Grossmünster Church

The basics

Several walking tours visit Grossmünster Church along with other Old Town landmarks, such as Fraumünster or Lindenhofplatz. Some city itineraries also include the area’s famous shopping streets or chocolatiers, and transportation often is included. Combination tour packages combine city sightseeing with more remote regional attractions, such as the Chinese Garden or Rhine Falls.

If you are visiting independently, plan about an hour to explore the church itself, plus another half hour if you intend to climb the tower or visit the museum.

Things to know before you go

• There are 187 winding wooden steps to the tower viewpoint, plus a ladder, so be prepared for a slightly challenging climb.
• The church is accessible for wheelchair users, though be aware that the surrounding Old Town pavements are uneven and sloped in places.
• The tower is not accessible for wheelchair users.
• There is a small charge to climb the tower or enter the museum; otherwise, access to the church is free.

How to get there

Grossmünster Church is a 15-minute walk from Zurich Main Station or a 5-minute ride on the number 4 tram, alighting at Helmhaus. Lake Zurich ferry terminals also are located conveniently close by, within ten minutes’ walk south of the church.

When to get there

The church and tower stay open a little later in summer, affording lovely dusk views from the observation deck. Services take place every Sunday, and while guests cannot ascend the tower or explore the church during this time, they are welcome to join the congregation. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.

Visit the four churches of Zurich

Grossmünster is just one of four historic churches in Zurich, the others being Fraumünster, Prediger, and St. Peter’s. History buffs and architecture enthusiasts would be well served to visit all of them, taking advantage of guided packages to learn more about the history and legends unique to each one.