Zunfthaus Zur Meisen

Zunfthaus Zur Meisen: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Zürich’s Historic Guild House

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Zürich’s Old Town, the Zunfthaus zur Meisen is a stunning Rococo landmark steeped in the city’s guild traditions and cultural heritage. Originally built between 1757 and 1759 for the Meisen guild—a powerful association of vintners, tavern owners, saddlers, and painters—it has served as a venue for social, political, and artistic gatherings throughout the centuries. Today, the Zunfthaus zur Meisen is both a museum and a vibrant event space, inviting visitors to explore Zürich’s history, architecture, and living traditions in an unforgettable setting.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan your visit: opening hours, tickets, guided tours, accessibility, dining options, nearby attractions, and practical tips for making the most of your experience.

Historical Overview

Origins and Role in the Guild System

The Zunfthaus zur Meisen was commissioned by the influential Meisen guild at the height of Zürich’s guild era. The guild system, known locally as “Zunftwesen,” structured much of Zürich’s civic and economic life from the Middle Ages through the 18th century. Each guild maintained a guild house—“Zunfthaus”—where members met for business, celebrations, and city governance (Oksana Bernold). The Meisen guild’s prominence is reflected in the building’s grandeur and elaborate design, which asserted their status within the city.

Architectural and Artistic Features

Exterior Design

Designed by architect David Morf, the Zunfthaus zur Meisen is a rare example of Rococo style in Zürich. Its façade, crafted from pale Bollinger sandstone, is characterized by elegant, curved lines, ornate window frames, and a distinctive blue-and-white color scheme (Wikipedia). The building is set back from the street, creating a cour d’honneur that enhances its ceremonial presence.

Interior Highlights

Inside, visitors are greeted by lavishly decorated halls featuring:

Stucco Ceilings: Tyrolean master Johann Schuler’s intricate stucco work is a Rococo highlight (zunfthaus-zur-meisen.ch).
Frescoes: Johann Balthasar Bullinger’s allegorical paintings narrate Zürich’s civic and guild history.
Masonry Heaters: Original tiled stoves by Leonhard Locher and Hans Jakob Hofmann serve as both functional and decorative art pieces.
Period Furnishings: Authentic 18th-century furniture and décor complete the immersive historical experience.

The building’s spatial arrangement—two principal guild rooms flanking a central balcony hall—reflects its dual function as a center of governance and social life.

Unique Features

Historically, the roof housed the Urania Sternwarte observatory, which played a role in establishing Zürich’s geographical location in 1759 (Wikipedia). In the 19th century, the building’s ground-floor clock was so reliable that locals said: “Zürich tickt nach der Meisen” (“Zürich ticks according to the Meisen”) (meisen.ch).

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Standard Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.
Special Events: Hours may vary; check the official website or Museum für Gestaltung Zürich for up-to-date schedules.

Tickets

Museum Admission: CHF 10 for adults, CHF 7 for seniors/students, free for children under 16.
Special Exhibitions: CHF 8–15 per adult; discounts available.
Guided Tours: Prices typically start at CHF 120 per group, plus individual entry.
Booking: Purchase online or on-site; advance booking is recommended for tours and events.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Partial. Main entrance has steps, but side entrance access can be arranged.
Facilities: Accessible restrooms and cloakroom during major events; staff assistance available upon request.

Location & Directions

Address: Münsterhof 20, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Public Transport: Easily reached by trams (lines 4, 6, 10, 15) to “Helmhaus” or “Paradeplatz.” A 10–15 minute walk from Zürich Hauptbahnhof.
Parking: Limited; public transport recommended.

Guided Tours and Group Visits

Guided tours in German, English, and French offer deeper insights into the building’s history, architecture, and the renowned porcelain collection. Tours can be customized for groups and require advance booking (Zürich Tourism).

Exhibitions and Collections

The Zunfthaus zur Meisen hosts the Swiss National Museum’s Porcelain and Faience Collection—over 1,200 pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries, including rare Zürich and Nyon manufactories (Swiss National Museum). Temporary exhibitions and cultural events frequently animate the grand halls, from classical concerts and art installations to readings and lectures.

Dining and Hospitality

While there is no permanent restaurant, the Zunfthaus zur Meisen is renowned for its elegant catering during events—offering traditional Zürich cuisine and Swiss wines. The Münsterhof area around the venue boasts excellent cafés and restaurants, including “Kronenhalle” and “Café Schober” (Zürich Food Guide).

Events and Private Functions

A top choice for weddings, conferences, and gala dinners, the grand halls accommodate up to 200 guests for receptions. Advance booking is essential, especially for peak seasons (Zunfthaus Zur Meisen Events). Signature events include “Dîner Dansant,” “Dinner Krimi,” and the New Year’s Eve Gala.

Visitor Etiquette and Practical Tips

Dress Code: Smart-casual; formal attire for concerts or special events.
Photography: Allowed in most exhibition areas for personal use (no flash/tripods). Restrictions may apply during events.
Souvenirs: The gift shop offers books, postcards, porcelain replicas, and unique Swiss gifts (Swiss National Museum Shop).
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and an active event calendar.

Nearby Attractions

Fraumünster Church: Famous for Marc Chagall stained glass windows.
Grossmünster: Zürich’s iconic Romanesque church.
Kunsthaus Zürich: Premier Swiss art museum.
Limmatquai & Bahnhofstrasse: Historic promenades and shopping streets.
Other Guild Houses: Zunfthaus zur Zimmerleuten, Zunfthaus zur Saffran.

A walking tour of Zürich’s guild houses is highly recommended for history enthusiasts (Zürich Old Town Guide).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Zunfthaus zur Meisen?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Mondays and holidays. Hours may vary for events; check the official website.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: CHF 8–15 for adults (exhibitions), with discounts for students and seniors; free for children under 16.

Q: Is Zunfthaus zur Meisen wheelchair accessible?
A: Partially; contact the venue in advance for accessible entry.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in German, English, and French; advance booking required.

Q: What else can I visit nearby?
A: Fraumünster, Grossmünster, Kunsthaus Zürich, and other guild houses.

Enhance Your Visit

Download the Audiala app for audio guides and insider tips.
Explore high-quality images and virtual tours on the official website.
Refer to Zürich Tourism and Oksana Bernold’s guide for updated visitor details.
Follow Zunfthaus zur Meisen on social media for news and event updates.

Summary

Zunfthaus zur Meisen stands as a beacon of Zürich’s guild heritage, Rococo artistry, and ongoing civic life. Its architectural splendor, museum collections, and dynamic events make it a must-see for visitors. To ensure a seamless visit, review the latest hours and ticket options on the official site, and consider scheduling a guided tour to fully appreciate this cultural treasure.