Nature & natural history museums in Switzerland

The Zürich Wilderness Park, located near the city of Zürich in Switzerland, is a unique combination of the Sihlwald forest and the Langenberg Wildlife Park. The Sihlwald forest is the largest mixed deciduous and coniferous forest in the Swiss Mittelland, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. On the other hand, the Langenberg Wildlife Park holds the title of being the oldest Swiss wildlife park, providing a glimpse into the rich wildlife of the region.

The Bärengraben, also known as the Bear Pit, is a popular tourist attraction located in Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. It is situated at the eastern edge of the old city, adjacent to the Nydeggbrücke and the River Aar. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe bears in an enclosure while also enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.

The Chinese Garden Zurich, situated near Zurichhorn in the Seefeld district of Zurich, is a part of the group of temple gardens. This serene location offers a unique blend of tranquility and cultural richness, making it an interesting spot for tourists.

The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich is a botanical garden located in the Swiss municipality of Zürich. It is not just a garden, but also a home to a botanic library, a herbarium, and the International Organizations for Succulent Plant Research (IOS). This makes it a place of interest not only for plant enthusiasts but also for those interested in botanical research and literature.

The Glacier Garden in Lucerne is a unique combination of a natural monument, park, and museum. It was officially opened to the public on May 1, 1873, and the museum building itself was constructed a year later in 1874. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the natural history of the region.

The Lucerne Nature Museum, also known as Natur-Museum Luzern, is situated in the heart of the Swiss city of Lucerne. It is conveniently located on Kasernenplatz, adjacent to the river Reuss and the Spreuerbrücke. This location offers visitors easy access to other attractions in the city and provides a scenic backdrop for the museum.

The Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the city of Geneva is a significant institution and museum in the city. Founded in 1817, it has a rich history and has been a part of Geneva's cultural landscape for over two centuries. The garden was initially located in a former area of Bastions Park but was transferred to the Console site in 1904. The garden's current location is adjacent to Lake Geneva and the park of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

Visit the bird sanctuary to have look more than 40 exotic species. Kids will love especially toucans or parrots.

The Matterhorn Museum - Zermatlantis provides a comprehensive overview of Zermatt's transformation from a mountain farming village to a globally recognized tourism destination. It also details the history of the first ascent of the Matterhorn on July 14, 1865, offering a fascinating insight into the region's mountaineering history.

The Old Botanical Garden Zurich, also known as 'zur Katz', is a botanical garden located in the Swiss city of Zurich. It was established in 1833 and is situated in the former Bollwerk 'zur Katz' (City Quarter, District 1). The garden is a significant part of Zurich's history and offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

The Natural History Museum of Fribourg, established in 1823, serves to educate the public about nature, with a particular focus on the natural heritage of the Fribourg region. This museum is a testament to the region's rich biodiversity and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna.

The Botanical Garden Bern, also known as BOGA, is a significant part of the University of Bern in Switzerland. It serves as a place of research and education, as well as a green oasis in the city. Visitors can explore a wide variety of plant species in this garden, making it an interesting destination for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.

The Wildpark Peter und Paul is situated on the Rosenberg hill, to the northeast of St. Gallen in the Rotmonten district. This park serves as a significant local recreation area for the city, providing a natural and serene environment for visitors to enjoy.

The Swiss National Park is nestled in the Western Rhaetian Alps, within the canton of Grisons. It is situated between the towns of Zernez, S-chanf, Scuol and the Fuorn Pass in the Engadine valley. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps, with its diverse flora and fauna.

Zoo Basel, colloquially known as Zolli, is a significant landmark in Basel, Switzerland. It holds the distinction of being the oldest zoo in the country, having opened its doors to the public in 1847. This long history adds a unique charm to the zoo, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in wildlife and history.

Natur- und Tierpark Goldau is a unique zoo located in Switzerland. It is one of the six scientifically managed zoos in the country. The park is situated in an area that was devastated by the Goldau landslide of 1806, giving it a unique landscape and history.

The Bündner Naturmuseum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00, making it a convenient destination for tourists. Admission is free for children under 16 and school classes, making it a budget-friendly option for families and educational groups. The museum's proximity to the train station, just a five-minute walk, adds to its accessibility for visitors.

The Tierpark Dählhölzli, also known as Dählhölzli Zoo, is a public zoo located in Bern, Switzerland. It was opened in 1937 and is managed by the Tierparkverein Bern. The zoo is owned by the city of Bern, which also provides most of its funding.

Papiliorama, located in Kerzers in the Canton of Fribourg, is a specialized zoo with a primary focus on butterflies and moths. This unique establishment offers visitors an opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating creatures in a controlled environment.

The Zürich Wilderness Park, located near the city of Zürich in Switzerland, is a unique combination of the Sihlwald forest and the Langenberg Wildlife Park. The Sihlwald forest is the largest mixed deciduous and coniferous forest in the Swiss Mittelland, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. On the other hand, the Langenberg Wildlife Park holds the title of being the oldest Swiss wildlife park, providing a glimpse into the rich wildlife of the region.

The Swiss Alpine Museum, located at Helvetiaplatz 4 in Bern, is a unique institution that explores the relationship between mountains and people, culture, and nature in the Swiss Alps. The museum's focus is not only on the physical aspects of the Alps but also on the cultural, social, and natural interactions that occur in this region. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the Alpine region, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in learning more about the Swiss Alps.

Zoo La Garenne is a zoological garden nestled in the beautiful region of Le Vaud, in the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland. The zoo primarily focuses on European animals, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the diverse wildlife native to the continent. From majestic birds of prey to elusive wildcats, the zoo offers a rich variety of species to discover.

The Natural History Museum Basel, also known as the 'Archive of Life', is a natural history museum located in Basel. It was founded in 1821 and has been in its current location at Augustinergasse since 1849. The museum covers most areas of natural sciences and its mission is to expand, preserve, research, document, and communicate the natural science collections.

Tropiquarium de Servion is a zoological park nestled in the municipality of Servion, Switzerland, in close proximity to Lausanne. Established in 1979, the park shares its location with the Servion Zoo, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore two attractions within the same vicinity.

The Aathal Dinosaur Museum, known locally as Sauriermuseum Aathal, is a paleontological museum located in the Aathal locality of the Seegräben municipality in the canton of Zürich, Switzerland. It is recognized as one of the few dinosaur museums in Europe, making it a unique destination for those interested in paleontology and the prehistoric era.

The Museum Alpin is situated in the scenic town of Pontresina, nestled in the Upper Engadine region of the canton of Grisons in Switzerland. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the region while enjoying the breathtaking alpine landscapes.

The Fossil Museum of Monte San Giorgio, situated in Meride in the Swiss canton of Ticino, is a place where visitors can explore the rich history of the region through the findings and illustrations of dinosaurs, fish, invertebrates, and plants from southern Ticino. The museum, which was opened on October 13, 2012, is housed in a building that was redesigned according to the plans of renowned architect Mario Botta.

Sikypark is a zoo situated in the scenic locale of Crémines in the Bernese Jura, Switzerland. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife, making it an interesting destination for tourists who enjoy nature and animals.

Zoo al Maglio-Neggio is a zoological garden that is situated in Magliaso, a municipality in the canton of Ticino in Switzerland. This location is known for its diverse wildlife and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a variety of animals in a natural setting.

The Zoo de Servion is a Swiss zoo that was established in 1974. It is located in the municipality of Servion, which is near Lausanne. The zoo is situated on the edge of a forest, providing a natural habitat for the animals.

Toni's Zoo is a well-established zoo located in the district of Holzhüsern (Bertiswil), within the municipality of Rothenburg in the canton of Lucerne. The zoo was founded in 1995 by Toni Röösli and has since become a popular destination for animal lovers and tourists alike.

Wildpark Bruderhaus is a 6-hectare animal park nestled in the heart of the Eschenberg forest. It is located south of Winterthur in the Heiligberg district. The park serves as an important local recreation area for Winterthur and is open all year round, offering free admission to all visitors.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Basel, founded in 1589, is a public botanical garden located in Basel. It holds the distinction of being the oldest botanical garden in Switzerland. The garden is part of the Botanical Institute of the University of Basel and is adjacent to it. It is open all year round and offers a variety of plantations and four greenhouses.

Wildpark Roggenhausen is a wildlife park situated approximately 3 km southwest of the Swiss city of Aarau, towards Eppenberg-Wöschnau in the small Roggenhausental valley. This location makes it a convenient destination for visitors staying in or around Aarau, offering a chance to experience local wildlife in a natural setting.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Basel, located in Basel, is a public botanical garden that was established in 1589. This makes it the oldest botanical garden in Switzerland. The garden is part of the Botanical Institute of the University of Basel and is adjacent to it. It is open all year round and consists of an outdoor area with various plantings and four greenhouses.

Le Bois du Petit-Château is a Swiss zoo located in the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds, in the canton of Neuchâtel. The zoo was established on the 7th of September, 1891, making it a place of historical significance in the region. It offers visitors a chance to explore a variety of animal species in a well-maintained environment.

Abenteuerland Walter Zoo is home to approximately 130 different species of animals from all continents. This diverse collection of wildlife provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience and learn about animals from around the world, all in one place.

The Tierpark Lange Erlen is a wildlife park located in the city of Basel. It covers an area of about 20 hectares in the Lange Erlen riverside forest on the southern bank of the Wiese River. This location provides a natural and serene environment for the animals and a unique experience for visitors.

The Naturzentrum Thurauen, located in Flaach in the Zurich wine country of Switzerland, is an information and experience center that was established in 2011. It serves as a hub for visitors to learn about the local environment and the ongoing efforts to restore and preserve it.

The Naturmuseum Thurgau in Frauenfeld is a regional museum that focuses on the natural history of the Thurgau region. It is one of six cantonal museums in the canton of Thurgau, making it a significant cultural institution in the area. The museum's exhibitions are dedicated to showcasing the diverse nature of the region, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the local environment and its history.

The Neuchâtel Botanical Garden covers an expansive area of 8 hectares. This space is divided into natural environments, areas specifically managed to promote biodiversity, and sections dedicated to botanical collections. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes and plant species within the garden's boundaries.

The park primarily houses native animal species, providing a unique opportunity to observe Axis deer, Red deer, Sika deer, wild boars, and Mouflons in their natural habitat. These animals are housed in seven enclosures, allowing visitors to get a close look at these species while ensuring their safety and well-being.

The Wildpark Mühletäli is a wildlife park situated in Starrkirch-Wil, at the end of Wildparkstrasse, on the municipal border to Olten in the Swiss canton of Solothurn. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors from both Starrkirch-Wil and Olten, providing a convenient and enjoyable day out for families and nature enthusiasts.

Zoo Zurich, founded in 1929, is nestled in the Fluntern district of Zurich's 7th arrondissement. The zoo is situated at an altitude of 640 meters on the Zürichberg, offering visitors a unique experience of wildlife amidst the scenic beauty of the Swiss landscape.

The Langenthal Zoo is situated in the city of Langenthal, within the canton of Bern in Switzerland. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife in a serene environment.

Knies Kinderzoo is a zoological garden located in Rapperswil, in the Swiss canton of St. Gallen. The zoo is part of the Swiss National Circus Knie's winter quarters, making it a unique attraction for visitors. The zoo is home to a variety of animals and offers a unique experience for visitors, with the opportunity to interact directly with some of the animals.

Brienz Wildlife Park, situated above Lake Brienz in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, was established in 1896. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in a natural setting, surrounded by the stunning Swiss landscape.

The Paleontological Museum Zurich is a part of the Paleontological Institute and Museum of the University of Zurich (UZH). It is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating world of paleontology within an academic setting.

The Musée du Léman, located in the city of Nyon in Switzerland, is a museum dedicated to natural history and cultural history. It is situated near Lake Geneva in the lower town of Nyon, next to the Parc du bourg-de-rive, and is only separated from the port of Nyon by the main road 1. The museum was founded in 1954 by teacher and local historian Edgar Pelichet with the aim of documenting the cultural, economic, and social history of his city Nyon's relationship with Lake Geneva and its natural scientific peculiarities.

The Museum of Estavayer-le-Lac, also known as the 'Frogs Museum', is situated in the town of Estavayer-le-Lac, in the canton of Fribourg. It has been housed in the Maison de la Dîme since 1927. This museum is a regional museum that showcases the culture and history of the region, with most of its collections coming from donations from families in Estavayer or Fribourg.

Barryland - Museum and Dogs of St. Bernard is a unique museum located in Martigny, in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. The museum is situated in the old arsenal adjoining the amphitheater of Martigny, just 200 meters from the Gianadda Foundation. It offers a rich insight into the history of the hospice of the Great St. Bernard and its symbol, the St. Bernard dog.

The House of the River, located on the banks of the Boiron in Tolochenaz, Switzerland, is a center dedicated to aquatic life. This unique establishment offers visitors an opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse aquatic ecosystems and the life they support. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the world beneath the water's surface, this center provides a fascinating insight into aquatic life.

Naturama Aargau is a natural history museum located in the Swiss city of Aarau. It is conveniently situated on Feerstrasse, directly opposite the train station and adjacent to the Old Cantonal School. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

Kulturama is a museum that focuses on evolution and cultural history, located in the Zurich-Hottingen area. It combines natural science and cultural history themes, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of humans and animals, as well as early high cultures.

The Mammutmuseum Niederweningen is a unique paleontological and geological museum located in the municipality of Niederweningen, in the Wehntal valley, Canton of Zürich, Switzerland. It is one of the few museums in Europe dedicated to mammoths, offering a unique opportunity to learn about these fascinating prehistoric creatures and the environment they lived in.

The Drachenlochmuseum, located in Vättis in the municipality of Pfäfers in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland, is a local museum that primarily showcases prehistoric finds from the Old Stone Age. These artifacts were discovered in the Drachenloch, which is recognized as the highest prehistoric site in Europe.

The Sauriermuseum Frick is a museum situated in the heart of Frick, in the Swiss canton of Aargau. It is renowned for its display of dinosaur discoveries primarily from the Frick clay pit. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the world of dinosaurs and learn about their history and evolution.

The Naturmuseum Solothurn offers a variety of exhibitions that showcase the region's diverse flora, fauna, fossils, and minerals. These exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the natural history of the region, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in learning more about the local environment.

The Cantonal Museum of Zoology in Lausanne is a public institution under the cantonal department of culture. It is recognized as a cultural asset of national importance, reflecting its significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of Switzerland's natural heritage.

The Museum Schwab building, located in Biel (French Bienne) in the canton of Bern, holds a significant place in Swiss history as the third museum building in the country. It is recognized as a cultural asset of regional importance, reflecting its value in the cultural and historical landscape of Switzerland.

The museum offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. This includes group tours, interactive workshops, and accessible activities. In addition, scientific lectures are often held as part of the special exhibitions. These activities provide a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about the earth and its processes in a fun and engaging way.

The Naturmuseum Winterthur shares its location with the Kunstmuseum Winterthur, both situated at Museumstrasse 52. This makes it convenient for visitors to explore both museums in one trip, offering a diverse range of exhibits from natural history to art.

The Natural History Museum St. Gallen is a natural history museum located in St. Gallen. It covers an area of 2000 square meters, providing a comprehensive view of the local fauna and mineral world. The museum was opened in 2016 and offers an open exhibition presentation with walk-in room images and interactive learning elements.

Landshut Castle, located in the municipality of Utzenstorf in the Canton of Bern, Switzerland, is a heritage site of national significance. This historic castle offers a unique glimpse into the country's past, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in Swiss history.

The Museum Schmelzra, also known as the Museum of Miners and Bears, is a unique institution located in the picturesque town of S-charl in the canton of Graubünden. This museum offers a deep dive into the region's mining history and the story of the last Swiss brown bear.

Museum.BL is the cantonal museum of the canton of Basel-Landschaft in Switzerland. It is a significant part of the cultural landscape of Basel and is located in the historic old town of the cantonal capital, Liestal. The museum is housed in the premises of the former armory, adding a touch of historical significance to its location.

The Museo etnografico della Valle di Muggio (MEVM) is situated in the charming locale of Cabbio, which is a part of the municipality of Breggia in the Canton of Ticino, Switzerland. This location is not only picturesque but also rich in cultural heritage, making it an ideal setting for the museum.

Plättli Zoo, situated above Frauenfeld in the canton of Thurgau, is a small, privately run establishment. It is home to approximately 200 animals, representing around 50 different species. This diversity of species makes it an interesting destination for those who are interested in wildlife.

Seeteufel Adventure World is home to over 50 species from five continents. Visitors can see a variety of animals including Grant's zebras from Africa, Humboldt penguins from South America, lynxes from Europe, tiger and reticulated pythons from Asia, red-necked wallabies and emus from Australia, and small-clawed otters from Asia.

The Pfahlbaumuseum Lüscherz is an archaeological museum situated on Lake Biel in the municipality of Lüscherz, within the administrative district of Seeland in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich archaeological history of the region while enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Biel.

This modern museum tells the story of our past. Comprehensible exhibition ranges from fossils to minerals.