The Zurich Opera House is now one of the world’s most renowned cultural venues. This historic and glamorous location offers some of the finest theater and ballet performances.
Built on the remains of the Aktientheater (Old Theater), it’s undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions in Zurich. Located in the historic center, it’s surrounded by numerous monuments you can explore further with guided tours like these:
Architecture and Description of the Zurich Opera House
Originally, this project was not planned for Zurich but for the city of Krakow, Poland, with a capacity of 1,100 spectators. However, it was ultimately built in Switzerland’s capital.
After its reconstruction, the structure adopted a refined Neo-Baroque style with clarity and simplicity in its design. This magnificent project was directed by Fellner & Helmer, a Swiss architect known for theater construction. The building rests on 1,800 cedar pilings.
The project was awarded to Fellner & Helmer for its high standards in quality, safety, and cost-efficiency. Thanks to this vision, locals and visitors alike continue to enjoy the cultural offerings provided here.
Why Visit and How to Do It?
The opera house opens to the public at 11 a.m. every day except Sundays, with non-performance days closing at 6 p.m.
Ticket prices vary per performance, so it’s recommended to check availability and prices on the website http://www.opernhaus.ch/.
You can also enjoy the theater through guided tours starting from 10 CHF (Swiss francs), approximately 8.87 Euros. Tickets should be purchased in advance.
The Zurich Theater is one of the most prominent in Europe. In fact, in 2018, the Zurich Opera was internationally recognized as Institution of the Year. It’s one of Switzerland’s nine theaters and the only royal opera that still hosts live opera and dance performances on stage.
This building is worth a visit both inside and out. Visiting the Zurich Theater is an experience you simply can’t miss.
Today, the Zurich Opera is considered one of the world’s most important theater venues, renowned for its incredible acoustics.
Due to its popularity, opera-goers often need to book their tickets well in advance. Keep this in mind if you’re planning to attend.
If you’re planning a two-day or longer stay in Zurich, we recommend reserving an afternoon to explore the interior on a tour or by attending a live performance.
Enjoying the Opera Affordably: Oper für Alle
One of the Zurich Opera’s most remarkable initiatives is its life-size replica constructed over a space equivalent to two football fields, open and without barriers. For the past five years, this initiative has brought outdoor performances to the public with full inclusivity.
The goal is to attract as many spectators as possible, creating an Oper für Alle (Opera for All). This event, held several times a year, is completely free.
To date, five of these events have taken place in Zurich’s cultural calendar. In 2017, one performance attracted over 12,000 spectators who enjoyed the show in the square.
If you’d like to attend the Opera for All, keep in mind that the audience begins gathering in the afternoon to secure the best spots and views. You’re welcome to bring picnic blankets or purchase refreshments on-site. And if comfort is key, you can savor a delicious dish of traditional or international cuisine.
At 6 PM, a moderator begins the event with interviews of performers and other event participants, along with short film screenings. This is a fantastic way to experience the opera affordably, with full safety measures and optimal comfort. Facilities include Wi-Fi, nearby restrooms, and visible exit routes.
How to Get to the Zurich Opernhaus
The theater is located at 1 Sechseläutenplatz, 8001, Zurich, CH, near the Lake Zurich.
The best way to reach the Zurich Opernhaus is by public transport.
- If you prefer taking the tram, you can use lines 5, 8, and 9 to the Bellevue station.
- Alternatively, take a train from the main station to Stadelhofen. From there, follow the lakeside route that will lead you to the opera house.
The Bellevue and Stadelhofen areas are often busy with traffic.
But don’t worry—if you’re driving, the Zurich Opernhaus offers a private parking service.
What to See Nearby?
Near the Zurich Opernhaus, you’ll find family-friendly spots such as the café Belle Epoque.
This French-style restaurant is famous for hosting historic figures like Einstein, Lenin, and others.
You can also enjoy Sechseläutenplatz, one of Zurich’s busiest squares.
It’s a lively spot where visitors and locals alike gather. A must-see destination without a doubt.
History of the Zurich Opera House
The Zurich Opera House was inaugurated in 1891, one year after the original Aktientheater was destroyed by fire.
The Aktientheater, built in 1834 by a private theater association, was one of the first theaters in central Zurich.
An interesting fact about the early days of the Aktientheater is that performances were initially monitored by the police, who oversaw the selection of plays to ensure propriety.
At that time, Zurich did not have a professional orchestra. It wasn’t until the arrival of Richard Wagner in 1849 that Zurich experienced a cultural awakening, elevating its musical life to accommodate opera performances.
Some of the greatest artists have graced the Zurich Opera’s stage.
During World War II, figures like Richard Strauss performed here, adding to its historical legacy.
Starting in 1933, Zurich saw an influx of exiled German artists, significantly enhancing the city’s cultural scene.
The Zurich Theater remained well-preserved through the 20th century. In 1975, it reached new creative heights under the direction of Helmut Claus Drese, who brought the innovative idea of staging Monteverdi operas.
In the 1980s, the Zurich Opera closed temporarily for renovations, reopening to the public in 1984 after a full restoration.
The Zurich Opera House has had the honor of premiering around thirty operas over the years.
Today, the theater is led by German director Andreas Homoki, who took the helm in 2012.
Internationally, Homoki is regarded as one of Switzerland’s leading opera directors. It’s also worth noting that the Zurich Opera has its own dedicated ballet company, known as the Ballet Zurich.