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The Old Botanical Garden Zurich is perched on the hill of the former 'Zur Katz' bastion in the city center, offering a historic green retreat. Established in 1833, it served as the primary research site for the University of Zurich until the new botanical garden opened in 1977. At the summit of the hill lies the Gessner Garden, a medieval-style herb garden that commemorates the renowned Zurich naturalist Conrad Gessner. The striking Palm House, constructed from glass and cast iron in 1851, is now a protected landmark and serves as a venue for concerts and cultural exhibitions. The park is home to several monumental trees and exotic plants dating back to the 19th century. Despite its central location, the garden maintains a serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for relaxation among locals. Visitors can appreciate the historical garden design and learn about the scientific legacy of botany in Switzerland. The site stands as a dual testament to Zurich's military fortifications and its academic history.
- Location: Switzerland
- Top sights: Petra Gut · Alter Botanischer Garten · St. Anna-Kapelle
- Nearby: Zollikon (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 94 | 74 | 92 | 91 | 141 | 139 | 144 | 146 | 103 | 100 | 87 | 102 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Old Botanical Garden is centrally located in Zurich by the Schanzengraben and is easily accessible on foot within a few minutes from Paradeplatz or the main railway station.
Best season
The grounds are accessible all year round and offer a green oasis in every season, with the autumn foliage of the historic trees being particularly worth seeing for visitors.
Terrain & paths
The terrain features both flat gravel paths and some steeper sections with stairs leading up to the historic ramparts, which may prove slightly challenging for those with limited mobility.
What to bring
Standard city attire and comfortable walking shoes are perfectly sufficient. As this is a quiet retreat in the city, bringing a book or a camera is often a great idea for visitors.
Parking
Due to its central location, there are no parking spaces directly at the garden. It is recommended to use the 'Jelmoli' or 'Talgarten' parking garages if you are not arriving by tram.
Safety
The paths are safe but can become slippery on the historic stone steps after rainfall. Near the Schanzengraben, be mindful of the water's edge and the steep embankments along the paths.
Time needed
A walk through the small grounds typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes, though it may take longer if you decide to pause and relax on one of the many benches provided.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1833 on the site of the former 'Zur Katz' bastion.
- The iconic glass Palm House was constructed in 1851.
- Features the Gessner Garden with 16th-century medicinal plants.
- Served as the university's scientific garden until 1977.
- The entire site is protected as a cantonal monument.
- Contains a collection of rare trees from the time of its founding.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Old Botanical Garden Zurich (10)
Petra Gut
Petra Gut is a gallery in Zurich, showing contemporary art.
🌐 petragut.com🕒 We-Fr 11:00-17:45; Sa 11:00-16:00; PH closed
Alter Botanischer Garten
Alter Botanischer Garten is a historic garden in Zurich with exotic plants.
🌐 bguz.uzh.ch🕒 Oct 01-Feb 28 08:00-18:00; Mar 01-Sep 30 07:00-19:00
Basteiplatz🌳 park
Basteiplatz is a public square in the city of Zurich, Switzerland.
Synagoge ICZ Löwenstrasse
Synagoge ICZ Löwenstrasse is a synagogue on Löwenstrasse in Zurich, Switzerland.
Uhrenmuseum Beyer Zürich🏛 museum
Uhrenmuseum Beyer Zürich is a museum in Zurich, Switzerland.
Galerie Gmurzynska
Galerie Gmurzynska is an art gallery in Zurich, since 2005.
Augustinerkirche
Augustinerkirche is a church building in the Old Town of Zurich, Switzerland.
Sihlbrücke
Sihlbrücke is a bridge in the city of Zurich, Switzerland.
Museum Strauhof🏛 museum
Museum Strauhof is a museum in Zurich, Switzerland.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Old Botanical Garden located?
In the very center of Zurich on the 'zur Katz' hill, not far from Bahnhofstrasse.
What is the Gessner Garden?
A medieval herb garden at the top of the hill, dedicated to the naturalist Conrad Gessner.
Can you visit the palm house?
The historical palm house is often used today for cultural events such as exhibitions or concerts.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, the garden is a public park of the University of Zurich and entrance is free.
When is the garden open?
In the summer months (April to September) from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM; it closes earlier in winter.
Old Botanical Garden Zurich: where is it located?
Old Botanical Garden Zurich is located in Switzerland.
Old Botanical Garden Zurich: what is there to see?
Highlights include Petra Gut, Alter Botanischer Garten, St. Anna-Kapelle.
Old Botanical Garden Zurich: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Old Botanical Garden Zurich: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Botanical Garden Zurich is perched on the hill of the former 'Zur Katz' bastion in the city center, offering a historic green retreat.
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