Irchelpark

Irchelpark in Zurich is the city's largest public park, covering roughly 32 hectares in the Unterstrass district north of the centre. It wraps around the Irchel campus of the University of Zurich and was designed as a near-natural landscape rather than a formal garden.

What is Irchelpark?

The park grew out of the university project. Science faculties first proposed a new campus in 1962, building of the first stage began in 1973, and the campus opened in 1979. The grounds were laid out between 1979 and 1986. The land belongs to the Canton of Zurich, while the city looks after it on the canton's behalf. The Zurich State Archive (Staatsarchiv) also sits within the complex.

What will you see?

Expect open meadows, tree-lined paths and man-made water features. An artificial lake lies in the lower part of the park, and locals gather around it to relax, play ball games or picnic. Playgrounds make it a regular stop for families, and students and staff cross it between lectures, which gives weekdays a calm, campus feel.

How do you get there?

The park is a few kilometres from Zurich main station. The easiest route is public transport to the Universität Irchel stop (trams 9 and 10), a ride of around fifteen minutes from the centre. There is no entrance fee, no fence and no opening hours.

When should you visit?

Late spring, summer and early autumn are best, when the lawns are dry enough to sit on and the water draws birds and walkers. Weekend afternoons are the liveliest; weekdays are quieter. Combine the visit with a walk up onto the Zürichberg hill.

Frequently asked questions

Is Irchelpark free? Yes. It is a public park open to everyone.

How big is Irchelpark? About 32 hectares, which makes it the largest public park in Zurich.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. It has playgrounds, wide lawns and a pond, and the paths are easy with a pushchair.

Who owns the park? The Canton of Zurich; the City of Zurich maintains it on the canton's behalf.