When we started researching Zurich for our 2019 trip there were four things I wanted to do: eat lots of chocolate, have a drink at Cabaret Voltaire, ride up the funicular (aka the UBS Polybahn), and visit the Pavillon Le Corbusier. See, I love Mid Century modern design and the work of Le Corbusier, so knowing that there was this work right near the middle of the city, well, it was on my must do list.

Tucked away on the serene shores of Lake Zurich, the pavilion stands as a tribute to one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. Not only does it offer a glimpse into Le Corbusier's vision, but it also provides an escape where modern design and nature coexist.

His Vision for the Pavillon: Le Corbusier’s Final Masterpiece

Le Corbusier, born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris, was a Swiss-French architect, designer, urban planner, and writer. He is one of the pioneers of modern architecture, famous for his innovative and often radical ideas about urban design, functionality, and aesthetics.

Completed in 1967, Pavillon Le Corbusier was his last building and the only one he designed using a steel-and-glass frame. Commissioned by Heidi Weber, Swiss gallery owner and Le Corbusier patron, it was designed to serve as a dedicated space for showcasing his artistic and architectural works.

Le Corbusier made use of prefabricated steel elements combined with multi-coloured enameled plates fitted to the central core, and above the complex he designed a free-floating roof to keep the house protected from the rain and the sun.

What to Expect When Visiting Pavillon Le Corbusier

The Pavillon Le Corbusier is open for visitors from April to November. You can visit from Tuesday to Sunday, with tickets priced at $13.50 USD (as of 2025). It’s a great spot to spend a few hours, soaking in both the art inside and the calm outside in the gardens.

Admission to the exhibition pavilion is limited. For groups of ten or more, booking is required. Due to its listed building status, the pavilion provides limited wheelchair-access and does have many stairs. Prams are not permitted.

How to Get There

Walk: The Pavillon is located about 20 minutes on foot from Bellevueplatz.
Tram: You can also take tram lines 2 and 4
Bus: The line 33 to the Höschgasse or Fröhlichstrasse stops
Boat: hop on a Limmat boat from the Zürichsee-Schifffahrtsgesellschaft (ZSG) that sails towards Zürichhorn.

Exploring the Surroundings

One of the most delightful aspects of the Pavillon is its location. Situated right on the shores of Lake Zurich, the building is surrounded by the lush Le Corbusier Park, a peaceful green space perfect for relaxing or taking a quiet walk.

If you happen to find yourself in Zurich (or near by) I would highly recommend taking time to visit this space. I think we were there for a couple of hours all up.

For more about the Pavillon, check out this stunning video tour of the space: Watch here.

Address: Pavillon Le Corbusier, Höschgasse 8 8008 Zürich

Featured