Rietberg Zurich
Art Collection in historic mansion
A short walk or tram ride from Bahnhof Enge, you'll find one of Switzerland’s largest art museums in a beautiful setting, including various 19th-century mansions and a splendid park.
Dedicated to different kinds of non-European art, Museum Rietberg was initially based on a donation by banker Edouard von der Heyd, who bequeathed his collection of Asian art to the city of Zürich. It now includes over 30,000 objects from Asia, America, Africa, and Oceania, emphasizing Zürich’s cosmopolitan nature and the diversity of global art. This is based on von der Heydt’s idea of 'ars una,' an egalitarian concept of art that transcends cultural differences and local origins.
The museum opened in 1952 in Villa Wesendonck, which was finished in 1857 for silk the trader Wesendonck. The Wesendoncks hosted artists and scientists, including Richard Wagner. During this time, Mathilde Wesendonck and Wagner became friends and wrote many letters. Some people think a love affair had developed. In any case, the exchange impacted Wagner's work. Inspired by their unfulfillable love, he finalized his famous opera Tristan and Isolde.
Later, the building was significantly extended underground, and the "Smaragt" extension opened in 2007. Smaragd is also the venue for new temporary exhibitions, such as last year’s “Kimono – Kyoto to catwalk”.
Surrounding Rieterpark is Zurich's largest landscape garden with over 70,000m2 space. On clear days, you see as far as the Alps. The greenhouse of Villa Wesendonck, which was also the setting for Richard Wagners songs, is home to a fine self-service café where homemade dishes are served.
About this spot
Find your way with 183 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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
Mouse window
Miniature city life
In Wiedikon, a red house on Gertrudstrasse hides a miniature Zurich ruled by felt mice. It's a truly magical, ever-changing world crafted with love.
by
Isabelle
Thürlemann
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
Heading to Zurich?
183 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
✓ 183 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:
