All person & artist museums to visit in Switzerland

Explore the lives and works of notable individuals at 60 museums in Switzerland dedicated to specific persons and artists. These museums offer a deep dive into their contributions and legacy.

Are you curious about the lives of remarkable individuals? Here are the top person and artist museums in Switzerland:

  1. Einstein House1

    Einstein House

     Bern
    The Einsteinhouse is a museum that is situated in the former residence of the renowned physicist, Albert Einstein. This historic building is located at Kramgasse 49 in the city of Bern, Switzerland. It serves as a commemoration of Einstein's stay in Bern from 1902 to 1909.
  2. Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich)2

    Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich)

     Zurich
    The Kunsthaus Zürich is the largest art museum in Switzerland in terms of area. It is home to one of the most significant art collections in the country, which has been assembled over time by the local art association, Zürcher Kunstgesellschaft. The collection spans from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on Swiss art.
  3. Bourbaki Panorama3

    Bourbaki Panorama

     Lucerne
    The Bourbaki Panorama in Lucerne is a unique cultural attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. This panoramic circular painting, created by Edouard Castres, is not only a historical painting but also a museum and cultural center named after it. Recognized as a European cultural monument, the Bourbaki Panorama is a testament to the media history of the 19th century and a significant part of Lucerne's cultural heritage.
  4. Heidegg Castle4

    Heidegg Castle

     Gelfingen
    Heidegg Castle is situated in Gelfingen, in the Lucerne Seetal region of Switzerland. It is perched high above Lake Baldegg, surrounded by a largely preserved park and cultural landscape that holds national significance. The castle's location offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Switzerland while exploring a historic site.
  5. Patek Philippe Museum5

    Patek Philippe Museum

     Geneva
    The Patek Philippe Museum is a private institution dedicated to the art of watchmaking, located in the Plainpalais district of Geneva. The museum was established by the management of Patek Philippe, a renowned Swiss watch manufacturer. It offers a unique insight into the history and craftsmanship of watchmaking, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in horology.
  6. Zentrum Paul Klee6

    Zentrum Paul Klee

     Bern
    The Zentrum Paul Klee (ZPK) in Bern, a museum designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, was officially opened to the public on June 20, 2005. This information is useful for tourists who are interested in architecture and the history of the museum.
  7. Rosengart Collection Museum7

    Rosengart Collection Museum

     Lucerne
    The Rosengart Collection Museum, also known as Museum Sammlung Rosengart, is an art museum situated in the beautiful city of Lucerne in Switzerland. This museum is a significant cultural landmark in the city, offering visitors a chance to explore a vast collection of modern art.
  8. Matterhorn Museum8

    Matterhorn Museum

     Zermatt
    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.
  9. Queen: The Studio Experience9

    Queen: The Studio Experience

     Montreux
    Queen: The Studio Experience is a museum located in Montreux, Switzerland. It is dedicated to the British rock group Queen and is housed in the former Mountain Studios, which is situated in the local casino. The band recorded here from 1978 to 1995, and the museum was opened on December 2, 2013, by band member Brian May.
  10. Tinguely Museum10

    Tinguely Museum

     Basel
    The Tinguely Museum in Basel is an art museum dedicated to the life and works of the artist Jean Tinguely. It features a permanent exhibition that provides an in-depth look into Tinguely's artistic journey. Visitors can explore a variety of his works, gaining insight into his creative process and the evolution of his style.
  11. Art Brut Museum11

    Art Brut Museum

     Lausanne
    La Collection de l'Art Brut, located in Lausanne, Switzerland, is a unique museum that houses a diverse range of works created by self-taught artists. These artists, for various reasons, lived predominantly in conditions of social and cultural isolation. The museum provides a platform for these artists to express their creativity and imagination, free from cultural and social conditioning.
  12. Bündner Kunstmuseum12

    Bündner Kunstmuseum

     Chur
    The Bündner Kunstmuseum, located in the historic Villa Planta and an extension building from 2016, is a significant cultural institution in the canton of Graubünden. It primarily showcases exhibits by artists from Grisons and other parts of Switzerland, offering visitors a unique insight into the region's artistic heritage.
  13. House of Rousseau and Literature13

    House of Rousseau and Literature

     Geneva
    Birthplace of Rousseau. Now the house serves as a museum providing information on his life and work. Free entrance for students.
  14. HR Giger Museum14

    HR Giger Museum

     Épagny
    The HR Giger Museum is a unique destination located in the picturesque town of Gruyères, in the Swiss canton of Fribourg. The museum houses an extensive collection of fantasy artworks by the renowned artist HR Giger, who lived from 1940 to 2014. Visitors can immerse themselves in Giger's distinctive and imaginative world, exploring a wide range of his creations.
  15. Chaplin's World15

    Chaplin's World

     Corsier-sur-Vevey
    Chaplin’s World, also known as Chaplin’s World by Grévin, is a museum located in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland. The museum was opened in 2016 and is dedicated to the life and work of the British comedian, actor, director, and composer Charlie Chaplin. It is housed in the historic Villa Manoir de Ban, which served as Chaplin's residence from 1953 until his death in 1977.
  16. Pavillon Le Corbusier16

    Pavillon Le Corbusier

     Zurich
    The Centre Le Corbusier is a unique architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Zurich, Switzerland. This building is a testament to the creative genius of Le Corbusier, a renowned Swiss-French architect, designer, painter, and urban planner. It serves as a museum and an exhibition space, offering visitors a chance to explore the life and works of Le Corbusier.
  17. Cartoonmuseum Basel17

    Cartoonmuseum Basel

     Basel
    The Cartoonmuseum Basel is a unique institution in Switzerland, being the only museum dedicated solely to the art of narrative drawing. This includes a wide range of forms such as comics, graphic novels, cartoons, satirical drawings, and animated films. It's a place where visitors can explore the world of narrative drawing in all its diversity.
  18. Heididorf Maienfeld18

    Heididorf Maienfeld

     Maienfeld
    Return to your childhood here where the Heidi story was filmed. Fairytale-like cottage surrounded by scenic landscape.
  19. La Sarraz Castle19

    La Sarraz Castle

     La Sarraz
    La Sarraz Castle, nestled in the municipality of La Sarraz in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, carries a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It is believed to have been constructed by the Lords of Grandson, adding a layer of historical significance to its already impressive architecture.
  20. Bodmer Library20

    Bodmer Library

     Cologny
    The Bibliotheca Bodmeriana, located in Cologny near Geneva, Switzerland, is a literature museum founded by Martin Bodmer. This museum is home to a vast collection of literature and other artifacts collected by Bodmer throughout his lifetime. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of literature from different periods and cultures.
  21. Oskar Reinhart collection Am Römerholz21

    Oskar Reinhart collection Am Römerholz

     Winterthur
    The Sammlung Oskar Reinhart "Am Römerholz" is an art museum situated in the Swiss city of Winterthur. The museum is located in the former residence of Oskar Reinhart, a prominent art collector who lived from 1885 to 1965. Reinhart's extensive collection of art is housed in this museum, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore his diverse and rich collection.
  22. Segantini Museum22

    Segantini Museum

     Sankt Moritz
    The Segantini Museum in St. Moritz is a thematic museum dedicated to the works of the painter Giovanni Segantini. The museum was opened in the summer of 1908 and was completed in September of the same year. It houses a collection of around fifty works from all creative periods of Segantini, making it a significant destination for art enthusiasts.
  23. Polish Museum - Rapperswil23

    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.
  24. Kirchner Museum Davos24

    Kirchner Museum Davos

     Davos
    The Kirchner Museum Davos, located in Davos, Switzerland, is an art museum dedicated to the life and work of the German Expressionist artist Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. The museum houses a large collection of Kirchner's works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and textile works. It also includes almost all of the artist's sketchbooks and photographs. The museum's collection represents all the important themes in Kirchner's oeuvre, from his Die Brücke period to his late work while living in Switzerland.
  25. Moulagenmuseum - Museum of wax moulages25

    Moulagenmuseum - Museum of wax moulages

     Zurich
    The Moulagenmuseum, located at the University of Zurich, is home to one of the largest collections of moulages in the world. These life-like three-dimensional representations of disease patterns were created between the years 1918 and 1948. The collection is a significant cultural asset and provides a unique insight into the history of medical education and dermatology.
  26. Henry Dunant Museum26

    Henry Dunant Museum

     Heiden
    The Henry Dunant Museum in Heiden, Switzerland, is a tribute to the life and work of Henry Dunant, a founding member of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the founder of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The museum provides an in-depth look into Dunant's humanitarian values and visions, his successes, and the challenges he faced.
  27. Basel Historical Museum – Haus zum Kirschgarten27

    Basel Historical Museum – Haus zum Kirschgarten

     Basel
    The Haus zum Kirschgarten, located on Elisabethenstrasse in Basel, Switzerland, is a city palace that is currently used by the Historical Museum of Basel. This grand building, with its rich history and architectural significance, serves as a cultural hub for visitors and locals alike.
  28. Hermann Hesse Museum28

    Hermann Hesse Museum

     Montagnola
    The Hermann Hesse Museum is situated in the picturesque locale of Montagnola, which is a part of the municipality of Collina d'Oro, in Ticino. This location is not only scenic but also holds historical significance as it was the residence of the renowned writer Hermann Hesse.
  29. Vincenzo Vela Museum29

    Vincenzo Vela Museum

     Mendrisio
    The Vincenzo Vela Museum is located in the Ligornetto district of Mendrisio. It was once the elegant residence of the sculptor himself, Vincenzo Vela. This adds a personal touch to the museum, as visitors can explore the very place where the artist lived and worked.
  30. Zwingli-Haus30

    Zwingli-Haus

     Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann
    The Zwingli-Haus, located in the village of Lisighaus within the municipality of Wildhaus-Alt Sankt Johann, is a wooden house of historical significance. It is known as the birthplace of Ulrich Zwingli, a prominent Protestant reformer. The house is situated in the Swiss canton of Saint-Gall, adding to its cultural and historical relevance.
  31. Dürrenmatt Centre31

    Dürrenmatt Centre

     Neuchâtel
    The Centre Dürrenmatt Neuchâtel (CDN) is a dedicated space that showcases the artistic side of Friedrich Dürrenmatt, a renowned Swiss author and painter. Visitors can explore a wide range of his paintings and drawings, providing a unique insight into his creative process and artistic vision.
  32. Museum Franz Gertsch32

    Museum Franz Gertsch

     Burgdorf
    The Museum Franz Gertsch, located in Burgdorf, Switzerland, was inaugurated in the autumn of 2002. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a unique insight into the works of the renowned artist Franz Gertsch.
  33. Richard Wagner Museum, Lucerne33

    Richard Wagner Museum, Lucerne

     Lucerne
    The Richard Wagner Museum is a cultural site located in the beautiful city of Lucerne, Switzerland. It is situated on the picturesque shore of Lake Lucerne, in the district of Tribschen. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the museum while also enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area.
  34. Bruno Weber Park34

    Bruno Weber Park

     Dietikon
    Bruno Weber Park, located in the Swiss municipalities of Spreitenbach and Dietikon, is a unique sculpture park designed as a comprehensive work of art. The park was created by the Swiss artist Bruno Weber, who passed away in 2011. The park is a testament to Weber's artistic vision and creativity, featuring a variety of sculptures and structures that he continually added to the park throughout his life.
  35. Rehmann Museum35

    Rehmann Museum

     Laufenburg
    This playful building houses wide collection of Erwin Rehmann's sculptures and graphics. Temporary exhibitions are worth the visit as well.
  36. International Museum of the Reformation36

    International Museum of the Reformation

     Geneva
    The International Museum of the Protestant Reformation is a cultural institution located in Geneva, Switzerland. It is dedicated to sharing the history of the Protestant Reformation, with a particular focus on the events that took place in Geneva. This city was one of the main centers of the Reformation movement and was home to John Calvin, a key figure in the Reformation, for a significant part of his life.
  37. Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte37

    Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte

     Appenzell
    The Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte is a museum and cultural center located in Appenzell. It is known for its exhibitions featuring the works of two renowned Appenzell painters, Carl August Liner and his son Carl Walter Liner. In addition to these, the museum also showcases art from the 20th and 21st centuries, providing a comprehensive view of the evolution of art over the years.
  38. Stapferhaus38

    Stapferhaus

     Lenzburg
    The Stapferhaus in Lenzburg, Switzerland, has a rich history dating back to 1960 when it was established as a hub for intellectual discourse and social interaction. This unique institution was founded by representatives of Pro Helvetia, Pro Argovia, the Canton Aargau, and the City of Lenzburg, and named after Philipp Albert Stapfer, the founder of the Canton of Aargau. Today, it continues to serve as a vibrant center for thought-provoking discussions and cultural exchange.
  39. Museum C.G. Jung39

    Museum C.G. Jung

     Küsnacht
    The C. G. Jung House Museum is a historic house museum that was once the residence of the renowned Swiss psychiatrist, psychologist, and essayist Carl Jung and his wife, psychologist Emma Jung-Rauschenbach. The museum is located at Seestrasse 228, Küsnacht, Switzerland, in a picturesque setting next to Lake Zürich. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the home of one of the most influential figures in psychology while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
  40. Museum Herisau40

    Museum Herisau

     Herisau
    The Historisches Museum Herisau, also known as Museum Herisau, is a significant cultural institution located in the town of Herisau. This museum is a key destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the region.
  41. Museum Strauhof41

    Museum Strauhof

     Zurich
    The Strauhof is a literature house situated in the heart of Zurich's old town at Augustinergasse 9. This Baroque citizen's house is a hub for literature and its spatial staging, offering a unique experience for literature enthusiasts. The exhibitions, which change regularly, focus on facts and fictions, stories and poems, making classic works and current topics accessible to visitors.
  42. Anna Göldi Museum42

    Anna Göldi Museum

     Glarus
    The Anna Göldi Museum is a significant cultural attraction in the region of Glarus-Ennenda, Switzerland. It is dedicated to the life and fate of Anna Göldi, a maid who was executed in Glarus in 1782. The museum provides a comprehensive insight into her life, the circumstances of her execution, and the historical context in which these events took place.
  43. Espace Jean Tinguely - Niki de Saint Phalle43

    Espace Jean Tinguely - Niki de Saint Phalle

     Freiburg
    The Jean-Tinguely–Niki-de-Saint-Phalle museum, located in the Swiss city of Fribourg, was inaugurated on March 16, 1998. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the works of artists Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle. It was born out of Niki de Saint Phalle's desire to offer the canton of Fribourg the works of Jean Tinguely. Over time, the museum has been enriched with donations and successive works, particularly those of Saint Phalle.
  44. Villa Schönberg44

    Villa Schönberg

     Zurich
    Villa Schönberg is a historically significant and protected building situated in the Enge district of Zurich, at Gablerstrasse 14. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors a chance to explore a piece of Zurich's architectural history.
  45. Ausstellungsraum Klingental45

    Ausstellungsraum Klingental

     Basel
    The Ausstellungsraum Klingental is a unique artist-run space located in Basel. It is organized by a dynamic group of artists, art historians, and art mediators, whose collaborations evolve over generations. This unique setup allows for a diverse and ever-changing array of exhibitions and projects, making each visit to the museum a unique experience.
  46. Museo Castello San Materno46

    Museo Castello San Materno

     Ascona
    The Museo Castello San Materno, located in Ascona, Switzerland, is a museum that is affiliated with the Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna in Ascona. The museum was opened in April 2014 after the restoration of the building. It is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art and historical artifacts.
  47. North American Native Museum47

    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.
  48. Rousseau Museum48

    Rousseau Museum

     Val-de-Travers
    This house is the place of Rousseau's internment that lasted for three years. Rich collection of memorabilia and iconography.
  49. Agentenhaus Horgen49

    Agentenhaus Horgen

     Horgen
    The Agentenhaus is a significant historical site in Horgen, Switzerland. This 18th-century half-timbered building is a testament to the architectural style of the period. It is located in the municipality of Horgen in the canton of Zurich, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.
  50. Poets and City Museum Liestal50

    Poets and City Museum Liestal

     Liestal
    The Poets and City Museum Liestal, known as Dichter- und Stadtmuseum Liestal or DISTL, was inaugurated on July 7, 1946. Located in the Swiss town of Liestal, the museum is dedicated to regional and nationally renowned authors. It is a significant cultural institution that offers insights into the literary history of the region.
  51. Rainer Maria Rilke Foundation51

    Rainer Maria Rilke Foundation

     Siders
    The Rainer Maria Rilke Foundation promotes the works of Rilke through various means including a museum, exhibitions, lectures, publications, and a festival. These activities provide an in-depth understanding of Rilke's life and works.
  52. Paul Gugelmann-Museum52

    Paul Gugelmann-Museum

     Schönenwerd
    The Paul-Gugelmann-Museum, located in Schönenwerd, Switzerland, is home to over 40 sculptures and mobile sculptures by the artist Paul Gugelmann. Visitors to the museum have the unique opportunity to see these works of art demonstrated on site.
  53. Museum Bruder Klaus Sachseln53

    Museum Bruder Klaus Sachseln

     Sachseln
    The Museum Bruder Klaus Sachseln in Sachseln, Switzerland, is dedicated to the Swiss national saint Niklaus von Flüe, also known as Brother Klaus. This museum offers a unique insight into the life and influence of this significant figure, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Swiss history and culture.
  54. Voltaire Institute and Museum54

    Voltaire Institute and Museum

     Geneva
    The Voltaire Institute and Museum, also known as Les Délices, is a cultural institution located in the Parc des Délices in Geneva, Switzerland. The museum specializes in the study of the French writer Voltaire, making it a unique destination for those interested in literature and history. It is one of the four sites of the Geneva Library and hosts a library on Voltaire and the Enlightenment period, as well as events related to the writer or the 18th century.
  55. 55

    Lucens Sherlock Holmes Museum

     Lucens
    The Sherlock Holmes Museum in Lucens, Switzerland, is a unique destination dedicated to the work and hero of Arthur Conan Doyle. The museum houses a collection of books and objects related to Sherlock Holmes, as well as the living room of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, furnished with personal belongings of the writer.
  56. 56

    Sherlock Holmes Museum

     Meiringen
    The Sherlock Holmes Museum, located in Lucens, Switzerland, is a tribute to the work and the hero of Arthur Conan Doyle. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of one of the most famous detectives in literature. The museum houses a collection of books and objects related to Sherlock Holmes, providing a comprehensive insight into the life and works of Arthur Conan Doyle.
  57. 57

    The Thomas Mann Archives

     Zurich
    A gem for the fans of the famous German writer and Nobel Prize laureate T. Mann. Archive contains his manuscripts, diaries and many more.
  58. 58

    Hans Erni Museum

     Lucerne
    Museum of the Lucerne-born graphic artist. Extensive collection of paintings and lithographs.
  59. 59

    Pestalozzi Documentation and Research Centre

     Yverdon-les-Bains
    This centre attempts to preserve and present the work and thoughts of the visionary pedagogue who influenced the modern science.
  60. 60

    Circusmuseum

     Rapperswil-Jona
    Captivating museum dedicated to the history of Switzerland's famous circus Knie. Wonderful collection of circus proprieties.