Museum für Gestaltung Zurich
A premier design museum showcasing posters, textiles, and everyday objects from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Free admission for art lovers
Museum für Gestaltung Zurich
Best Time
Free admission for art lovers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier design museum showcasing posters, textiles, and everyday objects from the 19th and 20th centuries.
"A remarkable discovery with a fascinating 'Design for All?' exhibit and a great poster collection."
🎟️ Check for Free Wednesdays
Enjoy free admission on Wednesdays to explore the museum's design collections.
🗄️ Explore the Shaudepot
Book a tour for the Toni Areal 'Schaudepot' to see more design pieces, especially posters.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Poster Collection
Toni Areal
Discover Switzerland's strong graphic design heritage through an extensive poster archive.
Textile Manifestos Exhibition
Ausstellungsstrasse
Journey through a century of textile art, from Bauhaus to contemporary soft sculptures.
Design for All? Exhibit
Ausstellungsstrasse
An engaging exhibit showcasing design across various fields, great for all ages, including interactive elements like a braille Lego set.
Susanne Bartsch: Beyond the Ordinary
Ausstellungsstrasse
Experience a vibrant exhibition on Susanne Bartsch's influential role in New York's club scene and fashion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Design Delights Await
Two Locations, One Design Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Check for Free Wednesdays
Enjoy free admission on Wednesdays to explore the museum's design collections.
🗄️ Explore the Shaudepot
Book a tour for the Toni Areal 'Schaudepot' to see more design pieces, especially posters.
🛍️ Museum Shop Treasures
Don't miss the museum shop for unique design objects and books, often curated with excellent taste.
🚶♀️ Two Sites, One Ticket?
Consider visiting both locations for a full design immersion; inquire about combined ticket options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Check for Free Wednesdays
Enjoy free admission on Wednesdays to explore the museum's design collections.
🗄️ Explore the Shaudepot
Book a tour for the Toni Areal 'Schaudepot' to see more design pieces, especially posters.
🛍️ Museum Shop Treasures
Don't miss the museum shop for unique design objects and books, often curated with excellent taste.
🚶♀️ Two Sites, One Ticket?
Consider visiting both locations for a full design immersion; inquire about combined ticket options.
🖼️ Poster Art Hunting
Inquire about purchasing exhibition posters; sometimes they are available for sale.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the museum for its diverse and fascinating design collections, particularly the poster archives and engaging textile art exhibitions. The 'Design for All?' exhibit is highlighted as a family-friendly and interactive experience. While the museum offers great value, some find the cafe facilities could be improved, and opening hours can be restrictive for some visitors.
"cool experience, lots to see.
Two floors, with lower archives being good for a short visit. Majority of the museum can be experienced on the upper floor. Be sure to open up the sliding drawers to check out posters, and other design artwork."
Mustafa
"The exhibition “Fotoatelier Wolgensinger – Between Four Eyes” is truly fascinating.
It draws you in from the very first images, with photography that feels both intimate and expressive, offering a deep and personal perspective.
A remarkable discovery !"
Drou
"If you're visiting this museum, definitely opt to pay for entry to both locations. We visited this one with our kids and only had a day in Zurich so skipped the other location. That being said, the Design for All? exhibit was really cool with plenty to hold the interest of myself, my wife (who is a graphic designer), and our two kids (7 and 5).
There was a good variety of design fields represented, from engineering to signage to fashion. Our kids particularly loved learning about braille with the hands on braille Lego set.
Really nice selection in the gift shop too, and the building that houses the museum is great for a wander, with some really lovely spaces and architecture.
The location is super, being very close to transport links."
Erich Rau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum has two main locations: Ausstellungsstrasse and Toni-Areal. Both are easily accessible by public transport. The Ausstellungsstrasse location is near the main train station, and Toni-Areal is also well-connected by tram and bus.
Parking in Zurich can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to reach the museum.
The two locations, Ausstellungsstrasse and Toni-Areal, are not within immediate walking distance but are easily reachable by public transport within Zurich.
Yes, it's possible to visit both locations in one day, especially if you plan your route efficiently using public transport.
For Ausstellungsstrasse, look for stops like 'Museum für Gestaltung' or 'Sihlquai/HB'. For Toni-Areal, stops like 'Toni-Areal' are convenient. Check local transport apps for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary depending on current exhibitions and whether you visit one or both locations. Check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, the museum offers free admission on Wednesdays. Student discounts may also be available.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check the museum's website, especially for special exhibitions or events.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the museum is open until 5 PM on weekdays and weekends. It's best to confirm the exact hours on their official website before your visit.
Inquire at the ticket counter or check the museum's website for information on combined tickets that might offer access to both the Ausstellungsstrasse and Toni-Areal sites.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The museum showcases a wide range of design, including graphic design, posters, textiles, everyday objects, and artistic creations from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Yes, exhibits like 'Design for All?' are designed to be engaging for children, with interactive elements.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, personal photography without flash is allowed, but it's best to check signage or ask staff for specific exhibition rules.
Guided tours are available, particularly for the 'Schaudepot' at Toni Areal, which can offer deeper insights into the collections.
The 'Schaudepot' is a large archive at the Toni Areal location, housing a vast collection of design pieces, including many posters, and often requires a guided tour to access.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While some reviews mention a coffee stand and a cantina, their availability and quality can vary. It's advisable to check current offerings or plan to dine elsewhere.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition halls. There might be designated areas for consumption.
The museum is located in Zurich, a city with numerous dining options. You'll find a variety of cafes and restaurants in the vicinity, especially near public transport hubs.
📸 📸 Photography
The architecture of the buildings themselves, especially the Toni-Areal, can be quite photogenic. Look for visually striking exhibits like the textile art or graphic design displays.
Exhibitions featuring vibrant posters, colorful textiles, or unique design objects often make for great photo subjects. The 'Susanne Bartsch' exhibition is also noted for its visual flair.
Photography rules can be strict in archive areas. If photography is allowed, it's usually without flash. Always check the specific guidelines for the 'Schaudepot'.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan your visit to include the 'Design for All?' exhibit. Consider visiting on a Wednesday for free admission. The museum shop also has unique items that might appeal to children.
🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Prioritize visiting the 'Schaudepot' (book a tour if needed) and explore current exhibitions like 'Textile Manifestos' or those focusing on influential designers. Don't overlook the museum shop for curated design books and items.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Plan your visit for a Wednesday to save on admission. Utilize Zurich's efficient public transport system to reach the museum, which is often more cost-effective than taxis or parking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Swiss Graphic Design
Exploring these posters provides insight into the evolution of design principles and the cultural context of Switzerland. It's a testament to the precision, clarity, and aesthetic sensibility that defines Swiss design. For those passionate about visual arts, dedicating time to this collection is a must.
Tips for Poster Enthusiasts
* Book a tour: Accessing the 'Schaudepot' often requires a guided tour, which can provide valuable context.
* Inquire about purchases: Sometimes, exhibition posters are available for sale in the museum shop.
* Look for variety: Beyond advertisements, you'll find posters for cultural events, political movements, and artistic statements, offering a broad spectrum of visual history.
Textile Art Through the Ages
+1These exhibitions showcase the versatility and expressive potential of textiles, demonstrating how fabric can be used as a medium for powerful artistic statements and cultural commentary. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of techniques, materials, and conceptual approaches.
Experiencing Textile Exhibitions
* Check current exhibitions: Textile art is a recurring theme, so always check the museum's schedule for current or upcoming textile-focused shows.
* Appreciate the detail: Textile art often involves intricate craftsmanship. Take your time to observe the textures, patterns, and construction of each piece.
* Understand the context: Exhibitions often provide background information on the artists and the historical or social context of the works, enriching the viewing experience.
Design for All: Inclusivity in Focus
A highlight for many, including children, is the hands-on experience with braille, such as a braille Lego set. This approach makes complex design concepts understandable and enjoyable, demonstrating how design can serve a wider audience. The exhibit covers a broad spectrum of design fields, from engineering to fashion, emphasizing universal design principles.
Making the Most of 'Design for All?'
* Engage with interactive displays: Don't hesitate to participate in the hands-on activities designed to illustrate accessibility concepts.
* Visit with family: This exhibit is a great way to introduce children to design thinking in a fun and educational manner.
* Reflect on universal design: Consider how the principles of inclusive design can be applied in everyday life.
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