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The Ethnographic Museum building in the Old Botanical Garden, Zurich

Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich

HistoryOpens 11amFree

Switzerland's third-oldest ethnological museum, run by the University of Zurich, has shown its collection to the public since 1889. Since 1980 it has occupied an 1864 building in the Old Botanical Garden. Changing exhibitions are developed with source communities and students. Entry is free.

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Banner of the exhibition The Sun Hits Us First

The Sun Hits Us First: A Polar Dialogue Between Kawésqar and Iivid

Kawésqar from southern Chile and Iivid from East Greenland share knowledge of life in cold coastal seas, colonial trauma and self-determination.

Upcoming4 Dec – 23 Jan 2028Free

Plan Your Visit

Getting there

Pelikanstrasse 40, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

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Hours

MonClosed
Tue10:00–17:00
Wed10:00–17:00
Thu10:00–19:00
Fri10:00–17:00
Sat14:00–17:00
SunToday11:00–17:00

Admission

Free

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Visitor Information

Is Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich free to visit?
Yes, general admission to Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich is free. Some special exhibitions may charge a separate ticket, so check the museum's website before visiting.
What are the opening hours of Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich?
Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00-17:00; Thursday 10:00-19:00; Saturday 14:00-17:00; Sunday 11:00-17:00; Monday closed. Closed 24, 25 and 31 December 2026 and 1 January 2027.. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.
Where is Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich?
Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich is located at Pelikanstrasse 40, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland, in the Altstadt area of Zurich.
What can I see at Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich?
University ethnographic museum in the Old Botanical Garden, with free entry and changing shows on world cultures. Current highlights include The Sun Hits Us First: A Polar Dialogue Between Kawésqar and Iivid.
Do I need to book Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich in advance?
Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich is free to enter and most days you can walk in. For special exhibitions, weekends, and school holidays, booking a timed slot can help you skip queues. Check the museum's website for current requirements.
When is the best time to visit Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich?
Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.

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