On a rainy Day 3 in Zurich, I decided to dive into some Swiss history with a visit to the Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum), and wow, what an experience! The museum is located just a short walk from Zurich’s main train station, making it super easy to get to, especially if you’ve got a ZurichCard. The Landesmuseum is one of Switzerland’s most important museums, and after spending a few hours here, I can see why. It’s not only educational but also a lot of fun to explore, even if you’re not a hardcore history buff.
The museum itself is housed in a stunning, castle-like building that feels like something out of a fairytale. It opened in 1898 and has been showcasing Swiss culture and history ever since. Inside, you’ll find a mix of interactive exhibits, beautiful artifacts, and fascinating displays that cover everything from Switzerland’s prehistoric times to its modern era. One of the highlights for me was the medieval section, where I got a glimpse of how life in Switzerland looked centuries ago, complete with armor, weapons, and intricately designed artifacts. There’s even an area dedicated to Swiss folk art and traditions, which gave me a real sense of the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The temporary exhibitions at the Landesmuseum are always changing, so there’s always something new to see. When I visited, there was a fantastic exhibit on Swiss innovation and how the country became a global leader in everything from chocolate (yum!) to watchmaking. The museum is also really modern, with a mix of historical and contemporary design that makes it feel engaging and fresh.
After getting my fill of Swiss history, I took a stroll through the museum’s beautiful courtyard, which is the perfect place to relax and take in the architecture. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a cool spot to explore, the Landesmuseum is a must-see when visiting Zurich.
