The Zurich Opera House (Opernhaus Zürich) sits on beautiful Sechseläutenplatz in the heart of the city. In addition to its world‑class productions, the Opera House offers guided tours—a perfect choice for rainy days in Zurich. We booked a 60‑minute private tour that gave us an exclusive look behind the scenes of this historic cultural landmark.
A Historic Landmark in Zurich
Since opening in 1891, the Zurich Opera House has been a center for opera, ballet, and classical music. It was among the first opera houses in Europe to use electric lighting. The auditorium, which seats about 1,100 guests, creates an intimate atmosphere.
Our Private Family Tour Experience
During our private behind‑the‑scenes tour, we discovered just how much work goes into every production. Our guide led us through the costume and props departments, the tailoring workshop, and even onto the stage itself. Standing where world‑famous performers have sung was a memorable moment for everyone. The kids especially loved exploring the creative side of the production. They were amazed by the giant stage props (including a full‑size camel!) and thrilled to find cabinets filled with hundreds of theatre shoes. One highlight was when our son created thunder sounds using a metal sheet—just like during a real performance. Our guide was warm, knowledgeable, and wonderful with children, taking time to answer all our questions. Just note that the tour isn’t stroller‑friendly due to several staircases.
Tickets, Arrival, and Nearby Attractions
Tickets for both public (in English and German) and private tours can be booked online. Private tours are available in English, German, Italian, or French for groups of up to 15 people. The Zurich Opera House is easily accessible by public transport, and there’s convenient paid parking at Parkhaus Opéra. Its central location makes it easy to combine the tour with other family‑friendly activities in Zurich, such as visiting the Natural History Museum, exploring the Botanical Garden, or taking a walk along Lake Zurich.
Why This Tour Is Worth It
Our family and friends loved this unique look behind the scenes. It deepened our appreciation for the performing arts and offered an enjoyable cultural experience for all ages. If you’re visiting the city with kids or looking for fun things to do in Zurich as a family, a tour of the Zurich Opera House is a fantastic choice—especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate. For more family‑friendly Zurich travel tips, check out other posts on our blog.