Photobastei Zurich
Alternative house of photography
Marie-Lou from Zurich
The entrance of Photobastei represents the place well; you push a door that might seem like one from a private building and end up in a stairwell where direction indications aren’t so clear. It feels artsy, with a lot of flyers laying around for all sorts of events. I recommend going up to the second and third floor of the building, where you will find exhibitions and a place to sit with either a photography book or a drink. Once again, the entrance might feel weird, but you really just have to walk in.
On the second floor, there is an exhibition space dedicated to independent artists that wish to share their experiments in contemporary art and non-commercial photography. Next to it, there is a library with a lot of photography books that can freely be skimmed through on one of the couches. If you come in the afternoon, there is a chance that nobody’s there to guide or watch you - a real immersion in the Swiss culture of trust.
One floor up also hosts an exhibition space. Depending on the current exhibition, it might be either free or with an entrance fee. Even if the exhibition doesn’t interest you, I still highly recommend popping to this floor which also features a large open space with lots of couches, mats, pictures, and mirrors on the wall… Everything to make you feel cozy, with a drink that you can order at the bar. Something in this place feels underground, alternative.
Zurich Spotter Marie-Lou
About this spot
Our Zurich City Guide
Find your way with 184 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Zurich
Zufreeden
Gluten free heaven
I particularly like the variety of products they offer, which can make life a lot easier if you are gluten-free and they also have several vegan options.
by
Marie-Lou
Pijnenburg
Heureka sculpture
A nonsensical Tinguely machine
It was made out of scrap metal and everyday objects and presents a nonsensical machine, a complex configuration of tubes, wheels, and motors.
by
Simi
Singh
Stadtgärtnerei
A lush spot in the city
The outside area is also worth a visit. You'll find a beautiful collection of palms and agave in a sandy environment crossed by a water basin with fishes.
by
Marie-Lou
Pijnenburg
Old Crow
The art of the Spirit
The "Old Crow" in Zurich is definitely a special kind of bar. Whiskey lovers beware: with over 1,000 bottles, you might stay here longer than expected...
by
Allan
Haverman
Raygrodski
Hipsters & craft cocktails
"Raygrodski" in Zurich stands out as one of the city's best cocktail bars. Grab a Sir Mary or Hot Russian, relax and enjoy...
by
Allan
Haverman
Äss-Bar
For snack lovers
Äss-Bar is a bakery selling products from the day before that they picked up at partner bakeries. Pastry, croissants, sandwiches, quiche slices, salads...
by
Marie-Lou
Pijnenburg
Kweer
Suitable in any situation
Whether you're looking for a spot to work from, to experience a good hot chocolate in Switzerland, or to go on a date, Kweer is the place for you!
by
Marie-Lou
Pijnenburg
Hiltl Sihlpost
Food for everybody
The Hiltl restaurants always were a bit ahead of their time, serving vegetarian cuisine for more than a hundred years. I liked every dish I tried there!
by
Marie-Lou
Pijnenburg
Heading to Zurich?
184 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Zurich?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 184 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Zurich
Get to know our other Spotters from Zurich
As featured on:
