringing the science of drug discovery to life. It's an immersive, sci-fi-like journey.

Striking Circular Architecture
Marvel at the 'doughnut' building's unique design, featuring glass and 3D-printed LEDs for a light, airy feel.
Rhein River Views from Cafe
Enjoy exquisite mint tea and perfect views of the Rhein from the well-stocked cafe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Interactive Learning Experience
Architectural Marvel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Hassles
Underground parking is nearby but poorly indicated. Look for signs for the main campus entrance.
✨ Interactive Tech
Embrace the AR and touchscreens; they're key to the futuristic learning experience.
☕ Cafe Views
Don't miss the cafe for great Rhein views and a taste of their mint tea.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be standing and interacting, so wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Hassles
Underground parking is nearby but poorly indicated. Look for signs for the main campus entrance.
✨ Interactive Tech
Embrace the AR and touchscreens; they're key to the futuristic learning experience.
☕ Cafe Views
Don't miss the cafe for great Rhein views and a taste of their mint tea.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be standing and interacting, so wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Novartis Pavillon's incredibly interactive and futuristic exhibition, likening it to stepping into a sci-fi movie. The stunning, circular architecture and the well-designed cafe with Rhein views are also major highlights. Some minor points of friction include less-than-ideal parking signage.
"Very good use of technologies to make the experience interactive and strengthen learning. Beautifully designed building. Great lighting systems. Good bicycle parking spots. Well tasting mint tea. Clean everywhere. Thanks."
Frank Calberg
"I guess it's fair to say that this is the best interactive exhibition I have ever visited. It's simply amazing, straight from a sci-fi movie. I am impressed by how AR, and touchscreens everywhere are used to narrate a story of how active compounds are invented, developed, tested, and produced, what diseases are treated, and how it affects lifes of people.
In my opinion, it's an absolute must-visit if in Basel."
Alexander Shein
"Very interesting expo in this surprising building. There is an underground parking at the main entrance of the campus, about 100m away from the Pavillon, but not well indicated, neither on the spot, nor on the website."
Stéphane Rémy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Novartis Pavillon is located on the Novartis Campus. Public transport is recommended; tram lines 1 and 8 stop nearby. If driving, there's an underground parking lot at the main campus entrance, though it can be hard to find.
Yes, there is an underground parking lot at the main entrance of the Novartis Campus, about 100 meters away. However, signage can be poor both on-site and on the website.
Yes, the Pavillon offers good bicycle parking spots, making it a convenient option for cyclists. :bicycle:
Absolutely! Tram lines 1 and 8 provide convenient access to the Novartis Campus area, making it easy to reach the Pavillon without a car.
Follow signs for the main Novartis Campus entrance. The underground parking is located there, but be prepared for potentially unclear directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding ticket requirements is not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews. It's advisable to check the official Novartis Pavillon website for the most current admission details and booking procedures. :ticket:
Specific opening hours are not mentioned in the reviews. Visitors should consult the official Novartis Pavillon website for accurate and up-to-date information on operating times. :clock1:
The reviews highlight the interactive exhibition but do not specify an entrance fee. It's recommended to verify this information on their official channels before your visit.
While online booking is common for attractions, the reviews don't confirm this for the Novartis Pavillon. Checking their official website is the best way to find out about advance ticket purchase options. :computer:
No specific special entry requirements are mentioned in the reviews. However, as it's on a corporate campus, it's always wise to be aware of general visitor guidelines. :informationdeskperson:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Pavillon heavily utilizes advanced technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and interactive touchscreens to create a futuristic and engaging learning experience about drug development.
The interactive nature and futuristic design are likely to appeal to a wide range of ages, especially those interested in science and technology. It's described as an 'absolute must-visit' for those in Basel.
The building is a striking circular design, often referred to as 'the doughnut,' created by Italian architect De Lucchi. It features extensive use of glass and 3D-printed LEDs.
Information about guided tours is not provided in the reviews. Visitors interested in this should inquire directly with the Novartis Pavillon. :microphone:
While not specified, the immersive and interactive nature of the exhibition suggests a visit could easily take a couple of hours to fully appreciate. Plan accordingly for a thorough experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an exquisite cafe located within the Pavillon that offers perfect views of the Rhein River and serves well-tasting mint tea.
The cafe is described as well-stocked and offers mint tea, which is specifically mentioned as tasting good. Other offerings are not detailed but it's implied to be a pleasant dining spot.
The reviews focus on the cafe within the Pavillon. For other dining options on the wider Novartis Campus, it would be best to check campus directories or inquire upon arrival.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition spaces is discouraged. It's best to enjoy the offerings at the on-site cafe. :coffee:
Absolutely! The cafe provides a relaxing spot to take a break, enjoy refreshments, and soak in the views of the Rhein.
📸 📸 Photography
The reviews don't explicitly state photography rules. However, given the interactive nature and potential for sensitive displays, it's wise to assume photography might be restricted in certain areas. Always look for signage. :camerawithflash:
The striking circular architecture of the building itself, both exterior and interior, is a major photographic draw. The cafe with its Rhein views also offers scenic photo opportunities.
Photography of interactive exhibits can sometimes interfere with their functionality or be restricted for proprietary reasons. It's best to check for specific guidelines within the exhibition space. :iphone:
As the Novartis Pavillon is located on a corporate campus, drone photography is highly likely to be prohibited due to security and privacy regulations. :noentrysign:
The building features great lighting systems and extensive use of glass, creating a very light and airy interior. This should provide good natural and artificial light for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💡 Tech Enthusiasts & Science Buffs
🏛️ Architecture Admirers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Innovative Architecture
This design philosophy extends to the functionality of the space, which houses a large exhibition area, a well-stocked shop, and an exquisite cafe. The seamless integration of form and function is evident throughout, making the Pavillon a landmark of contemporary design. Visitors often remark on how special and striking the building is, even from the outside, highlighting its immediate visual impact.
Immersive Technology and Learning
The use of AR and touchscreens is not merely for show; it's integral to strengthening the learning process. By making the experience highly interactive, the Pavillon ensures that information is absorbed more effectively and memorably. This innovative method of scientific communication is what sets the Novartis Pavillon apart, making it one of the most impressive interactive exhibitions many visitors have ever encountered.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit