This document should be reviewed by Legal Counsel specializing in Swiss Contract Law, Museum Operations Managers, and Customer Experience Compliance Officers.
Senior Legal Counsel Analysis: General Terms and Conditions (GTC)
Abstract:
This document outlines the General Terms and Conditions (GTC) for Beyeler Museum AG (Fondation Beyeler), effective December 12, 2025. It establishes the legal framework for the procurement of E-Tickets, guided tours, and event admissions. The terms define the contract formation process via electronic confirmation, delivery through "print@home" PDF formats, and payment in CHF. Notably, the GTC includes rigorous liability limitations restricted to intent and gross negligence, specific "no-refund" cancellation policies that provide vouchers in lieu of cash for museum tickets, and a tiered penalty structure for the cancellation of private and school tours. The agreement is governed by Swiss law with the exclusive place of jurisdiction in Basel-Stadt.
Summary of Terms and Conditions:
1.0 Scope and Acceptance: These GTC govern all business relations regarding museum admission, events, and tours. Submission of a booking or download constitutes express agreement to these terms and the museum’s house rules.
2.0 Contract Formation: Contracts are legally binding upon the dispatch of an order confirmation email by Fondation Beyeler. Customers are responsible for reporting discrepancies immediately.
4.0 Delivery and Validity: E-Tickets are delivered as PDFs. Validity is strictly limited to the date and time slot printed on the ticket; validity expires immediately upon the first successful scan at the entrance.
7.0 Liability Limitations: Liability is limited to cases of intent and gross negligence. The museum disclaims liability for indirect damages or lost profits. It reserves the right to close sections or cancel events due to force majeure or safety risks without incurring damage claims, provided an equivalent alternative is offered.
9.2 Museum Ticket Cancellation Policy: Museum admission tickets cannot be refunded for cash. Cancellation triggers the issuance of a gift voucher valid for one year. Cancellations must apply to the entire order; individual ticket cancellation is prohibited.
10.3 Private and School Tour Penalties: Tiered cancellation fees apply to private tours:
>30 days notice: No fee.
<30 days notice: CHF 256.00 fee.
<14 days notice: CHF 500.00 fee.
<5 days or non-appearance: Full invoice amount due.
School Classes: Must cancel at least one week prior or face a CHF 100.00 fee.
11.4 Event Postponement: If an event is rescheduled, tickets remain valid for the new date. Refunds are at the sole discretion of the museum, though customers may seek a refund if they cannot attend the rescheduled date.
12.3 Governing Law and Jurisdiction: The contract is governed by Swiss law (excluding CISG). The exclusive venue for all legal disputes is Basel-Stadt, Switzerland.