As a city, Winterthur combines art, history and nature. It offers a unique blend of metropolitan flair and village charm. Life pulsates through the mediaeval old town, the heart of the city: shops, cafés and restaurants invite you to linger a while, whilst markets and festivals bring the streets to life. Winterthur also has a lot to offer culturally, boasting 17 museums including the Technorama, the renowned Swiss Science Centre.

Before Pad Alexander reveals the secret of his favourite places in Winterthur, the journey begins where it all started for him – at the Technorama. This wonderland of science fascinated him, even as a child.

For Pad Alexander, the Technorama was a world full of wonders and endless possibilities from an early age. Countless exhibitions and experiments piqued his curiosity, providing long-term inspiration. This experience may have ignited the spark for his later passion – stage magic. Even as an adult, Pad remains faithful to the Technorama: these days he regularly performs his show there.

As one of Europe’s largest science centres, the Technorama invites visitors to explore the world of science with all their senses. The motto here is “A hands-on experience!”, with over 500 experiment stations where visitors can learn and marvel in a playful way. From electrifying demonstrations to interactive workshops in biology, chemistry and physics – the Technorama makes science a lively and captivating experience.

A key highlight of the Technorama are its special exhibitions on a wide range of themes, such as the show on “Electricity and Magnets” that opened at the end of 2023. This exhibition takes visitors into the hidden world of electromagnetism, where interactive stations will lead them to experience the power of electricity and magnetism in nature and even in their own bodies. From a visual of your own heart beat to fascinating magnetic sculptures, science becomes tangible and playful at the same time.

Even for a long-term fan like Pad Alexander, there is still always something new to discover at the Technorama. This also applies to Technorama Outdoors, the recently opened outdoor area. This inviting park not only offers plenty of space to relax, but also large-scale experiment stations that bring the laws of nature to life.

Here, visitors can walk through clouds, feel the power of five tonnes of water or experience the effect of gravity on their own bodies. The outdoor landscape combines natural experiences with experiments, recreation and relaxation, forming an ideal balance to the intensive world of experience found inside the Technorama.

The Goldenberg is a very special retreat for Pad Alexander. “The Goldenberg gives me the space and tranquillity that I need in order to relax,” he says, describing this destination spot high above Winterthur. The peaceful atmosphere makes this one of his favourites places, allowing him to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and give free rein to his creative thoughts.

The Bäumli, a sunny viewing terrace on the Goldenberg, is the most popular lookout point in Winterthur. Here you can enjoy a view over the city and far into the Alps. Pad Alexander draws inspiration for his magic shows from this idyllic setting with its impressive panorama.

For Pad Alexander, Winterthur’s old town is a lively place that combines history, art and music. Documented as far back as the 12th century under the name Vitudurum, today the old town has the largest continuous pedestrian zone in Switzerland and is filled with life around the clock. Here, people stroll between historic walls, enjoy the wide range on offer in the boutiques and craft shops or linger in one of the many cafés and bars. “The old town is a magical place that you have to experience up close and personal,” enthuses Pad.

Located in the heart of the old town, gelateria on Schulgasse is Pad’s personal insider tip for hot summer days. When the heat has the city firmly in its grip, this little gelateria purveys handmade ice creams and sorbets. Discover a wide variety of flavours here with exotic creations including poppy seed or saffron. You are sure to find your own personal favourite ice cream here. For Pad, it is a place where pleasure and creativity meet – a reflection of Winterthur’s cultural diversity.

For Pad Alexander, the Music Festival offers the perfect combination of music, city culture and community. In addition, Pad emphasises the key role played by from hundreds of committed volunteers. Every August, the old town centre is immersed in a two-week musical festival. Dozens of acts perform on four stages. There are international stars as well as up-and-coming local bands. Most of the concerts are free of charge. 

The Music Festival is a treat for all the senses. Steinberggasse and Kirchplatz become vibrant meeting places. Street food stalls ensure that no one goes hungry. The cuisine on offer wide and varied. The Music Festival celebrates the end of summer in its very own way. With rock, pop, hip-hop or electronic music. Switch off, immerse yourself, dance the night away.