Rote Fabrik Zurich

Alternative lakeside hub

Simi from Zurich

"In 1987, the provisional setup became permanent, and the spirit of «Rots» continues to thrive, providing a dynamic cultural experience to this day."

The «Red Factory» or «Rote Fabrik», set beautifully by Lake Zurich, stands as an alternative cultural hub contrasting the traditional city center institutions. This renowned cultural center hosts a diverse spectrum of events, merging concerts, art installations, and thought-provoking film and theater screenings on socio-cultural and political topics.

Within its premises lies the «Shedhalle», showcasing contemporary and critical art, alongside the restaurant Brick oh lac. Rote Fabrik was originally a silk weaving mill until 1940, the site faced disuse until the 1970s and 1980s when Zurich’s youth movement advocated for an independent cultural center here. After persistent demonstrations, the «interest group Rote Fabrik» secured the area. This led to legendary concerts by bands like Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers and readings by Günter Grass and Alice Schwarzer. In 1987, the provisional setup became permanent, and the spirit of «Rots» continues to thrive, providing a dynamic cultural experience to this day.

Art & culture

Buy one, Give one!

Share your 💚 this December

*on all products

Zurich Spotter Simi

About me Hi there! My name is Simi, and I love traveling and eating good food. I like going to restaurants and cafes where they offer a nice and unique ambiance. Other than that, my hobbies include outdoor activities such as skiing, swimming and diving. But when the weather isn't that good, I enjoy programming and experimenting with tech. Why Zurich? Zurich is a city full of surprises, where countless activities and unique spots lie just beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered. For example, Zurich has an outdoor surfing wave in the middle of the city...

About this spot

Seestrasse 395

CHF

no-price

Website

Oct 16, 2025

Our Zurich City Guide

Find your way with 184 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Zurich guide.

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

Urban Surf

Surfing in Zurich

Beyond the waves, the venue offers a vibrant, beach-like vibe, with a relaxed hangout area where surfers swap stories and enjoy the sun.

Relaxing

Simi

Singh

Dec 11, 2025

Belvoir park

A City Oasis on The Lake

Pass by on a sunny summer morning to immerse yourself in to the tranquillity of meadows, lily ponds and shadows of century-old trees.

Relaxing

Ellen-Aleksandra

Svorjova

Dec 11, 2025

Widder piano bar

Tropic of Capricorn

"Widder piano bar" in Zurich is in the hotel with the same name. This bar is famous: it's whiskies and concerts are excellent and the crowd is diverse...

Bars

Music

Miltiadis

Sarakinos

Dec 11, 2025

Yan Ruyi

Mighty duck

"Yan Ruyi" in Zurich serves the best dim sum and pecking duck in Zurich. There, I've said it. I know there will be people who disagree, but they're wrong.

"Goethe Bar" in Zurich - 'The bar is good, the restaurant would not be my first choice', she said, standing there... 'The public tends to be upper class'.

Bars

Snacks

Miltiadis

Sarakinos

Dec 9, 2025

Terrasse Café

All from one hand

"Terrasse Café" in Zurich has nothing special yet it's an excellent choice for all occasions. I find it ideal for a snack, a complete meal, a late drink...

Bars

Coffee & tea

Music

Miltiadis

Sarakinos

Dec 9, 2025

Wühre Café

Typical Zurich

"Wühre Café" Zurich is a small cozy café is situated along the waterline of Limmat, perfect to visit on a warm sunny day to get a splash of sunlight...

Coffee & tea