Recreation and entertainment in Switzerland

Chinese Garden

Chinagarten (the Chinese Garden) is a classical Chinese-style garden on the Zurich lakeshore, in the Seefeld district near Zürichhorn. It was a present from Zurich's Chinese partner city, Kunming, and it is one of the most unexpected corners of the Swiss city. Why is there a Chinese garden in Zurich? Kunming gave the garden as thanks for Zurich's technical and scientific help in expanding Kunming's drinking water supply and urban drainage. The city of Zurich built it together with experts from Kunming, and it opened in spring 1994. The site was chosen following geomantic principles. The garden is classed as a temple garden and counts among the most highly regarded of its kind outside China. What will you see? A pond with a small island forms the centre. Pavilions stand around it, and a small palace in traditional Chinese style completes the layout. Paths wind over bridges and through covered walkways, and the mix of water, stone and planting is meant to express harmony between people and nature. This is a place for a quiet stroll and photos rather than picnics. Right next door lies the Blatterwiese meadow, which locals often call the "Chinawiese". After your visit you can follow the shore on to Zürichhorn park and the lake. How do you get there? The address is Bellerivestrasse 138, 8008 Zurich. Take a bus from Zürich, Bellevue or from Tiefenbrunnen station to the stop "Zürich, Chinagarten". From the lakefront in the centre it is also an easy walk along the shore. What are the entry fee and opening hours? Sources disagree. The Zurich tourism site zuerich.com lists free entry and 11:00 to 17:00 daily, while other guides give a March to October season, 11:00 to 19:00, with CHF 4 for adults and CHF 1 for children aged 6 to 14. Check the City of Zurich page before you go. Holders of the ZVV FerienPass enter free. When should you visit? Spring and summer are best, when the planting around the pond is green and the lakeside is pleasant. Combine the visit with a walk through Zürichhorn and Seefeld. Frequently asked questions Who gave the Chinese Garden to Zurich? Kunming, Zurich's Chinese partner city, in return for help with its water supply and drainage. When did it open? In spring 1994. Where exactly is it? At Bellerivestrasse 138 on the lake, close to Zürichhorn and the Blatterwiese meadow. Is there an entry fee? Sources vary, from free entry to CHF 4 for adults and CHF 1 for children. Confirm the current fee on the official city page.

Bienne City Park

Biel/Bienne

Bienne City Park (Stadtpark, Parc de la Ville) in Biel/Bienne is a green space close to the centre of the bilingual city in the canton of Bern, just east of the old town and near the Schüss river. Locals call it the Stadtpark in German and the Parc de la Ville in French, and you will see both names around town. Entry is free, and the park combines wide lawns, mature trees, a large playground and a few historic structures. How did the park come about? The land was not always a leisure ground. A cemetery was founded here around 1871, and in 1878 a gatehouse with a gardener's lodge was added. Space ran short by the turn of the century, and in 1904 the burial ground moved to the Madretsch district. The present park was laid out in 1924. Sources give slightly different dates for the cemetery's start, so treat the early years as approximate. What is there to see? The gatehouse (Torhaus). A neo-Gothic building from 1878, left over from the former cemetery. Its annexes were rebuilt during a renovation, and the city plans to turn it into a meeting place with a buvette and community programming. The music pavilion (Musikpavillon). A concrete rotunda designed by architect Walter Sommer in 1936, restored in the park's refurbishment. It serves as a stage for summer concerts. Sculpture and water. A bronze figure by André Ramseyer stands in a water basin, and the park also holds works by Max W. Pfänder. Lawns and playground. Open meadows invite picnics and rest, while the playground draws families with small children. How do you get there? The park lies east of the old town, so it is an easy walk from the centre. From Biel/Bienne railway station, head through the downtown area towards the old town and continue along the Schüss. There are no gates or tickets. When is the best time to visit? Late spring and summer work best: the grass is green and the pavilion sometimes hosts concerts. The park suits a break between sightseeing stops, a picnic, or a short stroll before heading to the old town or Lake Biel. What else is nearby? Biel/Bienne has several other green areas. Strandboden sits right on the lake and is popular for relaxing and views. Schüsspark in the Champagne district covers about 5 hectares. The recently redesigned Schüssinsel park in the centre has more than 600 trees. The old town with its Stadtkirche is a short walk away. Frequently asked questions Is entry to Bienne City Park free? Yes. The park is public and costs nothing to enter. Is it good for families? Yes. A large playground and spacious lawns give children plenty of room to play. What name will I see on site? Stadtpark in German and Parc de la Ville in French. "Bienne City Park" is the English label used on travel sites. Are concerts held in the park? The park has a music pavilion from 1936 that serves as a stage. Check the city's event calendar before your visit for the current programme.

Bois du Petit-Château

La Chaux-de-Fonds

Bois du Petit-Château is a wooded park with a small zoo on the hillside above La Chaux-de-Fonds, in the Swiss canton of Neuchâtel. It is one of the city's favourite places for a family walk and a short wildlife visit. What is this place, and where does it come from? A beautification society bought the forested hill in 1889 and gave the park to the city on 7 September 1891. Early features were aviaries and a deer paddock, and the grounds gradually grew into a proper zoo. A vivarium in wooden chalets followed in 1988, and an otter pond was dug in 1990 to mark the park's hundredth anniversary. Which animals can you see? The collection focuses on European and alpine species: ibex, red deer, mouflon and otters. The vivarium houses reptiles and amphibians. Swiss guides put the total at more than 220 mammals and birds. The park also runs a care centre for injured wildlife. Bears lived here until January 2022. What is MUZOO? Since 2022 the zoo and a natural history museum operate together under the name MUZOO. The city is planning the museum building at the park entrance, so parts of the site may see construction work. Check current opening hours on the MUZOO website before you go. How do you get there? From central La Chaux-de-Fonds take city bus 304 towards Hôpital or bus 310 towards Sombaille and get off at the "Bois du Petit-Château" stop. The park paths start right by the stop. What does it cost and how long should you plan? Most guides describe entry to the park and zoo as free. One directory lists an old 6 CHF fee, so confirm prices with the operator. Plan 1.5 to 2 hours for an easy loop past the enclosures, or a whole afternoon with children and a picnic. When is the best time to visit? Spring and summer, when animals are active and the forest paths give shade. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. In winter the hill is often snowy and some animals stay in their shelters. Frequently asked questions Is Bois du Petit-Château free to enter? Most sources describe the park as free. Check the MUZOO website before travelling. Which bus goes to the park? Line 304 towards Hôpital or line 310 towards Sombaille, stop "Bois du Petit-Château". Are there bears? No. Bears were kept in the zoo until January 2022. The main species now are ibex, deer, mouflon and otters. Is it good for children? Yes. Easy paths, enclosures with European animals and the vivarium make it a good short family outing.

Parc des Cropettes

Genewa

Parc des Cropettes is a public park in Geneva's Grottes district, just behind Cornavin railway station. For anyone stepping off a train it is the nearest patch of green in the city centre, and it stays open around the clock. Where is Parc des Cropettes and how do you get there? The park sits on the Grottes side of Cornavin station. From the platforms it is a short walk of a few minutes, which makes it a handy stop before hotel check-in or while waiting for a connection. Entry is free and there are no gates to close. What is the history of the park? The name comes from the Cropet family, who acquired the estate in the 17th century. A garden pavilion went up in the lower part of the grounds in 1870, and in 1873 the City of Geneva bought the remainder of the estate. The park grew thanks to gifts from Madame Odier-Beaulacre, who handed over first the lower and then the upper section of land and also paid for a nursery school. The orange-segment-shaped pond dates from this period, and the Cropettes primary school, built in 1901, stands within the grounds. What can you see and do here? The pond – a small basin where you can sit right at the water's edge. The pavilion – the 1870 building in the lower part of the park. Greenery and paths – a quiet break from the traffic around the station. Playground – movement games and sand play for children, plus pétanque pitches for adults. It is open 24/7; dogs are not allowed inside it. When should you go? The park is accessible all year, at any hour, but warm days are best, when the shaded benches and lawns invite a longer rest. In spring and summer it works well for a picnic or a pause in sightseeing. It is one of more than sixty public green spaces managed by the City of Geneva. Frequently asked questions Is Parc des Cropettes free to enter? Yes. It is a public park open 24 hours a day. Is it suitable for families? Yes. There is a playground with movement and sand games, and an area for pétanque. Can I bring a dog? Dogs can enter the park, but not the playground area. How far is it from Cornavin station? The park lies directly behind the station in the Grottes district, a few minutes on foot.

Parc Beaulieu

Genewa

Parc Beaulieu is a public park in Geneva's Grottes district, set between Cropettes park and the Chandieu promenade. It forms part of the green corridor running from Cornavin station to the airport, and the city counts it among the most attractive links on that route. It is open around the clock and free to enter. What is there to see at Parc Beaulieu? The old trees are the highlight. The park holds Lebanon cedars that the city describes as among the oldest planted in Europe, said to date from around 1735 and to have come from the head of the Jardin du Roy in Paris. Around them you will find orchards, a flower garden, greenhouses and a participatory urban garden tended by local residents. What is the park's history? Huguenot refugees of the de Sellon banking family bought the estate in the 17th century and built the main house. In 1830 Jean-Jacques de Sellon founded the Société de la Paix, seen as a forerunner of later international bodies. The land became a public park in the mid-20th century: a 1954 report by the city parks department says the northern section, previously waste ground, was laid out with lawns, paths, play areas and benches, opening to the public from March 1955. What can you do here with children or for exercise? There is a playground, a wading pool, ping-pong tables and a summer kiosk. Joggers can use the "proxitraining" circuit, a 900-metre loop with seven wooden exercise stations, refurbished in May 2014. How do you get there? The park lies in central Geneva on the walking route from the station towards Petit-Saconnex and the airport. From the Cornavin area it is an easy stroll through the neighbouring Cropettes and Chandieu parks. The name Beaulieu goes back to the former municipality of Petit-Saconnex, merged into the city of Geneva in 1931. What are the rules? Dogs must be on a lead and are not allowed on the lawns or in the playground. Cycling is limited to a shared pedestrian and cyclist zone. When should you visit? Late spring to early autumn is best, when the kiosk is running, the garden is in bloom and the cedars give shade. In spring and autumn the park is quieter, and in the colder months the bare outlines of the old trees are easy to appreciate. Frequently asked questions Is Parc Beaulieu free? Yes. It is a city park, open free of charge 24 hours a day. Is it good for families? Yes. It has a playground, a wading pool and open lawns, plus a kiosk in summer. Can I bring my dog? Yes, on a lead. Dogs are barred from the lawns and the playground. What is the main draw for visitors? The ancient Lebanon cedars, dating from the 18th century, and a calm green space a short walk from the centre and the station.

Brüglingen

Münchenstein

Brüglingen in Münchenstein, on the edge of Basel, is a former estate of the Merian family that now forms a large park complex known as the Merian Gardens. It lies in the canton of Basel-Landschaft and brings together botanical gardens, a public park, a historic villa and small museums. What is Brüglingen? The name refers both to the historic farmstead and to the green spaces around it. Today the area covers the Merian Gardens, an open recreational park and the old mill buildings. The botanical gardens were founded in 1968 by the University of Basel on land made available by the Christoph Merian Foundation, and the whole site was called Merian Park until 2006. How did the estate come about? The Merian family used Brüglingen as a summer retreat from the early 19th century. Villa Merian dates to 1711, when Alexander Löffel built a small country manor. A columned portico and the first garden were added around 1800, and a later Second Empire remodelling gave the house its current look. In 1824 Christoph Merian received the estate from his parents as a wedding gift and turned it into a model farm. The couple had no children, so the property passed to the Christoph Merian Foundation, which still owns it. What can you see here? Gardens and park. The site became widely known in 1980, when it hosted Grün 80, the second Swiss garden exhibition, with around 3.5 million visitors. The park is officially called Park im Grünen, yet locals still say Grün 80. It is open around the clock. Villa Merian. The historic house and its garden, which according to available information holds a café. Water Mill Museum. The Brüglingen mill is first recorded in 1259 and worked until 1925. Since 1966 it has housed a museum on milling. Coach and Carriage Museum. A collection run by the Historical Museum of Basel. How do you get there? Brüglingen sits on the outskirts of Basel in the municipality of Münchenstein and is reachable from the city centre by public transport. Check current timetables with local operators before you go. When should you visit? The park is open all year, but the gardens look best from spring to autumn when plants are in bloom. Opening hours for the botanical gardens and museums are best checked on their official websites. Frequently asked questions Is Brüglingen the same as the Merian Gardens? Brüglingen is the name of the historic estate and its surroundings. The Merian Gardens were laid out on its grounds. Who created the estate? The Merian family owned it from the early 19th century, and Christoph Merian developed it into a model farm after 1824. What was Grün 80? It was the second Swiss garden exhibition, held in 1980, and part of the site still carries the nickname. Is entry to the park paid? The park is open around the clock. Check access rules for the gardens and museums with their operators.

Wildpark Brienz

Brienz (BE)

Wildpark Brienz is a free alpine wildlife park in Brienz, a village in the canton of Bern on the shore of Lake Brienz. It has been around since the 1890s and remains a quiet, local stop for an easy walk, whether or not you travel with children. Why does Brienz have a wildlife park? The park was founded in 1896 on the initiative of the cantonal woodcarving school in Brienz. The animals gave students living models to carve, which fits a village famous for its wooden crafts. Today it runs on membership fees from its supporting association plus a municipal subsidy, and a small team of keepers looks after the animals. Which animals can you see? The stars are the Alpine ibex. Kids are born in the enclosure every late spring, and the herd has numbered a dozen or more in recent years. You will also find: red deer, chamois, marmots, snowy owls, tawny owls, pheasants and ducks. Special feed is sold on site so you can feed the animals. Please skip your own snacks. How do you get to Wildpark Brienz? From Brienz railway station it is about a 15-minute walk. There is no parking at the park itself, so leave the car at the Dindlen or Steineggliweg car parks and walk the rest. Because the park sits close to the centre, it is easy to combine with a stroll by the lake or a look around the village. What does it cost and when should you go? Entry is free and the park is open all year. Check wildparkbrienz.ch for exact hours. Late spring is the most rewarding season, when ibex kids arrive, but an hour or two is enough at any time of year. What else is nearby? Brienz is a centre of traditional wood carving, sits on Lake Brienz and works as a base for trips into the Bernese Alps. The park makes a handy break between exploring the village, a lake cruise or a mountain excursion. Frequently asked questions Is Wildpark Brienz free? Yes, it is free and open year-round. You can support it by buying animal feed. Can I drive there? There is no parking at the park. Use the Dindlen or Steineggliweg car parks and walk a short way. How long should I plan? One to two hours is usually enough, depending on how long you linger by the ibex. Is it good for kids? Yes. The animals are close, and feeding them with the special feed is a highlight for children.

Parc du Denantou

Lozanna

Parc du Denantou is a large public park in Lausanne, on the shore of Lake Geneva at the far end of the Ouchy quays. A 19th-century landscaped garden, it offers lake views, mature trees and an unexpected Thai landmark. What is there to see in Parc du Denantou? The park is a textbook example of a 19th-century landscape garden. Tree groves were placed to steer the eye toward chosen viewpoints, so the layout looks relaxed but is carefully planned. Species were picked for their size and shape: Lebanon cedars, oaks and a bald cypress stand out. The main cedar is roughly 250 years old, about 18 m tall, with a trunk circumference of 740 cm. Near one entrance you will find collections of rhododendrons and camellias, at their best in spring. The grounds also include lawns, a pond with fish and a hay meadow that attracts many butterflies. Why is there a Thai pavilion? The park's best-known feature is the Thai pavilion in its north-eastern part. Thailand gave it to Lausanne because the country's king lived and studied in the city. Assembly began on 30 August 2007. With its ornate roof, it is one of the most photographed spots in the park. What is the history of the park? In the early 1800s the land belonged to the Petit-Ouchy estate, which ran from Ouchy to the Vuachère river. In the 18th century it was one of six "great estates" in south-eastern Lausanne, with manor houses built between 1776 and 1796. The Haldimand Tower, dating from 1823, stands next to the park at the mouth of the Vuachère. Is there a playground? Yes. The central playground was renovated in 2024. It has wood-chip play areas, a water feature, a sandpit and accessible swings. In 2024 the southern part of the park also hosted a flower installation as part of the Lausanne Jardins festival. How do I get to Parc du Denantou? The address is Quai d'Ouchy, 1007 Lausanne. The easiest way is to walk along the lakeside promenade from Ouchy. Entry is free. Frequently asked questions Is entry free? Yes, it is a public city park. When is the best time to visit? In spring for the rhododendrons and camellias, and in summer for the butterfly meadow and lake views from the lawns. Is it good for children? Yes. The playground, renovated in 2024, has water play, a sandpit and accessible swings. Why does Lausanne have a Thai pavilion? It is a gift from Thailand to the city where the country's king lived and studied. It was assembled in 2007.

Tierpark Lange Erlen

Basel

Tierpark Lange Erlen is a free wildlife park in Basel, set in the Kleinbasel district on the banks of the river Wiese. Spread over roughly 20 hectares, it keeps native European animals and makes an easy, family-friendly outing close to the city centre. Which animals live at Lange Erlen? The collection centres on European fauna: bison (wisent), several deer species, chamois, lynx, wildcats and red foxes. Farm animals such as goats, sheep, pigs and rabbits share the grounds, alongside waterfowl, reptiles and amphibians. The park likes to point out that its largest resident is the bison and its smallest the honeybee. The ponds are home to swans, geese and ducks. What is the park's history? Basel councillor Albert Lotz-Holzach and like-minded citizens founded the park in 1871 and created the Erlen-Verein, the non-profit association that still runs it. The first animals were a pair of black swans from Australia, a gift from Prince Carl Egon von Fürstenberg; white mute swans from the city of Geneva followed the next year. Floods in 1877 and 1882 caused heavy damage, and around 1900 the original site made way for the new railway line to Badischer Bahnhof. Is there an entrance fee, and when is it open? Entry is free and the grounds are open during daylight. One directory lists daily opening from 8:00 to 18:00, with shorter hours in winter. Check erlen-verein.ch for current times before you go. Where is it and what else is there to do? The address is Erlenparkweg 110, 4058 Basel. A park restaurant is on site, and children can enjoy pony rides, guided tours and birthday parties. The riverside paths along the Wiese also suit a longer walk. Frequently asked questions Does Tierpark Lange Erlen charge admission? No. The park is free and funded through the Erlen-Verein. What animals can I see? Bison, deer, chamois, lynx, wildcats, foxes, farm animals, plus waterfowl, reptiles and amphibians. Is it suitable for young children? Yes. Ponies, farm animals and a restaurant make it an easy visit with kids. How old is the park? It was founded in 1871.

Breitematte

Bazylea

Breitematte is a mid-sized public park in eastern Basel, Switzerland. It serves the St. Alban and Breite neighbourhoods and the neighbouring municipality of Birsfelden as an everyday green living room. What will you see at Breitematte? A large open lawn framed by mature plane and linden trees defines the park. A promenade runs along the St. Alban-Teich canal, and beside the former transformer station there is a multi-use square with skate features. What is there to do with kids? This is a family park first. You will find a climbing frame, a water-play area with sand for toddlers, a hard-surface court and a skate area. The main playground has a retro look, combining old steel equipment with timber, and the city calls it the first of its kind in Basel. A drinking fountain makes hot-day visits easier. How did the park come about? In the 19th century the site was a timber yard known as Rossmatt. Over time it became a favourite play and sports ground for children and teenagers. The latest major makeover opened in 2015: the city gardeners (Stadtgärtnerei) renovated the canal promenade, enlarged the court behind the old transformer station and added new play areas, at a total cost of CHF 890,000. In September 2025 the cantonal government approved a further CHF 1.461 million, citing heavy use and ageing infrastructure. When should you go? Come on a warm day, when the lawn and playground are at their liveliest. The Breitemarkt market takes place next to the park every Saturday from 9:00 to 13:00, so you can pair a stroll with local shopping. The park is open to everyone. Frequently asked questions Where is Breitematte? In the Breite district of eastern Basel, close to Birsfelden and next to St. Alban. Is it good for children? Yes: a water and sand area for toddlers, a retro playground, climbing equipment and a court. Is there a skate park? Yes, skate elements are built into the multi-use square by the former transformer building. When is the market? Every Saturday, 9:00-13:00, beside the park. Who maintains the park? Basel's city gardening department, the Stadtgärtnerei.

Voltamatte

Bazylea

Voltamatte in Basel is a neighbourhood park built around a broad lawn in the city's west, in the St. Johann district close to the French border. Locals use it for play, sport and meeting friends, which makes it a good place to see everyday Basel away from the main sights. What is this place? The park is public green space looked after by Basel's municipal gardening department, the Stadtgärtnerei. Its current layout dates from a 2011–2012 redesign tied to the end of construction on the Nordtangente road link. It was the final piece of that project: the site was turned back into green space and opened to residents in September 2012. Fifty-two oak trees went in that spring and are slowly growing into a shady canopy. What will you see? A large open lawn – the heart of the park, used for ball games and picnics. A play landscape – water and sand zones aimed mainly at smaller children. The Robi adventure playground – on this spot since 1957 and rebuilt in 2011–2012 (address: Voltaplatz 4). A polar bear sculpture – a 1947 work by Adolf Weisskopf and one of the park's best-known features. Seating and a public toilet – practical for a longer stay with children. Is there any history here? Yes. According to the city, the area belonged to a large late Celtic settlement between roughly 150 and 80 BC. The park is not a heritage sight in itself, but it sits on ground with a very long record of habitation. Who is it for? Families with children get the most out of Voltamatte, especially as a break from museums and the old town. It also fits into a walk through St. Johann, combined with a visit to the nearby St. Johanns-Park by the Rhine. When should you visit? Late spring, summer and early autumn are best, when the lawn and water play area are in full use and the oaks provide shade. Weekends and warm afternoons are the busiest. Frequently asked questions Is entry to Voltamatte free? Yes. It is a public city park with no admission charge. Is there something for young children? Yes. The water-and-sand play landscape is designed mostly for smaller kids, and the Robi playground is right next to it. Where is the park? In western Basel, in the St. Johann district around Voltaplatz, not far from the French border. Are there toilets? Yes, the park has a public toilet along with benches and other seating.

Dreirosenanlage

Bazylea

Dreirosenanlage is a public park in Basel's Kleinbasel district, on the right bank of the Rhine beside the Dreirosenbrücke bridge. It is mainly a neighbourhood space, but for visitors it offers a look at everyday Basel life and at how the city designs its public spaces. What is Dreirosenanlage? The park covers roughly 13,400 square metres and is counted by the city among its largest green areas. It is maintained by the Stadtgärtnerei, the Basel-Stadt municipal gardening service. With the Rhine nearby and a fairly young local population, it is busy from spring to autumn. How did the park come about? It was laid out in 1935, after the Dreirosenbrücke was built. During the 1990s the site served as a construction zone for the Nordtangente motorway. Afterwards the city held a design competition, won by the Zurich firm Ernst und Hausherr. The redesigned park opened in two stages, in September 2005 and spring 2006, and received a recognition award from the Stiftung "Lebendige Stadt" in 2006. What can you see and do here? The park is built around play and movement: a children's playground, a basketball and street-soccer court, a street workout area, the city's first, installed in 2015, a parkour spot along the bridge wall, opened in September 2020 as Basel's first and proposed by the Dreirosen parents' council, a skate area under the bridge, upgraded in 2020, benches, fountains and toilets. Under the bridge you will also find the Spiel- und Freizeithalle Dreirosen, an indoor play and activity hall for children and teenagers, handy when the weather turns. When is the best time to visit? Warm days are best, ideally combined with a walk along the Rhine. Afternoons and weekends are the liveliest; mornings are calmer. There is no admission fee. FAQ Is Dreirosenanlage free to enter? Yes. It is a public city park with no entrance fee. Is it suitable for families? Yes. There is a playground, and the indoor play hall under the bridge is a rainy-day option. What sports facilities are there? A basketball and street-soccer court, a street workout area, a parkour spot and a skate area under the bridge. Who looks after the park? The Stadtgärtnerei Basel-Stadt, the city gardening service, based at Dufourstrasse 40.

Rosenfeldpark

Bazylea

Rosenfeldpark in Basel is a heritage-listed city park in the St. Johann district. It sits on slightly raised ground amid busy streets and works as a quiet green pocket for locals and families with children. What is Rosenfeldpark and where does it come from? The grounds began as a private garden and were opened to the public around 1950. The canton of Basel-Stadt now treats the park as a garden monument (Gartendenkmal), and the city's Stadtgärtnerei Basel looks after it. What will you see? Veteran trees and shrubs. Mature trees give generous shade in summer, and the shrub groups shelter birds and small wildlife. Winding paths and lawns. Walkways loop past wide lawns with benches and movable park chairs you can arrange wherever you like. The sculpture "L'Aube". It is the work of Louis Léon Weber. A public toilet. The new building is accessible for people with disabilities. Is it a good stop with kids? Yes, this is the park's biggest draw. Since the renovation there is a new playground with climbing elements, swings, a balance course, a lookout platform and a sandpit. Children from the neighbourhood were consulted on the design. Next to it is a paddling pool, filled with fresh water every day in warm months. The whole area is aimed mainly at younger and middle-aged children. What changed in the recent renovation? Work started in March 2023 and the park was partly closed meanwhile. It reopened on 16 August 2024. The cantonal parliament approved CHF 3.95 million, and the full amount was not used. Young trees, shrubs and herbs were planted, and the lawns now have an irrigation system fed by grey water from the paddling pool (a 50 m³ tank). A residents' group, "Anwohnergruppe Rosenfeld", has taken an active interest in the park's future. When should you go? Warm days from late spring to early autumn are best: the paddling pool is running and the old trees provide shade. For a quiet walk and a bench break, any season works. Frequently asked questions Is entry to Rosenfeldpark free? Yes. It is a public park, open to everyone since about 1950. Is there a toilet in the park? Yes. A new public toilet, accessible for people with disabilities, was built during the renovation. Is there a playground? Yes. There is a new playground with a climbing set, swings and a sandpit, plus a paddling pool. When did the park reopen? On 16 August 2024, after works that began in March 2023.

Parc de Milan

Lozanna

Parc de Milan in Lausanne is a public park of roughly 11 hectares, set between the main railway station and the shore of Lake Geneva. A flat open lawn, the Place de Milan, sits below the wooded Montriond hill, and the cantonal botanical garden lies right next door. What will you see at Parc de Milan? The park has two distinct sides. The lower part is a broad grass field used for football, picnics and lazy afternoons. Above it rises the steep Montriond knoll, covered in woodland. Chestnut trees were once planted there; today beeches, oaks and ash trees dominate. Paths on the hill give views over the surroundings, and at its foot the Cantonal Botanical Museum and Gardens form one continuous green area with the park. There is also a pétanque court off Avenue de Milan. Is it good for kids? Yes. The park is known for its playground, which the city renovated in two phases. In 2023 the old landmark tower was swapped for a new cat-shaped play tower with a large slide and a smaller one. Where does the name come from, and what is the history? The land belonged to the former Montriond-le-Crêt estate, which stayed private for a long time. Lausanne bought it in 1894 for CHF 380,000, wanting to give its new residential districts a promenade on a par with those of European capitals. As early as 1886 a local development society had floated the idea of a leisure park with a festival ground. The name is a nod to Milan: in 1905 Milan's council named a new street Via Losanna to mark the opening of the Simplon tunnel, and Lausanne answered by calling the promenade west of the hill Place de Milan. The university's botanical garden only moved up the hill in 1937, under architect Alphonse Laverrière. How do you get there, and when should you go? The park is in the city centre, a short walk from the main station toward the lake (about 46.514 N, 6.623 E). Address: Avenue de Milan, 1007 Lausanne. Entry is free. The city presents it both as a neighbourhood park and as a showcase for its green spaces. Warm days are the best time, when the lawn and the hill fill with families and walkers; in spring and summer, pair the visit with the botanical garden. Frequently asked questions Is Parc de Milan free? Yes, it is an open public park. How big is it? About 11 hectares. What is next to it? The Cantonal Botanical Museum and Gardens, at the foot of Montriond hill. Why is it called Milan? It commemorates an exchange of gestures between Lausanne and Milan in 1905, tied to the Simplon tunnel.

Paul Sacher-Anlage

Bazylea

Paul Sacher-Anlage is a public green space in Basel, Switzerland, sitting on the Rhine's left bank beside the old Solitude park. It carries the name of Paul Sacher, the Basel conductor and music patron, and it is best known as the address of the Museum Tinguely. The grounds work as a quiet forecourt to the museum. Where is Paul Sacher-Anlage? It lies in the city of Basel, in Basel-Stadt canton, on the eastern side of the nineteenth-century Solitude park, facing the river. A motorway bridge ends close by, and the Roche towers rise over the skyline and are visible from much of the grounds. Directories list Paul Sacher-Anlage as the museum's street address. Who was Paul Sacher? Sacher was born in Basel in 1906 and died there in 1999. He founded the Basler Kammerorchester in 1926 and, with colleagues, the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in 1933. He commissioned and premiered around two hundred works by composers including Bartók, Hindemith and Stravinsky. The Paul Sacher Foundation, which houses composers' archives, was established in Basel in 1973. What is there to see? Museum Tinguely: designed by Ticino architect Mario Botta and opened on 3 October 1996. Roche gave the building to the city and region to mark its centenary. The collection: devoted to the kinetic art of Jean Tinguely, built from gifts by his widow Niki de Saint Phalle and works from the Roche collection. Lawns, trees and river: shade on warm days, with the Rhine promenade a few minutes away on foot. The Roche towers: a modern backdrop that makes the spot popular for city photos. How do you get there? From central Basel, walk or cycle along the Rhine, for example on the Unterer Rheinweg. Komoot users rate the nearby paths very highly for walking and cycling. For public transport, check the Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe journey planner with "Museum Tinguely" as the destination. When should you visit? The grounds are open public space and can be visited year-round. Late spring and summer are the most pleasant, when the riverbank is busiest. Check the museum's own website for its opening hours, as they differ from the open park. Frequently asked questions Is Paul Sacher-Anlage a standalone attraction? Mostly it is the green setting of the Museum Tinguely. Most visitors combine a stroll through the grounds with the museum and a walk by the Rhine. Is entry free? The outdoor area is public. Only the museum charges admission. Who designed the museum? Mario Botta, an architect from Ticino. The building was funded by Roche. Is it suitable for children? Yes. The open space and the nearby riverbank make an easy family stop, and Tinguely's moving sculptures inside tend to appeal to younger visitors too.

Claramatte

Bazylea

Claramatte is a neighbourhood park in Kleinbasel, the densely built part of Basel on the right bank of the Rhine. At roughly 1.2 hectares, it works as a shared backyard for the surrounding streets, with a large playground, open lawns and mature trees. Where does the name come from? The park grew out of part of the garden of the former St. Clara convent, hence the name. Over the years the site was used for other purposes, including surface parking. Around 2000 the green space was enlarged by about 1,600 m² to approximately 10,000 m², keeping 70 existing trees and adding twelve new ones. How has it changed? Between 2004 and 2006 the park was fully redesigned. The Christoph Merian Foundation funded the project on condition that the park be restored to its original extent, so the open-air car spaces were removed and replaced by an underground garage with 154 spaces. The park reopened with a neighbourhood festival in June 2006. After about thirteen years of heavy use, the city renovated it again in 2018–2019. The playground was refreshed and the temporary container housing the children's kiosk, the Kindertankstelle, gave way to a purpose-built building. The works cost CHF 1.2 million, and the reopening took place on 23 August 2019. What is there to do? Playground for ages 0 to 12, with a castle, bridges and a climbing tower, slides, rope rides and a small football pitch. Kindertankstelle, a kiosk and activity base for children. Lawns and shade trees for picnics, reading or meeting neighbours. The city has announced fitness equipment and chess tables, expected in autumn 2026. Who is it for? Claramatte suits families travelling with children and anyone curious about everyday Basel away from the Old Town sights. It is not a formal showpiece park; its appeal is how well it serves local life. Kleinbasel has many residents and little green space, so the park is busy on warm days and weekends, and it is a convenient place for children to burn off energy between museum visits. Frequently asked questions Is entry free? Yes. It is a public city park maintained by the Basel Stadtgärtnerei. Is it suitable for toddlers? Yes. The play areas cover ages 0 to 12 and there is a children's kiosk on site. How big is the park? About 1.2 hectares of green space in the middle of the urban fabric. Can I park nearby? An underground neighbourhood car park with 154 spaces sits beneath the area; it opened in 2004.

Schützenmattpark

Bazylea

Schützenmattpark in Basel is one of the city's largest green spaces, covering just under five hectares. Basel describes it as its first "Volkspark", a public park meant for everyone rather than a private or aristocratic garden. Today it combines lawns and mature trees with playgrounds, fitness equipment and a historic restaurant. Where does the name come from? The name goes back to the 15th century. Rifle shooting was a popular pastime in Basel at the time, so the city council gave local marksmen this ground for practice. "Schützenmatte" roughly means "marksmen's meadow". The shooting range moved to the Allschwiler Weiher pond in 1899, which freed the site for a new use. How did the park come about? Basel's city gardener Johann Niklaus Scholer designed and laid out the park as a landscape garden on the former shooting meadow, and it opened in 1900. Its basic structure has survived to this day with few changes, so a walk here is also a look at late 19th-century garden design. In 2025 the city marked the park's 125th anniversary with a brochure on its history and wildlife, plus guided tours on garden heritage, park design and native plants and animals. What can you see and do here? Playground. The park has an individually designed children's playground. In 2015 the canton approved around CHF 470,000 to renovate the play islands and add an exercise course, because some areas no longer met safety standards. Exercise equipment. Play and fitness equipment is available for all generations, not only children. Schützenhaus. The restaurant at Schützenmattstrasse 56 occupies a listed building. Its core is a solid masonry marksmen's house from 1561, and a foundation supports its upkeep on behalf of the Gesellschaft der Feuerschützen. Stadion Schützenmatte. The home ground of BSC Old Boys Basel sits right next to the park. When should you visit? The park is public and open during the day. It looks best in the warmer months, when the lawns and trees are fully green. Families will appreciate the playground, and visitors exploring the city can pair a stroll with lunch at the Schützenhaus. Current tour dates and events are published by Stadtgärtnerei Basel (the city gardening department) at bs.ch. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee for Schützenmattpark? No. It is public green space run by the city and free to enter. Is it a good place for children? Yes. There is a dedicated playground, renovated in 2015, plus movement equipment for different age groups. When was the park created? It opened in 1900, after the shooting range moved away in 1899. The name of the site itself dates back to the 15th century. Can you eat at the park? The Schützenhaus restaurant at Schützenmattstrasse 56 is nearby, in a listed building whose roots go back to the 16th century.

Louis-Häfliger-Park

Zurych

Louis-Häfliger-Park is a compact neighbourhood park in Oerlikon, in northern Zurich. It covers roughly 5,000 m² and gives residents and office workers a place to unwind and meet. It makes an easy stop if you are curious how Zurich turned former industrial land into everyday green space. Where is the park? The park sits between the Regina-Kägi-Hof housing co-operative and the old production halls of the Oerlikon-Contraves works, with newer service buildings close by. This is Neu-Oerlikon, the part of the district redeveloped under the Zentrum Zürich Nord project. Oerlikon is reached by train or tram from central Zurich, and the park is a short walk through the new quarter. Coordinates: 47.4124 N, 8.5338 E. Who was Louis Häfliger? The park honours Louis Häfliger (1904-1993), known as the "Saviour of Mauthausen". As a Red Cross delegate he helped save the lives of about 40,000 prisoners at the Mauthausen concentration camp. It adds quiet weight to an otherwise relaxed spot. What will you see? The design, titled "Quilt", won a 2000 competition run by Grün Stadt Zürich and is the work of Kuhn und Truninger. Construction started in 2002 and the park opened in 2003. The layout is a patchwork of strips with different characters: a lawn with pyramid-shaped mounds that children like to climb, a paved asphalt area planted with trees, a play strip with swings, slides and climbing frames, temporary retention basins that hold rainwater during heavy downpours. So the park works as a playground, a place to sit, and a piece of the city's rainwater management. How does it fit into Neu-Oerlikon? It is one of four parks created in Neu-Oerlikon between about 2001 and 2005, alongside Oerliker Park, MFO-Park and Wahlenpark. Oerliker Park serves the wider district, while smaller parks like this one serve their immediate surroundings. If you have time, link them into a single walk. When should you go? Late spring to early autumn is best, when the lawn and trees are green and the play area is busiest. On weekdays around lunchtime, staff from nearby companies use the park. Entry is free and a visit takes 15 to 30 minutes. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. It is a public city park. Is it suitable for children? Yes. There are pyramid-shaped mounds and a strip with swings, slides and climbing frames. How long should I plan? About 15-30 minutes for the park itself; longer if you walk on to the other Neu-Oerlikon parks. Who designed it? Kuhn und Truninger, winners of the 2000 Grün Stadt Zürich competition. The park opened in 2003.

Horburgpark

Bazylea

Horburgpark in Basel is one of the biggest green spaces in Kleinbasel, the part of the city on the right bank of the Rhine. At almost 3 hectares, it works mainly as a neighbourhood living room: shady trees, a playground, sports courts and plenty of lawn for a picnic, without the crowds of the Old Town. Where does the park come from? The land used to be a cemetery. Part of it was given over to other uses once burials ended, and since the 1950s what remained has been open to everyone as a public park. The city's parks department, the Stadtgärtnerei Basel, looks after it. Design studies for its future have suggested three zones: a quiet outer edge, a line of linden trees through the middle and a livelier core that keeps features from the 1950s. What can you see and do? Old trees and wildlife. The park has many mature trees, plus a small woodland-like patch near the composting area. Rare and protected plant species grow in several spots. Playground and Robi play area. The play zone is meant for ages 0 to 14, and the park hosts one of the city's oldest Robi playgrounds, a supervised adventure-play format. Sport. Facilities include a dirt jump track, basketball courts, a street soccer pitch, a slackline, a boules area, skate elements, a dog play area and a street workout station added in 2020. Paddling pool. On warm weekdays from May to September, when it reaches at least 25°C, park staff fill the pool for toddlers. How to get there and when to go Horburgpark lies in the Horburg quarter of Kleinbasel, north of the city centre and a few kilometres from Basel SBB on foot or by public transport. Check the BVB timetable for the nearest stop. Late spring and summer are the best seasons, when the paddling pool runs and the courts are busy. Entry is free and the park is open as public green space. Who is it for? It is not a sightseeing stop in the way the Old Town is. It suits families with children, joggers and visitors who want to see everyday Basel off the main tourist route. If you combine Kleinbasel with a walk along the Rhine, the park makes an easy midday break. Frequently asked questions Is Horburgpark free to enter? Yes. It is a public city park with no admission charge. Is there a playground for children? Yes. The play area covers ages 0 to 14 and includes one of the oldest Robi playgrounds in Basel. Can I play basketball or skate there? Yes. The park has basketball and street soccer courts, skate elements, a dirt jump track and a street workout station. Was the park once a cemetery? Yes. The site served as a cemetery, and it has been public green space for residents since the 1950s.

MFO-Park

Zürich

MFO-Park in Zürich is a public park in the Oerlikon district in the north of the city. It occupies ground where Maschinenfabrik Oerlikon (MFO), one of the area's biggest industrial works, operated for roughly a hundred years. Today it anchors the redeveloped Neu Oerlikon neighbourhood and is one of Switzerland's most unusual urban green spaces. What is the park like? The centrepiece is a huge open-lattice "park hall" of galvanised steel, open on three sides. It traces the footprint of a former factory building and measures about 100 m long, 35 m wide and 17 m high. Tens of thousands of steel parts and around 330 tonnes of steel went into it, and wire ropes serve as supports for climbing plants. What will you see? Climbing plants covering the frame: wild vine, wisteria and clematis. Green dominates in summer, the vine turns red in autumn, and wisteria blooms in spring. Paths, benches and seating inside the structure, plus a sun deck on top with views over northern Zürich. An open square beside the hall that locals and office workers use as a meeting place. Who designed it? The city launched a design competition in 1998. It was won by architects Burckhardt + Partner together with landscape architects Raderschallpartner, with Basler & Hofmann as structural engineers. The first phase was built in 2001-2002. MFO-Park is one of four new parks created when the former factory grounds were redeveloped. How do you get there? The park lies just north of Zürich Oerlikon railway station, a few minutes on foot. Suburban trains from central Zürich reach Oerlikon in around a quarter of an hour. Entry is free and the area is open to the public. When should you visit? Late spring to autumn is best, when the plants are in leaf. In summer the area hosts open-air cinema and other events. Autumn brings the richest colours. FAQ Is MFO-Park free? Yes. It is a public park with no admission fee. Why is the park shaped like a hall? The steel structure echoes the size of the old Maschinenfabrik Oerlikon building, recalling the site's industrial past. Which plants grow on the structure? Mainly wild vine, along with wisteria and clematis trained along steel ropes. Is there a viewpoint? Yes, a sun deck on top offers views across the north of Zürich. How long should I plan? Thirty to sixty minutes for a stroll and a rest, longer if an outdoor event is on.

Stadtgarten

Winterthur

Stadtgarten in Winterthur is a public park in the centre of the second-largest city in the canton of Zurich. Its roots go back to the 18th century, and today it combines lawns and shade with outdoor sculpture and an art museum next door. How did the Stadtgarten come about? The starting point was the Bürgergärten, citizens' gardens laid out in the 18th century outside the town fortifications. One building from that era survives: a small Baroque pavilion, once a summer house called Haus zum Balustergarten. It is the park's oldest witness. The city bought the land in 1901. In 1902 landscape architect Evariste Mertens designed the public green space, and the name "Stadtgarten" first appears at that point. The eastern section was laid out to his plans that year. The park was reshaped after the Second World War. A second design competition ran in 1947–1948, and Walter Leder reworked the layout between 1949 and 1951. It reopened in 1951 and was extended west to Merkurstrasse in 1957. Its present layout is a heritage monument of cantonal importance. What is there to see? A Baroque pavilion from the 18th century, left over from the old citizens' gardens. Sculpture: bronzes by Hermann Haller (1930) and Gerhard Marcks (1942), plus a newer work by Oscar Tuazon. Mid-century design: lawns, trees and paths from Leder's redesign, still easy to read today. A museum next door: Reinhart am Stadtgarten, one of the three sites of Kunst Museum Winterthur. It occupies a boys' school built by Leonhard Zeugheer in 1842. How to fit it into your day The park sits downtown, so access is free and unrestricted. Combine it with a walk through the old town; Gottfried Semper's Stadthaus (built 1865–1869) is a short distance away. In summer it works well for a picnic or a break between museum visits. If art is on your list, pair the stroll with Reinhart am Stadtgarten. Does the park need renovation? After more than 70 years of heavy use, the city concluded that the park needs a comprehensive renovation. A trial planning process in 2009 was followed by a development concept in 2011. Check the City of Winterthur website for current work and timing before you go. Frequently asked questions Is entry to the Stadtgarten free? Yes. It is an open public park. Who designed it? The original 1902 layout is by Evariste Mertens; the current form comes from Walter Leder's 1949–1951 redesign. Is there a museum nearby? Yes. Reinhart am Stadtgarten, part of Kunst Museum Winterthur, stands next to the park. Is the park a listed monument? Yes, its layout is protected as a monument of cantonal importance.

Parc des Bastions

Genewa

Parc des Bastions in Geneva is the largest historic park in the city centre, spread out beneath the Old Town hill. It combines university buildings, old botanical plantings and one of the best-known Protestant monuments in Europe within a compact, walkable area. What is there to see in Parc des Bastions? The headline sight is the Reformation Wall (Mur des Réformateurs). It runs about 100 metres, with four statues five metres tall at its centre: John Calvin, Guillaume Farel, Théodore de Bèze and John Knox. The city motto, "Post Tenebras Lux", is carved above them. The monument dates from 1909 and marks the 400th anniversary of Calvin's birth and the 350th of the Geneva Academy, the forerunner of today's university. Architects Laverrière and Taillens designed it with sculptors Landowski and Bouchard. The other crowd-puller is the giant chess boards beside the park's bandstand. They are free to use, and there is nearly always a game going or a small audience watching. The park also works as an open-air arboretum. More than 200 species grow here, and roughly 140 trees carry name labels. Look for Japanese maples, Atlas cedars and Himalayan weeping pines. The veteran trees recall the first botanical garden, which Augustin-Pyramus de Candolle founded on this site in 1817. What is the history of the park? The promenade was laid out in the early 18th century between the old Reformation-era fortifications and two 17th-century bastions. A heritage inventory gives 1724-1727. The park is now framed by the University of Geneva and the Bibliothèque de Genève, along with the Palais Eynard, home of the city's executive authorities. How do you get there and when should you go? The park sits at the edge of the Old Town next to Place Neuve, an easy walk from the city centre. It is open daily around the clock and admission is free. Spring and summer bring full foliage, while autumn gives the strongest colour. Allow about an hour for the wall and a stroll along the paths. What can you combine with a visit? Directly above the park runs the Promenade de la Treille, shaded by chestnut trees. It has a 120-metre wooden bench and looks down over the Bastions. From there you can walk straight into the Old Town streets. Frequently asked questions Is Parc des Bastions free to enter? Yes. It is a public park, open 24 hours, and you can see the Reformation Wall without a ticket. Who is shown on the Reformation Wall? Calvin, Farel, Bèze and John Knox, key figures of the Reformation. Each statue stands about five metres tall. Can I play the giant chess? Yes. The boards are next to the bandstand and are free. The pieces are large, so a game takes some effort. Is it a good stop with children? Yes. There is plenty of green space to walk, and the chess boards and towering statues tend to hold younger visitors' interest.

Rieterpark

Zurych

Rieterpark is a landscape park in Zurich's Enge district, close to Lake Zurich and wrapped around the Museum Rietberg. At roughly 70,000 square metres, the city's tourist board calls it the largest park in Zurich. It suits a slow walk, a picnic, or a break from sightseeing downtown. How did Rieterpark come about? The grounds were laid out around 1855 for Otto Wesendonck, a German merchant, as the setting for his villa. The architect Leonhard Zeugheer is credited with the house, and the gardener Theodor Froebel designed the gardens. The Wesendoncks were patrons of Richard Wagner, who was living in Zurich at the time and worked on his opera Tristan. The Rieter family, industrialists from Winterthur, bought the estate in 1871, which is where the park's name comes from. In 1945 the city purchased about 68,000 square metres, including Villa Wesendonck, for 2.9 million francs. A public vote in 1949 turned the villa into a museum, and it opened on 24 May 1952. What is there to see? Veteran trees. Several beeches date from the original planting and are more than 150 years old. Pond and fountain. The best-known feature of the garden landscape. Terraced slopes. The ground rises and falls, so paths pass several vantage points. Historic villas. Besides Villa Wesendonck, you will find Villa Rieter, Villa Schönberg and the former Remise, all part of the museum. A modern addition. The "Smaragd" building opened in 2007 and more than doubled the museum's exhibition space. On 26 December 1999, Storm Lothar badly damaged part of the tree stock. The park has since recovered and works as a public green space, occasionally hosting classical concerts and theatre. What should you combine it with? The Museum Rietberg is Switzerland's major museum of non-European art, built on the collection of Baron Eduard von der Heydt. Walking through the park is free; you only pay for the museum exhibitions. Afterwards you can head down toward the lake and the Enge neighbourhood. How do you get there? The park is a short ride from the city centre. The simplest route is by tram or train to the Enge station area, then a short walk through the neighbourhood. The city lists the address as Gablerstrasse 15, and there are also entrances from the Scheideggstrasse side. When is the best time to visit? Late spring and summer, when the trees are in full leaf, and early autumn for colour. Weekday mornings are quieter than weekend afternoons, when locals come for picnics. Frequently asked questions Is Rieterpark free to enter? Yes. The park is open to everyone, and only the Museum Rietberg exhibitions need a ticket. Where exactly is it? In Zurich's Enge district near Lake Zurich, surrounding the Museum Rietberg. Is it really Zurich's largest park? The city's tourism site says so, giving about 70,000 square metres. Some listing sites give slightly different figures, so treat the number as approximate. What is the Wagner connection? The park was laid out around Villa Wesendonck, home of Wagner's patron Otto Wesendonck. The composer lived in Zurich in the 1850s and worked on Tristan during that period.

Rosengarten

Winterthur

Rosengarten in Winterthur is a municipal rose garden on the Heiligberg hill, a short uphill walk from the city centre. Around 2,900 roses of roughly 300 varieties bloom here each year, and the slopes open up views across Winterthur's rooftops and the surrounding hills. What will you see at the Rosengarten? The garden covers about 2.3 hectares, making it one of the larger public parks in the city. Rose beds sit among lawns and mature trees, so the place feels like a relaxed park rather than a strictly formal collection. Alongside newer cultivars you will find classics such as "La France", bred in 1867 and often cited as one of the most famous roses ever introduced, and the cherry-red remontant rose "Ulrich Brunner Fils". The city's gardening service looks after the collection, and the beds are well kept. What is the garden's history? Tourism sources describe the site as a former villa garden of the Reinhart family. The city bought it in 1961 and opened it to the public in 1964, tied to Winterthur's 700th anniversary. Some accounts link the estate to a different villa, so check the city's own pages if you need exact details. How do you get to the Rosengarten? The garden lies in the Heiligberg district on Turmhaldenstrasse (8400 Winterthur). From the centre the route climbs, so expect a short but noticeable ascent. Entry is open and there is no ticket desk, since it is an ordinary city park. When should you visit? Late spring and summer are best, when the roses are in full bloom. In winter the beds are bare and the garden loses its main draw. Early morning or late afternoon gives softer light and quieter benches. What else can you combine with the visit? Heiligberg makes a good base for an easy walk linking Winterthur's other green spaces. Afterwards you can head down towards the old town, cafes and the city's museums. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. The Rosengarten is a public city park. How many roses grow here? According to Switzerland Tourism, about 2,900 roses in around 300 varieties. When do the roses bloom best? From late spring through summer. Winter brings almost no flowers. How long should you plan for a visit? Usually 45 minutes to an hour, including time to enjoy the view over the city.