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Swiss Ornithological Institute Sempach

The Swiss Ornithological Institute (Vogelwarte) in Sempach, Switzerland, is a foundation for ornithology and bird protection. Its visitor centre features an interactive experience exhibition, a bird cinema, a mechanical theatre about bird songs, and a nature garden on the shores of Lake Sempach. The institute also operates a bird ringing centre, a specialist library, and a care station for injured birds, and hosts changing temporary exhibitions.

Families and Kids

The visitor centre offers interactive exhibits, a bird cinema, and a mechanical theatre about bird songs that children can enjoy. School programmes and workshops are available for different age groups (cycles 1-3). The nature garden and aviaries also provide outdoor discovery opportunities.

Information

  • Visit duration: 120min
  • For rainy days: Yes
  • Free entrance: No
  • Topic: Natural history

    • Guided tours: Yes

    • Children experience: Child friendly
    • Children age group: 3-6, 6-12, 12-18
    • Children activities: Interactive exhibits, Workshops, Tours and demonstrations

Opening hours

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. Closed on Mondays.
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
10:00-17:00
Wednesday
10:00-17:00
Thursday
10:00-17:00
Friday
10:00-17:00
Saturday
10:00-17:00
Sunday
10:00-17:00

Contact

Webpage
vogelwarte.ch
Email
info@vogelwarte.ch
Address
Luzernerstrasse 6, 6204 Sempach

Access

Nearby stops

  • Sempach Stadt, Vogelwarte150 meters walking distance

Travel duration

From
Travel time
Luzern
22m
Olten
40m
Zug
55m
Bern
1h 7m
Zürich HB
1h 17m

FAQ

  • Is the visitor centre accessible by public transport?
    Yes, the visitor centre can be reached by PostBus directly to the stop 'Sempach Stadt, Vogelwarte'.
  • Are there parking facilities for cars and coaches?
    There are limited parking spaces. Visitors can use the public car parks 'Seevogtey' (approx. 10 min walk) or 'Seebad Sempach' (approx. 5 min walk). Coach parking is available at 'Seevogtey'.
  • Does the visitor centre have a café or restaurant?
    Yes, there is a café corner with a beautiful view.
  • Is there a gift shop at the visitor centre?
    Yes, the visitor centre has a shop offering attractive gifts and souvenirs.
  • Are school programmes available at the visitor centre?
    Yes, the visitor centre offers free school programmes for classes and youth groups from Tuesday to Friday, lasting two to four lessons. Advance registration is recommended.

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