Uraina-Sternwarte

Public Observatory – that Bit Closer to Heaven

Urania Sternwarte is a public observatory in the Lindenhof quarter of Zürich, Switzerland. Its name Urania refers to the muse of astronomy in Greek mythology. Here Zurich lies at your feet – as the Urania-Sternwarte (observatory) bids exciting views of the cosmos.

• Public astronomy tours
• Central location
• Out-of-the-ordinary views of Zurich

Astronomy fans can reach for the stars at the heart of central Zurich. Visitors can observe the celestial bodies through a telescope in the 50 m (164 ft) high round tower of the Urania Observatory which allows magnifications up to 600 times. 

If you would like to have a closer glance at the craters on the moon, the cloud bands circling Jupiter, or the Fraumünster church tower: a guided visit of the non-profit public observatory is always a memorable treat.

The Urania Observatory, which opened in 1907, became Zurich’s first concrete-building. It is still one of the historic Old Town’s most iconic structures, and has been classified as a protected monument since 1989. On the occasion of the centenary of the observatory in 2007, the 12-ton Zeiss telescope was undergoing extensive renovation.

Public tours take place on Friday and Saturday evenings irrespective of the weather; in addition, unique children’s tours take place on the first Saturday of the month.

Prices                                         

Adults: CHF 20.-*

Young People (12-16): CHF 15.-*

Children (6-11): CHF 10.-*

Discount with the Zürich Card: CHF 5.-*

Opening Hours

• Guided tours for the public: Friday and Saturday in all weathers
  Start: 8.00pm during winter, 9.00pm during summer
• The entrance at Uraniastrasse 9 opens 30 minutes before the start of the visit.
• Evening tours recommended for children of 9 years and above
• Every first Saturday of the month tours for children at 3.00pm, 4.00pm and 5.00pm 
• Guided tours for schools and private tours on request

Open

Friday, Saturday