Rote Fabrik, Zurich - a building with a large glass wall
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Rote Fabrik Zurich

4.5
·3k reviews·Zürich, Switzerland

A former red brick factory on Lake Zurich, now a vibrant cultural center known for graffiti art, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Lakeside vibes & outdoor events

CrowdMedium
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Rote Fabrik, Zurich - a building with a large glass wall

Rote Fabrik Zurich

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Lakeside vibes & outdoor events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A former red brick factory on Lake Zurich, now a vibrant cultural center known for graffiti art, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"Total highlight of my stay in Zurich. I took the boat from Bürkliplatz to Wollishofen on a glorious sunny day."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedule

Visit Rote Fabrik's website for current events, concerts, and exhibitions. :calendar:

Embrace the Art

Wander around and admire the ever-changing graffiti art covering the factory walls. :spray_can:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Graffiti-Covered Walls

Graffiti-Covered Walls

Exterior of the factory buildings

Vibrant street art adorns the red brick walls, creating a dynamic and colorful outdoor gallery.

Lake Zurich Waterfront

Lake Zurich Waterfront

Shoreline adjacent to Rote Fabrik

Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere by the lake, perfect for picnics, strolls, or simply soaking in the views.

Live Music & Performances

Live Music & Performances

Various venues within Rote Fabrik

Experience a diverse range of concerts and artistic performances in this iconic cultural center.

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Embrace the Alternative Vibe

Rote Fabrik is a former silk factory turned vibrant cultural hub. Expect a laid-back, artistic atmosphere with graffiti art, live music, and lakeside chill spots. It's a unique alternative to Zurich's more polished attractions.

Lakeside Access & Events

Located directly on Lake Zurich, Rote Fabrik offers beautiful waterfront access. Check their schedule for concerts, exhibitions, and events, as this is when the venue truly comes alive. Entry is often free, with costs for specific performances.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Lakeside vibes & outdoor events
Crowd
Medium
When
Event evenings
Why
Concerts and lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you ever been to #zurich 🇨🇭#schweiz @Zurich Tourism #budgettravel #visitzurich #zurich_switzerland #switzerland #swiss #schweizer #schweizerdeutsch #zurichguide #traveltips #culturaldifference
@whereiswanda
43.1K likes • 920.6K views

Check Event Schedule

Visit Rote Fabrik's website for current events, concerts, and exhibitions. :calendar: Reddit

Embrace the Art

Wander around and admire the ever-changing graffiti art covering the factory walls. :spray_can: Instagram

the only guide you need if you wanna see everything in a short time! ZURICH CARD is your bestie if you are planning to visit, unlimited public transport, free museum visits, lots of perks etc check it out at @klooksg @visitzurich use my code SHIUMOONKLOOK for 5% off! #visitzurich #klookkreatorlabs #placestogoinswitzerland #sgtravel #creatorsearchinsights
@shiumoon
21.1K likes • 733.3K views
Rote Fabrik An alternative art, music and cultural center in Wollishofen-Zurich ___________ Rote Fabrik is a former factory in Wollishofen on the banks of Lake Zurich. It is currently used as a music and cultural center. Its walls are covered with graffiti from various street artists. #rotefabrik #rotefabrikzürich #rotefabrikzuerich #alternativeart #alternativeartist #graffiti #rotefabrikgraffit...
swissphotogallery
14 likes • 934 views

Lakeside Relaxation

Bring a blanket or find a spot by Lake Zurich for a chill afternoon. :lake_water: Reddit

Card Payments Accepted

Despite website info, card payments are often accepted for gigs. :credit_card: Reddit

More than 40 enthusiastic #urbansketchers joined last Sunday at #rotefabrikzurich to capture this interesting place or the people enjoying their brunch at the lakefront. Once a major silk factory, today a place full of culture and life 🎨🌈🎭🎶 . #urbansketchers #usk #urbansketching #uskzurich #urbansketcherszurich #uskswitzerland #zürich #zurich #uskzürich
urbansketcherszurich
98 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedule

Visit Rote Fabrik's website for current events, concerts, and exhibitions. :calendar: Reddit

Embrace the Art

Wander around and admire the ever-changing graffiti art covering the factory walls. :spray_can: Instagram

Lakeside Relaxation

Bring a blanket or find a spot by Lake Zurich for a chill afternoon. :lake_water: Reddit

Card Payments Accepted

Despite website info, card payments are often accepted for gigs. :credit_card: Reddit

Consider a Boat Trip

Take a scenic boat from Bürkliplatz to Wollishofen for a unique arrival. :ferry: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Rote Fabrik is celebrated as a unique cultural hub with a vibrant, alternative atmosphere, particularly loved for its striking graffiti art and prime lakeside location. Visitors appreciate the diverse range of events, from concerts to art installations, and the relaxed, free-spirited vibe. While some find the facilities basic, the overall experience is highly regarded as a highlight of Zurich.

"I've loved this place since I first visited in 1980. Over my several visits to Zürich since then, I always try to make it out to that side of the lake to see what's on. This large, old silk factory and grounds on the shore of the Zürichsee has had experimental music, performance art, and multi media installations by local and international artists for a long time running. They also offer artist residencies. Whether there's a specific event or if you just want to hang out in an incredibly chill environment on the lake, Rote Fabrik is your spot."

seenyour shine

"Great little venue for a gig. Reasonably priced. Can pay with card despite the website saying you cash only."

Michael Osborne

"Loved it, everything is perfect. We jumped and near there is a lake nearby, free entry and countless activities! Please visit some time it's excellent."

Walid Akash

What People Like

Unique graffiti art
Lakeside location
Alternative vibe

What People Dislike

Basic facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rote Fabrik is located in Wollishofen. You can reach it by public transport, including trams and buses. Taking a boat from Bürkliplatz to Wollishofen is also a scenic option, followed by a stroll along the lake. Reddit

Yes, Rote Fabrik is well-connected by Zurich's public transport network. Check local schedules for the most convenient routes from your location. Reddit

Limited parking may be available, but public transport is generally recommended due to potential congestion and the venue's lakeside location. Reddit

Arriving by public transport or boat is advised to avoid parking hassles and fully enjoy the experience. Reddit

Rote Fabrik is situated on the southern edge of Zurich, along Lake Zurich, offering a slightly more secluded but easily accessible experience from the city center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds of Rote Fabrik is often free, allowing you to explore the graffiti and lakeside. However, specific concerts, events, or exhibitions may require a ticket purchase. Reddit

Tickets for events are typically available online through Rote Fabrik's official website or associated ticketing platforms. Some events might also offer tickets at the door. Reddit

The grounds are generally accessible, but specific venues within Rote Fabrik (like cafes or concert halls) will have their own operating hours. It's best to check the schedule for specific events. Reddit

While some information might suggest cash-only, many visitors report that card payments are accepted for gigs and at some of the onsite facilities. Reddit

Information on discounts can vary per event. It's advisable to check the specific event details or contact Rote Fabrik directly for any available concessions. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Rote Fabrik is renowned for its extensive graffiti art covering the exterior walls. Inside, you might find various art installations, studios, and performance spaces. Instagram

Yes, Rote Fabrik often has cafes and restaurants on-site, especially popular during warmer months, offering a place to relax and refuel. Reddit

While Rote Fabrik has a free-spirited vibe, it's generally more suited for adults and older teens interested in art and music. The lakeside area can be enjoyable for families. Reddit

The atmosphere is typically alternative, artistic, and relaxed, especially on the lakefront. During events, it can be lively and energetic. Reddit

Rote Fabrik is known as a chill spot, and some Reddit users have mentioned it as a place for a relaxed smoke, particularly in open areas overlooking the lake, where authorities are rarely seen. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🎨 Art & Music Enthusiasts

Rote Fabrik is a paradise for those who appreciate alternative art and underground music. The extensive graffiti art covering the factory walls is a major draw, offering a dynamic, open-air gallery experience. Instagram Beyond the visual arts, the venue is a legendary spot for live concerts, particularly in genres like punk, rock, and electronic music. Reddit Make sure to check their schedule for upcoming performances and exhibitions to catch the pulse of Zurich's creative underground. Reddit

🌳 Nature & Relaxation Seekers

If you're looking for a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery, Rote Fabrik's lakeside location is perfect. You can enjoy a relaxed stroll along Lake Zurich, have a picnic, or simply unwind by the water. Reddit The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the unique industrial-meets-nature setting, offers a refreshing break. It's an ideal spot for a chill afternoon, especially during the summer months. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget-Conscious Travelers

While Zurich is known for being expensive, Rote Fabrik offers a more accessible experience. The grounds are often free to enter, allowing you to enjoy the art and lakeside views without spending a fortune. Reddit For specific events, ticket prices are generally reasonable compared to mainstream venues, making it a great option for experiencing local culture on a budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Heart of Rote Fabrik

Rote Fabrik is a canvas for urban art, with its former factory walls serving as a vibrant backdrop for graffiti and street art from local and international artists. This ever-evolving outdoor gallery creates a unique visual experience, making every visit potentially different. The raw, industrial aesthetic of the red brick buildings, combined with the colorful murals, offers a striking contrast and a testament to the site's transformation into a cultural hub. Instagram

Beyond the exterior art, Rote Fabrik also hosts various art exhibitions, studios, and creative residencies. This commitment to the arts means that visitors can often encounter diverse forms of artistic expression, from visual arts to performance. The venue actively supports emerging and established artists, contributing to Zurich's dynamic contemporary art scene. Instagram

For those interested in the artistic evolution of the space, exploring the different sections of the factory and observing the layers of paint and styles can be a fascinating journey. It's a place where art is not confined to galleries but is an integral part of the environment. Street art enthusiasts will find Rote Fabrik a must-visit destination. Instagram

Rote Fabrik's Lakeside Charm

One of the most appealing aspects of Rote Fabrik is its prime location directly on the shores of Lake Zurich. This setting provides a serene and picturesque environment, offering stunning views and a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront, relax on the grassy areas, or simply take in the expansive lake scenery. Reddit

The lakeside area is particularly popular during warmer months, transforming into a social hub where people gather to picnic, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors. There are often cafes and restaurants situated by the lake, providing opportunities to dine with a view. The proximity to the water adds a unique dimension to the Rote Fabrik experience, blending cultural exploration with natural beauty. Reddit

For a truly memorable arrival, consider taking a boat trip from Bürkliplatz to Wollishofen, the district where Rote Fabrik is located. This scenic journey offers a different perspective of the city and the lake, culminating in a pleasant stroll to the venue. It's a highly recommended way to experience the area and appreciate its beautiful surroundings. Reddit

A Hub for Alternative Culture and Music

Rote Fabrik has long been a cornerstone of Zurich's alternative and counter-culture scene. Originally a silk factory, it was occupied and transformed into a self-managed cultural center, fostering a spirit of independence and creativity. This history is palpable in its atmosphere, which is distinctly different from more mainstream venues. Reddit

The venue is renowned for hosting a wide array of live music events, from underground punk and rock bands to electronic music and experimental performances. Its intimate concert spaces provide a raw and authentic experience for music lovers. The "alternative/punk people" often find their community here, seeking out concerts and social gatherings. Reddit

Beyond music, Rote Fabrik also serves as a space for theater, performance art, and multimedia installations. It's a place where experimentation is encouraged, and diverse artistic expressions are celebrated. Checking their event calendar is crucial to catch specific performances and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural life of this unique Zurich institution. Reddit

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