Trudelhaus

Trudelhaus Baden, Switzerland: Complete Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, History, and Cultural Experiences

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Trudelhaus, located in the heart of Baden’s historic old town, is a vibrant center where Swiss heritage, contemporary art, and community life intersect. Once the home and studio of renowned sculptor Hans Trudel, the building today serves as a dynamic cultural venue, art gallery, and social hub. With its rich architectural history, active exhibition calendar, and acclaimed Restaurant Trudelkeller, Trudelhaus offers visitors an immersive experience blending tradition, creativity, and gastronomy. This guide details everything you need to plan your visit—from opening hours and accessibility to historical context, dining, and local tips.

For the latest updates and program details, consult the Trudelhaus Baden website and platforms like Visarte Aargau.

Historic and Artistic Legacy
Architectural Significance
Hans Trudel: Artist and Local Icon
Visiting Hours, Tickets & Access
Special Exhibitions and Programming
Dining at Restaurant Trudelkeller
Guided Tours and Visitor Tips
Accessibility and Facilities
Nearby Attractions in Baden
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact and Practical Information
Conclusion & Planning Advice
Sources

Historic and Artistic Legacy

Trudelhaus is intrinsically linked to the legacy of Hans Trudel (1881–1958), a Swiss sculptor whose work defines much of Baden’s public art. Trudel transformed the early 20th-century building into his studio and residence, producing sculptures, woodcuts, and drawings that now enliven the city’s public spaces. The house quickly evolved into a gathering place for artists, reflecting a broader European trend of artist-run spaces and creative communities (Swiss Spectator).

While the building itself is not medieval, it stands amid Baden’s centuries-old streets, with the city’s roots extending back to Roman times and its old town established by the Habsburgs in the 13th century (Swiss Activities). Today, Trudelhaus is run as a cooperative, ensuring its preservation, accessibility, and cultural vitality for future generations (Aargauer Zeitung).

Architectural Significance

Trudelhaus exemplifies the adaptive reuse of historic Swiss architecture. It harmonizes with Baden’s old town, featuring traditional elements like exposed beams and stonework, while providing modern, light-filled exhibition spaces that foster artistic creativity. The building merges rustic Swiss classicism with contemporary functionality, offering contemplative rooms for viewing art and hosting cultural events (Studying in Switzerland).

Hans Trudel: Artist and Local Icon

Hans Trudel’s prolific career began with drawings and woodcuts in the early 1900s and blossomed into major public commissions in stone, wood, and bronze by the 1920s. His sculptures—nearly 30 are installed around Baden—have earned the city the nickname “Hans-Trudel-Stadt.” The Trudelhaus itself became a center for artistic dialogue, and today, it sustains Trudel’s vision through exhibitions, workshops, and community events (Swiss Spectator).

Visiting Hours, Tickets & Access

Trudelhaus Art Space:
- Fridays: 14:00 – 17:00
- Saturdays & Sundays: 11:00 – 17:00
- Admission: Free for exhibitions and most events. Some workshops or special programs may require advance booking.
Restaurant Trudelkeller:
- Lunch and Dinner: Hours vary seasonally. Advance reservation recommended, especially for the terrace.
Extended Hours: During exhibition openings or city festivals, hours may be extended.
Directions:
- Address: Obere Halde 36, 5400 Baden, Switzerland
- By Train: 5-minute walk from Baden SBB station
- By Car: Park at Theaterplatz or P1 garage

(Trudelhaus Baden)

Special Exhibitions and Programming

Trudelhaus maintains a dynamic calendar of exhibitions, featuring both Swiss and international artists across media including painting, sculpture, video, and installation art. Recent and upcoming themes explore issues like identity, belonging, and sustainability. Events often include vernissages, finissages, artist talks, and guided tours (Visarte Aargau).

In addition to visual art, Trudelhaus hosts concerts, performances, literary readings, and community-driven happenings such as “PowerPoint-Karaoke” or the “HÖRENFRAGEN” educational series (Aargauer Zeitung).

Dining at Restaurant Trudelkeller

Located in Trudelhaus’s cellar, Restaurant Trudelkeller is celebrated for its romantic, French-inspired atmosphere and creative Swiss-European cuisine. The menu emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, with standout dishes like lamb carré, tajines, and risottos. The wine list is diverse, and guests can sample wines before choosing (Speisekarte.menu, RestaurantGuru).

Ambiance: Cozy cellar with French décor and a panoramic terrace for al fresco dining.
Dress Code: Smart casual.
Dietary Options: Vegetarian and gluten-free dishes available.
Pricing: Mains CHF 25–45, starters/desserts CHF 10–18.

Advance booking is recommended due to limited seating, especially during peak times.

Guided Tours and Visitor Tips

Tours: Guided tours on Trudelhaus history and Hans Trudel’s art are available, especially during special exhibitions or by arrangement through Baden’s tourism office.
Combine Visits: Pair your visit with Baden’s other historical sites—Stein Castle ruins, the Holzbrücke (covered bridge), Roman Baths, and the Limmat promenade (Studying in Switzerland).
Photography: Allowed in most exhibitions unless otherwise indicated.
Best Visiting Months: May to September for terrace dining and lively cultural events.

Accessibility and Facilities

Wheelchair Accessibility: The main exhibition spaces are accessible; the restaurant’s cellar is reached via a spiral staircase, but terrace dining is more accessible.
Facilities: Restrooms on site; staff accommodate special needs where possible.
Languages: Staff speak German, English, and often French; menus in German and English.

Nearby Attractions in Baden

Schlossberg Hill and Stein Castle: Historic ruins and panoramic views.
Thermal Baths: Enjoy Baden’s spa heritage.
Old Town: Cobblestone streets, boutiques, cafés, and museums.
Swiss Children’s Museum: Family-friendly and close by.

(Switzerlanding)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Trudelhaus visiting hours?
A: Friday 14:00–17:00, Saturday & Sunday 11:00–17:00 for exhibitions; restaurant hours vary.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: General admission to exhibitions is free; some events or workshops may require tickets.

Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A: Exhibition spaces are accessible; terrace dining is accessible, but the cellar restaurant requires stairs.

Q: How do I make a reservation at Restaurant Trudelkeller?
A: Book online or by phone: +41 56 222 07 77 / +41 78 830 33 44.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, during special exhibitions or via the Baden tourism office.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Late spring through early autumn, especially for terrace dining and city events.

Contact and Practical Information

Address: Obere Halde 36, 5400 Baden, Switzerland
Phone: +41 56 222 07 77 / +41 78 830 33 44
Reservations: Speisekarte.menu
Official Trudelhaus: trudelhaus-baden.ch
Tourism Info: baden.ch

Conclusion & Planning Advice

Trudelhaus embodies Baden’s unique blend of history, modern creativity, and communal spirit. With free entry to most exhibitions, a packed calendar of events, and the acclaimed Trudelkeller restaurant, it is an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience Swiss culture. Combine your visit with Baden’s other attractions, and stay informed of upcoming exhibitions by following Trudelhaus online or downloading the Audiala app for curated guides and event updates.