Zurich University Of The Arts

Zurich University of the Arts Visiting Guide: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Zurich University of the Arts – History and Significance

Located in Zurich’s lively West district, the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) stands as a major center for creative innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cultural engagement. Its home, the Toni-Areal campus—a masterfully repurposed former dairy factory—serves as both an educational institution and a public arts destination. With its unique blend of industrial heritage and contemporary design, ZHdK invites visitors to explore a vibrant environment where tradition meets innovation.

Toni-Areal’s transformation from Europe’s largest yogurt factory into a cutting-edge arts campus is a celebrated example of adaptive reuse. The site features spacious studios, concert halls, galleries, public spaces, and a panoramic rooftop garden, all seamlessly integrated into Zurich’s urban fabric. Its strategic location offers excellent public transport connectivity and places visitors within reach of other top Zurich attractions, such as the Museum of Design and the eclectic Zurich West neighborhood.

This guide provides detailed visitor information, including opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, transportation, highlights of exhibitions and events, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to Zurich University of the Arts.

For the latest updates, event schedules, and in-depth campus information, refer to the ZHdK Official Website, Toni Areal on Zurich Tourism, and Museum of Design, Zurich.

History & Significance of Toni-Areal
Visiting Information: Hours, Admission, Getting There, Accessibility
Campus Highlights: Galleries, Performances, Architecture
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips & FAQs
Practical Information: Hours, Tickets, Transport
Toni-Areal Campus: Architecture & Urban Context
Events & Engagement: What to Expect
Visitor Experience & Facilities
Safety, Accessibility, and Conduct
Summary and Recommendations
Sources

Toni-Areal: Zurich’s Hub of Art, Culture, and Innovation

History and Transformation

Originally built in the early 20th century, Toni-Areal operated as a dairy production facility until its closure in 2000. The site’s red brick façade and industrial character reflect Zurich’s manufacturing heritage. In 2014, following a visionary renovation, it reopened as a unified campus for arts and sciences, housing both ZHdK and the University of Applied Sciences Zurich (ZHAW). Today, Toni-Areal is a symbol of Zurich’s ability to harmonize historic preservation with contemporary urban life.

Visiting Toni-Areal: Essential Information

Opening Hours

Campus General Access: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
Public Spaces (galleries, cafés, event venues): Hours may vary; check individual listings or campus signage.

Admission and Tickets

Campus Entry: Free
Exhibitions & Events: Some require tickets, which vary in price and can be purchased online or at box offices.

Getting There

Address: Toni-Areal, Pfingstweidstrasse 96, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland
Tram: Lines 4, 6, 10, 17 (stop: Hardplatz or Toni-Areal)
Train: Near Zurich Hardbrücke station
Parking: Limited; public transport highly recommended

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Fully accessible via elevators and ramps
Assistance: Available on request; contact campus administration in advance

Campus Highlights

Art and Design Galleries

Regularly rotating exhibitions showcase contemporary art, design, and student projects within ZHdK’s on-site galleries.

Concerts and Performances

Attend music recitals, theater, and dance performances in state-of-the-art venues, with programs by students and professionals.

Workshops and Lectures

Participate in creative workshops and public lectures, often open to arts enthusiasts and the general public.

Architectural Features

Marvel at the blend of industrial heritage and modern design—spacious studios, atriums, and a rooftop garden with panoramic city views.

Nearby Attractions

Museum of Design, Zurich: Renowned collections in design and visual communication; a short walk from Toni-Areal.
Zurich West District: Trendy restaurants, bars, and shops.
Langstrasse: Multicultural hub with vibrant nightlife.
Prime Tower & Viadukt Arches: Modern skyscraper and unique shopping under historic railway arches.

Visitor Tips

Check the ZHdK website and Toni Areal tourism page for updated event calendars and ticketing.
Visit during public events or open house days to experience the campus at its liveliest.
Photography is permitted in public areas; restrictions may apply in exhibition spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Toni-Areal suitable for children?
A: Yes, family-friendly events and exhibitions are available. Check event details for age recommendations.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours (architecture, art, campus) can be arranged in advance through visitor services.

Q: Can I buy art or design works on campus?
A: Occasionally, works are available for purchase at special exhibitions or the campus shop.

Q: Are dining options available?
A: Multiple cafés and eateries are located within Toni-Areal.

Practical Information for Visitors

About Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK)

ZHdK is a leading European arts university and a public cultural hub, hosting exhibitions, performances, and events year-round.

Visiting Hours

General Public: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–8:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Closed Sunday
Event & Gallery Hours: Vary; check the ZHdK Events Calendar

Tickets and Entry

Galleries: Free entry for most exhibitions
Performances: Tickets CHF 10–40; book online or at the box office
Workshops: Registration/fees may apply

Transport

Tram: Lines 4, 6, 10, 17 (stop: Toni-Areal)
Train: Zurich Hauptbahnhof is 10 minutes away via tram
Car: Limited parking

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible throughout
Assistance for visitors with disabilities available
Service animals welcome

Tips

Check event schedules before visiting
Guided tours available on request
Follow ZHdK on social media for updates

Toni-Areal Campus: Architecture and Urban Context

Adaptive Reuse and Industrial Aesthetics

The Toni-Areal campus, redesigned by em2n Architekten, retains its original concrete structure and industrial rhythm, blending old and new. Public spaces—including concert halls, a black box theater, a cinema, and the Museum für Gestaltung—are open for cultural exchange (ArchDaily, Zürich.com). The campus emphasizes sustainability through green roofs and public transport integration.

Urban Integration

Located in District 5, Toni-Areal is a gateway to Zurich’s contemporary culture and is easily accessible by tram, bus, bicycle, or on foot from Zurich’s city center (Switzerland by Locals).

Events and Public Engagement

Regular events include concerts, theater productions, dance, film screenings, and art exhibitions—many free or low-cost. The campus plays a central role during Zurich Art Weekend and Design Weeks (Zurich.com).

Workshops and continuing education courses are open to the public, encouraging broad participation and community engagement (Edarabia).

Facilities and Visitor Amenities

Performance halls, exhibition spaces, rehearsal rooms, and media labs
On-site cafés with diverse food options
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Information desks for assistance and wayfinding

Safety, Accessibility, and Visitor Conduct

Fully accessible for visitors with disabilities
Clear emergency procedures and on-site security during large events
Sustainability encouraged: use of public transport, recycling, and respectful conduct (Edarabia)

Summary and Recommendations

Zurich University of the Arts at Toni-Areal is a dynamic intersection of historical architecture and contemporary creativity. Whether you’re attending an exhibition, enjoying a concert, or exploring urban Zurich, ZHdK offers an open, accessible, and inspiring environment. Plan your visit by checking the latest event schedules, booking tickets for performances, and considering a guided tour. The campus’s excellent transport links and integration into Zurich’s cultural ecosystem make it a must-visit for anyone interested in art, design, and urban innovation.

Stay connected via ZHdK’s official website, tourism portal, and social media for real-time updates.

Enhance your experience with the Audiala app—offering guided tours, insider tips, and cultural insights.