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Botanical Garden of Zurich

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Botanical Garden of Zurich (Switzerland)

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The Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich at Zollikerstrasse was opened in 1977, succeeding the original 1837 site at Talacker. Spanning approximately 53,000 square meters, the garden cultivates around 7,000 plant species from diverse global climatic zones. Its most iconic features are the three hemispherical greenhouses, which provide controlled environments for tropical lowland rainforests, subtropical mountain forests, and savanna landscapes. While primarily serving university research and education, the facility is a significant public recreational space in Zurich. The outdoor areas feature an extensive alpinum, a pond system, and systematic botanical displays arranged by family. The garden contributes significantly to international biodiversity conservation by maintaining and documenting rare and endangered plant species for scientific study.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-104913171918141040
Rain mm9474929114113914414610310087102

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The University of Zurich's botanical garden is located on Zollikerstrasse and is best reached by taking tram line 11 or bus line 33 to the stop named Botanischer Garten.
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Best season
Thanks to its iconic dome greenhouses, the garden is attractive year-round, though the outdoor sections are most spectacular when in full bloom between the months of May and September.
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Terrain & paths
The pathways within the garden are mostly level and well-surfaced, making them accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some areas may feature very gentle inclines or slopes.
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What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you will spend significant time on foot. For the tropical greenhouses, light clothing is advisable due to the consistently high humidity inside.
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Parking
There are almost no public parking spaces available in the immediate vicinity. Visitors are advised to use parking garages in the city center or travel directly via public transportation.
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Safety
Inside the greenhouses, the floors can sometimes be slippery due to regular watering. Watch your step and always keep children under close supervision near the indoor water features.
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Time needed
Plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours visiting the roughly 8,000 plant species and different climate zones to fully enjoy the diversity of the collection at a leisurely pace.

Geography

Coordinates
47.35850, 8.56150

Facts

  • Opened at its current location in 1977
  • Total area of approximately 53,000 square meters
  • Home to about 7,000 different plant species
  • Features three iconic hemispherical glasshouses
  • Maintained and operated by the University of Zurich
  • Includes a specialized alpinum for mountain plants

Explore nearby

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Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Botanical Garden of Zurich (10)

Heimatschutzzentrum in der Villa Patumbah🏛 museum

Museum in Villa Patumbah focusing on heritage conservation and building culture.

🕒 We,Fr,Sa 14:00-17:00; Th,Su 12:00-17:00💶

Patumbah-Park🌳 park

Garden monument in Zurich, partly public, with exotic trees and sculptures.

🕒 Apr-Sep: Mo-Su,PH 06:00-22:00; Oct-Mar: Mo-Su,PH 06:00-18:45

Kirche Neumünster

Church in Zurich, built in the 19th century, with a distinctive tower.

Art Forum Ute Barth

Gallery for contemporary art in Zurich with rotating exhibitions.

Erlöserkirche

Church in the canton of Zurich, an example of modern church architecture.

Nathan Fine Art AG

Gallery in Zurich specializing in modern and contemporary art.

Villa Bleuler🌳 park

Garden monument in Zurich, protected, with a historic villa garden.

Theater im Seefeld

Theatre in Zurich offering a broad repertoire of plays.

Galerie Rosenberg

Art gallery in Zurich presenting works of old masters and modern art.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How many locations are there?
There is the new garden in Seefeld and the Old Botanical Garden.
What are the distinctive domes?
Three tropical houses with different climate zones (arid, tropical, subtropical).
Is entry free?
Yes, visiting the Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich is free.
Is lying on the lawn allowed?
Relaxing is allowed on marked lawn areas, otherwise stay on the paths.
Are dogs allowed in the garden?
No, dogs are not allowed anywhere on the grounds.
Botanical Garden of Zurich: where is it located?
Botanical Garden of Zurich is located in Switzerland.
Botanical Garden of Zurich: what is there to see?
Highlights include Biodiversitätsfläche Weineggstrasse, Heimatschutzzentrum in der Villa Patumbah, Patumbah-Park.
Botanical Garden of Zurich: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Botanical Garden of Zurich: why is it worth visiting?
The Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich at Zollikerstrasse was opened in 1977, succeeding the original 1837 site at Talacker.
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History & landmarks

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