HR Giger Bar
Step into a biomechanical nightmare at the HR Giger Bar, a surreal art installation designed by the 'Alien' creator.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Atmosphere truly comes alive
HR Giger Bar
Best Time
Atmosphere truly comes alive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a biomechanical nightmare at the HR Giger Bar, a surreal art installation designed by the 'Alien' creator.
"Best bar I’ve been in for years! Great music in totally surreal surroundings."
🎯 Order the 'Alien Coffee'
A must-try signature drink, often served with meringue and cream for a unique taste experience. :coffee:
🎶 Music Matches the Vibe
Expect heavy metal/rock music that perfectly complements the dark, surreal ambiance. :musical_note:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Biomechanical Architecture
Entire Bar Interior
Immerse yourself in Giger's signature style, from skeletal arches to Harkonnen chairs. It's a living art installation.
Harkonnen Chairs
Seating Areas
Iconic, heavy chairs designed for a never-realized 'Dune' film, offering a throne-like experience.
The 'Alien Coffee'
Bar Menu
A signature drink experience, often served with meringue and cream, blending art with taste.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Biomechanical Ambiance
Gruyères Charm & Giger's Dark Art
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Order the 'Alien Coffee'
A must-try signature drink, often served with meringue and cream for a unique taste experience. :coffee:
🎶 Music Matches the Vibe
Expect heavy metal/rock music that perfectly complements the dark, surreal ambiance. :musical_note:
💰 Priced for the Experience
Drinks can be pricier, but you're paying for the unique atmosphere and art. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the Surrealism
The entire bar is a photo opportunity; be respectful of other patrons while snapping pics. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Order the 'Alien Coffee'
A must-try signature drink, often served with meringue and cream for a unique taste experience. :coffee:
🎶 Music Matches the Vibe
Expect heavy metal/rock music that perfectly complements the dark, surreal ambiance. :musical_note:
💰 Priced for the Experience
Drinks can be pricier, but you're paying for the unique atmosphere and art. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the Surrealism
The entire bar is a photo opportunity; be respectful of other patrons while snapping pics. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Museum Visit
Located near the HR Giger Museum, visit both for a complete immersion into the artist's world. :museum:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the HR Giger Bar's incredibly unique and immersive biomechanical atmosphere, often described as stepping into the world of 'Alien.' The 'Alien Coffee' and the surreal decor are highlights, with many appreciating the music and friendly staff. However, some find the prices high and the dark theme potentially intense.
"Cool place! I had the “alien coffee” with meringue and cream. At 10 CHF, I thought that was priced really reasonably! The meringue cookies with cream was so yummy! Our server explained how we can eat the cream with cookies as well as mix it into the coffee. Had no problem ordering in English."
Sarah Sori Kim
"Best bar I’ve been in for years! Great music in totally surreal surroundings. Felt like being on the Prometheus! Great staff, surprisingly decently priced drinks for Switzerland & brilliant music all make this a must visit!"
Leonie Purvis
"You come for vibes and friends.
The service and the atmosphere is amazing. The concepts of drinks are interesting. Definitely a bit on the pricier side vs the coffee comparison but they are more of a bar than anything.
So come for drinks, not so much coffee.
So what you’re paying for is the experience and the friendly bar lady and her excellent taste of music :) she’s awesome ~"
Angela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The HR Giger Bar is located in Gruyères, Switzerland. You can reach Gruyères by train, often with a change in Bulle. From the Gruyères train station, it's a short walk to the medieval village where the bar is situated.
There are two HR Giger Bars. The original HR Giger Bar opened in Chur in 1992, and another is located in Gruyères, near the HR Giger Museum, which opened in 2003. Most visitors refer to the Gruyères location when discussing the 'Giger Bar Museum'.
These locations are quite far apart in Switzerland. Travel between Chur and Gruyères typically involves multiple train changes and can take several hours. It's best to plan your itinerary to focus on one location or dedicate significant travel time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a ticket to enter the HR Giger Bar itself. It operates as a regular bar. However, if you wish to visit the adjacent HR Giger Museum, separate admission tickets are required.
Opening hours can vary, but the bar is generally open in the afternoons and evenings. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
There is no admission fee to enter the HR Giger Bar. You pay for your drinks and any food you order. The unique atmosphere and design are part of the experience you get with your purchase.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the HR Giger Bar. Visitors often share photos and videos online. However, be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive photography.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful. Avoid using flash photography that might disturb others or the ambiance. Some areas might have subtle restrictions, so observe your surroundings.
The entire bar is a visual spectacle! Key areas for photos include the biomechanical seating, the bar counter, and the unique ceiling and wall designs. The Harkonnen chairs are particularly photogenic.
🍽️ 🍸 Food & Drink
The bar offers a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Their signature 'Alien Coffee' is highly recommended, often served with meringue and cream. They also serve cocktails and other standard bar drinks.
While primarily a bar, they offer some snacks and desserts. The meringue with cream is a popular choice. Reviews suggest focusing on the drinks and the unique atmosphere rather than expecting a full dining experience.
Prices are on the higher side, typical for Switzerland and for a themed bar experience. For example, the 'Alien Coffee' might cost around 10 CHF. You are paying for the unique ambiance and artistic design.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1If you do visit with older children or teenagers who are fans of sci-fi or art, it can be a fascinating stop. The 'Alien Coffee' with meringue and cream might appeal to younger palates. However, consider the music and overall dark aesthetic before bringing very young children. The nearby Gruyères village offers more traditionally family-friendly attractions.
🎨 Art & Sci-Fi Enthusiasts
Visiting the adjacent HR Giger Museum is highly recommended to complement your bar experience. Together, they offer a comprehensive immersion into Giger's unique artistic universe. Be prepared for a dark, intense, and unforgettable artistic encounter.
💰 Budget Travelers
To make the most of it on a budget, consider ordering just one signature drink, like the 'Alien Coffee,' to savor the atmosphere without overspending. Alternatively, you could visit for a quick look and photos, then enjoy more affordable options in the charming village of Gruyères.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of H.R. Giger
The HR Giger Bar is a direct manifestation of this artistic vision. Giger himself was heavily involved in the design and construction of the bars, ensuring that every detail, from the skeletal arches to the furniture, reflected his signature style. This commitment to authenticity makes the bars feel like stepping directly into one of his paintings.
Beyond the 'Alien' franchise, Giger's influence can be seen in album covers, film concepts, and various art installations. The bars serve as a permanent, tangible tribute to his groundbreaking artistic legacy, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience his world firsthand.
+1Experiencing the Atmosphere
Visitors often describe the feeling of being transported to another planet or into the world of 'Alien.' The intricate details, from the texture of the walls to the design of the chairs, contribute to a sense of awe and wonder. It's a place that sparks conversation and leaves a lasting impression.
While the drinks are a part of the experience, many patrons emphasize that the primary draw is the unique environment. The friendly staff, particularly the bar ladies, are often praised for their taste in music and their role in enhancing the overall vibe.
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