Zürich Opera House

The Zürich Opera House isn't just for adults! This world-class venue offers specially designed family matinees and children's opera productions that introduce young audiences to the magic of live performance. The stunning lakeside architecture and grand interiors make attending a show here a memorable cultural experience that kids will talk about long after returning home.

• ✓Specially created children's opera productions with engaging stories and interactive elements
• ✓Gorgeous lakeside location with views of Lake Zurich and the Alps
• ✓Stunning Belle Époque architecture with ornate interiors that feel like stepping into a fairy tale
• ✓English surtitles available for many performances, making it accessible for international visitors
• ✓Pre-show workshops and activities sometimes offered for young audience members

1. 1.Book children's opera productions in advance as they sell out quickly, especially during school holidays. Many performances offer English surtitles (translated captions), so check when booking.
2. 2.The box office hours (12:00 PM to 6:00 PM) are limited, so purchase tickets online before your trip to avoid disappointment. Family matinees are typically offered on Sunday afternoons during the season.
3. 3.Dress is smart casual for family performances (no need for formal attire). Arrive 30 minutes early to explore the beautiful building and let kids use the restroom before the show starts.
4. 4.Take public transportation: the Opera House is steps from Bellevue tram stop (lines 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 15). Parking in central Zurich is expensive and limited.
5. 5.Download the Opera House app before visiting to see which performances have English surtitles and to read child-friendly synopses of the stories.

Sunday afternoons during the opera season (September through June) when family matinees are typically scheduled. Weekend performances are most convenient for traveling families and often feature shorter, kid-friendly productions lasting 60-90 minutes rather than full-length operas.

Tickets for children's productions typically range from 20-40 CHF per person (moderate pricing). The venue is accessible by wheelchair, and there are family restrooms available. No food is allowed inside the auditorium, but there's a café for intermission treats.

The main opera season runs from September through June, with a summer break in July and August when the Opera House is closed. Family matinees and children's productions are scheduled throughout the season, with special holiday performances often offered in December. Check the schedule well in advance as the international Zurich Festival in June/July may offer additional family programming.

Sternen Grill (5-minute walk) is a Zurich institution serving excellent bratwurst and rösti that kids love, with quick service perfect for pre-show dining. For a sit-down meal, Zeughauskeller offers traditional Swiss comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere, though it's a bit pricier and requires reservations.