All archaeology museums to visit in Switzerland

Uncover the secrets of the past at 48 archaeology museums in Switzerland. These museums feature artifacts and exhibits that reveal the history of ancient civilizations.

Are you curious about ancient civilizations and archaeological finds? Here are the archaeology museums you must see in Switzerland:

  1. Historical Museum of Bern1

    Historical Museum of Bern

     Bern
    The Bern Historical Museum, situated at Helvetiaplatz in Bern, is recognized as the second largest cultural history museum in Switzerland. It offers a comprehensive insight into the rich cultural history of the region, making it a significant destination for those interested in exploring the historical and cultural aspects of Switzerland.
  2. Swiss National Museum2

    Swiss National Museum

     Zurich
    The Swiss National Museum in Zurich, also known as Landesmuseum Zürich, is the primary branch of the Swiss National Museum. It is conveniently located near Zurich Central Station, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. The museum is dedicated to the cultural history of Switzerland, providing a comprehensive overview of the country's rich heritage.
  3. Natural History Museum of Bern3

    Natural History Museum of Bern

     Bern
    The Natural History Museum of Bern, also known as Naturhistorisches Museum der Burgergemeinde Bern, is a natural history museum that was established in 1832. It is located in the Swiss city of Bern. The museum is known for its extensive collections and exhibits, which include over 220 dioramas with stuffed animals from Switzerland, Africa, and Asia, a large collection of invertebrates, and the largest zoological collection in Switzerland of skeletons and bones.
  4. Basel Historical Museum – Barfüsserkirche4

    Basel Historical Museum – Barfüsserkirche

     Basel
    The Basel Historical Museum, which opened in 1892, is recognized as one of the largest and most significant museums of its kind in Switzerland. It is also a heritage site of national importance, making it a notable destination for those interested in Swiss history and culture.
  5. Schutzbauten Welschdörfli5

    Schutzbauten Welschdörfli

     Chur
    Visitors to the Schutzbauten can view the Roman architectural evidence and wall paintings, as well as finds from the Neolithic to the Roman era. These historical artifacts provide a glimpse into the past, offering insights into the lives and cultures of the people who once inhabited the region.
  6. Coninx-Museum6

    Coninx-Museum

     Zurich
    The collection of the Coninx Museum, which was built between 1945 and 1980, was diverse and extensive. It included Swiss figurative art of the 19th and 20th centuries, international print graphics, works by old masters, African tribal art, and Far Eastern art.
  7. Roman Museum Lausanne-Vidy7

    Roman Museum Lausanne-Vidy

     Lausanne
    The Roman Museum of Lausanne-Vidy is an archaeological museum situated in the city of Lausanne, Switzerland. This museum is a significant cultural site that offers a deep dive into the history and archaeology of the region. It is located on the site of a domus that overlooked the Roman city of Lousonna, providing a unique historical context for visitors.
  8. Museum zu Allerheiligen8

    Museum zu Allerheiligen

     Schaffhausen
    The Museum zu Allerheiligen, located in the old town of Schaffhausen, is a significant cultural institution in the region. It is housed in the former Benedictine monastery of All Saints, adding a historical and architectural charm to the museum. The museum's location in the old town makes it easily accessible for tourists and provides a unique backdrop for the diverse collections it houses.
  9. Römerstadt Augusta Raurica9

    Römerstadt Augusta Raurica

     Augst
    The Roman Museum of Augst, also known as Augusta Raurica, Römerhaus und Museum, or Römerstadt Augusta Raurica, is an archaeological and open-air museum. It is situated in the municipality of Augst, within the canton of Basel-Country in Switzerland. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the Roman era through its extensive collection of archaeological findings.
  10. Polish Museum - Rapperswil10

    Polish Museum - Rapperswil

     Rapperswil-Jona
    The Polish Museum in Rapperswil, Switzerland, is a cultural institution that was established on October 23, 1870. It is located in the town of Rapperswill in the canton of St. Gallen. The museum has been serving continuously since its establishment, except for two periods between 1927–1936 and 1952–1975.
  11. Laténium Park and Museum of Archeology11

    Laténium Park and Museum of Archeology

     Hauterive (NE)
    The Laténium is an archeology museum situated in Hauterive, a suburb of Neuchâtel in Switzerland. This location is known for its rich historical significance and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the past and explore the fascinating world of archaeology.
  12. Museum Kleines Klingental12

    Museum Kleines Klingental

     Basel
    The Museum Kleines Klingental, located in Basel, is housed in the original building of the former Klingental nunnery, which dates back to 1274. The museum was established in 1938/39 and was initially known as the "City and Cathedral Museum". This historical setting provides a unique backdrop for the museum's exhibits, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
  13. Skulpturhalle Basel13

    Skulpturhalle Basel

     Basel
    The Skulpturhalle Basel is a museum located in Basel, Switzerland, that specializes in the display of casts of ancient sculptures and statues. This unique museum offers visitors the opportunity to view and appreciate the beauty and intricacy of ancient art forms, providing a glimpse into the past through these carefully preserved pieces.
  14. Museum für Archäologie14

    Museum für Archäologie

     Frauenfeld
    The Thurgau Archaeology Museum is situated in the heart of Frauenfeld's old town. It is one of the six cantonal museums in the canton of Thurgau, making it a significant cultural institution in the region.
  15. Shoe Museum15

    Shoe Museum

     Lausanne
    The Shoe Museum is situated in the beautiful city of Lausanne, Switzerland. This location is not only known for its picturesque landscapes but also for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its numerous museums, including the Shoe Museum.
  16. 16

    Steinmuseum Solothurn

     Solothurn
    The Steinmuseum Solothurn is a unique museum that focuses on showcasing stone artifacts. Its primary aim is to educate visitors about the craft of stone work. This museum provides an opportunity for tourists to gain a deeper understanding of the history and techniques involved in stone crafting.
  17. Stadtmuseum Rapperswil-Jona17

    Stadtmuseum Rapperswil-Jona

     Rapperswil-Jona
    The Stadtmuseum Rapperswil-Jona, founded in 1943, is located in the Breny House and its corresponding tower. This museum is situated in the heart of the old town of Rapperswil, a part of the Swiss municipality of Rapperswil-Jona in the canton of St. Gallen. The museum is a significant part of the local history and culture, making it a point of interest for tourists.
  18. Museum für Urgeschichte18

    Museum für Urgeschichte

     Zug
    The Museum für Urgeschichte(n) in Zug is a unique archaeological museum located in the Canton of Zug, Switzerland. It is the only cantonal museum in Zug and is part of the Department of Culture. This museum offers a deep dive into the past, showcasing archaeological finds and providing a comprehensive understanding of the history of the Canton of Zug.
  19. Village lacustre19

    Village lacustre

     Gletterens
    The lacustre village of Gletterens is an intriguing archaeological site located in Gletterens, Switzerland. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a reconstruction of the Neolithic pile-dwelling habitat. This site provides a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to understand the living conditions and lifestyle of the Neolithic era.
  20. Murten Museum20

    Murten Museum

     Murten
    The Murten Museum, located in the canton of Fribourg, is one of the oldest museums in the region. Its rich history adds to the cultural significance of the museum, making it a noteworthy destination for those interested in exploring the historical aspects of the area.
  21. Convent of St. John Müstair21

    Convent of St. John Müstair

     Münstertal
    The Benedictine abbey Sankt Johann in Müstair is a significant historical site, having been listed as a Swiss World Heritage Site on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1983. This recognition highlights the abbey's historical and cultural importance, making it a noteworthy destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.
  22. Historical and Folklore Museum22

    Historical and Folklore Museum

     Sankt Gallen
    The Historical and Folklore Museum, also known as HVM, is a significant cultural institution located in the city park of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Opened in 1921, the museum is home to the most important cultural-historical collection in Northeast Switzerland, with a particular focus on the history of the city of St. Gallen.
  23. Bezirksmuseum Höfli23

    Bezirksmuseum Höfli

     Bad Zurzach
    The Museum Höfli, also known as Bezirksmuseum «Höfli» Bad Zurzach, is a museum situated in Bad Zurzach in the canton of Aargau. It is housed in a former canon's house, the St. Fulgentiushof or Höfli, near the Verenamünster. The museum is managed and maintained by the Historical Association of the District of Bad Zurzach.
  24. Museum Historisches24

    Museum Historisches

     Baden
    The Historisches Museum Baden, located in the Swiss city of Baden in the canton of Aargau, is a history museum that houses relics from the city and region's history spanning over 2000 years. The museum is situated in the Landvogteischloss and its extension building, providing a unique setting for the historical artifacts.
  25. Burghalden Museum25

    Burghalden Museum

     Lenzburg
    The Burghalden Museum Lenzburg is a multi-disciplinary museum located in Lenzburg, Aargau, Switzerland. The museum's primary focus is on art and cultural history, offering a diverse range of exhibits and collections that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
  26. Drachenlochmuseum26

    Drachenlochmuseum

     Vättis
    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.
  27. Thermenmuseum Iuliomagus27

    Thermenmuseum Iuliomagus

     Schleitheim
    Juliomagus, also known as Iuliomagus, was a Roman city situated near the present-day location of Schleitheim in the canton of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Today, the remnants of this ancient city are visible through the excavations of the thermal baths, which are open to the public. These baths provide a glimpse into the Roman culture and their architectural techniques.
  28. Ritterhaus Bubikon28

    Ritterhaus Bubikon

     Bubikon
    Bubikon Castle, also known as Bubikon Commandery, is a significant historical site located in the municipality of Bubikon in the Swiss Canton of Zürich. This former medieval monastery of the Knights Hospitaller is a Swiss heritage site of national significance, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
  29. Nyon Castle29

    Nyon Castle

     Nyon
    Nyon Castle, situated in the Swiss city of Nyon, has a rich history that dates back to Roman times. This historical site has been occupied for centuries, making it a significant landmark in the region. Visitors can explore the castle and its surroundings to get a glimpse of the past and learn about the various civilizations that have left their mark here.
  30. Barbier-Mueller Museum30

    Barbier-Mueller Museum

     Geneva
    The Barbier-Mueller Museum holds the distinction of being the only museum in Europe dedicated exclusively to pre-Columbian art. The works on display span a broad timeline, dating from 1500 BC to the 16th century. This wide range provides visitors with a comprehensive overview of pre-Columbian art and culture.
  31. Nyon Roman Museum31

    Nyon Roman Museum

     Nyon
    The Roman Museum of Nyon is a municipal archaeological museum situated in the Vaudois city of Nyon, Switzerland. It is a part of the Nyon Culture Service and is responsible for the preservation and enhancement of Roman-era archaeological material found in the Nyon district. The museum is supported by the Association of Friends of the Nyon Museum, contributing to the realization of certain projects.
  32. Lenzburg Castle32

    Lenzburg Castle

     Lenzburg
    Lenzburg Castle, situated above the old part of the town of Lenzburg in the Canton of Aargau, is one of the oldest and most significant castles in Switzerland. Its rich history and impressive architecture make it a notable landmark for visitors.
  33. St. George's Abbey, Stein am Rhein33

    St. George's Abbey, Stein am Rhein

     Stein am Rhein
    In the 15th century, St. George's Abbey underwent a complete reconstruction. Today, it stands as a significant example of late Gothic architecture in the region. Visitors can appreciate the architectural details and the historical context that led to the creation of this impressive structure.
  34. Fricktaler Museum34

    Fricktaler Museum

     Rheinfelden
    The Fricktaler Museum, situated in Rheinfelden in the canton of Aargau, is a historical regional museum. It is dedicated to the history of the city of Rheinfelden and the Fricktal region. This museum provides a deep dive into the past, offering a comprehensive understanding of the region's history.
  35. Musée Romain de Vallon35

    Musée Romain de Vallon

     Vallon
    The Roman Museum of Vallon is an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the Roman city of Aventicum. It is conveniently located 5 km north of Payerne and 6 km west of Aventicum (Avenches), which was the capital of Roman Helvetia. This location makes it an accessible destination for those interested in exploring the rich history of the region.
  36. Abegg-Stiftung36

    Abegg-Stiftung

     Riggisberg
    The Abegg-Stiftung, located in Riggisberg, Canton Bern, Switzerland, is a unique institution that combines a textile museum and a textile research institute. It offers visitors a chance to explore a vast collection of textiles, ranging from ancient to modern times, and to learn about the science and art of textile conservation and restoration.
  37. Museum Schwab37

    Museum Schwab

     Biel/Bienne
    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.
  38. Historic Museum Thurgau38

    Historic Museum Thurgau

     Frauenfeld
    The Historic Museum Thurgau is the history museum of the Swiss canton of Thurgau. It manages a collection of over 52,000 objects, regularly organizes exhibitions, conducts research, and disseminates cantonal history to a wide audience. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of Thurgau.
  39. Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (Neuchâtel)39

    Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (Neuchâtel)

     Neuchâtel
    The Musée d'art et d'histoire de Neuchâtel is a fine arts museum situated in Switzerland. It is housed in a building constructed between 1881 and 1887 by Léo Châtelain. The museum offers visitors a rich collection of Neuchâtel, Swiss, and French art.
  40. Vindonissa-Museum40

    Vindonissa-Museum

     Brugg
    The Vindonissa Museum is an archaeological museum situated in the city of Brugg, in the canton of Aargau, Switzerland. It provides a comprehensive insight into the history of the Roman legionary camp Vindonissa and Roman cultural history. The museum is a part of the Museum Aargau and is managed by the archaeologist Rahel Göldi.
  41. Lausanne History Museum41

    Lausanne History Museum

     Lausanne
    The collection of the Lausanne History Museum includes a wide range of items that illustrate the city's history. These include archaeological finds, fragments of former buildings, image sources, and handed down objects. These artifacts serve to depict the city's evolution from the Roman settlement Lousonna to its current status as the modern capital of the Canton of Vaud in the Geneva-Lausanne metropolitan region.
  42. Visconteo Castle42

    Visconteo Castle

     Locarno
    The Museo civico e archeologico, or the Civic and Archaeological Museum, is situated in the Visconteo Castle in the city of Locarno, Switzerland. This museum is a significant cultural asset of national importance, housing an extensive archaeological collection within the castle itself.
  43. North American Native Museum43

    North American Native Museum

     Zurich
    The North American Native Museum, also known as NONAM, is located in Zurich, Switzerland. The museum is dedicated to the conservation, documentation, and presentation of ethnographic objects and artwork from Native American, First Nation, and Inuit cultures. This includes a wide range of artifacts and art pieces that provide a deep insight into these cultures and their history.
  44. Archäologische Sammlung der Universität Zürich44

    Archäologische Sammlung der Universität Zürich

     Zurich
    The Archaeological Collection of the University of Zurich houses a diverse range of art and crafts from various ancient civilizations. These include Egypt and Mesopotamia, as well as ancient Asia Minor, Greece, and Italy. The collection is part of the Institute of Archaeology of the University of Zurich, making it a significant destination for those interested in ancient history and archaeology.
  45. Swiss National Museum45

    Swiss National Museum

     Schwyz
    The Forum of Swiss History Schwyz is a historical museum located in Schwyz. It is part of the museum group of the Swiss National Museum, offering visitors a deep dive into the country's rich history. The museum was opened in 1995 in the former granary and arsenal, a building dating back to 1711, located in the town center of Schwyz.
  46. Musée Jurassien d'Art et d'Histoire46

    Musée Jurassien d'Art et d'Histoire

     Delémont
    The Musée jurassien d'art et d'histoire, located in Delémont, Canton of Jura, Switzerland, serves as a museum of art and a hub for public learning. This institution provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region through its diverse collections and exhibits.
  47. 47

    University of Berne – Collection of antiques

     Bern
    The Antikensammlung Universität Bern, a part of the Institute for Archaeological Sciences of the University of Bern, Department of Archaeology of the Mediterranean, is conveniently located near the university and the main train station. This makes it easily accessible for tourists who are interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the Mediterranean region through the collection of antiques housed in the public exhibition warehouse on Hallerstrasse.
  48. 48

    Pfahlbaumuseum Lüscherz

     Lüscherz
    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.