best castles to visit in switzerland

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10 Most Beautiful Castles in Switzerland

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Switzerland’s long history of armed neutrality has produced some of the best-preserved castles in Central Europe. From elegant palaces to sturdy strongholds, Swiss castles are among the most visited tourist attractions in Switzerland . Whether your travels in this landlocked nation take you to lakeshore cities or to quaint villages high in the Alps, you’ll find a picturesque castle nearby waiting to be explored. Most were constructed during the Middle Ages, offering you a rare glimpse back into times long past. These castles in Switzerland are sure to capture your imagination and make your visit to the neutral nation a memorable experience.

10. Spiez Castle

One of the oldest castles in Switzerland, Castle Spiez was built in 933 when much of the western area of modern-day Switzerland was ruled by Italy. Construction on the original keep continued for the next six centuries, offering you a unique opportunity to view a variety of architectural styles. The ancient Castle Church, for example, exemplifies the Early Romanesque style. The court rooms were built in the height of the Renaissance Era. The southern addition was finished in 18th century in the elaborate Baroque style.

9. Castello di Montebello

Perched atop the hills of Bellinzona in the Swiss canton of Ticino, Montebello Castle is one of three fortresses that once protected the ancient city. The castle was built in the 14th century, expanded in the 15th century and renovated to its current state in the early 1900s. The castle is now home to the Civic Museum, which includes archaeological artifacts from prehistoric burial sites in the region. Well-maintained walkways on the castle’s battlements let you enjoy panoramic vistas of the city.

8. Vufflens Castle

The pride of its namesake village, the Vufflens-le-Château is a 15th-century castle best known for its towering central tower. It’s considered one of the best examples of the Vaud fortresses built in the Late Middle Ages. Although the brick structure with its mammoth square towers is privately owned and not open visitors, you’re free to take in its splendor from the surrounding countryside. Located a short distance from the northern shore of Lake Geneva, a stroll through the nearby vineyards offers picturesque views of the castle.

7. Rapperswil Castle

Surrounded on three sides by Lake Zurich, the old town of Rapperswil and its 13th-century castle once played a vital role in controlling the passage of ships on the water. Over time, the triangular-shaped keep fell into disrepair and in 1870, it was leased by a Polish emigrant named Count Wladyslaw Broel-Plater. The count restored the castle and opened it as the Polish National Museum. Touring the museum offers you a rare glimpse of interiors from state rooms to dungeons, all restored to their original medieval glory.

6. Castelgrande

The oldest of the trio of castles that climb the hills of the city of Bellinzona, Castelgrande was built on a site that was first fortified in the 4th century. Easily identified by its striking white and black towers, the newly restored medieval castle stands on a flat-topped hill near the town center. In addition to a flight of steps, a recently installed elevator makes it incredibly easy to access and explore the castle. Open all year, Castelgrande Castle also features two restaurants and a courtyard that’s perfect for warm-weather picnics.

5. Tourbillon Castle

Sprawled out along the crest of a rocky peak overlooking the city of Sion, the ruins of Tourbillon Castle date back to the 13th century. Built during a time when the Roman Catholic Church held sway in the southern region, Tourbillon Castle served as the residence for the Bishop of Sion. Although the castle was laid to ruin by a fire in 1788, a 15th century chapel ornamented with frescoes survived the blaze. The climb up to Tourbillon Castle is steep, but the stunning views offered from the battlements make the trek well worth the effort.

4. Aigle Castle

Located in the vineyards near the southeast shore of Lake Geneva, Aigle Castle was built by the Knights of Aigle at the end of the 12th century. Fortifications like a curtain wall and central keep were added in the 13th century. In the 1970s, the municipality of Aigle renovated the castle and opened it to the public as the Vine and Wine Museum. Visiting the museum offers you the opportunity to view original artwork painted in the 16th and 17th centuries.

3. Oberhofen Castle

Jutting out over the waters of Lake Thun in the Swiss canton of Bern, Oberhofen Castle has a fairytale charm that’s hard to resist. Construction on this turreted palace began in the 1200s and continued for centuries, resulting in an appealing assortment of architectural styles. The castle’s carefully restored rooms and gardens now serve as a living museum for visitors to enjoy. Standout features include a Turkish smoking parlor and a 13th-century chapel adorned with Romanesque frescoes.

2. Tarasp Castle

Perched on a hill overlooking a small hamlet of the same name, the castle of Tarasp is located in eastern Switzerland between the borders of Austria and Italy. Parts of the structure date back to the 11th century when the region was under Austrian rule. Today, the citadel is privately owned, but you can still view many of the beautifully restored rooms, including the castle chapel, through scheduled tours. The castle grounds offer sweeping views of the pristine lakes and Alpine mountains of the Lower Engadine region.

1. Chateau de Chillon

The most visited historic building in Switzerland, the Château de Chillon is situated on a rocky offshore island in Lake Geneva. From the 12th to the 16th century, the Counts of Savoy controlled traffic on the lake from the aquatic stronghold. With its soaring outer walls and multiple towers, Chillon conjures up images of storybook castles. For much of its existence, however, the fortress also served as a state prison. You’ll want to set aside several hours to explore the courtyards, great halls and bedrooms that make the Château de Chillon the most popular castle in Switzerland.

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Reader interactions.

November 30, 2017 at 3:27 pm

@ Durum, you are wrong, look it up

September 13, 2017 at 11:57 am

“Castle Spiez was built in 933 when much of the western area of modern-day Switzerland was ruled by Italy”. Except that Italy didn’t even exist at that time…

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Top 17 Enchanting Castles in Switzerland (Including Map)

There are many ways to discover the beauty of a new place, be it through food, nature, history, architecture, or other fascinating activities. One of the most rewarding experiences is traveling through the splendid countryside of Switzerland. Yet, the impressive number of magnificent castles scattered across the country can overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler.

Switzerland is home to numerous stunning castles, each with its unique history and architecture. Notable mentions include Hallwyl Castle, known for its 800-year history and interactive family-friendly activities; Aarburg Castle, positioned high above the Aare River; the Valère Basilica, a national heritage site with an intriguing blend of castle and church; and the Meggenhorn Castle, famous for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Lucerne and the Alps. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or family traveler, Swiss castles offer a diverse and enriching experience.

With so many majestic chateaus and palaces to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve decided to simplify the process and bring you a list of the top castles in Switzerland every traveler must visit.

Castello di Montebello

Switzerland, known for its picturesque landscapes, punctuated by snow-capped mountains and serene lakes, is also home to a rich tapestry of history. Nestled among this are majestic castles, with one standing out for its unique architecture and significant past, the Castello di Montebello.

Located in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, in the charming city of Bellinzona, Castello di Montebello holds a grand stance. This castle is the middle of the three castles of Bellinzona – Castelgrande, Castello di Montebello, and Castello di Sasso Corbaro – and is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site recognized in 2000.

The history of the Castello di Montebello traces back to the 13th century, but it was later expanded and fortified over the centuries. Its strategic location and robust fortification made it a key defensive structure during medieval times. Its battlements, towers, and massive stone walls reveal tales of olden times, making it an intriguing destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

The architectural design of Castello di Montebello is indeed a spectacle in its own right. It is an example of late medieval military architecture, where the ramparts follow the contour of the hill, creating a fascinating mix of straight and curved walls. The castle itself is structured around an irregularly shaped central courtyard, giving it an idiosyncratic layout that invites exploration.

Today, within its towering walls, the castle houses the Civic and Archaeological Museum. Here, visitors can traverse through the annals of time and experience the region’s history from the Neolithic period to the present day. This extensive collection is not just informative but also fascinating, making your journey through time memorable.

While you are there, don’t miss the breathtaking panoramic view of the city and surrounding Alps from the castle walls. This, coupled with the surrounding vineyards and the distant murmur of the Ticino River, make Castello di Montebello an aesthetic marvel as much as it is a historical gem.

From the moment you walk through the stone gates of Castello di Montebello, you are whisked away on a journey back in time. The age-old stones whisper stories of historical sagas, while the scenic beauty enthralls you. This castle is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone exploring the best of Swiss heritage.

Whether you’re an enthusiastic history lover or a casual visitor seeking scenic beauty, Castello di Montebello promises a captivating experience, offering a profound journey through Switzerland’s past while basking in its picturesque present.

Chateau de Chillon                                         

It’s like traveling back in time when you visit Chillon Castle ! Each room reveals a new layer of history about this castle on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Chillon Castle contains roughly 300 artifacts on display as an outstanding heritage monument. Excluding the furniture, weaponry, and armor, all artifacts displayed here were discovered during the archaeological excavations conducted around the castle from 1896 to 1903.

Aigle Castle

The wonder of Switzerland’s scenic beauty is complemented by the historic richness embedded in its enchanting castles. Among the array of impressive structures, Aigle Castle, or Château d’Aigle, brings a unique blend of historical importance and contemporary indulgence that visitors find captivating.

Aigle Castle sits at the heart of the Swiss Alps , in the charming town of Aigle, in the Vaud canton. The castle’s strategic location at the entrance to the Rhône Valley offers it a panoramic view of the surrounding vineyards, nestled against the backdrop of towering Alpine peaks.

The history of Aigle Castle dates back to the 12th century when it was initially built as a fortress. Over the centuries, it was reconstructed and refurbished by various occupants, including the House of Savoy and the Bernese. Today, its square keep, rounded towers, and thick walls, nestled amidst a lush vineyard, make it an impressive sight for visitors, with its architecture reflecting a journey through time.

However, what sets Aigle Castle apart is not just its stunning architecture and breathtaking location, but its modern role. Today, the castle serves as the home of the Vine and Wine Museum, a testament to the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Here, the ancient cellars of the castle are used to narrate the story of winemaking, from cultivation to consumption.

Visitors can wander through the interactive exhibitions that provide insights into the art of viticulture, showcasing traditional winemaking equipment, old barrels, and even a tasting room. This unique blend of history and wine culture offers a captivating experience to both the history enthusiast and the wine connoisseur.

A stroll around the castle grounds also reveals the magnificent vineyards that surround the castle. These vineyards belong to the Chablais wine region, renowned for producing some of the finest Swiss white wines from the Chasselas grape. The serene view of these vineyards, with the Alps looming in the background, is a sight to behold, making a visit to Aigle Castle an aesthetic feast for the senses.

Aigle Castle is more than just a historic monument; it is a living museum that beautifully intertwines the past with the present. It presents the perfect harmony between history, nature, and viticulture, embodying the Swiss tradition of preserving heritage while adapting to contemporary culture . For anyone venturing into the heart of Switzerland, a visit to Aigle Castle is a delightful immersion into the region’s past and its enduring passion for winemaking.

Vufflens Castle

Vufflens Castle is one of the most well-known castles in the Morges region. A thirty-minute stroll through the vineyards provides a breathtaking perspective of the castle.

Vufflens is a castle with majestic views of Mont Blanc and the Vufflens-la-Caille Glacier in Switzerland. The castle was built between 1863-and 1866 by an American couple and is situated at 1,485 meters above sea level. Between Dennis and Vufflens-le-Château, a nice 30-minute walk around the vineyards provides a breathtaking view of this majestic castle, the lake, and the Mont-Blanc. 

Gruyères Castle

The castle was built in the 13th century in the shape of a “carré Savoyard,” a military design designed by the House of Savoy, whose vassals are the counts. An almost square enclosure with a keep, a tower, and little overhanging towers at the corners protects it.

Gruyères Castle was owned by the lords who constructed it, the so-called bailiffs of Fribourg, and then the Geneva families of Bovy and Balland before it was repurchased in 1938 by the Canton of Fribourg and then being opened to the public. 

Hallwyl Castle

There are numerous activities offered at the Hallwyl Castle:

• Museum Exhibition
• Workshops and tours for schools
• Workshops and tours for groups
• Events and public guided tours
• Secret corners and puzzles for families

It also offers a bistro with delicacies, and you can even rent rooms for a wedding or other celebrations. The castle is perfect for a family day out, too; adventure playgrounds, gardens, and mini-golf are among the many attractions on offer.

Aarburg Castle

The fortification has a commanding position over the village of Aarburg and the Aare River. It’s a stunning sight for anyone traveling by vehicle or train, and it’s well worth seeing! Take a stroll to get the most out of the history and folklore surrounding this structure, which is about a thousand years old.

Valère Basilica

The Valere Basilica, also known as the Valere Castle, is a heavily protected church in Sion. It is placed on a hillside and faces the Tourbillon Castle, situated on the opposing hill. It is a national heritage site in Switzerland.

Accompanied by amazing architecture, its central tower is accessed by an interior staircase with its own outer spiral staircase leading to the top. Taking two hours to explore, you’ll walk all over this castle, checking out secret rooms, Gothic chapels, and ghoulish torture chambers. 

If you’re looking for an adventurous experience off the beaten track, this is an excellent choice. Don’t forget a pair of comfortable walking shoes, as there are a few steep ways to get up to the parapets. So, take a tour of this stunning building and learn how it was preserved throughout history. 

Meggenhorn Castle

The magnificent Meggenhorn Castle is on a bluff above Lake Lucerne’s port, with a spectacular view of Lucerne and the Alps. This castle is easy to find, and once you arrive, you can either park at the entrance and walk to the castle or drive through the gate and stop almost beside it. The image of the castle is covered by a slop as you approach, so when you reach the main door, you’ll be astounded by the gardens and the structure itself.

The Meggenhorn Castle and gardens are located on a peninsula south of Lucerne, on a mountainside. The castle faces a vineyard and is a renowned picnic spot with swimming access to the lake.

You can make your fantasy a reality by hosting your occasion in a unique setting. The exquisite rooms provide the ideal environment for company gatherings, marriages, civil weddings, family festivities, graduation ceremonies, and conferences, with meals and feasts in the ballroom and cocktails on the castle terrace. 

Rapperswil Castle

Rapperswil Castle is a popular tourist attraction in the scenic “City of Roses” on the banks of Lake Zurich. The castle, which was built near the end of the middle ages and has been repaired several times, can be seen from a long distance. It stands well above the town, sitting atop the Lindenhof, a steep rocky hill that runs through Rapperswil.

It has a breathtaking view that you would not want to miss, with the yard, walls, and architecture it carries. Here are some things to see if you visit:

• Castle from the 12th-century
• Beautiful scenery over Rapperswil
• Deer park on the castle hill

You can also take your children with you as they can climb walls and play with a speaking tube in a playground located directly beneath the deer park.  So, do not forget to mark Rapperswil Castle on your list.

Tarasp Castle

Castle Tarasp has been available to the public since 1919, and visitors can see nobles’ halls and ballrooms, medieval bedrooms, the castle chapel, and the 2,500-pipe organ. The castle hosts public organ performances, excursions, and “active holidays,” which allow visitors to assist with annual maintenance tasks.

Numerous fun and educational activities await you there, so seize the opportunity.

Grandson Castle

Grandson Castle is Switzerland’s second-largest castle, with a 40-meter-high façade, massive ramparts, and a more than 150-meter-long parapet walk. The fortification is a remarkable example of 13th-century castle architecture and was built by Otto I, Lord of Grandson.

This imposing 13th-14th century Gothic fortress, which overlooks Lake Neuchâtel and was the seat of the noble Waldensian Grandson family, was also at the core of European history during the Burgundy Wars (1474-1477) among Charles the Bold and the Confederates, and the echoes of the Battle of Grandson (1476) still resonate with people in the collective memory of Switzerland.

The Grandson castle has a long history, dating back to roughly 1050, and has been owned by a dozen different people over the centuries, so there is a lot to learn. 

Make sure you find time and a place on the list for Grandson Castle, and we promise you will be left amazed and inspired. 

Tourbillon Castle

In 1788, the castle was destroyed by fire. Despite this, the rectangular keep and a thin watchtower in the corner and many of the internal walls still remained.

To get to the location, you’ll have to ascend steep stairs that wound their way around the hill. The walk will be totally worth it when you experience the panoramic view from above.

Montebello Castle

The Bellinzona Castles are a collection of fortifications surrounding Bellinzona’s town. The complex, located in the Alpine foothills, is made up of a fortified city and three castles: Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro. Since 2000, the defensive walls of Bellinzona’s castles have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The castle was once known as Montebello Castle or Castel Piccolo (“little castle”) (1457-1472). It was renamed Svitto Castle under the Swiss occupation and San Martino Castle after 1818.

Moreover, outside you can enjoy a relaxing picnic and some healthy fun in our well-equipped playground or snap a snapshot at the Grand Tour of Switzerland photo site.

Also, the scenery from this fortress is breathtaking! It’s a short walk from Piazza Collegiata and the Nocca neighborhood, so do not miss out. 

Thun Castle

Since the 12th century, Thun Castle has been a magnificent icon closely tied with the town of Thun. The vistas of the surrounding Alps, Lake Thun, and the old town alone make it worthwhile to visit.

Please keep the following in mind to guarantee that your trip is ideal in every way:

• Check the current work hours ahead of time.
• Make a reservation for a castle tour in advance.
• Before visiting, wheelchair users should inquire about access points.

Oberhofen Castle

On the edge of Lake Thun sits Oberhofen Castle, which has a medieval keep and a lake tower. The living museum is housed in the palace, which goes back to the early thirteenth century. The enormous castle park is said to be among the most beautiful in the Alps region.

The exhibit rooms of the living museum illustrate Bernese residential culture from the 16th to the 19th century, with artifacts varying from neo-Gothic dining rooms and knights’ suits of armor to a Turkish smoking parlor. The castle chapel, with its late 15th-century wall paintings, is still used for baptisms and marriages today.

Besides the interesting history and beautiful architecture, you can:

• Rent a room in the castle
• Enjoy the magnificent park in the alpine region
• Immerse yourself in the past that has shaped the castle over eight centuries
• Experience the cultural tours

Ensure you check out at least one of the above. 

Spiez Castle

By visiting Spiez Castle, you may learn about the castle’s 1,300-year history. In the historical exhibition halls, the personal life story of the warrior Adrian von Bubenberg, who previously dwelt in Spiez Castle, is told.

With beautiful views, relaxing vibes, and enriched stories, you can enjoy your time with your loved ones in the middle of history. Pick up the phone and call for a reservation. 

Bottom Line

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve highlighted the marvels of Switzerland’s most captivating castles, each presenting a unique chapter from the rich tapestry of the country’s history and cultural heritage. Every castle on our list is a treasure trove of experiences, offering distinct insights into Switzerland’s fascinating past.

While each castle in Switzerland is a must-see, their individual charm and diversity ensure that every visitor will find something new and engaging, even if they’ve previously toured other castles. So, whether you’re a seasoned explorer or planning your first Swiss adventure, this guide is a key resource to help you chart your course.

We invite you to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing architecture, enchanting landscapes, and centuries-old stories that these castles have preserved. Embark on your Swiss journey, soak in the grandeur of these cultural landmarks, and let the spellbinding beauty of Switzerland leave you inspired and awestruck.

Q1: What is the best time to visit these Swiss castles?

A1: While Switzerland is beautiful all year round, the ideal time to visit Swiss castles might be in the spring or summer when the weather is more temperate. However, some castles may have special winter events or tours that might be worth experiencing.

Q2: Can I visit multiple castles in one day?

A2: Depending on their proximity to one another and your pace, it may be possible to visit more than one castle in a day. However, to truly appreciate the history and beauty of each site, it might be best to limit your visits to one or two castles per day.

Q3: Are there guided tours available at these castles?

A3: Most castles in Switzerland offer guided tours, either as part of the entrance fee or for an additional cost. It’s always a good idea to check the castle’s official website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Q4: Are these castles accessible for individuals with mobility issues?

A4: While some castles have made efforts to increase accessibility, others might be challenging due to their historical design with steep stairs and narrow passages. We recommend checking directly with each castle for information on accessibility.

Q5: Can I host events at these castles?

A5: Some of the castles do offer facilities for special events like weddings, parties, or corporate gatherings. It’s best to get in touch with the castle management to learn about the specific services they provide.

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Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 15 Best Castles in Switzerland

15 Best Castles in Switzerland

Swiss landscapes are some of the most beautiful in Europe and the whole world for that matter. The landlocked country features awe-inspiring Alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and cities and towns that follow suit. Among all that you can also find some of the most spectacular castles and strongholds that proudly sit amidst the picturesque panorama.

Switzerland is famous for its military neutrality, and this can easily be observed through the fantastically well-preserved castles too, many of which date back to the medieval times. Some have been in the middle of turmoil during the Burgundian Wars, others have stood through time without being besieged, and some are still owned by the original families.

1. Vufflens Castle

Vufflens Castle is located in the canton of Vaud in western Switzerland and is a privately-owned 15th-century castle. Despite not being open to the public, seeing the castle up close in person is worth every second. Surrounded by rows and rows of vineyards, Vufflens Castle dominates the surrounding landscape with its beautiful square and round towers.

Vufflens Castle was preceded by an earlier medieval castle. For a century Vufflens Castle stood uninterrupted until 1530, when a Bernese army set the castle on fire. It was another century before the castle was acquired by the Senarclens family.

Even though the whole structure hasn’t survived to this day in its original form, several features from the original castle remain. These include the 60-meter high donjon, several towers, outbuildings, the gatehouse, as well as the surrounding wall.

Vufflens Castle is one of the most significant examples of the fortified Romandy castles. Built to face Lake Geneva, it is one of the oldest castles in the whole canton. The surrounding vineyards provide grapes for the wine that is produced in the castle’s cellars.

2. Chateau de Chillon

Chillon Castle easily has one of the most spectacular locations for any European castle. Located on a rock on the eastern side of the picturesque Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle attracts visitors from all over the world throughout the year. In fact, it has the most visitors each year for any historic building in all of Switzerland.

Chillon has a rich history due to its significantly strategic location. Starting out as a Roman outpost, it controlled an essential Alpine pass. The actual history of the castle is divided into three significant periods: the Savoy Period, the Bernese Period, and the Vaudois Period.

Even though the exact date of the castle’s origins is not known, the first mention in historical records dates back to 1150. During the Middle Ages, the first significant renovations and extensions were made in the 13th century and onwards, when the castle was turned into a summer residence for the counts. It wasn’t long until the castle slowly fell into neglect due to being uninhabited for the most part of the year.

In 1536 the Bernese overtook the castle. For over two and a half centuries the castle was a significant fortress, arsenal, and prison under the Bernese rule in the region. Since the late 18th century the castle has been in the possession of the Canton of Vaud. The restoration campaign that was launched in the late 19th century is still ongoing.

The castle is open to visitors with several exhibitions and tours of the castle.

3. Munot Fortress

Munot Fortress in north Swiss city of Schaffhausen is a 16th-century circular fortification that rises above the surrounding landscape and thus is also the main landmark of the city. Overlooking the Old Town and Rhine River, it boasts spectacular panorama views that historically served to its advantage – controlling the river pass and spotting any threats in the town, like fires, for example that would break out rather often.

Munot Fortress was always a defensive structure and never a residence. This is one of the main reasons why the structure remains almost completely in its original form as residential castles tended to be rebuilt and extended more often than defensive ones.

The fortress is open to visitors, who can enjoy this spectacular structure from both inside and out.

4. Tarasp Castle

Located in the alpine Upper Engadine, Tarasp Castle, also a Swiss heritage site, is a medieval castle dating back to the 11th century. The hilltop castle not only rises above the surrounding landscape, but is also located 1499 meters above the sea level. Up until 1803 the castle actually belonged to Austria.

The castle was built gradually. The first structures on site were a ring wall and a chapel with a bell tower. The palas was built later, in the 13th century. The structure with impressive 2-meter thick walls became the main focal point of the complex. After that, additions of residential wings followed.

The castle was attacked several times around the 16th and 17th centuries. Due to inevitable fires during the attacks, the castle suffered damages but these were swiftly repaired, especially in the residential wing.

5. Thun Castle

Thun Castle is one of the most recognizable castles in Switzerland. Not only the castle structure itself is memorable – the fairytale-like surroundings are absolutely picture perfect. Located in the city of Thun in the canton of Bern, the castle boasts unmatched views of the city, Lake Thun, and the snow-capped mountains.

The castle was built at the end of the 12th century but never became the residence of the Zähringen family who preferred their other residence. A couple of decades after the castle was built, the House of Kyburg inherited the property and started making improvements which included building upper levels of the castle complex.

The main focal point of the castle complex is the well-preserved donjon. This part of the castle is open to the public, as well as the four corner towers that allow visitors to enjoy stunning views over the city.

6. Tourbillon Castle

The mountainous Swiss landscape proved to be perfect for medieval castles and fortifications, many of which sit atop cliff-edged hilltops. Tourbillon Castle is no exception. Located in the southwestern part of Switzerland, Tourbillon Castle was built between the 13th and 14th centuries.

The castle has had a tumultuous past since it housed bishops from the Diocese of Sion. Undergoing several attacks and attempts to besiege the castle, the first serious attack with lasting damages happened in 1417 when a large part of the castle was destroyed. Luckily, shortly after, rebuilding and repair work took place, but in 1788 a completely destructive fire that had overtaken the city of Sion destroyed the castle to ashes.

In the 20th century the castle ruins were excavated and restoration took place in the 60s and the 90s. Tourbillon Castle is part of the Valère & Tourbillon complex, where the castle sits atop one hill directly opposite the cathedral of Valère which is located on another hill.

7. Gruyères Castle

When hearing the name of the town of Gruyères, most people will immediately think of the world-famous Gruyère cheese. And while that is one of the main attractions, it is not the only one. The beautiful Gruyères Castle is one of the most significant landmarks in the region and it’s easy to see why. This Swiss heritage site of national significance was built in the late 13th century and belonged to the Counts of Gruyères until the mid-16th century.

The castle was built in a square plan, typical for fortifications in the Savoy region. While the majority of medieval castles and fortifications have an imposing appearance about them, there is something particularly charming and quaint about Gruyères Castle. It’s not just the scenic surroundings that paint an Alpine fairytale picture, but the castle itself has an exquisite charm. With its several towers, lovely inner courtyard and small but beautiful landscape garden, there is more to discover inside. Intricately painted walls and decorations allow you to take a stroll in history, and it’s clear that Gruyères Castle truly is worthy of royalty.

8. Rapperswil Castle

Located on the shores of Lake Zurich, Rapperswil Castle sits above the town of Rapperswil which is also often referred to as the “town of roses”. The late-12th-century castle is set on a rocky hilltop called Lindenhof. Within its walls, the castle holds a surprising element – the Polish National Museum. To many it comes as a surprise, but the museum has been a part of the castle since 1870.

Each corner of the castle features a tower, and the highest is the donjon in the southwest of the castle. One of the most prominent features is the five-sided clock tower.

9. Aarburg Castle

The beautiful Aarburg Castle complex in northern Switzerland dates back to the medieval times, even though the exact date of when the castle was built is unknown, it was first mentioned in writing around the 13th century.

The castle was besieged in 1415 by the Bernese and in the 16th century extensive renovations and extension work started on the site that continued well into the 17th century.

The central parts of the castle are located on a narrow ridge. This part includes a limestone-walled keep and a tower house. Interestingly, the bottom floor is made up from the rock on the hill – it was directly carved out.

These days Aarburg Castle houses a juvenile rehabilitation center.

10. Valère Basilica

We already briefly mentioned the Valère Basilica when talking about the Tourbillon Castle since the two are located directly opposite on separate hilltops, however, it wouldn’t be a list of Switzerland’s best castles without dedicating a separate section to the Valère Basilica itself.

The Valère Basilica or Valère Castle is a fortified church in southwest Switzerland in the town of Sion. Even though a cathedral has been mentioned in records as far back as in the 11th century, it is believed that the first parts of the castle church were built between the early and mid-12th century in Romanesque style. Gradual building work took place over the next centuries and in the mid-15th century the grandiose cathedral organ was installed.

The organ is still functioning to this day and is believed to be one of the oldest functioning church organs in the world.

11. Stockalper Palace

One of the most unique castles in Switzerland when it comes to design is the Stockalper Palace. The distinctive towers give an immediate otherworldly feel to the entire castle complex which was built in the 17th century by Kaspar Stockalper, a wealthy Swiss industrialist and politician.

The three towers were named after the Three Wise Men in the Bible. One of the main purposes of the impressive palatial complex was to provide warehouse space for Stockalper’s growing trading business.

12. Grandson Castle

Grandson Castle is the second largest château in Switzerland. Overlooking the beautiful Lake Neuchâtel in western Switzerland, the impressive medieval stronghold is both impressive and awe-inspiring.

The medieval fortress dates back to as far as the 11th century even though continuous construction took place up until the 14th century. Otto I of Grandson, who rebuilt the castle in the 13th century, had close ties to the English royalty and especially Edward I. Thus the importance of Grandson rule in the Swiss territory cannot be overlooked.

One of the most significant times in the history of the castle was in the late 15th century when it played an important role in the Burgundian Wars and the battle of Grandson.

13. Champvent Castle

Situated on a hill above the valley of Thiele, Champvent Castle has a harmonious appearance that fits perfectly into the surrounding landscape. It is one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in the country, and it was one of the castles built by the Lords of Grandson. Champvent Castle dates back to the 13th century.

Architecturally the castle follows the Savoy Square structure with a rectangular enclosure and four round towers in each corner. The largest tower is also a donjon.

During the Burgundian Wars the castle suffered serious fire damage but was rebuilt in the 16th century and since then it remains private property, thus it can only be appreciated from the outside.

14. Blonay Castle

Blonay Castle is a charming medieval castle in the canton of Vaud in southwestern Switzerland. The castle was built in the third quarter of the 12th century by the Blonay family. The Blonay family has owned the castle throughout the history up to the present day except for a brief period in the late 18th century.

Just like many other medieval castles, Blonay Castle too has undergone several changes to adapt to the requirements of each time period. It has been noted by archeologists that the castle in the shape of an irregular rectangle used to have four towers in each corner, while only two remain to this day.

15. Aigle Castle

The Swiss canton of Vaud proudly contains several stunning castles and Aigle Castle is no exception. Surrounded by vast vineyards in the Rhone Valley not far from Lake Geneva, Aigle Castle attracts visitors with its quaint appearance – truly fairytale-like with traditional medieval castle elements like towers and turrets, thick curtain wall and arrow slits.

While the majority of the current structure dates back to the time of the Bernese rule from the 15th to the 18th century, the original castle was built in the 12th century and some parts of the original building remain. The castle suffered serious damages during the Burgundian Wars in the 15th century

15 Best Castles in Switzerland:

• Vufflens Castle
• Chateau de Chillon
• Munot Fortress
• Tarasp Castle
• Thun Castle
• Tourbillon Castle
• Gruyères Castle
• Rapperswil Castle
• Aarburg Castle
• Valère Basilica
• Stockalper Palace
• Grandson Castle
• Champvent Castle
• Blonay Castle
• Aigle Castle

The Best 20 Castles to Visit in Switzerland (Listed by Popularity)

Sure you’ve heard of Swiss chocolate and Swiss banks, but did you know that Switzerland has over 500 stunning castles and forts spread across the country? In fact, many of these have been restored to their original glory and are open to the public.

Plan your trip today and experience the rich cultural heritage the area has to offer. To help you out we’ve compiled a breakdown of the top 10 must-visit castles in Switzerland, with the historical backgrounds that make them so special.

And if that isn’t enough, there are also an additional 10 heritage sites for ardent travelers who want to make the most out of their trip.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 1. Chillon Castle
• 1.2 2. Oberhofen Castle
• 1.3 3. Spiez Castle
• 1.4 4. Tarasp Castle
• 1.5 5. Thun Castle
• 1.6 6. Gruyeres Castle
• 1.7 7. Tourbillon Castle
• 1.8 8. Aigle Castle
• 1.9 9. Aarburg Castle
• 1.10 10. Morges Castle
• 2.1 11. Castle of Montebello
• 2.2 12. Meggenhorn Castle
• 2.3 13. Bottmingen Castle
• 2.4 14. Rapperswil Castle
• 2.5 15. Hallwyl Castle
• 2.6 16. Lenzburg Castle
• 2.7 17. Munot Castle
• 2.8 18. Angenstein Castle
• 2.9 19. Marschlins Castle
• 2.10 20. Castles of Bellinzona
• 3 Conclusion

10 Most Popular Castles to Visit in Switzerland

The order of the list is based on Google search volume of each castle = popularity.

1. Chillon Castle

Built on a rocky platform that extends out into Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle is breathtakingly beautiful. While its location certainly has a lot of scenic value, its original placement was strategic. The chateau offers road access to Italy and views of the Savoyard coast, giving occupants a military edge over all trade passing through. 

Although originally the seat of power for the Counts of Savoy, Chillon Castle later became a prison during the 16th-century Wars of Religion. Renovations began in the 19th century and the castle has since inspired some of the greatest romantic writers, including Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Gustave Flaubert, and even Lord Byron.

So, if you’re a writer with great aspirations you may want to take a visit to this striking castle for some divine inspiration.

• Location:  Veytaux, Canton of Vaud
• Time built: 10 th century
• Architectural style: Romanesque
• Touring: Allowed. Visit the official website for more information .

2. Oberhofen Castle

There’s something about the imagery of a radiant castle floating on clear water that has a dazzling impact on the mind. Oberhofen Castle is just such a stunning architectural monument with a  setting on the edge of Lake Thun that makes it irresistible to visitors. 

Walking through its magnificent halls you will see the influence of centuries of owners, each of whom sought to leave their personal mark on Oberhofen Castle. The central keep dates back to the 13th century, the chapel in the 15th century, and the tower and surrounding Baroque style structures were added in the 17th century.

When the Neuchâtel-Prussian Count de Pourtàles took over the castle in the 19th century he redid the North-Eastern side and entire western facade in his preferred Romantic style, even adding a Turkish smoking room. Architecture enthusiasts will find this visit a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Location: Oberhofen, Canton of Bern
• Time built: 13th century
• Architectural style: Baroque & Romantic
• Touring: Allowed. Visit the of f icial website for more information.

3. Spiez Castle

Spiez Castle (Schloss Spiez in German) is a beautiful, historical travel destination in Switzerland’s Canton of Bern. First constructed in 933 by The King of Burgundy, Rudolph II, the castle has been owned by a variety of titleholders through time.

The present castle form incorporates renovations made through the 15 th -18 th centuries, including the enlargement of the exquisite gallery and the addition of another level to the grand residence hall.

The Baroque “New Castle”, on the south side of the castle gatehouse, was constructed between the 17 th and 18 th centuries. Additions during this stage included vineyards and lush park gardens which enveloped the castle. 

The Spiez Castle Foundation was established in 1927 and purchased the castle site in 1929, owning and maintaining it since. The castle is restored and is open to the public. Tourists may walk around the beautiful gardens and attend various exhibitions and concerts, and the venue may also be rented to host conferences and events.

• Location: Bern, Switzerland
• Architectural style: Baroque
• Touring: Allowed. Visit the official website for more information.

4. Tarasp Castle

Tarasp Castle stands tall over the lush, green countryside of Eastern Switzerland offering picturesque views that invite visitors in. The earliest parts, like the chapel and boundary wall, were constructed in the 11th century, but the central structure dates to the 13th century.

Coats of arms from the late 15th century were painted on the castle’s outer, white plastered walls and remained to be seen until as late as 1900. Most of these images have since faded but some were restored during modern renovation work.

Integral to protecting the area, the castle was repeatedly attacked in the 16th and 17th centuries. Gradually the ancient manor fell into disrepair; however, recent renovations in the early 20th century by Dr. Karl Linger restored the castle.

Tarasp Castle is privately owned and visitors can arrange scheduled tours to explore the manor.

• Location: Tarasp, Canton of Graubunden
• Time built: 11-13 th century
• Architectural style: Medieval

5. Thun Castle

Situated in the lovely town of Thun, Switzerland, Thun Castle was constructed in the 12 th century. Originally built only as a fort, the castle was expanded over the centuries to serve other purposes. In 1429, a Gothic-style administrative and residential wing was added to the castle complex. The castle was used as a prison in the 17 th century. 

Today, the castle boasts an extensive history with many different owners over the centuries. A museum is housed in the tower’s five levels showcasing an array of cultural and historical exhibits spanning the castle complex’s entire history. The great hall is available to the public to rent for events and functions. Thun Castle is a top-rated tourist site and destination for all travelers wishing to enrich their sightseeing experiences.

• Location: Thun, Switzerland
• Time built: 12 th century
• Architectural style: Medieval/Gothic

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6. gruyeres castle.

The charming Gruyeres Castle is one of Switzerland’s most famous tourist attractions. The manor was constructed in the 13th century. However, its owners, the Counts of Gruyeres, were forced to declare bankruptcy and sell the property in 1544.

For more than two centuries, Gruyeres Castle served as the official residence for Fribourg’s bailiffs and prefects. Finally, in 1849, the Bovy and Balland families purchased and restored the castle to its former glory. A century later, it was reacquired by the city of Fribourge, and opened to the public. 

Today, it serves as a museum with collections including Fantastic Art by Jose Roosevelt, along with paintings by Jean Baptiste-Camille and Barthelemy Menn. It also holds the 3 legendary capes of the Order of the Golden Fleece.

• Location: Fribourg
• Time built: 13 th century
• Architectural style:   Medieval

7. Tourbillon Castle

Tourbillon Castle (French: Chậteau de Tourbillon) is a secured, grand compound situated on a hilltop in Sion, Switzerland. With its extensive, interesting history and magnificent views, the castle complex has much to offer visitors.

Built at the end of the 13 th century on a rocky and steep hill, it was used by the bishops of Sion as a secure residence. The castle was badly damaged in 1417 and subsequently rebuilt. Another fire completely destroyed the castle complex in 1788. In the 19 th century, the ruins were strengthened using rocks from the castle. 

Directly across from the location of Tourbillon Castle, the Basilique de Valềre fortified church and Valềre Castle are clearly visible. The Tourbillon Castle site includes a court, a keep, a chapel and gorgeous mural paintings. The castle also features an enclosed courtyard. Declared a Swiss national heritage site in the 20th century, the castle is open to the public to explore.

• Location: Sion, Switzerland
• Touring: Allowed. Visit the official website for more information   

8. Aigle Castle

Aigle Castle is a well-preserved castle situated on a hill in the municipality of Aigle, in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It is at the heart of a large vineyard with a 1000 year old tradition of winegrowing.

The castle was originally built as a fortress in the 11 th century. The castle was rebuilt with a fortified tower and a protective wall in the 13 th century. During its existence through the centuries, the castle site has had many owners and other additions were made to the castle site such as the construction of a grand tower in the south corner.

The castle became the property of the Aigle community in 1804 and was used as a cantonal prison until 1976. A museum named Musée de la Vigne et du Vin (Vine and Wine museum) was established in Aigle Castle, both the museum and castle are open to the public.

• Location: Aigle, Switzerland
• Time built: 11th century

9. Aarburg Castle

In the 13th century, Aarburg Castle was built on the bank of the Aare River so the resident Vogt (a title similar to Governor) could hold power over the strategic trade route. This narrow point was also important because it served as the connection between Protestant towns Bern and Zurich, at a time when religious tension with Catholic neighbors was extremely high.  

A complete renovation in the 16th and 17th centuries added the Baroque elements you see today. In 1891, the manor was converted into a segregated zone for juvenile criminals, however the changing times had a definite influence on the facility. The 1959 Reform Institution became the 1972 Education Home and eventually the 1989 Youth Home. The castle remains an active Youth Home, so touring is limited to Saturdays from spring to fall, pre-scheduling required.

• Location: Aarburg

10. Morges Castle

Morges Castle (Château de Morges in French) is a picturesque medieval castle in the municipality of Morges in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. The castle is located in the southern part of the Morges town square.

The grand, square-shaped castle has a raised courtyard protected by  a tower in each corner–one of which is larger than the other three and features a clock.. The castle was built to secure and defend the town in the late 13 th century.

The castle has been ruined and rebuilt during the centuries of its existence. In 1803, the castle housed the cantonal army and certain structures were added to the castle site.

The Vaud Military Museum has occupied the castle building since 1925. The castle site is open to the public and is a Swiss heritage site of national importance. The castle museum exhibitions attract tourists from around the world.

• Location: Morges, Switzerland
• Touring:   Allowed. Visit the official website for more information.

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10 Less Popular Castles Worth Visiting While In Switzerland

If you are a castle enthusiast, you must take out the time to visit these equally spectacular castles in Switzerland as well:

11. Castle of Montebello

The Castle of Montebello is home to several significant archeological exhibitions and draws in hundreds of visitors each year. The castle has a slightly tumultuous history because it is one of three regal fortresses that were once responsible for protecting Bellinzona. Political tensions over the centuries meant the castle was often under attack.

However, much of the damage sustained was repaired towards the start of the 20th century. Today, the Castle of Montebello is known for hosting the Civic Museum. Rising high on its hilltop site, the manor offers scenic views of the city center and Lake Maggiore. 

• Location: Bellinzona, Canton of Ticino

12. Meggenhorn Castle

The lavish Chillon Castle draws inspiration from France’s Chambord Castle. It was constructed in 1868 as a home for the affluent industrialist Edouard Hofer Grosjean. The manor home overlooks a clear lake and stunning vineyards. 

The extravagant residence was designed to reflect the owner’s taste and interests, even hosting a Welte Philharmonic Organ. After his death the castle passed into the hands of two other private owners until finally becoming property of the state in 1974. This stunning manor is definitely one to visit on your trip to Switzerland.

• Location: Lucerne, Canton of Bern
• Time built: 19 th century
• Architectural style: Neo-Gothic

13. Bottmingen Castle

Bottmingen Castle is an ancient, medieval castle, built around the early 13 th century. It is a moated castle and a sight to behold with its incredible water surroundings and charming drawbridge. It is a Swiss heritage site of national significance and has been well preserved.Situated in the municipality of Bottmingen, Switzerland, the castle was rebuilt in the 18 th century in the early Baroque style. It served as a country manor house for an established family in the region. The famous world champion tennis player, Roger Federer, lives in the same town.

• Location: Bottmingen, Switzerland
• Architectural style: Medieval and Baroque

14. Rapperswil Castle

Rapperswil Castle (Swiss German: Schloss Rapperswil), is a medieval castle built around 1220 ADE. The castle was rebuilt;as of 1354, it is equilaterally shaped with an impressive clock tower housing two clocks, a sundial, and three bells.

Rapperswil Castle is situated on a lovely lakeshore in the town of Rapperswil, Switzerland. During the period following the castle’s restoration, it was neglected and not maintained. The local authority agreed to lease the site, in 1870, to a Count who restored the castle at his own expense. In the same year, the Polish National Museum was also established in the castle complex.

• Location: St. Gallen, Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland
• Architectural style: Medieval/Historical

15. Hallwyl Castle

Dating back to around the 12 th century, Hallwyl Castle is an ancient, romantic tourist attraction distinctly situated on two islands, in the municipality of Seengen, Switzerland.

This romantic getaway spot has been open to visitors from all over the world for almost a hundred years. It is part of the Museum of Aargau since it became the property of the Canton of Aargau.

The medieval castle was neglected for some time. Luckily, it was restored in the late 19 th century, mostly in the Neo-gothic architectural style.

• Location: Canton of Aargau, Switzerland
• Architectural style: Medieval and Neo Gothic style

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16. lenzburg castle.

Lenzburg Castle is one of Switzerland’s oldest heritage sites. Placed on a circular hilltop, the earliest parts of the castle date back to its 11th century owners: the Counts of Lenzburg. Although its origins are disputed, written records for the castle trace back to 1077, to Ulrich the Count of Aargau.

Over the centuries, the imposing manor passed from one aristocratic family to another. Most famously, the castle was purchased by Friedrich Wilhelm Wedekind in 1872, a man who amassed a fortune during the California Gold Rush. His children include the famous singer Erika Wedekind and writers Frank and Donald Wedekind. 

After passing through the hands of several American magnates, Lenzburg Castle was sold to the town in 1956. Today, the castle is open to the public and home to one of the most comprehensive cultural collections in Switzerland displayed in Aargau Museum.

• Location : Lenzburg
• Time built: 11 th century
• Touring: Allowed. Visit the o f ficial website for more information.

17. Munot Castle

Munot Castle is a prominent 16 th century circular fortification in the center of Schaffhausen town, Switzerland. It stands out as being one of the few European castles to have been converted into a modern-day fortress. The castle is built into the city’s foundations.

A range of expositions are open to the public at Munot Castle, as it is a popular destination for travelers. Elevated above ground level, the proud fortress offers visitors a magnificent view of the surrounding town area below and the gorgeous vineyards which envelope the castle.

Tradition at this castle since 1589, the Munot watchman rings the bell of the fortress every night at 9pm!

• Location: Schaffhausen, Switzerland
• Time built:  16 th century

18. Angenstein Castle

Standing guard over the town of Duggingen, Angenstein Castle was essential in maintaining power in the Jura area. Because of its strategic regional importance the medieval castle endured significant damage. 

With each subsequent change in ownership came a new age of neglect. Add to that several harsh fires and much of the original structure was ruined. It is only when the city of Basel gained sole rights over the property that a complete restoration project began. It is now open to the public.

• Location: Duggingen, Canton of Basel-Land

19. Marschlins Castle

Marschlins Castle, a true gem for tourists, is situated in the village of Igis, Canton of Graubṻnden, Switzerland. Often described as a fairy-tale palace, the exact time of its construction is still not clear, but records certify that it existed from at least the 13 th century. The picturesque castle is built in the shape of a square with a tower at each corner.

Over the centuries the castle has burnt down, been rebuilt as a residence with a French garden, and then fallen into disrepair. Luckily, it has been fully restored and is open to the public!

• Location:  Canton of Graubṻnden, Switzerland
• Architectural style: Savoyard style
• Touring : Allowed. Visit the official website for more information.

20. Castles of Bellinzona

The Castles of Bellinzona is a trio of fortified castles, situated in the enchanting Alpine foothills around the town of Bellinzona, the capital of the Canton of Ticino. 

Sasso Corbaro Castle was built in 1479 and is elevated above the other two castles on a rocky point with a magnificent view. Castlegrande Castle was built in the 13th century. It is a solid gray structure with several interspaced towers and a glorious staircase. Montebello Castle was constructed prior to 1313, rhomboid-shaped with deep moats.

All three breath-taking Castles of Bellinzona are open to the public for touring.

• Location: Bellinzona, Switzerland
• Time built: 13th, 14th, 15th centuries

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Switzerland is home to some of the most stunning castles in the world. Any one of these breathtaking sites will leave you awe-struck. So if you’re looking for a little historical inspiration or simply to take a step away from your everyday life with a dreamlike vacation setting, then Switzerland is the place for you. 

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The 16 Best Castles in Switzerland to Visit in 2024

Looking for the best castles in Switzerland ?

The history of Switzerland in  Central Europe , has been constantly connected with wars since Ancient Roman times. There have been many that wished to connect these lands to their possessions.

The best interest in the Alpine valleys arose during the Middle Ages once they were at the crossroads of important trade routes. This led to the fact that castles, fortresses and other defensive structures were built almost everywhere in Switzerland. Today, castles are some of the best places to visit in Switzerland .

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

Table of Contents

Are there any Castles in Switzerland?

Many Swiss castles have survived to the present day and are of great interest to tourists. The biggest number of the best castles in Switzerland, similarly to fortresses and ruins, has been preserved within the cantons of Graubünden, Bern, and Basel-Land . However, there are also many castles in other regions. 

You can find a stunning castle in Geneva or a splendid castle in Lausanne. All castles of Switzerland can really impress. 

Best Castles in Switzerland Map

Amazing Swiss Castles

There are dozens of famous castles in Switzerland. Each has its own history and legend. Lots of them are preserved in their original form. Some are included in the UNESCO list.

They look like fairy tales, so children especially prefer to visit them. Many of those castles are open to the public. Here you may find the list of most amazing Swiss castles for your trip around  Switzerland with kids . 

1. Tourbillon Castle

Tourbillon Castle is located in the southwest of Switzerland in the canton of Valais, the city of Sion and is one of the most famous Swiss castles. 

The building was sometime between 1290 and 1308 by Bishop Boniface Shallan and was used as a fortress against frequent attacks. 

Due to the fire in 1417, the building was seriously damaged, and most of the premises were destroyed, but Bishop Guillaume VI of Raron could reconstruct it. However, another fire in 1788 destroyed the castle. Only frescoes from two hundred years ago remained intact, as well as the main tower with a castle wall.

2. Château de Chillon

Chillon Castle is located on a small rocky island in Lake Geneva near the resort of Montreux in one of the most beautiful  countries of Europe . It is connected with the mainland by a bridge and is one of the best castles in Switzerland.

The castle was built in the middle of the 12th century to protect trade routes along the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. 

By the end of the 16th century, the castle had lost its strategic role and was turned into a prison. 

Every year the castle attracts lots of tourists because of the famous poem of Byron, The Prisoner of Chillon, which he wrote after visiting the castle in 1816. Also, Chateau de Chillon became the setting for the works of Dumas, Shelley, and Victor Hugo. 

Get Your Entrance Ticket Here >>>

Read More – How to Get from Lucerne to Geneva

3. Aigle Castle

Aigle Castle is one of the most picturesque places in Switzerland. The history of the castle is very rich. Initially, it served as a watchtower. 

Over time, the fortification expanded and gradually turned into a full-fledged fortress, which housed the headquarters of the governor. And the castle itself becomes the administrative centre. 

During the 18th century and 19th centuries, a homeless shelter, a prison and a city court were located here. 

Today, the castle is surrounded by dozens of vineyards that produce the best Swiss wine. It is for this reason that the Vine and Wine Museum is at the same location, which you can also visit.

4. Rapperswil Castle

The castle was built back in the 13th century by Rudolf of Rapperswil to control the waterway from Zurich. The castle is in the southwestern part of Saint Gallen canton, on Lake Zurich. The complex is made in the form of a triangle, at the corners of which there are three towers for observation and defensive operations.  

There is a nice playground for the kids, and interesting workshops are frequently organized.

5. Oberhofen Castle

This castle is one of Switzerland’s most important cultural and historical heritage. It is located within the canton of Bern (one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland ), on the shores of Lake Thun. The castle’s development was started by order of Duke Walther von Eschenbach.

 It is one of the oldest castles in Switzerland, the official date of construction is 1130, and one of the most beautiful medieval castles. 

Numerous tourists and visitors are attracted by the well preserved rich interior decoration, unusual style of architecture, and the eventful history of the building. 

6. Habsburg Castle

Habsburg Castle is located on a hilltop surrounded by the Alps and is the birthplace of the Habsburg dynasty – one of the leading European monarchic families.

 The castle was built in 1030 and has survived to this day almost in its original form.

In 1979, a museum was equipped in the castle premises, which houses an exposition dedicated to the history of its construction and the life of the local population in the Middle Ages. There is a tavern with tables for visitors in the Knights’ and Gothic halls.

7. Jegenstorf Castle

Jegenstorf Castle is a magnificent aristocratic mansion located in the Canton of Bern and is one of the best castles in Switzerland. The exact date of construction of the house is not known, but the castle is mentioned in possession of Berthold II, who died in 1111. 

During its long history, the house has changed many noble owners. In 1720, the castle was renovated in the Baroque style.

The castle is located just 15 km away from one of the most beautiful capital cities in Europe, Bern. During WWII, it was the headquarters of the commander of the Swiss army. 

Currently, the castle houses the Bernese Interior Museum of the 17th century – 19th century, which presents a magnificent exposition of antique furniture, paintings and other interior decorations. 

Key Points:

• The exact date of construction of the house is not known, but the castle is mentioned in possession of Berthold II, who died in 1111.
• During its long history, the house has changed many noble owners.
• In 1720, the castle was renovated in the Baroque style.
• The castle is located just 15 km away from Bern.
• During WWII, it was the headquarters of the commander of the Swiss army.
• Currently, it houses the Bernese Interior Museum of the 17th century – 19th century, with an exposition of antique furniture, paintings, and other interior decorations.

8. Sasso Corbaro Castle

This castle is part of the three castles of Bellinzona – a complex of buildings that are located in the canton of Ticino, around Bellinzona. 

Since 2000 they have been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Even though the structure’s outer walls are perfectly preserved, there is not a single medieval building inside it. Nowadays, the castle has a museum. The most famous room is a “wooden hall” in the observation tower, lined with walnuts.

9. Tarasp castle

Tarasp Castle is located on a high mountain hill. During its history, the castle was subjected to many sieges, but still, it was never taken by storm.

 This unusual spiral fortress belonged to Austria most of the time and until the beginning of the 19th century. 

The past centuries were merciless to this majestic architectural structure, gradually falling apart. 

Only at the beginning of the last century, when Karl August Linger acquired the dilapidated building, did its major begin.

Get the guided tour – you will learn captivating facts about the castle!

10. Thun castle

An ancient castle Schloss Thun was built in 1190, and these days is a museum. Here you will feel like you are in an ancient chivalric romance and admire the ancient furniture, tapestries, and dishes. 

One of the halls is reserved for the exposition of the prison room with torture instruments. Adults will be interested, but it is better not to bring children here. But kids will also have what to see! A hall with a large exposition of toys is designed especially for children. 

Climbing a spiral staircase with a rope railing to the castle towers is no less interesting and even more exciting. The panorama is wonderful – the Alps, snowy peaks, Mount Niesen, and Lake Thunersee. 

11. Spiez Castle

Spiez Castle is in the old town of Spiez. It is one of the oldest castles in the country. In the past, this building, erected by order of the King of Burgundy, served exclusively as the residence of the aristocracy and was never defensive. 

Many influential families living here ennobled and completed the construction of the castle at their discretion. Here was a beautiful garden, vineyards, a church, and the main tower.

In the gallery, you can see portraits of all its former inhabitants, as well as appreciate the luxury of life at that time. But the most important thing is the unique view from the windows of the banquet hall to one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland – Lake Thun at the foot of the mountains.

Read More: Lucerne with Kids: A Complete City Break Guide

12. Gruyere Castle

This castle is located in a medieval town, Gruyeres and is one of the best castles in Switzerland. The name of the castle comes from Grus, which adorns the town’s coat of arms and, therefore, the family coat of arms of the Counts of Gruyères.

 It was their private residence for a few centuries, from the 11th to the 16th century. After the bankruptcy of the subsequent count, the castle changed owners several times until finally, it was bought out by the canton of Friborg. 

The castle harmoniously combines the architectural varieties of eight centuries, from the first Middle Ages to the Baroque. The castle is located 35 km from Friborg and 40 km from Vevey.  

The famous Gruyere cheese is produced within the vicinity of the castle and only from July to September.

13. Chateau Ste-Maire

Saint-Maire Castle is one of the most beautiful among Lausanne castles. It is located in the historic quarter of the city next to the Cathedral.

The construction of the building began at the end of the 14th century and continued for 35 years. The fortress got its name from the monastery named after St. Mary. 

In 1396, an order was issued by the Pope to move the monastery to another place, and a castle was built on its territory, which provided security for the bishops.

The palace was built in the form of a rectangle with a four-sided roof. The height of the building is 25 meters. The upper part of the castle is made of red brick; the lower part is made of light stone. Turrets complete the picture with a cone-shaped roof. The entrance to the castle was provided by a suspension bridge, which was destroyed at the end of the 18th century. 

14. Hallwyl Castle

Hallwyl is a castle on the water, located on the river Abach and is one of the most significant castles in Switzerland. Since 1925, it has been open to visitors as a museum complex. 

The first mention of the castle dates back to 1256. In the Middle Ages, a fire burned several times, but the buildings were rebuilt and expanded. 

Today, the castle buildings are located on two islands, washed by two channels of the Abach River. There is a cafe and a museum on the premises of the castle, the expositions of which are dedicated to the history of the castle, its owners and the life of its residents.

Read More: Castles in Sicily

15. Grandson Castle

Grandson Castle is located in the ancient city of Grandson on the shores of Lake Neuchatel in the Vaud canton, 45 km north of Lausanne. 

It is one of the best preserved Swiss fortresses. The construction of the castle took several centuries. 

The first buildings appeared at the beginning of the 11th century, and 5 round towers were built in the 14th century. The castle is located on a hill and is perfectly visible from anywhere in the city. 

16. Castelgrande

Castelgrande is another amazing castle in the Bellinzona castles complex and one of the best castles in Switzerland.

 Castelgrande is the oldest of the three castles in Bellinzona. It is located on a rocky peak as if hanging over a valley. The Roman fortress that stood on this site was rebuilt in the 12th century, and until the end of the 15th-century castle was rebuilt several times. 

The castle is notable for two towers: Black (Torre Nera) and White (Torre Bianca). The White Tower is the tallest tower in Castelgrande. The relief wall connecting the towers forms the courtyard of this beautiful castle.

The castle’s south wing has a museum with historical documents of Bellinzona. 

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FAQ’s

Stockalperschloss is the largest castle in Switzerland. Located in the city of Brig, deep in the Alpine mountains, in the canton of Valais. However, this castle cannot be visited as it is privately owned.

On Swiss land, more than 500 castles and fortifications were built in different historical periods. Many of the buildings, unfortunately, have not survived to our times and turned into ruins.

There are many castles in Switzerland which are open to the public. Among them: Habsburg Castle, Jegenstorf Castle, Sasso Corbaro Castle, Tarasp Castle, Thun Castle, Spiez Castle, Tourbillon Castle, Chateau de Chillon, Aigle Castle, Rapperswil Castle, Oberhofen Castle, Gruyere Castle, Chateau Ste-Maire, Hallwyl Castle, Grandson Castle, and Castelgrande Castle.

Several castles in Switzerland are located on the side of a mountain. Among them: Castelgrande, Sasso Corbaro Castle, Tarasp Castle, and the Habsburg Castle. 

Swiss castles of the 13th century are Castelgrande, Gruyere Castle, Tourbillon Castle, and Oberhofen Castle

Swiss castles of the 12th century are Chillon Castle, Jegenstorf Castle, and the Thun Castle.

There are about 50 castles in Zurich. Rapperswil Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Zurich. 

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Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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THE 10 BEST Switzerland Castles

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1. Chateau de Chillon

2. Gruyeres Castle

3. Schloss Thun

5. Castelgrande

6. Château de Tourbillon

7. Castelli di Bellinzona

8. Valère Basilica

9. Oberhofen Castle

10. Castello di Montebello

11. Schloss Rapperswil

12. Château de Nyon

13. Château de Neuchâtel

14. Castle Hallwyl

15. Schloss Lenzburg - Museum Aargau

16. Schloss Kyburg

17. Prangins Castle

18. Stockalper Palace

19. Schloss Meggenhorn

20. Aigle Castle

21. Schloss Hünegg Hilterfingen

22. Schloss Spiez

23. Stein Castle

24. Palais de Rumine

25. Schloss Werdenberg

26. Châteaux de Bellinzone

27. Schloss Tarasp

28. Museum Burg Zug

29. Le Château de Morges

30. Schloessli Woerth

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16 Best Castles to Visit in Switzerland

February 24, 2024 | Posted in: Switzerland

Switzerland is home to numerous historic castles that attract visitors interested in the country's medieval history and architecture. The castles are spread across different cities and regions, often located in strategic positions on lakesides or hilltops. The castles were built from the 10th century onwards, serving as fortresses, administration centers and noble family residences. Some of the most notable castles in Switzerland include the 13th-century Gruyères Castle, which was home to the Counts of Gruyères, Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva, originating from the 11th century when it was occupied by Savoy rulers, Spiez Castle, which is a medieval fortress on a hilltop above Lake Thun dating back to the 10th century, the 12th-century hilltop Lenzburg Castle overlooking the Aare River valley and Grandson Castle on Lake Neuchâtel built in the 11th century known for its eventful history of battles and sieges. These castles allow visitors to explore Switzerland's rich medieval past through their settings, historic architecture and informative museums.

Listed below are the best castles to visit in Switzerland.

• Chillon Castle. Chillon Castle is a medieval castle on Lake Geneva in Switzerland. It was built in the 10th century and expanded in the 12th century by the House of Savoy as a summer residence and fleet harbor. For centuries, it was occupied by the Savoy rulers and later bailiffs until it was taken over by the Canton of Vaud in 1798. The castle is one of Switzerland's top historical attractions, drawing over 300,000 visitors annually to tour its courtyards, halls, bedrooms and dungeons. Proper attire is required and smoking is prohibited to preserve the site.
• Gruyères Castle. Gruyères Castle is a 13th-century medieval castle in the town of Gruyères, Switzerland. It was the residence of the Counts of Gruyère until the last Count went bankrupt in 1554. The castle then became the seat of power for appointed bailiffs and prefects. In 1938, the canton of Fribourg repurchased the castle and opened it as a museum. Proper attire is required and smoking is prohibited to preserve the site.
• Oberhofen Castle. Oberhofen Castle is a castle on Lake Thun in Switzerland, originating in the 13th century. It changed hands several times between noble families and served as a Bernese bailiff's seat until 1798. After renovations in the 19th century, it became the summer home of the Pourtalès family. Some parts of the castle became a public museum. Rules protect the historical artifacts, proper attire is required and smoking is prohibited to preserve the site.
• Rapperswil Castle. Rapperswil Castle is a 13th-century medieval castle in Rapperswil, Switzerland. It was the seat of the Counts of Rapperswil until coming under Zurich's control in 1464. It later flourished under Zurich as an administrative center before declining. It is a museum showcasing fortifications, towers, courtyards, chapels and history exhibits. Visitors are asked not to touch artifacts and certain house rules are imposed to preserve the castle.
• Aigle Castle. Aigle Castle is a 12th-century medieval castle in Aigle, Switzerland, built by the Lords of Aigle. It was expanded into a fortified stronghold and changed hands several times before passing to Vaud in 1803. Highlights of the castle include the dungeons, grand hall, battlements and tower views, taking 1-2 hours to explore. Certain house rules are imposed to preserve the castle.

1. Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle, known as Château de Chillon, is a medieval castle on a small island in Lake Geneva, south of Montreux in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. The nearest major city is Montreux, which is a 4 kilometers (2.4 miles) or a 10-minute drive away. The first parts of Chillon Castle were built in the 10th century to control the strategic road through the Alpine pass between northern and southern Europe. It was expanded in the 12th century under the House of Savoy to serve as a summer residence and fleet harbor on Lake Geneva. It was occupied by the Savoy rulers and later by Bernese bailiffs from 1536 to 1798, when it was taken over by the canton of Vaud.

Chillon Castle is one of Switzerland's most visited historical monuments, with over 300,000 visitors annually. It remains well-preserved from centuries of restorations and is revered for its medieval architecture and natural beauty along the shores of Lake Geneva. The best time to visit is during the high season between April and September, when the castle is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm. Tickets cost €16 ($17, £13) to tour the castle and grounds. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance for the same rates. Visitors should plan to spend at least 1-2 hours exploring the castle's courtyards, halls, bedrooms and dungeons.

Guided tours in various languages are available in Chillon Castle for groups, providing additional historical context and access to restricted areas. Photography is allowed throughout the site. There is an on-site café and gift shop, but no other major food service inside the castle. Well-behaved leashed dogs are permitted in certain areas, but most interior spaces are not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to narrow stairs and doorways. Proper entry attire is required, so swimwear, bare feet and chests are prohibited. Smoking is also not allowed inside the castle. Visitors are asked to refrain from touching the ancient walls and artifacts to preserve Chillon's structural integrity and rich heritage for future generations.

2. Gruyères Castle

Gruyères Castle is a medieval castle in the town of Gruyères in the canton of Fribourg, Switzerland. It sits atop an 81-meter (269 feet) hill overlooking the Saane valley and the Swiss Prealps. The nearest major city is Bulle, which is 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) away. The castle was built between 1270 and 1282 under the House of Savoy dynasty. It served as the residence for the Counts of Gruyère until the last Count, Michel, went bankrupt in 1554. His creditors, the cantons of Fribourg and Bern, split up his lands. Gruyères Castle became the seat of power for the bailiffs and prefects appointed by Fribourg to rule the region from 1555 to 1798. The castle was sold to the Bovy family from Geneva, who spent summers there and hosted an artist's colony, restoring the interior. It was repurchased by the canton of Fribourg in 1938 and opened as a museum for visitors. The foundation ensures the preservation and promotion of the site.

The best time to visit Gruyères Castle is April to October, when it is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Tickets cost €16 ($17, £13) to tour the castle. Tickets can be purchased on-site and advance purchase is not required. It takes 1-2 hours to see the main highlights at a comfortable pace, including the counts' bedroom with tapestries, weapons room, dungeons, ramparts and gardens. Joining a guided tour provides added historical context about the Gruyères Castle. Photography is permitted throughout the site. There is a small café on-site but no extensive food inside the castle. Well-behaved leashed dogs are allowed in certain areas, but strollers and wheelchairs may have difficulty accessing parts of the castle due to narrow stairs and doorways. Proper attire is required, so swimwear, bare feet and chests are prohibited. Smoking is not permitted inside. Visitors are asked not to touch the ancient walls and artifacts to preserve the integrity of this medieval site for future generations.

3. Oberhofen Castle

Oberhofen Castle is located directly on Lake Thun's shores in the municipality of Oberhofen am Thunersee, in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. The nearest major city is Bern, which is 33.1 kilometers (20.65 miles). The central keep of Oberhofen Castle dates back to 1200 AD when it was built by the local von Oberhofen family. The von Oberhofens gave the castle and village to the von Eschenbach family when a daughter named Ita married into that family. The von Eschenbachs began construction on a new moated castle by the lakeshore in the early 13th century, of which only the central keep still stands from that period today.

Oberhofen Castle changed hands several times, belonging at different points to the Kyburgs, Habsburgs and Bernese nobility like the von Scharnachthals and the von Erlach family. From 1652 to 1798, it was used as the seat of Bernese bailiffs. The castle returned to private ownership after the collapse of the Helvetic Republic. The castle underwent major renovations and expansion under its owner, Count Albert Alexander de Pourtalès, giving Oberhofen its current romantic 19th-century appearance. The castle served as the summer residence for the Pourtalès family. Its last private owner was William Maul Measy, an American lawyer, who turned it into a foundation that still runs today. Since 1954, parts of Oberhofen Castle have housed a public museum.

The best time to visit Oberhofen Castle is from late spring through early fall when the weather is pleasant and the flowers bloom. The castle grounds and lakeside path have longer opening hours and can be accessed year-round for free. Tickets can be purchased on-site and booking is not required. It takes 2-3 hours to tour the Oberhofen Castle exhibits, climb the tower to see the oriental smoking lounge and explore the servants' quarters, chapel, dining hall, grounds and lakeside path. Photography is allowed throughout most of Oberhofen Castle. Flash photography is not permitted inside the castle museum. The on-site Restaurant Schloss Oberhofen offers food and refreshments inside the castle complex. It has a seasonal menu focused on regional specialties and is open Tuesday-Sunday. Well-behaved leashed dogs are allowed in the restaurant but not inside other castle buildings. Oberhofen Castle meets ADA accessibility guidelines.

The Oberhofen Castle museum entrance has a wheelchair ramp and elevator to access the exhibits floor-by-floor. The gravel paths around the grounds and lakeside walkways may be difficult for some wheelchairs and strollers when wet or snowy. Standard museum rules apply within Oberhofen Castle. Food and drinks besides water cannot be brought inside. Smoking is prohibited indoors. Visitors are asked to refrain from touching exhibits or interior furnishings. Respectful noise levels are enforced so as not to disturb others viewing the museum

4. Rapperswil Castle

Rapperswil Castle is a medieval castle in the town of Rapperswil on the north shore of Lake Zurich in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. The nearest major city is Zurich, which is 40 kilometers (24 miles) or a 45-minute train ride. Rapperswil Castle sits on a small rocky peninsula in Lake Zurich. The castle was built in the 13th century AD by the House of Rapperswil, who ruled over the region at the time. It served as the seat of power for the Counts of Rapperswil and expanded into a flourishing medieval town over the centuries. After the extinction of the Rapperswil family in 1350, it changed hands several times until coming under the control of the city-state of Zurich in 1464.

Rapperswil Castle became the residence of a reeve who administered the surrounding land on behalf of Zurich following Zurich's adoption of the Protestant Reformation in 1524. It flourished as an administrative and economic center in the 16th-18th centuries but declined soon after. The castle fell into disrepair and was used as a quarry and warehouse for a period of time. Restoration efforts began in the late 19th century and today, the castle is an important museum and cultural center in northeastern Switzerland. Visitors can explore the medieval fortifications, towers, internal courtyard, Gothic chapel and residential quarters while learning about the castle's history and region through multimedia displays. There is also a museum dedicated to the history of cultural life around Lake Zurich, showcasing art, weapons and historical artifacts.

The best time to visit Rapperswil Castle is during the high season between April and October, when most areas are open to the public. Tickets cost €11 ($13, £10) for adults and €10 ($11, £8) for visitors ages 6-16. Free guided tours in German and English are included with admission and tickets can be purchased on-site. It takes 1-2 hours to see the highlights at a relaxed pace, including the ramparts, courtyard, chapel, great hall and museum exhibitions.

There is no full-service restaurant inside the Rapperswil Castle, but a café and lounge area serves light snacks and refreshments to visitors. Well-behaved leashed dogs are permitted in certain areas, but strollers may have difficulty accessing the narrow spiral staircases and some towers. Most areas offer level entry at ground level, but wheelchair users should inquire ahead about accessibility. Proper attire is required and smoking is prohibited inside the castle. Photography without flash is allowed throughout the premises. Visitors are asked to avoid touching ancient walls and interior artifacts as historic monuments.

5. Aigle Castle

Aigle Castle is a medieval castle in the town of Aigle in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It sits on a small hill, 50 meters (164 feet) from the Rhône River, with views of the surrounding vineyards and the Alps. The nearest major city is Montreux, 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) or a 20-minute away. The castle’s origins date back to the 12th century when the Lords of Aigle built a fortified tower to protect the surrounding land. The castle was expanded in the 14 century into a stronghold with high walls, circular towers, a deep moat, drawbridges and a central courtyard. The castle changed hands several times, belonging to the house of Savoy, Bernese bailiffs and the Canton of Bern before passing to the Canton of Vaud in 1803.

Some parts of Aigle Castle are open to the public as a museum with on-site cultural events and temporary exhibitions. The best time to visit is May through September when the full castle complex is open. The inner courtyard, ramparts, dungeons and great hall can be explored for a ticket price of €8 ($9, £7) for adults and €5 ($6, £4) for visitors ages 6-16. Tickets can be purchased on-site and advance purchase is not required. It takes 1-2 hours to see the highlights at a relaxed pace, including the dungeons, grand hall, battlements and tower views.

Joining a guided tour (available in French) at the Aigle Castle provides added historical context, but independent exploration is also permitted. Photography without flash is allowed in most areas. The on-site café provides refreshments, but no extensive food options are inside the castle. Well-behaved leashed dogs are allowed in the courtyards and some interior spaces may not be wheelchair accessible due to narrow stairs. Proper attire is required when visiting the castle. Smoking is prohibited and visitors are asked not to touch a historic site's ancient walls and artifacts. Special events like summer theater performances often take place in the castle courtyard.

6. Tourbillon Castle

Tourbillon Castle is a medieval castle on a hilltop in Sion, the capital city of the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits on a rocky outcrop 450 meters (1,476 feet) above the valley floor, overlooking Sion, which lies 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) away. The castle was built in the 13th century AD on the orders of the Bishop of Sion to assert his authority over the local nobility. It served as the seat of power for the Prince-Bishops of Sion for centuries. Tourbillon Castle has been destroyed and rebuilt several times as it exchanged hands during various regional battles and dynastic conflicts. It fell into disrepair by the 18th century until the canton of Valais acquired it in 1906. Since then, ongoing restoration works have helped conserve the ruins.

The best time to visit Tourbillon Castle is April through October, when the full castle complex is open. The grounds can be explored for free, while access to the interior spaces and exhibitions requires paid admission. Ticket prices are €10 ($11, £8) for adults and €8 ($9, £7) for visitors ages 6-16. Tickets can be purchased on-site and reservations are not necessary. It takes 1-2 hours to see the castle highlights at a relaxed pace, including the Great Hall, the bishops' private apartments, dungeons, defense towers and ramparts. Guided tours are available on certain days for a more in-depth experience.

Photography is permitted in most areas inside and outside the Tourbillon Castle. A small café on-site offers light snacks and beverages but no extensive dining options within the castle complex. Leashed pets are allowed in outdoor areas but may not be permitted inside certain interior rooms. Stroller access also varies by area and the uneven terrain, stairs and narrow doorways make some sections difficult to navigate. Proper attire and good behavior are expected of all visitors to respect the historic property. Littering, graffiti, touching delicate structures and disruptive noises are prohibited. Smoking is restricted to designated outdoor zones only.

7. Grandson Castle

Grandson Castle, also known as Château de Grandson, is a medieval fortress in Grandson, Switzerland. The castle is on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel and offers views of the surrounding landscape. The nearest city to Grandson Castle is Yverdon-les-Bains, 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away. Yverdon-les-Bains is a city known for its thermal baths and historical sites. The history of Grandson Castle dates back to the 11th century when the Counts of Neuchâtel built it. Over the centuries, it served as a strategic stronghold, witnessing numerous battles and sieges. One of the most notable events in its history was the Battle of Grandson in 1476, where the Swiss Confederation captured the castle. The Bernese authorities later acquired the castle and became a residence for various noble families. Notable residents include the Dukes of Savoy and the French ambassador to Switzerland. The castle stands as a well-preserved testament to its rich history.

The best time to visit Grandson Castle is during the summer months (mid-June through early September) when the weather is pleasant and the castle hosts various events and exhibitions. It is advisable to check the castle's website for specific dates and timings. Visitors can freely explore several parts of Grandson Castle, including the outer courtyards, ramparts and beautiful gardens. These areas offer views and are perfect for a stroll. Tickets to visit the interior of Grandson Castle can be purchased on-site. Adult tickets cost €10 ($11, £8), with reduced prices for students, seniors and children. It is recommended to check the castle's website for the most up-to-date ticket prices. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

The duration of a visit to Grandson Castle depends on the visitors' preferences. Exploring the main sights, including the castle's interior, gardens and exhibitions, can take 1-2 hours. Visitors can explore Grandson Castle on their own or join a guided tour. Guided tours provide in-depth information about the castle's history and architecture, offering a more immersive experience. Photography is allowed inside Grandson Castle, allowing visitors to capture the beauty and historical significance of the castle. Fash and tripods may be restricted in certain areas.

There are no restaurants or cafés inside Grandson Castle. Several dining options in Grandson can be accessed on foot from the castle. Pets are not allowed inside Grandson Castle, except guide dogs for visually impaired visitors. Grandson Castle is partially wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available in certain areas. Some parts of the castle may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users and strollers. Visitors are expected to follow the house rules of Grandson Castle, which include respecting the historical artifacts, refraining from touching the exhibits and maintaining quiet and respectful behavior.

8. Tarasp Castle

Tarasp Castle is a medieval fortress in the Engadine Valley of Switzerland. The castle is on a hilltop in the municipality of Tarasp and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Inn River. The nearest city is Scuol, located 5 kilometers (3.10 miles) southeast. It can be easily reached by car or public transportation, with a travel time of 15 minutes from Scuol. The history of Tarasp Castle dates back to the 11th century when it was built as a strategic fortress to control the trade routes in the region. The castle underwent several expansions and renovations, transforming into the impressive castle we see today. The castle was primarily built by the noble family of Tarasp, who held ownership for several generations. It changed hands multiple times throughout history, with various noble families and even the Bishop of Chur taking possession of the castle. Tarasp Castle has been home to several notable figures throughout its history.

The best time to visit Tarasp Castle is during the summer when the weather is pleasant and the grounds fully bloom. The castle is open to the public from May to October, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and architectural beauty. Visitors can freely explore various parts of Tarasp Castle, including the castle grounds, courtyards and gardens. Access to the interior and certain areas may require purchasing a ticket. Tickets for Tarasp Castle can be purchased on-site and advanced booking is not required. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues during peak tourist seasons. The duration of a visit to Tarasp Castle depends on visitors' preferences. Exploring the main sights, including the interior, gardens and exhibitions, can take 1-2 hours. Visitors can join a guided tour or explore Tarasp Castle on their own. Guided tours provide in-depth information about the castle's history, architecture and the lives of its former residents.

Photography is allowed inside Tarasp Castle so visitors can capture the beauty of the castle's interior and surroundings. Flash and tripods may be restricted in certain areas to preserve the artifacts and delicate interiors. There are no restaurants or cafés inside Tarasp Castle. Several dining options are available in the nearby village of Tarasp, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments. Pets are generally not allowed inside Tarasp Castle, except for service animals. It is advisable to check the castle's regulations or contact the staff beforehand for specific pet guidelines. Tarasp Castle is partially wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available in certain areas. Due to the castle's historical nature and architectural limitations, some parts may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Strollers are generally allowed, but visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces and stairs.

9. Vufflens Castle

Vufflens Castle is a historic castle in the municipality of Vufflens-le-Château in Switzerland. The castle is on a hilltop overlooking the Lake Geneva region, offering views of the surrounding countryside. The nearest major city to the Vufflens Castle is Laussance, which is 20 kilometers (12 miles) away. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with a travel time of 30 minutes from Lausanne. The castle has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It was originally built as a fortress to protect the region and control the trade routes. Over the centuries, it underwent several renovations and expansions, transforming into the grand castle we see today. The castle was primarily built by the noble family of Vufflens, who held ownership for several generations. It changed hands multiple times throughout history, with various noble families and even the Bernese government taking possession of the castle.

Visitors to Vufflens Castle can explore its well-preserved interior, including the grand halls, living quarters and the medieval tower. The castle features beautiful gardens and courtyards, perfect for a stroll. The best time to visit Vufflens Castle is during the spring and summer when the gardens bloom. The castle is open to the public from April to October, allowing visitors to experience its rich history and architectural beauty. Entry to the castle grounds is free. There is an admission fee to access the interior and guided tours. The ticket prices vary depending on age and whether visitors choose a guided or self-guided tour.

Tickets for Vufflens Castle can be purchased on-site and advanced booking is not required. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues during peak tourist seasons. The duration of a visit to Vufflens Castle depends on visitors' preferences. Exploring the main sights, including the interior and gardens, can take 1-2 hours. Visitors can explore Vufflens Castle on their own or join a guided tour. Guided tours provide in-depth information about the castle's history and architecture, offering a more immersive experience. Exploring independently allows for a more flexible and personalized visit.

Photography is allowed inside Vufflens Castle so visitors can capture the beauty of the castle's interior and surroundings. Flash and tripods may be restricted in certain areas to preserve the artifacts and delicate interiors. There are no restaurants or cafés inside Vufflens Castle itself. Several dining options are available in the nearby village of Vufflens-le-Château, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments. Pets are generally not allowed inside Vufflens Castle, except for service animals. It is advisable to check the castle's regulations or contact the staff beforehand for specific pet guidelines. Vufflens Castle is partially wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available in certain areas. Due to the castle's historical nature and architectural limitations, some parts may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Strollers are generally allowed, but visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces and stairs.

10. Neuchâtel Castle

Neuchâtel Castle is a historic castle in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. The castle sits on a hilltop overlooking Lake Neuchâtel and offers views of the surrounding area. The history of X Castle dates back to the 12th century when it was originally built as a defensive fortress. Over the centuries, it underwent several renovations and expansions, transforming it into a magnificent castle. The castle has witnessed various historical events and has been home to several noble families. The Counts of Neuchâtel, influential regional rulers, primarily built the castle. They constructed the castle to serve as their residence and to protect their lands. Over time, the castle changed hands and was inhabited by noble families, including the Prussian royal family.

The best time to visit Neuchâtel Castle is during the summer when the weather is pleasant. The castle offers guided tours that give visitors a deeper understanding of its rich history and architectural significance. Exploring the castle independently allows visitors to take their time and appreciate its beauty at their own pace. Certain parts of the castle can be visited for free, such as the exterior grounds and the courtyard. A ticket must be purchased to access the castle's interior and various rooms. The cost of tickets may vary depending on the type of tour or exhibition the visitors availed.

The duration of a visit to Neuchâtel Castle depends on visitors' preferences and interests. It is advisable to allocate a few hours to see the main sights and fully explore the castle. This allows ample time to appreciate the architecture, visit the different rooms and enjoy the panoramic views. Guided tours provide in-depth information and insights into the castle's history while exploring independently allows for a more flexible and personalized experience. Photography is generally allowed inside Neuchâtel Castle, but checking with the staff or signage for any specific restrictions or guidelines is advisable. Several dining options are available in the nearby city of Neuchâtel. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack at one of the city's many restaurants, cafés or eateries before or after visiting the castle. Pets are generally not allowed inside Neuchâtel Castle, except for service animals.

Some Neuchâtel Castle areas have limited accessibility. It is advisable to contact the castle in advance to inquire about specific accessibility options and facilities. Neuchâtel Castle has certain house rules to ensure a pleasant visit for all visitors. These may include guidelines regarding photography, behavior and preserving the castle's historical artifacts and architecture.

11. Hallwyl Castle

Hallwyl Castle is a medieval castle in Switzerland. It is in the municipality of Seengen, in the canton of Aargau. The castle is positioned on the eastern shore of Lake Hallwil, offering views of the surrounding landscape. Hallwyl Castle has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It was originally built as a fortress to protect the region and control the nearby trade routes. Over the centuries, the castle underwent several expansions and renovations, transforming it into a grand residence. The von Hallwyl family, a prominent noble family in the region, primarily built the castle. They owned and inhabited the castle from the 13th century until the early 19th century. The von Hallwyls played a significant role in local politics and were known for their wealth and influence.

Hallwyl Castle is open to the public today and offers a glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore various parts of the castle, including the medieval tower, the courtyard, the chapel and the living quarters. The castle also houses a museum that showcases the history and artifacts of the von Hallwyl family. The best time to visit Hallwyl Castle is during the summer when the weather is pleasant. The castle is open to visitors only from April to October. Certain parts of Hallwyl Castle can be visited for free, such as the castle grounds and the gardens. Access to the museum and the castle's interior requires a ticket.

The duration of a visit to Hallwyl Castle depends on visitors' preferences. It is recommended to allocate a few hours to see the main sights and thoroughly explore the castle. Visitors can join a guided tour or explore Hallwyl Castle on their own. Guided tours provide in-depth information about the castle's history and offer a more structured experience. Photography is allowed inside Hallwyl Castle, except in certain designated areas where flash photography is prohibited to preserve the artifacts. There are no restaurants or cafés inside Hallwyl Castle. Picnic areas are available on the castle grounds, where visitors can enjoy food and beverages.

Pets are not allowed inside Hallwyl Castle, except guide dogs for visually impaired visitors. Hallwyl Castle is partially wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available in certain areas. Due to the castle's historical nature, some parts may have limited accessibility. Strollers are allowed but may have restricted access to certain areas. Visitors are expected to follow certain house rules inside Hallwyl Castle, such as not touching the artifacts, refraining from smoking and maintaining respectful behavior towards other visitors and the castle's surroundings.

12. Castles of Bellinzona

The Castles of Bellinzona is a group of fortifications in the town of Bellinzona, the capital of the Swiss canton of Ticino. The Castles of Bellinzona are composed of fortified walls and three castles named Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro. The castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. The history of the Castles of Bellinzona dates back to the Roman era, with the construction of fortifications on the massive outcropping known as Castelgrande during the reign of Emperor Augustus. The castles have seen various rulers and conflicts over the centuries, including control by the Longobards, the Visconti and the Swiss Confederation.

The best time to visit the Castles of Bellinzona is during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn when the weather is more conducive to outdoor exploration. The castles offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and strategic significance. Visitors can free explore various parts of the Castles of Bellinzona, such as the outdoor areas and surrounding fortifications. The ticket costs for visiting the Castles of Bellinzona vary depending on the ticket type and the visitor's age. Different pricing categories exist for adults, seniors, students and families. Tickets to visit the Castles of Bellinzona can be purchased in advance online or on-site at the ticket offices. It is advisable to check the availability and any specific requirements for advance ticket purchase, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The main sights at the Castles of Bellinzona can be seen in a few hours, but the time may vary based on visitors' interests and the pace of exploration. It is possible to spend a full day immersing oneself in the history and architecture of the castles. Visitors can explore the Castles of Bellinzona independently or join a guided tour. Guided tours are available and can provide in-depth insights into the history and significance of the castles. Choosing between a guided tour and independent exploration depends on personal preferences and interests. Photography is generally allowed inside the Castles of Bellinzona, but it is important to respect specific guidelines or restrictions in certain areas or during special exhibitions. Capturing the scenic views and historical features is a popular activity for visitors.

There are restaurants, cafés and food options inside the Castles of Bellinzona, providing opportunities to enjoy a meal or refreshments while exploring the site. The dining facilities may have varying operating hours based on the season and visitor traffic. Pets are generally allowed in the outdoor areas of the Castles of Bellinzona, but it is essential to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Some indoor spaces or specific exhibitions may have restrictions regarding pet access, so it is advisable to inquire beforehand. The Castles of Bellinzona are partially wheelchair and stroller accessible, with certain areas having ramps or alternative routes for mobility assistance. Due to the historical nature of the site and its elevated locations, some parts may have limitations for full accessibility. The Castles of Bellinzona house rules include guidelines for visitor conduct, respect for the historical environment and safety regulations. It is important to follow these rules to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and to preserve the site's cultural heritage.

13. Spiez Castle

Spiez Castle, known as Schloss Spiez, is a historic fortress in Spiez, Switzerland. It is located in the Bernese Oberland region, overlooking the shores of Lake Thun. The nearest city to Spiez is Thun, which is 16 kilometers (9 miles) away. The castle has a rich history dates back to the 10th century, with the current castle and main tower being built during the 12th century. The town of Spiez gradually developed outside the castle walls and the castle saw ownership by various noble families over the centuries.

The best time to visit Spiez Castle is during the open season, which runs from 1st May to 31st October. Visitors can purchase tickets to explore the castle museum, church and art exhibitions. The rates for the castle museum are €11 ($13, £10), with reduced rates for children aged 6 to 16. Certain regional guest cards and passes allow free admission to the castle museum. Guided tours of Spiez Castle are available by reservation and the prices vary based on the number of persons in the group. The castle offers various payment options, including cash and several accepted cards. The main sights at Spiez Castle can be seen in a few hours, but the exact time needed may vary based on visitors' interests and the pace of exploration. The castle's architectural history and the surrounding gardens make for an informative visit.

Exploring Spiez Castle independently or joining a guided tour is possible. Guided tours can provide in-depth insights into the history and architecture of the castle, while independent exploration allows for a more flexible experience. Choosing between a guided tour and independent exploration depends on personal preferences and interests. Photography is generally allowed inside Spiez Castle, making it possible to capture the scenic views and historical features. It is important to respect specific guidelines or restrictions in certain areas or during special exhibitions. The castle features a church and a café, providing opportunities to enjoy the religious and culinary aspects of the site. The gardens are open to the public, offering a peaceful environment for strolls and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Spiez Castle is partially wheelchair accessible, with certain areas having ramps or alternative routes for mobility assistance. Due to the historical nature of the site and its elevated locations, some parts may have limitations for full accessibility. The house rules of Spiez Castle include guidelines for visitor conduct, respect for the historical environment and safety regulations. It is important to follow these rules to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and to preserve the cultural heritage of the site

14. Burgdorf Castle

Burgdorf Castle, known as Schloss Burgdorf, is an 800-year-old historic fortress in the town of Burgdorf, in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. The castle is an iconic landmark of the city and the region and a monument of national significance. The nearest city to Burgdorf is Bern, which is 25 kilometers (15 miles) away. The history of Burgdorf Castle dates back to the 12th century when the Zähringen family built it. The castle has seen various modifications and inhabitants including the House of Kyburg and the Bernese avoyer (mayor). It served as an administrative center and a residence for different rulers and officials. The castle has undergone several renovations and repurposing, including being used as a military hospital and a school by Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi.

The best time to visit Burgdorf Castle is during its open season, which typically runs from April to October. Visitors can explore the museum, restaurant and certain parts of the castle for free. Access to specific areas and exhibitions within the castle may require the purchase of tickets. The visitor's entrance fees for the museum costs €11 ($13, £10). Free entry is available for children under 6 and certain pass holders and association members. Tickets to visit Burgdorf Castle can be purchased on-site at the entrance. The castle offers various payment options, including cash and several accepted cards.

The main sights at Burgdorf Castle can be seen in a few hours and vary based on visitors' interests and the pace of exploration. The castle's museum provides an exciting glimpse of its past and everything to do with the history of Burgdorf, making it an informative and engaging visit. The castle's rich history and diverse exhibits make it an interesting destination for independent exploration, while guided tours can offer additional insights into specific aspects of the castle's past. The choice between a guided tour and independent exploration depends on personal preferences and interests.

Photography is allowed inside Burgdorf Castle, allowing visitors to capture the historical features and scenic views. It is important to respect specific guidelines or restrictions in certain areas or during special exhibitions. The castle features a restaurant that serves regional dishes in a historical atmosphere. It offers a variety of dining options, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and special event menus. The castle's youth hostel provides comfortable accommodations surrounded by old stones, making it a unique place for visitors. Burgdorf Castle is partially wheelchair accessible, with certain areas having ramps or alternative routes for mobility assistance. Due to the historical nature of the site and its elevated locations, some parts may have limitations for full accessibility. The house rules of Burgdorf Castle include guidelines for visitor conduct, respect for the historical environment and safety regulations. It is important to follow these rules to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and preserve the site's cultural heritage

15. Thun Castle

Thun Castle, also known as Schloss Thun, is a historic fortress in the town of Thun, in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. The castle was built in the middle of the 13th century and served as the seat of a noble family called Thun, who acted on behalf of the bishop. The castle is a half-civil, half-military building featuring a defensive system with strong towers and solid walls. The castle features a courtyard with 18 stone pillars and two medieval towers. Thun Castle holds great architectural and historical value, with its furniture, comprehensive library, venerable halls, rooms and collection of arms.

The best time to visit Thun Castle is during its open season, which typically runs from April to October. Visitors can explore the castle museum by purchasing tickets. Special prices are available for senior citizens, individuals with special needs, students/trainees, children aged six to 16 and groups of 10 or more people. Free admission options exist for certain pass holders association members and children under six. Tickets to visit Thun Castle can be purchased at the museum cash desk or in advance. Tickets are available for purchase on-site at the entrance.

The castle's museum provides an exciting glimpse of its past and everything to do with the history of Thun, making it an informative and engaging visit. The choice between a guided tour and independent exploration depends on the personal preferences and interests of the visitors.

Photography is generally allowed inside Thun Castle, allowing visitors to capture the historical features and scenic views. It is important to respect specific guidelines or restrictions in certain areas or during special exhibitions. The castle features a cafeteria where visitors can enjoy refreshments. Thun Castle is partially wheelchair accessible. The house rules of Thun Castle include guidelines for visitor conduct, respect for the historical environment and safety regulations. It is important to follow these rules to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and to preserve the site's cultural heritage.

16. Marschlins Castle

Marschlins Castle is a 13th-century fortress located in the village of Igis, in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland. It is a privately owned Swiss castle with significant historical and architectural value. The castle was the childhood home of the feminist Emilie Kempin-Spyri. Marschlins Castle was built in the 13th century. It is a square castle with corner towers, one of which is enlarged to serve as the main tower. This castle style is unique in Graubünden and how the design was imported is unknown. The castle has a rich and complex history, owned and granted by various individuals and families over the centuries. It has undergone several renovations and changes in ownership and is still privately owned.

The best time to visit Marschlins Castle is during its open season, which typically runs from April to October. The castle is open to visitors and offers an opportunity to explore its rich history and architectural displays. Visitors can freely explore various parts of Marschlins Castle, such as the exterior and surrounding grounds. Access to specific areas and exhibitions within the castle may require the purchase of tickets. The individual entrance fees for the castle may vary based on the type of visit and any special exhibitions or events that are taking place at the time of the visit. It is recommended to check the official website or contact the castle for detailed information on ticket costs and any available discounts. Tickets to Marschlins Castle can be purchased on-site at the entrance. The castle offers various payment options, including cash and several accepted cards.

The duration of a visit to Marschlins Castle depends on visitors' preferences and interests. It is advisable to allocate a few hours to see the main sights and fully explore the castle. The castle's historical and architectural significance makes it an informative and engaging visit for those interested in medieval structures and their preservation. It is possible to explore Marschlins Castle independently or join a guided tour. Guided tours can offer additional insights into specific aspects of the castle's past and its architectural features. Photography is generally allowed inside Marschlins Castle, allowing visitors to capture the historical features and scenic views. It is important to respect specific guidelines or restrictions in certain areas or during special exhibitions.

The castle also features a chapel, highly decorated furnished rooms and a cannon from the Salis regiment from 1676. The castle's interior offers a glimpse into its past and former inhabitants, making it an interesting destination for those interested in historical architecture and design. The house rules of Marschlins Castle include guidelines for visitor conduct, respect for the historical environment and safety regulations. It is important to follow these rules to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and to preserve the site's cultural heritage.

What other famous attractions in Switzerland are located near its most iconic castles?

Listed below are famous attractions in Switzerland near its most iconic castles.

• Jungfraujoch. Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters (11,333 feet), located 112 kilometers (70 miles) from Château de Chillon. Jungfraujoch provides access to the mountain world of ice, snow and rock on the Jungfrau. Visitors can enjoy views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. There are plenty of things to do at Jungfraujoch, including visiting the Sphinx Observatory, the Ice Palace and the Glacier Plateau. Visitors can also hike to Mönchsjoch Hut or go snow tubing on the glacier.
• Rhine Falls. Rhine Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Europe, 24 kilometers (15 miles) from Lenzburg Castle. Rhine plunges down 23 meters (37,014 feet) with a width of 150 meters (0.09 miles), creating a roar of 600,000 liters (158,503 gallons) of water rush over the cliff every second. Visitors can take boat trips up close or view the powerful falls from viewing platforms along the cliffs. The boat trips take visitors to the middle of the falls, where they can feel the power of the water and get a perspective of the falls. The viewing platforms offer views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. There are also restaurants and souvenir shops nearby for visitors to enjoy.
• Mount Titlis. Mount Titlis is a popular mountain for skiing and hiking, 64 kilometers (40 miles) from Château de Grandson. Mount Titlis offers 360°panoramic views of the Swiss Alps from its summit, glaciers, cliffs and deep crevasses along its icy slopes and hiking trails. Visitors can stop at Trübsee mountain station for activities such as sledding or zip line (year-round), playgrounds, rowing boats and hiking (summer). Visitors can go skiing in winter or snow tubing in summer.
• Lake Lucerne. Lake Lucerne is a scenic lake located 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Château de Chillon. Visitors to Lake Lucerne can enjoy various activities, including boat cruises, water sports, hiking and sightseeing. The lake is surrounded by mountains, such as Rigi and Pilatus, offering views. There are also several historic sites and landmarks near the lake, including the meadow of the Rütli, the traditional site of the founding of the Swiss Confederation. The activities at Lake Lucerne cater to a wide range of visitors, including families, outdoor lovers, history buffs and those interested in scenic landscapes.
• Chapel Bridge. Charles Bridge is a famous covered wooden bridge in Lucerne, 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Lenzburg Castle. Visitors to the Chapel Bridge can stroll across the bridge, admiring the remaining paintings and the scenic views of the river and the surrounding area. There is also a Water Tower that can be explored. The Wasserturm Souvenir Shop in the Water Tower is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The Chapel Bridge is a family-friendly attraction suitable for visitors of all ages. Its historical significance and unique architecture make it an interesting destination for history lovers.

Which castles in Switzerland offer the best views?

Listed below are castles in Switzerland that offer the best views.

• Grandson Castle. Grandson Castle (Château de Grandson) is a medieval castle in the Swiss municipality of Grandson in the canton of Vaud. The castle is an example of 13th to 14th-century Gothic fortress architecture, overlooking Lake Neuchâtel. The castle offers 180° views across Lake Neuchâtel, showcasing the lake's waters and boat activity against a backdrop of vineyards rolling down to the lakeshore.
• Chillon Castle. Chillon Castle (Château de Chillon) is a medieval fortress on the banks of Lake Geneva, south of Veytaux in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It is celebrated for its historical significance and is regarded as one of the best-preserved medieval European castles. The castle, which belonged to the powerful Counts of Savoy from the 12th to the 16th centuries, is on a rock along the banks of Lake Geneva, offering views of the lake, distant Alpine peaks and nearby vineyards and orchards.
• Lenzburg Castle. Lenzburg Castle is a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop overlooking the Aabach valley in Lenzburg, Switzerland. It provides panoramic views over the medieval old town of Lenzburg, the surrounding farmlands and forests and the distant mountains. The castle's strategic location and architectural features make it a notable landmark in the region, attracting tourists and history experts.
• Castle of Spiez. The Castle of Spiez is a medieval fortress on a hilltop above Lake Thun in Spiez, Switzerland. It offers picture postcard views across the blue waters of Lake Thun to the snow-capped Bernese Alps. The castle's architecture blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring a chapel, a knights' hall and a museum. The castle's history dates back to the 10th century and has been expanded and renovated over the centuries. The castle's location on a hilltop overlooking Lake Thun makes it a notable landmark in the region, attracting tourists and history experts.
• Arenenberg Castle. Arenenberg Castle is a historic castle on its peninsula, reaching into Lake Constance in the canton of Thurgau, Switzerland. The castle offers views across the vast lake and rolling hills. The castle's 13-hectare (32 acres) park was designed by French landscape architects and features numerous installations such as grottoes, a hermitage, an ice cellar and a fountain. The castle is open to the public and visitors can explore its historical significance and enjoy the views of Lake Constance.

What are some traditional dishes of Switzerland?

Listed below are some traditional dishes in Switzerland.

• Cheese Fondue. The Swiss dish cheese fondue originated in the French-speaking region of Switzerland. It features melted cheese, usually a mix of Gruyere and Emmentaler, white wine and spices. The fondue is kept warm in a communal pot over a flame and cubes of crusty bread are dipped into the melted cheese using long-handled fondue forks. The dish is a beloved tradition during long winter nights. The medieval castle on Lake Geneva is a popular tourist attraction that serves cheese fondue.
• Rösti. Rösti is a traditional Swiss potato dish from the German-speaking cantons of Bern and Zurich. Rösti is often served topped with fried eggs or melted cheese for breakfast or dinner. It can be served as a side dish, with sausages or meat from the grill. The Gruyères Castle overlooking the medieval town of Gruyères has a restaurant that serves Rösti and other local specialties. Rösti is a typical food to eat in Switzerland .
• Bircher Muesli. Bircher Muesli is a tasty Swiss breakfast dish of soaked oats invented by Swiss doctor Maximilian Bircher-Benner in the late 19th century. It features oats soaked overnight in milk or yogurt, mixed with fresh fruit like apples and berries and topped with nuts and seeds. The oats soften and absorb the liquid, taking on a pleasant creamy texture, almost like overnight oatmeal. Visitors can enjoy Bircher muesli near the Lindenhof castle ruins in the old town, where this dish was invented.
• Älplermagronen. Älplermagronen or “alpine herdsman's macaroni” comes from the mountains of central Switzerland. It features macaroni tossed in creamy cheese sauce with potatoes, onions, ham and applesauce. The sauce is infused with nutty alpine cheeses like Sbrinz and Appenzeller. This dish sustained herdsmen during long days in the Alps. Visitors can enjoy this dish at restaurants near Schloss Habsburg in Aargau, where they can sample älplermagronen, close to where this cheesy alpine pasta originated.
• Nusstorte. Nusstorte hails from the southeastern canton of Graubünden. A sweet shortcrust pastry shell is filled with a rich mixture of caramelized sugar, butter, egg, rum and finely chopped walnuts or hazelnuts. The tart is then baked until the nuts release their oils and the filling sets firm. Visitors can enjoy this dish at Chur near Schloss Haldenstein Castle along the Rhine River.

What are the popular castles in Switzerland that host festivals?

Listed below are the popular castles in Switzerland that host festivals.

• Chillon Castle. The Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the most famous music festivals in the world. It takes place in July and is held at Chillon Castle. This festival attracts top jazz, blues and rock artists from around the globe. The castle's setting on the shores of Lake Geneva provides a backdrop for the performances. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of concerts, both indoors and outdoors, showcasing a wide variety of musical genres. The festival attracts music lovers to Chillon Castle. The Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the much-awaited festivals held in Switzerland at Chillon Castle.
• Aigle Castle. The Aigle Winegrowers' Festival is held in Aigle Castle once every 20 years to celebrate the region's winemaking traditions. The festival is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event. The festival features parades, traditional music, dancing and theatrical performances. Visitors can witness the crowning of the Wine Queen, enjoy wine tastings from local vineyards and indulge in traditional Swiss cuisine. The festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of winemaking in Aigle and offers a memorable experience for all attendees.
• Thun Castle. The Thun Castle Festival is a festival that brings the castle's medieval past to life. This festival takes visitors on a journey back in time with medieval reenactments, historical exhibitions and performances. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Middle Ages' atmosphere, witness tournaments, try their hand at archery and explore the castle's rich history through interactive exhibits. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the medieval era engagingly.
• Gruyères Castle. The Gruyères Medieval Festival is an event that transports visitors back to the medieval era held at Gruyères Castle. This festival brings the castle to life with knights, jesters and artisans. The festival features traditional markets, where craftsmen and vendors sell their wares, including handmade crafts, medieval clothing and local delicacies. Live performances of music, dance and theater add to the festive atmosphere, immersing visitors in the sights and sounds of the medieval period. The Gruyères Medieval Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of the castle.
• Grandson Castle. The Festival Rock Oz'Arènes is a popular music festival held annually in August at Grandson Castle. This festival showcases a diverse lineup of national and international rock, pop and alternative music artists. The castle's outdoor amphitheater provides a unique and atmospheric setting for the performances, with Lake Neuchâtel as a backdrop. Music lovers gather to enjoy live performances from renowned artists, creating an electric atmosphere. The energetic music performances make the Festival Rock Oz'Arènes a must-visit event for music lovers.

Which famous kings, queens or leaders once lived in Swiss castles?

Listed below are the famous kings, queens or leaders who once lived in Swiss castles.

• Charlemagne (747-814). Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, was the King of the Franks and Lombards and later became the Emperor of the Carolingian Empire. It is believed that he stayed at the castle during his travels through the region. Charlemagne is known for his military conquests and efforts to unite much of Western and Central Europe during the early Middle Ages. Charlemagne was considered one of the most important people in Switzerland .
• Richard the Lionheart (1157-1199). Richard I, commonly known as Richard the Lionheart, was the King of England from 1189 until his death. Richard was captured and held prisoner by Leopold V, Duke of Austria. He was believed to be briefly held at Château de Chillon in the 1190s before being transferred to other locations. Richard the Lionheart is remembered as a military leader and a prominent figure in medieval history. Richard the Lionheart is one of the famous Swiss people who lived in one of the country’s castles.
• Mary, Queen of Scots (1542-1587). Mary Stuart, known as Mary, Queen of Scots, sought refuge at Château de Chillon in 1577 after losing her throne in Scotland. She had faced political turmoil and conflicts with her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I of England. Mary was eventually captured and imprisoned in various locations before being executed in 1587. Her time at Château de Chillon is significant in her tumultuous life.
• Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821). Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military and political leader, stayed at Château de Chillon on several occasions. One notable visit was in 1814, after his defeat in the War of the Sixth Coalition. He sought refuge at the castle before his final exile to the island of Elba. Napoleon rose to power during the French Revolution and became Emperor of the French, impacting European affairs during his reign.
• Tsar Alexander I (1777-1825). Tsar Alexander I, the Emperor of Russia, visited Château de Chillon in 1814. He played a crucial role in the defeat of Napoleon during the Napoleonic Wars. Alexander I was known for his diplomatic skills and efforts to expand Russian territory. His visit to Château de Chillon was part of the post-war negotiations and discussions that shaped the future of Europe.

What modes of transportation served castles in Switzerland?

Listed below are the modes of transportation that served castles in Switzerland.

• Carriages/Coaches. Some castles in Switzerland offer carriage rides with coaches as a nostalgic experience for visitors. These rides provide a glimpse into the past and allow visitors to arrive at the castle traditionally.
• Boats. Many Swiss castles are located near lakes or rivers, allowing visitors to arrive by boat. Passenger ferries, recreational rowboats and yachts can be used to access these castles. Boats, as a transportation in Switzerland provides a unique and scenic approach and allows visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding waterways.
• Funiculars. Some Swiss castles are perched on steep hilltops or mountainsides, making access challenging. Funicular railways have been constructed to transport visitors up the slopes. Funiculars are cable-operated railway systems that ascend or descend steep inclines, offering a convenient way to reach these castles. Visitors can enjoy views as they ascend to the castle grounds.

Which places in Switzerland with many historic castles are best for visitors?

Several places in Switzerland feature historic castles. Firstly, the Lake Geneva Region in western Switzerland is known for its landscapes and numerous castles. The region is surrounded by castles like Chillon Castle, Aigle Castle and Morges Castle. Secondly, Bernese Oberland is famous for its alpine scenery and medieval castles. Thun and Spiez are home to famous castles and houses castles like Oberhofen Castle and Schadau Castle. Lastly, Lucerne and Central Switzerland are known for their well-preserved medieval architecture and old towns. The region is home to notable castles such as Habsburg Castle, Gruyères Castle and Hallwyl Castle. Lucerne is also one of the top destinations to visit in Switzerland.

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11 Most Beautiful Castles in Switzerland You Can’t Miss

One of the most appealing aspects of traveling in Europe is how many magical castles you will encounter. Across the entire continent, you will find countries steeped in history and rich in architectural legacy. In Switzerland alone, there are hundreds of fairytale castles that are nestled among snow-capped mountains, sparkling glacial lakes, and historic towns. 

If you’re fanatical about fortresses and intrigued by what’s behind these mysterious keeps, then let my guide to the most beautiful castles in Switzerland inspire your next trip. My roundup contains all that you need to know about the best castles in Switzerland and how to plan your visit. Let’s get into it!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Castles in Switzerland You Can’t Miss

1. thun castle.

Location: Thun (Bern Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 10 CHF (€10.30)

Constructed in the 12th century by Duke Berthold V of Zähringen, this distinctive medieval castle is known for its four turrets. The castle was the seat of the local court and two prisons have occupied the site in the past.

The Castle Museum opened in 1888 and for a brief period, the jailer himself was responsible for selling admission tickets!

The hilltop castle is accessible via a 15-minute walk from Thun that will reward you with 360° views of the Bernese Alps. Touring the restored interiors gives you the golden opportunity to get a sense of life during the Middle Ages. 

You can purchase a ticket that permits entry to the Castle Museum or one that includes access to any special exhibitions taking place as well. Thun Castle is open daily from April to October between 10 am – 5 pm, and in February and March between 1 pm – 4 pm. From November to January it only opens on Sundays 1 pm – 4 pm.

Thun Castle is accessible by train from Bern (25 minutes) and Interlaken (30 minutes). Driving from either city takes around 30 minutes. 

You can coincide with visiting one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland by exploring Thun Old Town which is home to a variety of museums. Other options of things to do nearby include taking a scenic cruise on either Thunersee or Brienzersee and visiting the nearby Oberhoften and Spiez castles. 

2. Chillon Castle

Location: Veytaux near Montreux (Vaud Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 13.50 CHF (€13.90)

Chillon Castle is perched on the shore of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) which forms a complete moat around the castle. This adds to the beauty of the ancient fortress which has occupied this spot for over 1,000 years.

As a dual-purpose castle, the northern section constitutes defensive structures and the southern side hosts the residential quarters. The castle exhibits a wide selection of excavated items while touring the vaults beneath the building is a firm highlight that sets this keep apart. 

Chillon Castle is open to the public 10 am – 5 pm between November and March. In April, May, September and October it is open daily, 9 am – 6 pm and from June until August 9 am – 7 pm. In addition to being one of the most famous castles in Switzerland, Chillon Castle is officially the most visited heritage attraction in the country!

You can take the train to Veytaux-Chillon. If you travel from one of the larger Swiss cities you will need to change at Lausanne from where the journey time is 30 minutes. You can drive to Chillon Castle from both Bern and Geneva in a little over 1 hour. 

After touring the castle you could visit the town of Lausanne. Home to the International Olympic Committee headquarters, Lausanne features the Olympic Museum and its own Olympic Park.

Alternatively, you can head to the Regional Park Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut for scenic hikes and mesmerizing landscapes. If you’ve worked up an appetite for more castles, head to the nearby town of Gruyères which is the setting for Gruyères Castle and excellent cheese. 

3. Vufflens Castle

Location: Vufflens (Vaud Canton) Open to the public: No

Although it’s not possible to tour Vufflens Castle, it’s still worth paying a visit to view the exterior of one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland. A combination of square and round turrets and a mighty 60 meter (197 feet) high donjon rise from the surrounding vineyards to strike a unique silhouette. 

The castle is located a 20 minute drive from Lausanne (25 minutes via train) or a 40 minute drive from Geneva (50 minutes via train). You can visit as a detour on the way to Chillon Castle or as an extension to a visit to Lausanne.

4. Tarasp Castle

Location: Tarasp (Graubünden Canton) Open to the public: Yes  Entrance fee: 15 CHF (€15.40)

This 11th century castle is situated in eastern Switzerland close to the Italian and Austrian borders. In fact, the castle originally belonged to Austria and was only granted to Switzerland in the early 19th century.

Rising on a hilltop in the Upper Engadine Alps, the castle rests at an impressive 499 meters (1,637 feet) above sea level. It’s one of the most famous castles in Switzerland due to its remote setting and depending on the season you visit, it may be enveloped in autumn foliage or wearing a blanket of snow.

Tarasp Castle is only accessible via a guided tour which it is advisable to book online in advance . Tours typically run Tuesday until Sunday, and the schedule changes monthly so it’s best to consult the website once you have your travel dates confirmed. 

You can take the train to Scuol-Tarasp which usually involves a connection at Landquart. From Landquart, the journey time is 1 hour 30 minutes. Local buses also connect to Tarasp (Fontana) from nearby towns. Zurich is the closest major city but it’s still a 3 hour drive away.

You can combine your visit to the castle with a stroll around the small yet charming Taraspsee from where you can take some landscape shots of the fort.

Switzerland’s one and only national park is located just south of the castle. There are 21 hiking trails situated within the Swiss National Park that take you through the habitats of red deer, brown bears, lynx, golden eagles, and beyond.

5. Gruyères Castle

Location: Gruyères (Fribourg Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 12 CHF (€12.30)

One of the best castles to visit in Switzerland for cheese lovers, Gruyères Castle was erected in the late 13th century in the medieval town known for its production of creamy, nutty cheese. The French style château lolls on a hill overlooking Fribourg’s dreamy alpine foothills.

The castle belonged to the Counts of Gruyères until the mid-16th century. Its interiors showcase intricate stained glass windows, paintings by Jean-Baptise Camille Corot, and ornate antique furnishing. Step outside to meander your way through a beautifully landscaped garden from which you can inhale views of the encircling countryside. 

Gruyères Castle is open daily between early April and late October, 9 am – 6 pm. The complex then closes for a couple of weeks before operating under winter hours (10 am – 5 pm) from late November until 31 March.

You can drive to Gruyères Castle from Bern in around 1 hour either as a day trip or as part of a wider Switzerland road trip itinerary . Trains from Swiss cities connect to Gruyères via Bulle from where direct trains take 7 minutes. 

Besides touring one of the best castles in Switzerland you can also swing by the town of Gruyères to sample the legendary cheese. A short drive north brings you to Maison Cailler where you can enjoy dessert in the form of a tour and tasting of this majestic chocolate factory.

You may also want to visit Lac de la Gruyère, an artificial lake that is known for its 44 kilometers (27.3 miles) hike around the water’s edge. 

6. Aarburg Castle

Location: Aarburg (Aargau Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 10 CHF (€10.30)

Aarburg Castle was built during the 12th century and stands proudly above the town of the same name on a steep, craggy hill. It was besieged by the Bernese in 1415 and was subject to a major extension during the 16th and 17th centuries which also saw stronger fortifications put in place.

Nowadays, the castle serves as both a tourist attraction and a juvenile rehabilitation center, which is a fairly unusual dual purpose among Switzerland castles.

You can take a guided tour of Aarburg Castle on Saturdays at 2 pm. If your visit doesn’t coincide with a weekend then it is still worth visiting the town to see this huge fortress for yourself. 

Drive time to Aarburg Castle from either Bern or Zurich is around 1 hour. Trains from either city require one change at the neighboring city of Olten from where the connection time is 3 minutes.

Aarburg Castle is an ideal day trip from Zurich or a convenient stop off when connecting from the city to Bern or Basel. 

7. Oberhofen Castle

Location: Oberhofen (Bern Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 12 CHF (€12.30)

Oberhofen Castle is another one of the best castles in Switzerland with a fairytale lakeside setting. Constructed in 1200, the castle was purchased by the aristocratic Pourtalès family in 1844. Hailing from Neuchatel and Prussia, the new inhabitants transformed the keep into a summer residence.

One of the most intriguing features is the Oriental smoking room which is positioned at the top of the castle and provides an unbeatable view over the lake and surrounding mountains. You can also visit the 15th century chapel which hosts a striking display of wall murals and tour the exotic gardens and parterres.

The castle is open to visitors from early May until late October, Tuesday to Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm.

Drive time to Oberhofen Castle from Interlaken is 30 minutes and from Bern it is 40 minutes. The closest train station is in Thun, from where you can transfer via boat to Oberhofen. 

Oberhofen Castle is conveniently located for visiting other Switzerland castles in the region including Thun and Spiez castles.

8. Castles of Bellinzona

Location: Bellinzona (Ticino Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 28 CHF (€30.90)

Three for the price of one, one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland actually comprises three individual fortifications! The Castles of Bellinzona are individually known as Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro.

The trio is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. As Bellinzona is located at a crossroads, the castles were erected to first prevent the Swiss confederation from expanding south and then to stop the Venetians from extending to the north. 

You can start your exploration at Castelgrande, the largest of the three. Constructed during the 13th century, archaeological excavations suggest that an earlier site stood here from the 4th century. Montebello is situated on the opposite hill and contains an archaeological museum.

It is believed that the castle was assembled during the 14th century by the Rusconi family of Como. Your castle adventure will conclude at Sasso Corbaro, the youngest and highest altitude castle which was built during the 15th century and towers 235 meters (770 feet) above Bellinzona.

Note that the admission fee covers entry to all three castles. If you do not want to tour the interiors, towers, and museums then you can simply walk along the castle walls for free.

Bellinzona is located in south central Switzerland, close to the Italian border. The closest large city is Lugano, located a 1 hour drive or 30 minute train ride away. It’s the perfect stop off on route to Lugano or Valle Verzasca.

9. Spiez Castle

Location: Spiez (Bern Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 10 CHF (€10.30)

This splendid keep is one of the oldest Switzerland castles, dating back to 933 AD. Over the following centuries, the castle encountered a number of renovations and extensions which means that the stronghold showcases a number of different architectural styles.

Surrounded by vineyards and with a backdrop of the turquoise Thunersee and the surrounding Alps, it’s one of the most picturesque sights in the country. 

Spiez Castle is open from early May until late October. During these months, the grounds and museum are open on Mondays, 2 pm – 5 pm, and Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm. During July and August, the castle remains open until 6 pm. 

It takes a 40 minutes to drive to Spiez Castle from Bern while direct trains take 30 minutes.  

Spiez is perfectly located for exploring the other castles dotted around Thunersee, including Thun and Oberhoften castles. You can also explore the town of Interlaken and visit the breathtaking village of Lauterbrunnen and the nearby Trümmelbach Falls. 

10. Tourbillon Castle

Location: Sion (Valais Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: Free

The ruined Tourbillon Castle is perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the town of Sion. It was constructed during the 13th century as a residence for the Bishop of Sion. Sadly, much of the keep was destroyed during serious attacks and then a fire in 1788.

Regardless of that, it remains one of the famous castles in Switzerland due to its dramatic location. Miraculously, the 15th century chapel adorned with stunning frescoes survived and is a highlight of your visit. 

There is a path in place that will take you to the castle however you should bear in mind that it is pretty steep and challenging, so allow plenty of time. The castle is open to visitors from April until early November.

Drive time to Tourbillon Castle is 2 hours from Bern and Interlaken or 1 hour 30 minutes from Zermatt (Täsch). Direct trains from Lausanne take 1 hour to reach Sion.

Sion comprises a healthy selection of art galleries and museums where you can learn about the heritage and culture of the Valais Canton. The Valère Basilica is a fantastic extension to Tourbillon Castle.

If you are road tripping in Switzerland then you can enjoy a scenic drive to Zermatt (Täsch) and savor views of the Matterhorn and tackle the Zermatt Five Lakes hike. 

11. Kyburg Castle

Location: Kyburg (Zurich Canton) Open to the public: Yes Entrance fee: 12 CHF (€12.30)

Kyburg Castle looms 150 meters (490 feet) out of the greenery on a hill overlooking the River Töss close to the German border. Previously used as the seat of the Counts of Kyburg and then a Habsburg property, it is now recognized as the oldest castle museum in Switzerland.

The gardens of the baroque castle are strewn with vegetable plots, medicinal herbs, and flowers while a circular path around the castle walls provides remarkable panoramic views.

Kyburg Castle is open to visitors from early April until late October, Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5.30 pm. 

This is one of the best castles to visit in Switzerland if you are using Zurich as a base as it’s only a 25 minute drive from the city. You can also take a train to Illnau and then hop on bus number 655, which will take around 40-50 minutes. 

You can coincide your day trip to Kyburg Castle with a visit to the nearby town of Winterthur which is home to a number of museums and art galleries.

Planning a trip to Switzerland?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Switzerland. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary for 2 Weeks
• 28 Incredible Zermatt Hotels with Matterhorn View
• One Day in Zurich Itinerary: How to See the Best of Zurich in a Day
• The Ultimate One Day in Bern Itinerary
• The Perfect Itinerary for Spending One Day in Geneva
• 11 Most Beautiful Castles in Switzerland You Can’t Miss
• Hotel Review: Boutique Hotel Glacier, Switzerland
• Hotel Review: Grand Hotel Des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz

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Castles Switzerland - Top Deals and Prices 2024

In this article you will find information about 20 of the most worth seeing castles in Switzerland. They are located in the midst of spectacular nature on lakes, above wine terraces or nestled in the mountain landscape. there are 749 castles in Switzerland. Very often they originated from converted castles of the Middle Ages. From the 15th century onwards - mostly noblemen - converted the castles into magnificent palaces.

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Visit the famous historic Chillon Castle, explore the interesting exhibitions and be enchanted by the romantic location of the castle on Lake Geneva.

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The 20 most beautiful castles in Switzerland

The castles in Switzerland often have a very unique charm. Many castles were created by rebuilding earlier castles. Primarily built in the Middle Ages, these served as residential and defensive buildings

Castles provided protection from enemy attacks. In addition to being the seat of government, they also became a place of residence for castle lords, staff and farm animals. Often, self-contained supply units were built within the castle walls, which functioned even during a prolonged siege

In the 15th century, in addition to the nobility, wealthy townspeople also began to take a liking to castles. They bought them and rebuilt them into shining castles. Most of the castles and palaces in Switzerland are located in the tourist regions of Bern, Grisons and Eastern Switzerland/Liechtenstein. However, the Aargau region is particularly famous for its many castles.

In this article we will give you an overview of some very popular, worth seeing and unique castles and palaces.

• Number of castles and palaces in Switzerland
• Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle]( https://www.swissactivities.com/en-ch/lake-geneva-region/montreux/chillon-castle/ ) is located on Lake Geneva . It presents itself against the mountainous backdrop of the Vaud Alps. It is a former moated castle that you can reach by train from Montreux station in 10 min. Since the 17th century, the castle was owned by the Bernese. After that, the Vaudois gained the lakeside castle.

During a guided tour of the castle, you can see the special murals in the various interior rooms.

• Location: The castle is located in Veytaux in the canton of Vaud
• Year of construction: 12th century
• Entrance fee: 13.50 CHF
• Season: All year round
• Special: Exhibition of archaeological finds

• Hallwyl Castle

Hallwyl Castle is one of the most beautiful moated castles in Switzerland. It dates back to the late 12th century and is located on Lake Hallwil in the middle of a nature reserve. The entire complex extends over three islands. Behind the castle walls you can discover an interactive museum with 800 years of family history

There is a café in the castle courtyard. Events take place here from time to time in the summer.

• Location: The castle is located in the municipality of Seengen in the canton of Aargau
• Year of construction: 12th century, rebuilt as a moated castle in the 14th century
• Admission: 14 CHF for adults, 10 CHF for students, 8 CHF for children
• Season: April to October
• Special: castle bistro and souvenir store for small souvenirs
• Tip: Regular events at the Seetaler Wasserschloss let you experience life at the castle a bit. Castle inhabitants tell about their lives, or you can do archery or baking like 1000 years ago.
• Lenzburg Castle

When you visit Lenzburg Castle in the canton of Aargau, things get mystical. The high castle is called a magical knight and dragon castle. In the exhibition you can experience 1000 years of castle history up close. The castle also holds a prison in the deep castle cellars, which you can see.

In addition, you can always find various special exhibitions in the castle.

• Location: The castle is located above the town of Lenzburg in the canton of Aargau.
• Year of construction: Before 1036
• Special: For families, Lenzburg Castle is a popular destination with the castle dragon Fauchi and a children's museum.
• Tip: There is a large children's playground on site called Burg Waldegg. It has a wooden hut and tables with space for a picnic with the whole family.

• Wildegg Castle

Wildegg Castle is a dream in baroque style. On the hill in the municipality of Möriken-Wildegg, it visually resembles the home castle of the Empress Sissi. The castle is surrounded by a magnificent garden. Inside there is a museum about the former inhabitants of the castle and old hunting stories from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Children have the opportunity to dress up as damsels and knights.

• Location: Wildegg Castle is located on a rocky outcrop of the Chestenberg in the canton of Aargau.
• Year of construction: 1242
• Special: Talking picture portraits are a highlight, as is the vegetable and rose garden around the castle building.
• Tip: The spacious children's playground and fireplaces invite families and hikers to take a seat in the castle garden.
• Habsburg Castle

Habsburg Castle is the cornerstone of the famous Habsburg dynasty. They are very important for the history of Europe. Habsburg is an imposing summit castle in the canton of Aargau. The castle is situated 505 meters above sea level on the crest of the Wülpelberg hill.

A part of the castle complex has crumbled. In the still existing part you can learn interesting facts about the history of the castle. The circular path is called the Habsburg King's Path. There is a castle restaurant where you can have a rest after the tour.

• Location: The castle is located in the municipality of Habsburg in the canton of Aargau.
• Year of construction: 1020
• Entrance: free of charge
• Season: all year round
• Special: With VR glasses you can experience the castle virtually and in its original state.

• Waldegg Castle

Waldegg Castle presents itself in the Swiss architectural style with small towers. It is a country seat near Solothurn and has extensive baroque gardens lined with avenues of trees. The castle was the summer residence of Schultheiss Johann Viktor I at the end of 1600.

Since 1991 there is a museum in the residence. The exhibition tells the story of the ambassadors and patricians in Solothurn. Since 2005, the Ministry of Culture and Sport is also located at Waldegg Castle.

• Location: The castle is located in the municipality of Feldbrunnen St. Niklaus in the canton of Solothurn.
• Year of construction: 1682
• Admission: adults 6 CHF, pupils 4 CHF, children free of charge
• Special: The castle is a meeting center and place for cultural events and art exhibitions.
• Tip: If you like hiking, the route through the Verena Gorge to the castle is worthwhile. Alternatively, we recommend the route via the Megalith theme trail.
• Heidegg Castle

Heidegg Castle was a castle in the 13th century. After several changes of rulers, an owner extended it to a castle and country seat around 1700. The well-kept castle rises on a hill in the municipality of Gelfingen in the canton of Lucerne.

Exciting tower cellar stories in the museum and a beautiful park you can explore on site

• Location: The castle is located in Gelfingen in the Lucerne Lake Valley near Lake Baldegg.
• Year of construction: 12th/13th century.
• Admission: adults 8 CHF, pupils 5 CHF, children 4 CHF
• Special: In the attic of the castle tower there is a marble run for children.

• Kyburg Castle

The castle bears the same name as the village in which it stands. It belongs to the Canton of Zurich and was once a castle of important counties. The Kyburgs are among the most influential noble families along with the Habsburgs and Savoy.

In the castle museum you can learn about the history of construction and rule of the castle.

• Location: Kyburg is located in the canton of Zurich.
• Year of construction: 1027
• Admission: adults 12 CHF, pupils 9 CHF, children 5 CHF
• Special: We recommend the audio guides in the museum. They cost 5 CHF and allow you to learn even more historical details at various listening stations.
• Tip: We recommend a hike from Winterthur via the Bruderhaus Game Park to Kyburg Castle.
• Thun Castle

The castle is visually a fairytale castle par exellence and is located in the canton of Bern above the city of Thun. The dukes of Zähringen once ruled here. In the castle you can see various medieval exhibitions and collections. The virtual 3D castle tour on the website gives you a first insight.

• Location: Elevated in the city of Thun is the castle of the same name in the canton of Bern.
• Year of construction: 1190
• Admission: adults from 10 CHF, students from 8 CHF, children from 5 CHF
• Special: The event series "Night at the Museum" invites children and families to the witching hour with ghost stories and a castle tour.

Offers at Swiss Activities:

• Thun Castle public tour

• Schadau Castle

Schadau Castle is located on Lake Thun in the canton of Bern. Unlike the other castles, Schadau does not have a museum. Instead, it is a three-star boutique hotel and known for its gourmet cuisine.

From the sun terrace you not only have a wonderful view of the lake. You can also take a closer look at the impressive exterior facade of the castle

• Location: Schadau Castle is located in the city of Thun on Lake Thun in the canton of Bern.
• Year of construction: 1846
• Admission: free of charge
• Season: Hotel and restaurant are open all year round.
• Special: Castle tours are available on request on selected dates
• Spiez Castle

Spiez Castle belongs to the castles with very early mention. Around 762 the Bishop of Strasbourg named the castle in a will. Like Schadau and Thun castles, Spiez Castle is located directly on Lake Thun. It is surrounded by a magnificent park.

The castle church is particularly impressive because of the Romanesque wall paintings. They show Jesus Christ surrounded by angels. You can admire him high up in the apsidal cupola.

• Location: The castle is located on the lake section of the town of Spiez in the canton of Bern.
• Year of construction: 762
• Admission: adults 12 CHF, pupils 10 CHF, children 5 CHF
• Special: The castle museum shows various exhibitions. You can also view art exhibitions and art collections in the historic library.
• Tip: We recommend a beautiful hike directly on the lake from Interlaken to Spiez. It is about 20 km on foot. Duration: approx. 4 hours.

• Burgdorf Castle

On a hill of the town of Burgdorf shines the castle of the same name in the Emmental. At the time of the Hohenstaufen dynasty it was an important high noble castle

Burgdorf Castle is a castle of the senses. On site there is a restaurant, a museum, a youth hostel and regular events such as a story afternoon.

• Location: Burgdorf Castle is located in the Emmental in the canton of Bern.
• Year of construction: 1130
• Admission to the museum: adults 14 CHF, children 10 CHF
• Tip: You can book bicycles on site. We recommend a trip to Affoltern to the Emmentaler Schaukäserei . The visitor tour is called Königsweg.
• Gruyères Castle

Gruyères Castle is called Chateau de Gruyères in French and is located high on a hill in the western Swiss town of Gruyères. It is surrounded by the impressive mountain panorama of the Franches-Montagnes foothills. Various medieval stained glass, wall decorations and much more can be discovered in the collection in the museum. Highlights are the knights' hall and the magnificent courtyard garden.

• Location: Gruyères Castle is located in the Gruyères region in the canton of Fribourg.
• Year of construction: 1270
• Admission: adults 12 CHF, students 8 CHF, children 10 CHF
• Special: Guided tours take place on request with medieval dressed storytellers.
• Tip: A walk from the town of Gruyères up to the medieval estate is just the right recommendation for nature lovers. The route takes about half an hour on foot. By the way, right next to the train station is the show dairy of the famous Gruyère cheese

• Rapperswil Castle

The historic castle walls of Rapperswil Castle are located on the castle hill of the picturesque rose city. From up here you have a wonderful view over Lake Zurich and over the islands of Ufenau and Lützelau. Below the castle is the old town.

The castle itself is mainly used as an event location. Tours of the castle interior can only be booked upon request. It is only open to the public by appointment, but can be visited from the outside at any time.

• Location: Rapperswil Castle is located in the canton of St. Gallen on Lake Zurich.
• Year of construction: 1220
• Admission: Not specified
• Season: Event related, only accessible by appointment
• Special: The most beautiful view of the castle can be enjoyed from one of the piers near the lake promenade.
• Tip: Travel by boat from Zurich to Rapperswil and enjoy the view during this approximately two-hour trip.
• Oberhofen Castle

Besides the castles of Schadau and Spiez, Oberhofen Castle is another estate directly on Lake Thun. The castle exhibition shows a different perspective into the count's society: you discover the 800 years old history of the castle from the point of view of the servants.

The castle park was laid out as early as 1850. If you are interested in royal gardens, it is best to stroll along the lakeside path and contemplate the beautiful grounds.

• Location: The castle is located in the municipality of Oberhofen in the canton of Bern.
• Year of construction: Before 1844
• Admission: Adults 12 CHF, students 10 CHF, children 6 CHF
• Season: The museum is open from May to October. You can visit the lakeside path and the park from March to December.
• Special: The family-friendly castle offers a studio for children to dress up.
• Tip: From Thun, Interlaken and Spiez you can travel to Oberhofen by boat

• Laufen Castle

The medieval castle is a rock castle located directly at the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen. A visit to the largest waterfall in Europe in conjunction with the castle is an impressive adventure.

In the north wing of the castle is the exhibition Historama, which tells about the history of the place, the lords of the castle and the importance of the Rhine Falls.

• Location: The castle belongs to the municipality of Laufen-Uhwiesen and is located in the north of the canton of Zurich, directly at the Rhine Falls.
• Year of construction: 858
• Admission: adults 5 CHF, children 3 CHF (incl. Rhine Falls Tour, Belvedere Trail and Schloss Laufen Experience)
• Special: dogs are allowed on site. The castle has a restaurant and a sun terrace.
• Tip: The boat ride to the Rhine Falls Rock is a must. Tickets are only available at the Schlössli Wörth or Schloss Laufen landing stages.

Swiss Activities offers for bus tours from Zurich to Schloss Laufen with Rhine Falls Rock:

• guided day tours from Zurich to Schloss Laufen

• Wartegg Castle

Wartegg Castle combines an organic hotel, an English garden and a small art exhibition with sculptures and reliefs. The castle stands about 800 meters from the lakeside promenade of Lake Constance in eastern Switzerland. Even Empress Zita enjoyed the magnificent garden here for recreation.

• Location: The castle is located in the village of Rorschacherberg on Lake Constance in the canton of St.Gallen.
• Year of construction: 16th century.
• Admission: free access to the art exhibition
• Special: Bathing vacations, cycling and concert programs in summer are possible on and around Wartegg Castle.
• Werdenberg Castle

Around 1230, the castle in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley was founded by Count Rudolf I of Montfort. It is a late medieval castle. It is located 8 km away from Vaduz on the tranquil Werdenbergersee and is an optimal destination for nature lovers.

The museum includes various rooms, such as the imposing knights' hall, which you can visit

• Location: Werdenberg Castle is located in the village of Werdenberg on a hill in the canton of St. Gallen.
• Year of construction: 1230
• Admission: adults 12 CHF, children free
• Season: March to October
• Special: In the first two weeks of June, an international music festival takes place at the castle town. Tickets can be pre-ordered from mid-March.
• Tip: You can cycle or hike to the castle via the dam on the Rhine. The route from Sargans to Werdenberg can be done in 4.5 hours

• Tarasp Castle

Tarasp Castle is considered the landmark of the Lower Engadine. It is enthroned on a rocky hill in the midst of nature. Until the 19th century, the castle belonged to Austria. Today it is part of the municipality of Scuol and owned by the Swiss artist Not Vital.

At Tarasp Castle you will find an impressive collection of ancient and contemporary art. The view from the castle courtyard over the Engadine Alps will inspire you.

• Location: The castle belongs to the municipality of Scuol and is located in the canton of Graubünden.
• Year of construction: 1499
• Admission: Adults 15 CHF, guest card 13 CHF, children 8 CHF
• Season: Public guided tours take place in March and April by appointment.
• Special: The Not Vitals Foundation also owns the Plantahaus in Ardez and a sculpture park in Sent. In summer you can visit both exhibition sites.
• Tip: Castle Tarasp actually as a destination of a bike tour. We recommend you the Innradweg from Guarda to Landeck with a stop at the castle. The journey time is 6 to 7 hours.
• Sargans Castle

The castle Sargans is a former fortress and houses a restaurant and café. The two-century-old county is still particularly noticeable in the traditional knights' hall and Countess Agnes Stube. In the tower of the castle there is also a museum where you can learn more about the history of the region.

• Location: The castle is located in Sarganserland in the canton of St. Gallen.
• Year of construction: 12th century.
• Admission: adults 10 CHF, students 8 CHF, children 5 CHF
• Special: In the museum there are puzzle walls and painting tables for children.
• Tip: We recommend the walk through the town of Sargans via the Städtchenstrasse up to the castle.

Each of the Swiss castles has its own charm. This is not least due to the surrounding landscapes. A short trip from castle to castle is therefore worthwhile for city and nature fans in both cases.

Table of contents

Some of the most popular castles are:

• Laufen Castle south of the Rhine Falls of Schaffhausen in the canton of Zurich
• Hallwyler Castle, a moated castle on Lake Hallwyl in the canton of Aargau
• Château de Chillon in the canton of Vaud
• Biberstein Castle in the canton of Aargau
• Wildegg Castle in the canton of Aargau
• Werdenberg Castle in the Canton of St. Gallen
• Lenzburg Castle in the Canton of Aargau
• Habsburg Castle in the Canton of Aargau
• Sargans Castle in the Canton of St. Gallen
• Waldegg Castle in the Canton of Solothurn
• Burgdorf Castle in the Emmental in the Canton of Bern
• Oberhofen Castle in the canton of Bern
• Landshut Castle, a moated castle in the canton of Bern
• Stockalper Castle in Brig in the canton of Valais
• Yverdon Castle in the canton of Vaud
• Kyburg Castle in the canton of Zurich

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15 Best Castles In Switzerland To Visit

• by Jonny Duncan
• June 8, 2022 September 20, 2022

The castles in Switzerland are some of the most beautiful in Europe and these are the best ones to visit when there. Although there are a lot more castles to see, you will be happy choosing one of the ones mentioned here.

Important: There are links under each castle mentioned that go to the website of that castle and if you plan to visit you should check there to make sure they are open and for additional information.

Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is one of the most iconic castles in Switzerland you can visit and one of the most photographed, and for good reason.

The picturesque setting on Lake Geneva on a small island near Montreux in Veytaux is stunning and in the past, the strategic location to the access of the Rhone Valley and northwards to France and Germany gave whoever controlled the castle power to levy a toll on people passing through on the road.

The castle itself dates to the 11th-century. It was home to the Counts of Savoy during medieval times, and later in the 16th-century onwards was used as a prison during the Bernese rule. Since the late 18th-century writers came to be inspired there and by the early 20th-century it was, and still is, a popular tourist attraction.

Inside the castle, there are 14th-century murals to see in one room, and four halls and three courtyards. The castle is also famous for the wine produced in its cellars.

It’s open for visitors.

Tip: Head to the nearby Café Byron for a bite to eat or a drink with views of the castle.

Out of all the castles in Switzerland be sure to try and visit Chillon Castle.

Aigle Castle

Aigle Castle is scenically located amongst vineyards on a small hill with the Alps in the distance and it is a Swiss heritage site. The castle dates back to the mid-12th-century and strategically controlled access to the Rhone Valley.

Many different lords and barons have controlled the castle over the centuries, such as the Barons of Aigle and the Lords of Compey.

It was used as a jail for around two centuries until 1976 when it was turned into a museum.

As it’s surrounded by vineyards, there is a museum there now about wine called the Musée de la Vigne et du Vin, so if you like castles and wine you are in for a treat.

Vufflens Castle

The present Vufflens Castle is a medieval castle that was built in 1425. It was constructed on the site of a previous castle where some of the remains were incorporated into the current design.

It is a Swiss heritage site and has some excellent towers to see and there are vineyards around it that make for some good walking to get views from the outside.

It’s not open for visitors as it is privately owned, but you can walk around it si if you’re in the area go check it out.

Castelgrande

Castelgrande is set in a stunning position on a rocky outcrop on the foothills of the Alps and dates to roughly the 11th-century, although more defences were added over time.

It is one of the three Castles of Bellinzona that were built to fortify the town of the same name. Its defensive walls cover the old medieval town and extend to the other two castles making for a great defence of the area.

The whole area of the walls and adjoining defences makes it one of the grandest looking castles in Switzerland.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open for visitors.

Lenzburg Castle

Lenzburg Castle is one of the oldest castles in Switzerland with the oldest structures dating to the 11th-century and it’s located above the old town of Lenzburg.

It was an excellent fortress in its time and was home to many dukes and counts over the centuries.

It’s open to visitors and there are often cultural events held in this Swiss castle.

Gruyeres Castle

Gruyeres Castle is located in the town of the same name and is a medieval castle dating to the 13th-century with eight centuries of history behind it.

It is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland to visit and has amazing views across the valley.

The Counts of Gruyères held the property for the first 300 years until they ran out of money and it was then taken over by prefects from Fribourg. The French Garden there is small but spectacular.

Today it’s a museum and is open for visitors.

Tarasp Castle

Perched on top of a rocky crop on a hill, Tarasp Castle makes for one of the most scenically located castles in Switzerland to see and dates back to the 11th-century.

In its history, the castle has been besieged several times and in that time it was never taken by enemy forces.

Today you can see knights’ halls and other rooms, including an epic 2500 pipe organ in the chapel.

The castle is located in the eastern part of Switzerland and is open to visitors.

Spiez Castle

Spiez Castle is a very old castle dating back to the 11th-century and overlooks the town of Spiez, surrounded by vineyards, and an excellent view of Lake Thun.

Various parts of the history of the castle are told through exhibitions inside, including the story of the famed knight Adrian von Bubenberg. The ceremonial hall of Spiez Castle is particularly impressive.

It’s open for visitors from May to October and also hosts weddings and children’s birthdays.

Thun Castle

Thun Castle is located in the city of Thun and looms over the city. It dates to the late 12th-century and early 13th-century when the Dukes of Zährigen built it.

The castle passed hands to various families over the centuries, such as the House of Kyburg, and the castle was expanded during this time. From the 17th-century the castle was used as a prison

Today there is a museum inside where you can discover the history of the castle and the region and the great hall is sometimes used for local concerts.

It’s open for visitors and makes for one of the more picturesque Swiss castles.

Tourbillon Castle

Tourbillon Castle dates to the late 13th-century having been built under the observation of Bishop Boniface de Challant to serve as the residence of the bishops of Sion.

It sits in a very good defensive position high on a rocky hill and overlooks the Basilique de Valère opposite it. It has suffered through various conflicts during its time, such as the Raron affair, and has been burnt down on purpose, and also by natural fire, over the centuries.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, various conservation work has been done on the castle to preserve it.

It’s open for visitors and is one of the best hilltop castles in Switzerland.

Tip: Be sure to check out the Witches Tower in the medieval Old Town when there.

Rapperswil Castle

Rapperswil Castle is located on a long hill called the Lindenhof that towers over the town of the same name, on the shores of Lake Zurich. In 1422 the castle was handed to the people of Rapperswil.

The castle dates to the late 12th-century and was built by the House of Rapperswil. There is a vineyard by the castle which is one of the oldest on Lake Zurich. There is a deer park there that children, in particular, are sure to love.

There is a Polish museum in the castle, although this has nothing to do with the castle itself, other than the fact that a Polish Count who leased and restored the castle in the late 19th-century, built it there.

It’s open for visitors to some parts of the castle. One of the best things about the area is to actually go out and explore the old medieval town of Rapperswil itself.

Oberhofen Castle

Oberhofen Castle is an early 13th-century castle and gardens located on the shores of Lake Thun, making it one of the more scenic castles in Switzerland.

In the 14th-century the castle became owned by the House of Habsburg but by the 15th-century it came under the control of the Bernese, after defeating the Hapsburgs.

It’s open for visitors between May and October and there is an excellent restaurant there to have a meal at when visiting. It’s closed on Mondays.

Aarwangen Castle

Aarwangen Castle dates to the late 13th-century and is located in the canton of Bern. Like many of the castles in Switzerland mentioned here, it is a Swiss heritage site of national significance.

It started as the lords of Aarwangen castle until being taken over by the Grünenberg family after the Aarwangen nobles died out.

The Grünenberg family then sold it to the city of Bern in the mid-15th-century where it went to the Bernese bailiffs.

Munot Castle

Munot Castle is a fortress built in the 16th-century and is surrounded by vineyards overlooking the city of Schaffhausen.

During its history, it was captured only one time by the enemy and was designed to provide defence for the residents of the city.

Aarburg Castle

Aarburg Castle is situated on a rocky hillside overlooking the town of Aarburg and dates to the early 13th-century having been built by the Lords of Büron.

There were many add-ons to the castle over the centuries, particularly in the 17th-century, which made the baroque elements you see today.

It’s open for visitors only on Saturdays between April and September on a guided tour.

Castles In Switzerland

Those are some of the best castles in Switzerland to choose from. If you are short on time then try and see Chillon Castle for sure if by Lake Geneva.

If you are in other areas looking for castles in Switzerland then try and get to Tarasp Castle for the epic scenery.

For more castles take a look at the 30 best castles in Europe to visit .

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.

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Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

19 CASTLES IN SWITZERLAND TO VISIT

FIND OUT ABOUT THE BEST CASTLES IN SWITZERLAND

Table of Contents

Did you know that Switzerland is home to more than 500 castles ? That’s right, you can find an abundance of castles in Switzerland and other fortified locations!

And each of the castles has a unique history just waiting to be uncovered. Imagine walking through these picture-perfect castles of all shapes, sizes, and eras and being transported to another time. It’s like stepping into a fairytale!

Now, when most people think of Switzerland, they think of the Alps , stunning lakes and waterfalls, chocolate, and cheese, Swiss watches, or the banking system. Yes, castles are surely not one of the first things that we connect with Switzerland. But they make this beautiful country even more beautiful!

I spend a lot of time in Switzerland and of course, the mountains and lakes are my favorite places to see. However, I also appreciate the pretty castles. And I am happy to share my favorites with you.

BEST CASTLES IN SWITZERLAND

But why does Switzerland have so many castles? Well, Switzerland is a landlocked nation surrounded by several other European countries – this is also a reason why there are so many castles. During the medieval era, the presence of castles was pivotal in maintaining control over disputed territories.

Numerous castles were strategically constructed near trade routes or along mountain passes to assert dominance over vital trade pathways.

Of course, now these castles do not have that function any longer. In fact, many of these castles in Switzerland are open to the public , and I’m here to share with you the best ones to check out.

So, here they are – the best castles to visit in Switzerland.

Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle)

Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle) is perched on a rock overlooking the blue waters of   Lake Geneva on its eastern shore near Montreux. The water castle in Switzerland stands out as the country’s most frequented historical structure, attracting over 400,000 visitors annually! 

For about four centuries, this island served as a strategic point for overseeing the movement of ships on Lake Geneva and the crucial land route leading to the St. Bernhard Pass. Chillon was under the ownership of the Counts of Savoy from the 12th to the 16th century.

Later, it came under the control of the residents of Bern, and eventually, the inhabitants of Vaud gained dominance over the water castle.

Check out my Montreux guide for more travel tips.

• The castle is open all year.   
• Adult tickets cost about 13.50 CHF, and children’s tickets are around 7 CHF.

Oberhofen Castle

The magnificent castle known as Oberhofen am Thunersee lies on the lake bed of Lake Thun ; when you visit this nostalgic but unique area, you’re in for a medieval feast.  

When it was controlled by the Habsburgs in the 14th century , this fortress was encircled by a moat and a wall to defend its people from intruders.   Following the battle of Sempach, it was captured by Bernese forces and had a variety of uses from the 16th to the 17th centuries. It was later transformed and has remained the private property of the Counts of Pourtalès ever since.

Locals consider it one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland – the medieval castle was also a main reason why Oberhofen won the title of the „most beautiful village in Switzerland“ in 2018.

Here are travel tips for the region of Interlaken.

• Tickets are 12 CHF for adults and 5-10 CHF for children and teens.

Thun Castle

This long-standing castle is located in the town of Thun in the Bernese Oberland and was built between the 1180s and 1190s . Thun Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland – its location, right on the foot of Thun Market Square, makes it an eye-catcher.

Thun Castle was built by Duke Berthold V of Zähringen as part of his strategy to increase authority and influence among the knights’ ranks. The castle was handed over and utilized until it became a castle museum for the public to enjoy, filled with highly awaited antiquities.

The courtyard and its wings are also available to the public, so if you want to learn about the peculiarities that followed the Bernese era, come to look at this remarkable, once-used castle.  

Check out my Thun post for more info.

• This castle is open daily from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., except for the winter season, when it is only open on Sundays.
• Adult entrances are 10 CHF and 8 CHF for children and the elderly.
• Free with a Swiss Travel Pass

Castle Hunegg

The Castle of Hünegg is located inside the administrative district of Thun, namely that of Hilterfingen, very close to the Oberhofen Castle . It stands in front of a gushing verdant park with old-natured trees that have grown used to the environment surrounding the castle.  

The outstanding architectural design of this castle has remained ageless, which is one of the sought-after reasons for tourists to visit. The building was created by locals in 1861 after being commissioned and brought to life by Baron Albert von Parpart of Prussia and his wife, Adelheid von Bonstetten.  

After some time had passed, Gustav Lemke-Schuckert remodeled it into a nouveau-fashioned enclosure to his satisfaction.    The castle’s basement, hallway, and terrace are some of the attractions open to tourists visiting the castle grounds.

• Open from May to October.
• The entrance is about 10 CHF for adults and 5 – 8 CHF for children and the handicapped.

Castle Tourbillon

In Sion, located in the southern canton of Valais , the hills of Tourbillon and Valère are a noticeable part of the town. One of them is the stunning Castle Tourbillon.

Shortly before the year 13000 the bishop of Sion, Coniface de Challant, undertook the construction of the castle – though it was completed by its successors – the frescos of the chapel date back to the second quarter of the 14th century (though it took a recent restaurant ion to make it visible).

In 1417 the castle was set on fire – it was restored a few decades later – and then became the summer residence of the bishop though it lost in importance during the 18th century when the castle was definitively ruined during another fire.

However, the Saint-Georges and Saint-Grat Chapel are still well preserved. And they are one of the main sights in Sion .  

• Everyone of any age is welcome to enter Tourbillon Castle  free of charge .

Castle of Valère

Sion, in the southwestern Swiss canton of Valais, is home to the well-known cathedral of Valeria, also known as the Castle of Valère/Valère Basilica . This castle from the Middle Ages features bright Gothic and Roman decor, a remnant of a once-thriving civilization.  

Bishop Hugo erected the first buildings on this site in the 12th century. Over the years, this church grew in stature to become one of Switzerland’s most revered places of worship.

When you visit this site, you should definitely check out the preserved organs, which are remarkable given their advanced age and the fact that they haven’t been used or repaired in a very long time.  Here are more travel tips for Sion.

• From 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., tourists may explore the cathedral and its many works of art and historical landmarks.
• Everyone of any age is welcome to enter the property free of charge .

Schloss Schadau

The Schadau Castle is located on the southern shores of Lake Thu n – in Schadau Park just a few minute’s walk from the old town of Thun.

It is a beautifully designed edifice with a rich history related to its patron, Abraham Denis Alfred de Rougemont, who commissioned its construction between 1846 and 1854. As it is now, it is the result of repairs that began as early as 1925. Not surprisingly, the castle attracts guests from all over the world because of its breathtaking location.

The castle was decorated romantically from top to bottom, with ornate old designs painted on the walls and bricks changed to appear like they were from ancient Greece .  

Schaudau Castle is now a hotel and restaurant.

Gruyères Castle

The French-style château is perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque Alpine foothills of Fribourg in the town of Gruyères. The Counts of Gruyères held the castle until the middle of the 16th century. The interiors are decorated with stained glass windows, paintings by Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, and elaborate antique furniture.

Gruyères Castle, in the medieval town famous for its manufacture of Gruyeres cheese, was erected in the late 13th century and is one of the most splendid castles to visit in Switzerland. Head outdoors to stroll in a lush garden and take in the picturesque vistas.

Fascinating guided tours may be given upon request. Throughout these visits, storytellers in period garb will share tales of the castle’s history and local lore.   Check out my Gruyeres post for more.

• Tickets are 7 CHF for adults and 6 CHF for youngsters and the elderly.  

Spiez Castle

Located in the Swiss canton of Bern, the town of Spiez along its bay is one of the most picture-perfect places in the country, complete with vineyards and a background of the blue Thunersee and the surrounding Alps.

One of the oldest castles in Switzerland, this beautiful keep was built in 933. Many additions and alterations were made to the castle during the following centuries, so it now features many architectural eras and styles.

It’s a delightful surprise, a combination of classical Swiss architecture and Baroque concepts, and a gem of Switzerland waiting to be discovered. Check out my Spiez guide for more travel tips.

• The entrance cost to this castle is 10 CHF for adults and 2 CHF for children.

Schloss Hallwyl

If you want to view one of the few moated castles in Switzerland, you should visit Hallwyl Castle, which is situated on two islands in the Aabach River . The local lords and nobles built the castle in the 11th century as a stronghold. The current castle was constructed through centuries of additions and improvements beginning in the 14th century.

A beautiful trail loops around the park and provides views of the walls and buildings from every direction. You can virtually smell, feel, and taste the centuries of history that have passed over the land possessed initially by the castle Lords. Compared to other European castles, its small size really works to its advantage.

This is the place to go if you want to learn more about the history of Switzerland.  

• Adult tickets cost 14 CHF, while children’s tickets cost 8 CHF.

Stockalper Castle

Stockalper Castle is a Swiss castle in the city of Brig-Glis, and it stands out from the crowd thanks to its three tall buildings, which are almost identical in height. This impressive structure was built in the 16th century at the behest of the powerful Kaspar Stockalper and later renovated in the 19th century.

Enjoy exploring the castle’s arcades, vaults, and halls, followed by a look at the rose bushes in the royal garden. The view over the Old Town of Brig, the monastery, and the Jesuit church from the boundaries of the castle’s three towers is nothing short of breathtaking.

You will be amazed by the silk paintings from the 18th century once you enter this castle.  

• Entry is 10 CHF for adults, 5 CHF for preteens, and free for toddlers and younger kids.

BELLINZONA CASTLES

The historic castles of Bellinzona may be found in the Ticino region of southern Switzerland, specifically in the city of Bellinzona. It’s important to remember that these defenses were built to prevent an assault on the Alpine Pass, making them exceptional in their class.

The Bellinzona pass, which costs 30 CHF, grants you access to the whole of the castle’s grounds which includes Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro. They are all free to visit with a Swiss Travel Pass.

Below, you’ll find information on the three castles that make up the town: Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro.

Castelgrande

Castelgrande is the largest and most exciting castle of the three castles of Bellinzona. It is situated in Ticino canton. A popular attraction of this castle is its museum and slide display. The museum is called Sala Arsenale and is home to interesting temporary exhibitions and presentations throughout the country and worldwide.  

A natural sensory path in the backyard is an excellent place for barefoot adventurers of all ages.

From Castelgrande, you may visit the castle of Montebello on the other hill by taking the stairs down to Piazza Collegiata and then walking along the lane next to the church of the same name.

During the springtime festival La Spada Nelle Rocca, the castle walls come alive with the presence of women, horsemen, archers, and musicians decked up in splendid costumes. A historical and archaeological museum may also be found inside this castle.

Sasso Corbaro

Sasso Corbaro is nestled in a forest of chestnut trees on a promontory that looks out over the Bellinzona region. Although it is the smallest of Bellinzona’s three castles, at 495 meters in height, it is also the tallest.

The Canton Museum of Art and Folk Culture has relocated to the historic Sasso Corbaro. Short-term exhibits are also held there. From Piazza Collegiata and Piazza Nosetto, it’s a steep 40-minute trek downhill to your destination.

Schloss Wildegg

One of the hidden gems in Switzerland is Schloss Wildegg nestled between Aarau and Brugg in north Switzerland. Wildegg Castle was built by the Habsburgs in the first half of the 13th century.

From 1483 to 1912 the Effinger family were the owners of the property – the castle apartments and rooms are furnished in their original style and they show the aristocratic lifestyle of this family.  The large residence with farmyard, aviary, park, beautiful gardens, and forest has essentially been preserved intact and is today a cultural amenity of national importance.

Visible from afar visiting this castle offers a lot to its visitors. The baroque working farm and pleasure gardens are located on a terrace in the middle of vineyards and are home to nearly 300 ancient crop varieties

• The entrance fee for adults is around 14 CHF

Schloss Laufen  

Schloss Laufen is located just at the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen. It is believed that it took the Barons of Laufen – who lived there beginning in the year 858 – 1,200 years to build the fortress. Since then, the castle has been the center of numerous wars, and as a result, it has many fascinating tales to tell.

The panoramic glass elevator and its vantage point provide the most unique perspectives of this impressive natural wonder. In addition to the “Historama” display, a tour of the castle is recommended so visitors can understand more about the castle’s 1,000-year history. All the magnificent castle rooms and exhibits make this castle a sight to see.  

• Seeing Schloss Laufen will set you back roughly 5 CHF.

Munot Fortress  

The Munot Fortress in Schaffhausen draws many visitors every year. The city’s round citadel rises above the Rhine River, providing breathtaking views of the waterway and its environs.              

The fortress was never meant to be a home but rather a stronghold. Around the 16th century, Heinrich Schwarz used forced labor to construct the Fortress of Munot, which was used as a defensive stronghold armed with artillery.

The stone platform at the top is crowned by one massive round tower that looks out over the Rhine and the hills of Emmersberg.   The castle’s most striking features are the caponier galleries in the foundation and the winding stone path leading to the turret.  

• Look no further for an inexpensive destination; here, you can get in for zero CHF – are not free activities in Switzerland great?!

Aarburg Castle

This specific castle is located inside the city limits of Aarburg, high on a scarped, rocky slope that overlooks the ground. It was built for defensive purposes by the Lords of Büron sometime in the 12th century.  

From the 1400s forward, changing hands many times, it was rebuilt several times until it came under the authority of the present government.

The sturdy limestone walls, the tower house accessible by the tower steps, and the living quarters and cell blocks make this Swiss landmark a must-see for any history buff.  

• Adults must pay 10 CHG to enter the beautiful grounds, while children 16 and under get in for free.
• Tours are only available on Saturdays from April through September.

Castle Tarasp

Scuol, in the Lower Engadin, Graubünden, is home to Tarasp Castle. Initially constructed in the 11th century, it was owned by the Austrian Empire until 1803. There were several failed efforts to take the castle throughout the years.

The castle fell into disrepair until 1900 when it was bought by Karl August Lingner (who later invented the mouthwash Odor). For 16 years, it was meticulously restored to its former glory, becoming a place of pilgrimage for all castle enthusiasts.

The castle features several historically furnished rooms and a chapel with a 2,500-pipe organ. It also features an extensive collection of ancient and contemporary works of art.    It has reopened its doors to the public.

Concerts and tours are regularly scheduled throughout the year, and visitors are encouraged to pitch in with some light upkeep as part of the fun.  

• For about 13 CHF guests can explore the palace grounds all year long.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE BEST SWISS CASTLES TO SEE

Switzerland’s castles are not just relics of the past but vibrant testimonies to a rich history. From the grandeur of Château de Chillon to the mystical allure of Tarasp Castle, each offers a unique journey through time. 

Though I personally will always love Switzerland mostly for its mountains and lakes , I love visiting the castles that come in all shapes and sizes. They are not the typical landmarks in the country but rather underrated – but as you can see, there are some beautiful castles in Switzerland to visit.

So, consider adding some castles to your Switzerland itinerary . Embark on your own adventure, exploring these architectural marvels and discovering the stories etched within their ancient walls

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20 Fairytale Castles in Switzerland

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

While not as synonymous with castles as some surrounding European countries, Swiss castles have existed since at least the 4th century. From fortified churches, palaces, and manor houses to more traditional Medieval battlements, there are plenty of castles in Switzerland to offer castle enthusiasts, provided you know where to look.

Here’s a selection of Swiss castles to choose from, covering all regions, ages, shapes, and styles. So, if you’re planning a Swiss adventure and want to explore a castle or two while you’re away, take your pick of these castles in Switzerland.

1- Aarburg Castle

2- hallwyl castle, 3- rapperswil castle, 4- castles of bellinzona, 5- tourbillion castle, 6- visconteo castle, 7- aigle castle, 8- burgdorf castle, 9- grandson castle, 10- nidau castle, 11- oberhofen castle, 12- thun castle, 13- wimmis castle, 14- morges castle, 15- gruyéres castle, 16- castelmur castle, 17- marschlins castle, 18- ortenstein castle, 19- tarasp castle, 20- yverdon castle, swiss castles.

• 20 Fairytale Castles In Switzerland

Aarburg Castle was built in the 12th century around a pre-existing Medieval castle and is a Swiss heritage site of national significance.

The beautiful structure sits atop a steep rocky hill, overlooking the town of Aarburg and Aare River, offering some truly stunning views.

The fort consists of a keep, living quarters, a tower house, a stair tower, a cell block, and multiple heavily fortified buildings, built entirely of limestone, while the lower floors are carved directly into the rock.

Aarburg Castle is at Palisadenweg, 4663 Aarburg.

Hallwyl Castle is one of the most iconic and significant castles in Switzerland.

Set to the north of Lake Hallwyl, a wide moat surrounds its towering stone walls.

Built in the late 12th century for the Lords Of Hallwyl, the Canton of Aargau has owned the castle since 1994.

This castle is now open to the public and is part of the Museum Of Aargau.

Join a guided tour to learn about the history of the Hallwyl family and the castle itself.

A gift shop offers unique souvenirs of the experience, while open-air concerts are held here occasionally.

Hallwyl Castle is at Museum Aargau, 5707 Seengen.

The House Of Rapperswil built Rapperswil Castle at the start of the 13th century overlooking the town and dominating the local skyline.

A triangular-shaped fortress, it features exquisite towers at each corner, connected by battlements.

These surround the town’s iconic, five-sided clock tower, a church, and a six-storey palace.

Now the home of the Polish National Museum, both it and the building itself are listed as Class A objects in the Swiss inventory of cultural property of national and regional significance.

Rapperswil Castle is at Lindenhügel 8640 Rapperswil-Jona.

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The Castles Of Bellinzona are a collection of three medieval castles, Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, surrounded by fortified walls, which form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Castelgrande overlooks the town and valley and is connected directly to both the city’s fortifications and Montebello.

Montebello, known locally by nicknames such as the small, middle, or new castle, is set right in the centre of the town.

Sasso Corbaro is the highest of the three, sitting atop an isolated rocky hill to the southwest of the previous two.

All three are open for tours and contain an array of museums and historical exhibits, making it an experience that offers triple the value compared to anywhere else.

The Castles Of Bellinzona are at Salita Castelgrande 18, 6500 Bellinzona.

Tourbillion Castle was built strategically in the 13th century atop a tall hill.

The fortress was almost impenetrable to outside attacks, only accessible from the east and the west and featuring imposing surrounding walls.

Fires in the 15th and 18th centuries eventually saw the castle fall, although it was rebuilt in the 19th and converted into a historical monument.

Visitors can now take guided tours of its church, courtyard, keep, and garrison, to see the stunning murals and historic exhibits while enjoying the stunning vistas in the castle’s surroundings.

Tourbillion Castle is at Place Maurice Zermatten, 1950 Sion.

Visconteo Castle is in the town of Locarno, near the Italian border.

The 13th-century medieval castle has shades of an Italian influence visible in its surroundings.

This is especially noticeable in the neighbouring Renaissance fortification, Leonardo’s Rivellino.

The only fortification designed by Leonardo Da Vinci to remain completely unaltered, these two castles offer a great insight into the changing styles and military tactics in this part of the world.

Visconteo Castle even features a museum with a previous Roman glass collection among its exhibits.

Visconteo Castle is at Via Al Costello, 6600 Locarno.

Built in the late 12th century by the Barons Of Aigle, Aigle Castle features beautiful square towers and is surrounded by vineyards, creating a perfect balance of natural and architectural beauty.

The castle served as a jail from the beginning of the 19th century until 1976, when it was opened up to the public.

The castle now features a Wine And Vine museum to educate visitors on the more refined side of its history and perhaps even let them sample some of the vintages.

The Wine Labels Museum is also found within the grounds.

Aigle Castle is at Place Du Chateau 1, 1860 Aigle.

Sitting on the banks of the Emme River, the exact origin of Burgdorf Castle is unknown, although the first mentions of it date to 1080.

Founded by either the Kings of Burgundy or the Dukes of Zahringen, it has a distinctly Bavarian style, not uncommon in this part of Switzerland.

The site features courtyards, gatehouses, halls, and towers, surrounded by walls.

Over the centuries, this castle has served as a military hospital, government offices, and even a school run by noted educator Heinrich Pestalozzi.

You can explore a museum in the Knight’s Hall and the grounds, including attractions such as a plaque dedicated to Pestalozzi’s school.

Burgdorf Castle is at 3400 Burgdorf.

Built by the Lords Of Grandson in the mid to late 11th century, Grandson Castle sits on the shore of Lake Neuchatel.

Its rectangular design with pointed towers at each corner provides one of the most iconic images of a Medieval castle in Switzerland.

This Swiss heritage site is of national significance and is one of the best-preserved examples of a medieval fortress anywhere in the country.

Only the dungeon is no longer present from the original design.

As a result, it now operates as a regional museum, displaying exhibits on everything from weapons and armour to architecture and vintage cars.

Grandson Castle is at Place Du Chateau, 1422 Grandson.

Wooden castles were repeatedly built on the site of Nidau Castle from 1140 onwards, before the stone structure you see today was eventually erected in the 13th century.

While the moat and parts of the original walls no longer exist, iconic towers and buildings like stables, servants’ apartments, and other structures and a fountain remain.

The location of the Jura Water Correction Projects of 1868 to control the level of the nearby lake and river, the castle now features a museum with exhibits explaining what these projects were and why they took place.

Unlike most historic castles, Nidau Castle remains an active and important building, housing all the cantonal administration offices.

Nidau Castle is at Hauptstrasse 6, 2560 Nidau.

For more about Switzerland, read:

• 20 Famous Switzerland Landmarks
• When Is The Best Time To Visit Switzerland?
• The Amazing Jungfrau Railway Train
• 20 Swiss Cities
• 15 Things To Do In Lucerne
• 25 Things to Do In Zurich
• 5 Day Trips From Bern
• 10 Swiss Alps Bucket List Experiences
• Swiss Alps Witches Festival
• Winter in Switzerland
• 15 Things Switzerland Is Famous For

Oberhofen Castle is a picturesque 13th-century castle on the shore of Lake Thun.

While the original keep was built around 1200, the castle continued to expand throughout the centuries.

The lake-side chapel was built in 1473, while the first evidence of the tower is an illustration from 1680.

The fortress continued to expand until the castle you see today was completed in 1852.

A century later, in 1952, the castle became part of the Historical Museum Of Bern and was opened to the public.

Visitors can now enjoy exhibits on Bernese culture and a smoking room and strolls around the castle’s stunning gardens.

Oberhofen Castle is at Schloss 4, 3653 Oberhofen Am Thunersee.

Thun Castle looks like something straight out of a fairy-tale, a picturesque hilltop castle built in the late 12th century.

Its main square tower is surrounded by four circular spires, while the residential wing added in the 15th century is designed in the late Gothic style.

Having served as both a prison and a courthouse, a museum has operated out of the castle since 1888.

Covering five floors, it hosts cultural and historical displays, covering more than 4,000 years of the region’s history.

On occasion, concerts and plays are hosted in the great hall, while guests enjoy breathtaking views from its lofty location.

Thun Castle is at Schlossberg 1, 3600 Thun.

Wimmis Castle was formed from an early Medieval church and fortified estate strategically located on a hill overlooking Wimmis.

Originally built in the late 12th century, it has been continually renovated and expanded, with the latest changes coming as recently as 1987.

This offers a fantastic opportunity to see the changing styles used in Switzerland through the centuries and a chance to see a castle uniquely situated on the side of a rock face.

Wimmis Castle is at Schlossgasse 6, 3752 Wimmis.

A Swiss heritage site of national importance, Morges Castle is a 12th-century castle with a traditional Medieval style featuring a square design with circular towers at its corners.

Its fortifications and waterfront location made it an important military location, becoming the official cantonal armoury in 1803.

As a result, it was converted into the Vaud Military Museum in 1925.

You can enjoy exhibits on the history of arms through the ages, with everything from Medieval weapons and armour to mortars and mounted guns on display.

Morges Castle is at 1110 Morges.

Gruyéres Castle is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland.

The traditional 13th-century square castle sits high atop a hill, offering sweeping vistas of the area.

The fortress serves as one of the country’s most popular museums, with ornate rooms displaying a combination of both permanent and temporary exhibits.

Three capes of the Order Of The Golden Fleece and a collection of artwork combine with a multimedia history show to make Gruyéres Castle a truly unique, exciting, and educational destination.

Gruyéres Castle is at Rue Du Chateau 8, 1663 Gruyéres.

Castelmur Castle, not to be confused with the nearby Palazzo Castelmur, which often goes by the same name, is considered one of the most important valley fortifications in all of Switzerland, dating back to the Roman era.

A square tower and ring wall, built atop a steep outcrop, offered a strategic advantage against invaders to the valley, while a church and second tower were added later.

While much of the complex lies in ruins, it is still an incredible location to visit due to the site’s age, importance, and history.

Castelmur Castle is at 7605 Stampa.

Marschlins Castle is an iconic fortification built in the 13th century for the Bishop Of Chur.

It is designed in the Savoyard style and features a traditional square design, with towers at each corner.

Unique in the region during this era, it has long been debated how the plans for the castle were imported.

As opposed to the exhibits found in many old castles, the design and stylings of the building itself are the main attractions at Marschlins Castle.

Walls and ceilings feature beautiful carvings and paintings, while three rooms are decorated with stylish 17th-century furniture.

There is even a cannon from the same era mounted in the courtyard to reinforce that this was a location built for both style and substance.

Marschlins Castle is at 7302 Landquart.

Erected in the mid-13th century for the Bishop Of Chur, the heart of Ortenstein Castle is a seven-storey tower.

Originally built with a traditional Gothic style, the castle was designed as a private residence, with most of the occupants living in the central tower.

Between the 15th and 18th centuries, the castle was extensively expanded and restored, including additions including a chapel, gatehouse, and large east and west wings.

Aside from a few sections of the original building, most of the fortress no longer resembles a Gothic castle.

Instead, it’s a demonstration of the ever-changing architectural styles that have existed in Switzerland.

Ortenstein Castle is at Ortenstein 71C, 7418 Tumegl.

Constructed in the late 10th century, Tarasp Castle is a stunning structure perched high atop a hill, offering incredible views of the surrounding areas.

Fires caused by lightning and arson damaged the castle but because of its strategic position, the castle was not completely destroyed.

After extensive restoration efforts in the early 20th century, the castle reopened as a museum in 1919.

Its restored interiors and antique furniture paint a vivid picture of how the nobles of the area lived through the centuries.

Tarasp Castle is at Sparsels 148, 7553 Tarasp.

Built as a Medieval square castle, Yverdon Castle was designed by James of St. George, who later became the primary castle builder for King Edward I of England.

James of St George is responsible for what historians call the most significant chain of castles that ever existed – a chain that started in Switzerland.

Erected in the 13th century, it features imposing stone walls and circular towers at its corners.

Over the years, Yverdon Castle has been used as everything from a private residence to a public school.

Having been extensively restored throughout the ages, Yverdon Castle is now a multi-purpose cultural centre.

Among its attractions are a museum, theatre, conference rooms, and the oldest public library in the French-speaking region of Switzerland.

Yverdon Castle is at Le Chateau, 1400 Yverdon-Les-Bains.

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13 Castles in Switzerland You Absolutely Cannot Miss!

Even though Switzerland is one of the smallest countries in Europe, it still has over 1,000 castles and fortresses. And that’s not counting all the tower houses and fortified mansions. You can find a castle in almost every Swiss town. But some castles are more spectacular than others, and these magnificent medieval structures are what we want to introduce you to today!

Some of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland have slowly been crumbling away. While the Swiss preserved some castles, they left others to the elements. These castles transformed into something different entirely. These medieval castles are true architectural masterpieces worth visiting if you’re in Switzerland. If you want to learn about the country’s history, architecture, and culture , visiting one of these castles is the perfect way to do it.

Chillon Castle (oldest of the castles in Switzerland)

Chillon Castle is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland. They built the castle in the 11th century in the village of Chillon in the Swiss canton of Vaud. They built Chillon as a fortress to protect the people on the shores of Lake Geneva from the threat of invasion. The castle also played a crucial role in the Burgundian Wars.

It was the prisons of Chillon where the Swiss held many French nobles captive in the 15th century. Chillon is one of the best-known castles in Switzerland and one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can visit the fortress throughout the year, and it’s straightforward to get to from either Geneva or Lausanne .

To visit Chillon Castle near Lake Geneva, why not stay at the Hotel Mon Repos or Hotel President Wilson ?

Laupen Castle

The Laupen Castle is in the Swiss canton of Bern. They built it in the 12th century. It served as a fortress against the House of Savoy and the city of Bern. The castle is on a rocky cliff and got its name from the nearby village of Laupen. In 1286, the House of Savoy conquered the castle and held on to it for the next 60 years. Laupen Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Switzerland. It is open to the public, and visitors can do guided tours in several languages. The castle also has a museum where you can learn more about its fascinating history.

Good hotel options in Bern include the Heart of Bern or Hotel Landhaus .

Rothenthurm Castle Ruins

Rothenthurm Castle Ruins are in the Swiss canton of Aargau. The House of Habsburg built the medieval castle in the 12th century. It was the centre of a medieval settlement, and a moat surrounds it. They destroyed the castle in the 16th century.

There are very few ruins left of the castle. The only building still standing is a tower known as Rothenthurm Tower. It is open to visitors and has a small exhibition where you can learn more about the castle’s history. Rothenthurm Castle Ruins are easy to get to from the city of Aarau. It’s just a short walk from the city centre.

To visit the Rothenthurm Castle Ruins, stay at Hotel Kettenbrücke or Gästezimmer Erlinsbach near Aarau.

Tourbillon castle

Tourbillon Castle, or Château de Tourbillon in French, is a castle in Sion in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. It stands on a hill, facing the Basilique de Valère. Bishop Boniface de Challant supervised the castle’s building at the end of the 13th century.

Through the years, the castle has been used as the bishop of Sion’s residence. Its location makes it perfect for defence as it is at the top of a steep hill. The conflict between the people of Valais and the bishops caused damage to the castle. It burned down in 1417 during the Raron affair, a war between the Raron family and the people of Sion. Bishop William III of Raron rebuilt the castle about thirty years later.

A fire destroyed the castle in 1788. In the 19th century, the Swiss reinforced the castle ruins, and it became a historical monument. The castle is a Swiss heritage site of national significance. The castle grounds include a chapel, garrison building and a keep.

Stay at ibis Styles Sierre or Hotel La Cambuse to visit the Tourbillon Castle.

Thun castle

Duke Berthold V Zähringen built Thun Castle (Schloss Thun in German) between 1180 and 1190 to signify the family’s power over the region. The Duke also built the Knights’ Hall as a monument to Zähringen’s power over the region. The Grand Hall is currently one of the best-preserved samples of the representation halls of the Middle Ages. 

The roof is from the Bernese period. In 1429, they added an administrative and residential wing to offer residential housing options. The castle housed the local court and prison for many years. They built a new prison on the castle grounds in 1886.

In 1888, a museum opened in the castle. In 2006, the city of Thun bought the castle from the canton of Bern. The Bernese Oberland regional court used the castle property until the end of 2009. The grounds feature a conference and training centre, a hotel and a restaurant. 

Good hotel options for visiting Castle Thun include Schüür Restaurant & Kultur or Schloss Schadau .

Oberhofen castle

In the High Middle Ages, the Freiherr von Oberhofen built Balm Castle on a mountain above the village. A daughter of the family, Ita, married the von Eschenbach family in 1200. Her family gifted the castle to her husband and his family. They built a new, moated castle on the shores of Lake Thun. 

The Pourtalès family from Neuchatel and Prussia bought the castle and converted it to a summer residence. The castle features a museum drawing to explain the history of its former residents. The chapel on the castle grounds dates from the fifteenth century and has impressive murals. Its Oriental smoking room gives a unique view of the lake and mountains surrounding the castle. 

The Oberhofen Castle’s park has one of the best gardens in the Alpine region. It features exciting wood plants, striking tree formations, covered walkways and beautiful flower parterres. 

You can stay at Boutique Hotel Niesenblick am Thunersee or Hotel Restaurant Bellevue au Lac to visit Oberhofen Castle.

One of the best castles in Switzerland – Vufflens castle

The castle dates from the 15th century. The castle is an example of a fortified Romany castle from the Middle Ages. It has an imposing tower with a 60-metre-high donjon. The castle is privately owned and cannot be visited by tourists. Walking in the vineyards near the castle will give you stunning views of the castle, Mont Blanc and the lake. 

Excellent hotels for visiting this castle is Les Volets Bleus or BnB chez Fanfan.

Castles of Bellinzona

The Bellinzona fortresses are at a strategic point on the Alpine pass. These buildings are excellent examples of late-medieval defensive structures in the Alps. The three castles of Bellinzona are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The three castles, Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro, controlled the route from the valley of the Ticino river, access to Alpine passes and commercial traffic from and to the San Gotthard pass.

Places to stay include: Villa del Gusto or Hotel Internazionale Bellinzona .

Gruyères castle

Since its completion, the Gruyères Castle housed the counts who built it and the bailiffs of Fribourg and the Bovy and Balland families from Geneva. In 1938, the Canton of Fribourg bought back the castle and opened it to the public. The castle is now a museum that covers the history, culture and architecture of the castle’s eight centuries.

When you visit the castle, you can learn more about the region and its legends, including La Belle Luce, the jester Chalamala and John, the Cripple. 

Good hotel options for visiting the Gruyères castle include Hamilton Lodge & Spa or ibis Styles Sierre .

Rapperswil castle

The Rapperswil Castle dates back to between 1200 and 1220 AD. Count Rudolf II and his son, Rudolf III, built the castle and its fortifications when the swiss nobility moved from Altendorf to Seedamm. The family gave the castle to the citizens of Rapperswil in 1442.

The castle gives a beautiful view of Zurich , the Zurich lake and the alps. To get to the castle, you walk through old Rapperswil and climb stairs up to the castle and St. John’s church. Here, you can enter the castle gate. We recommend visiting St. John’s Church with its gorgeous stained-glass windows. The castle grounds feature beautiful gardens and an animal park with deer. 

To visit the Rapperswil Castle, stay at Hotel Jakob or Moxy Rapperswil .

Tarasp castle

Castle Tarasp dates back to the 11th century. It is a magnificent castle that dominates the Upper Engadine region. It used to belong to Austria until 1803. The inventor of mouthwash, Kark August Lingner, bought the castle in 1900 and restored it until 1916. 

The Castle Tarasp opened to the public in 1919. Visitors can see old bedrooms, the castle’s chapel and organ with 2500 pipes, knights’ halls and ballrooms. The castle often hosts organ concerts, tours, and vacations where volunteers can help maintain the buildings. 

Hotel options near Tarasp Castle include: Hotel Bellinzona or Defanti .

Hallwyl castle

Hallwyl Castle dates back to the 11th century. It is on the northern side of Lake Hallwil on two islands in the Aabach creek near Seengen . It is one of the Swiss castles with the most moats. 

The castle belonged to the von Hallwyl family, a lower nobility clan who distinguished themselves on the battlefields of the Swiss confederacy in science, politics and finance. 

Hotel options near Hallwyl Castle are Seehotel Delphin or Ochsen Lodge .

Lenzburg castle: Legendary castles of Switzerland

The legend of how Lenzburg castle was established is interesting. A dragon lived on the mountain. Two noble knights, Wolfram and Guntram, slew the dragon and started living on Dragon Mountain. They built Lenzburg castle. 

The castle’s history spans over 1000 years. The castle grounds have several exhibits, a museum about life in the olden days and an exhibit about the Swiss nobility and knighthood. There is also a children’s museum and history studio at the castle. Enjoying a drink and a snack in the beautiful gardens is a must-do!

To visit the Lenzburg Castle, stay at Holiday Inn Express – Aarburg or Aarau West Swiss Quality Hotel .

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• 10 Magnificent Castles Of Switzerland That Will Make You Feel Like A Time Traveler

11 Jun 2023

The very mention of a holiday in Switzerland is enough to send many into deliriums of ecstasy with the flurry of panoramic images that comes with it. Be it the craft beer and castles, new-age restaurants and waterfront bars, swimming in the Rhine or Limmat, and hiking on the snow-clad peaks, things to do in Switzerland are endless. But nothing gives you more insight into the grandeur of the country’s history and culture like the castles of Switzerland.

10 Best Castles Of Switzerland

So let’s take a look at a list of castles in Switzerland that you definitely shouldn’t miss out on your next trip there.

1. Oberhofen Castle

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Step back into the 16th to 19th centuries as you walk through the grandeur of the Oberhofen Castle, that stands perched on the shores of Lake Thun. The oldest parts of the turreted castle date back to 1200 AD, its grand white spiral jutting out on to the lake in the Swiss canton of Bern. Murals and Romanesque frescoes dating back to the 13th-15th century adorning the chapel and the Turkish smoking parlor shouldn’t be missed.

Timings: 11:00am – 5:00pm (closed on Mondays)

Suggested Read: Behold These 10 Magnificent Switzerland Waterfalls That Will Blow Your Mind For Sure!

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2. Chillon Castle

The Chateau de Chillon is probably the one of the most famous castles in Switzerland. Steeped in history, the Chillon Castle stands on the rocky outcrop on Lake Geneva, surrounded by water on all sides that make its natural moat. Having served as the official residence during 12th to 16th century, the Counts of Savoy controlled the passage of ships back then on Lake Geneva. The stunning Gothic architecture exhibited in the dungeons of the castle, the grand ‘Courtyard of Honour’, the chapel and sleeping quarters of the erstwhile noblemen hold vestiges of its grand history.

Timings: 9:00am – 7:00pm (varies according to the seasons)

3. Gruyere Castle

Visiting Switzerland, you may have the idea of sampling its famous cheese fondue in mind. While the medieval town of Gruyeres Fribourg is renowned for the same, make sure that you visit the stunning Gruyere Castle as well. Built in the 13th Century and passed on to several noble families, this picture perfect castle houses historical treasures including capes belonging to knights of the Order of the Golden Fleece. Marvel at the bespoke frescoes created by the Ancient Regime, paintings, and decorations created by the 19th century artists as you explore the castle’s ramparts and its French gardens.

9:00am – 6:00pm (April – October) 10:00am – 5:00pm (November-December)

Suggested Read: Go Paragliding In Switzerland For The Most Amazing Swiss Alps Experience

4. The Castles of Bellinzona

Ticino’s capital city Bellinzona is much famed for its three majestic castles known as the Castello Montebello, Castello Sasso Corbaro, and Castelgrande. Castelgrande is the oldest and most impressive of the three, built in the 13th century, while the other two are the best preserved medieval castles in Switzerland. Forming a ring with fortified walls (little of which remains today), the three castles that played a prominent role in the protection of Bellinzona has been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site today. One can enjoy a stunning view of the entire city from the castle Sasso Corbaro.

10:30am – 4:00pm (November-March) 10:00am – 6:00 pm (April – October)

5. Rapperswil Castle

Perched on the shores of Lake Zurich, the lake waters surrounding it on three sides, the Rapperswil Castle is one of the most beautiful castles near Zurich, Switzerland. This castle houses the Polish Museum where the history of Swiss-Polish relationships is displayed along with story of Nobel prize winner Marie Curie-Sklodowska amongst others. A walk along the medieval wall and the parapet towards the castle offers a splendid view of the ‘City of Roses’.

1:00pm – 5:00pm (April-October) 1:00pm – 5:00pm (during weekends of March, November & December) Open on request during January and February

Suggested Read: Top 7 Water Sports In Switzerland That You Must Not Miss Out On

6. Tourbillon Castle

Standing tall on the peak of a rocky mountain, the Tourbillon Castle overlooks the astonishing vistas of the Sion. It is an arduous trek along a winding path that takes you to the castle, which houses a museum exhibiting pieces of historical importance. The interesting fact remains that though the castle was laid to ruin by a huge fire in 1788, its 15th century chapel ornamented with frescoes survived the destructive blaze.

Timings: 11:00am – 5:00pm

7. Thun Castle

Of all the castles in Switzerland, the Thun Castle near Lake Thun offers the most stunning view – of the Aare River. The tower of Knight’s Hall that was actually built in the 12th century is one of the most outstanding features of Thun Castle. One can tour all of its five floors including a prison that was built in 1886.

10:00am – 5:00pm (April – October) 1:00pm – 4:00pm (every Sunday November – January) 1:00pm – 4:00pm (February – March)

Suggested Read: Top 6 Cottages In Switzerland For The Luxury And Peace Seekers

8. Tarasp Castle

Known to be the most imposing castle in Graubunden owing to its location atop a 100m high rock, Castle Tarasp dominates the locality in Upper Engadine. Sweeping views of pristine Lake Tarasp, the Alpine Mountains and of Lower Engadine region can be enjoyed from the castle grounds. Scheduled tours would take you through the beautifully restored rooms, the chapel, grand halls and the famous organ with 2500 pipes preserved within this 11th century castle.

Timings: Tours to be scheduled after coordination with the castle administration

9. Habsburg Castle

With the oldest foundations laid 1000 years ago, the Habsburg Castle is a treasure trove of the Habsburg Family memories that has played an immense role in shaping the European history. Six audio stations give you a documentation of the rise of Habsburg Dynasty, while a round tour of the castle premises offers you splendid views, and culinary delights in the historic setting as well. It would also be a delight to spot the reason why this castle is Switzerland is referred to as ‘double castle’.

10:00am – 10:30pm (closed on Mondays)

Suggested Read: 10 Unique Museums In Switzerland That Walk You Through History Of Humanity

10. Vufflens Castle

This 15th century castle is best known for its fairy-tale grandeur with its central tower that makes a magnificent sight along with Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc from the Vufflens Vineyard it is nestled in. Although visitors are not allowed within the privately owned mammoth castle, a 30 minute walk in the Vufflens Vineyard would be a treat to the eyes.

Further Read: 12 Switzerland Travel Tips For A Fantastical & Flawless Vacation

Awestruck already? Gear up to explore these fascinating castles on your next holiday in Switzerland. Customize your own Europe tour package with TravelTriangle , and turn your holiday into an unforgettable affair.

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Castles & palaces

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17 Swiss Castles around Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva – or Lac Lemán – is one of the largest lakes in Western Europe and is divided between Switzerland and France. The area around Lake Geneva is a popular holiday destinations thanks to its beautiful nature, warm climate, and many vinyards.

On the Swiss side, you can find many beautiful castles around Lake Geneva. From Medieval castles that have been turned into museums, but also many castles that can be visited for wine tastings. In this post you will find the best Swiss castles around Lake Geneva, to soak up a bit of history on your travels (or wine of course, lots and lots of wine).

Château de Chillon

Chillon Castle is an waterside castle on Lake Geneva, between Montreux and Villeneuve. The site on which the castle stands has been occupied since the Bronze age. The current castle was developed over centuries of building and remodeling.

The history of Chillon Castle can be divided into three periods: The Savoy Era (12th-16th century), The Bernese Era (16th-18th century), and The Vaudois Era (18th century-today). From the 18th century, Chillon Castle has been popular with writers and poets. Lord Byron, Victor Hugo, and Gustave Flaubert all visited the castle. And the castle has been written about in works such as: “The Prisoner of Chillon” by Lord Byron and “Daisy Miller” by Henry James.

Chillon Castle is now a museum showcasing archaeological object from the castle site, furniture, paintings, weapons, and architectural features.

Chillon Castle opening times: the castle is open all year round (except December 25 & January 1). You can buy your ticket online .

Address : Av. de Chillon 21, 1820 Veytaux, Switzerland

Palais de Rumine

Palais de Rumine is a late 19th century palace in Florentine Renaissance style in Lausanne. The palace was built when Gabriel de Rumine – a son of Russian nobility – left the city 1.5 million Swiss Francs to erect a building for public use. The building is design by Gaspard André and now houses four museums (Museum of Archeology and History, Cantonal Museum of Geology, Cantonal Museum of Zoology, and Museum of Money) and a library.

Palais de Rumine opening times: the museums are open Tuesday-Sunday (and Easter Monday, Whit Monday). It’s closed on January 1 & 2 and December 25. Visit the website for opening hours.

Address : Palais de Rumine, Place de la Riponne 6, CH – 1005 Lausanne

Château de Vullierens

Vullierens Castle is a French classical castle built between 1706 and 1745. Some parts of the old medieval castle that stood in its place have been preserved in the new chateau. The interiors are unique for their Chinese decorations and because the furnshings and layout haven’t changed since it construction. The estate has been lived in by the same family for 700 years, therfore the castle interiors aren’t open to visitors. The castle has beautiful gardens that are famous for its 50.000 irises.

Château de Vullierens opening times: the gardens are open April-October. There is also a café and winetasting. See the website for current opening times.

Address : Les Jardins du Château de Vullierens, 1115 Vullierens, Switzerland

Le Château de Coppet

Le Château de Coppet is a castle around Lake Geneva. The estate was founded in 1280, of the Medieval castle only one wing remains. The castle we see today was built in the 17th century, later additions include a Gothic Revival chapel and an Egypt Empire style library. In 1784 Jacques Necker – former minister to Louis XVI, King of France – bought the castle as a summer residence.

The castle gave name to the Coppet Group who where a group of intellectuals from Europe, who meeted at the castle in the early 19th century under the aegis of Madame de Staël.

Le Château de Coppet opening times: the castle is open from April 1st to October 31st; Tuesday to Sunday. Visit the website for current opening hours.

Address : Rue de la Gare 2, 1296 Coppet, Switzerland

Château de Prangins

Château de Prangins is the largest 18th-century building open to the public in Switzerland. The castle was built in 1732 and has been te home to many notable figures such as Voltaire, Joseph Bonaparte (older brother of Napoleon), and US suffragist Katherine McCormick.

Today the castle is part of the Swiss National Museum and host permanent and temporary exhibitions on Swiss history, identity and culture. Surrounding the castle is a park, a meadow orchard and the largest historic kitchen garden in Switzerland.

Château de Prangis/National Swiss Museum opening times: the museum is open Tuesday-Sunday all year round.

Address : Château de Prangins, Avenue du Général Guiguer 3, 1197 Prangins

Château d’Aigle

The oldest part of Aigle Castle was built around the 12th century by the family of the Knights of Aigle. Over the centuries it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. And in the 1970s it became the home of the Vine and Wine Museum. The museum has exhibitions that will delight wine lovers, as well as families who can discover this culture while having fun.

Château d’Aigle opening times: the castle is open all year (Tuesday-Sunday). In July and August it’s also opened on Monday. The castle is closed on January 1 and December 25. Visit the website for current opening hours.

Address : Château d’Aigle · Place du Château 1 · case postale 453 · 1860 Aigle

Le Château des Morges

Morges Castle on the shore of Lake Geneva was built in 13th century by Louis of Savoy to protect the city from invasion. Today the castles houses five museum: the Military Museum, Swiss Historic Figurine Museum, the Artillery Museum, the Police Museum, and the Paderewski Museum.

Le Château des Morges opening times: the museums are open through the year Tuesday-Sunday (closed: December 19 to January 9)

Address : Rue du Château 1, 1110 Morges – CH

Château de la Sarraz

The castle dates back to the 11th, 13th and 15th century. For most of its long history the castle was owned by the same family. During these years a large collection of furniture and art have been collected which can still be seen in the castle today. The castle also hosts workshops and events.

Château de la Sarraz opening times: the castle park is open all year round. The castle and its collection is open in selected months, visit the website for current opening hours.

Address : Le Château 1, 1315 La Sarraz

Château de Nyon

Château de Nyon is a castle is the old town of Nyon. The origins of the castle go back to the 12th century. For three centuries the castle was owned by the Counts of Savoy, until the Reformation chased them out. The castle got its apperance you see today in the 16th century. Since 1888 the castle houses the town museum, the history and porcelain museum is still located in the castle to this day. From the observation deck you have a view over the Alps and Lake Geneva.

Château de Nyon opening times: the museum is open all year round on Tuesday-Sunday.

Address : Château de Nyon, Place du Château, CH – 1260 Nyon

Château de Rolle

Château de Rolle is a Medieval fortress built in the 13th century in the city of Rolle on Lake Geneva. Compared to other castles in the area, Rolle Castle is unique for its irregular shape and different towers. The castle interior cannot be visited, but the courtyard is open for anyone to enjoy the castle exteriors.

Address : 1180 Rolle, Switzerland

Château du Châtelard

Château du Chatelard is a Medieval castle, set upon a hill in Montreux. The castle overlooks Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps and it’s surrounded by vineyards. The castle now offers rental holiday apartments .

Address : Chem. de Planchamp-Dessous 1, 1815 Clarens, Switzerland

Castles around Lake Geneva that offer wine tastings

Surrounding Lake Geneva are many vineyards and therfore many châteaux that offer wine tastings.

Domaine Château du Crest

Crest Castle is a castle in Jussy. The castle was built in 1220 but in the 1590s it got taken and destroyed by Calvinists. Théodore-Agrippa d’Aubigné , a French noblemen, poet, and reformed French Huguenot squire of Henry IV acquired the castle and rebuilt it. In 1637 the Micheli family acquired the castle whose descendents own the castle to this day.

Address : Rte du Château-du-Crest 40, 1254 Jussy, Switzerland

Château de Glérolles

Glérolles Castle is a castle on the northern shore of Lake Geneva. The origins of the castle date back to the 12th century, though not much of the Medieval structure remains. The castle now offers wine tastings from Tuesday-Saturday.

Address : Rte du Lac 27, 1071 Saint-Saphorin, Switzerland

Château de Crans

Crans Castle is an 18th century castle that was built by the Genevian banker Antoine Saladin. The elegant castle is built in Louis XV style and is one of the finest castles around Lake Geneva. Wine tastings are on Thursday and Saturday.

Address : Rue Antoine-Saladin 8, 1299 Crans-près-Céligny, Switzerland

Château de Duillier

Duillier Castle is at the heart of a wine domaine which has been in the same family for thre generations. The castle dates back to the 15th century. In 1669 the castle was acquired by Jean-Baptiste Fatio, who installed a printing press in the castle. His two sons also left a mark on Geneva; Nicolas, an astronomer, created a complete map of Lake Geneva and Jean-Christophe, engineer and astronomer, took part in the construction of the fortifications of Geneva. Now the castle is owned by the Humbert family who also offer wine tastings at the château.

Address : Rue du Château, 1266 Duillier, Switzerland

Château de Luins

Luins Castle has always been a wine-growing and agricultural estate. The castle was built in 1612 by the families of Wurstemberger and Wyttenbach and it was later also acquired by a French count. Since 1984 the castle is owned by Esther and Rémi Baechtold whose son, Laurent, manages the prodiction of the wine.

The particularity of Château de Luins wines lies in their conservation. More precisely for out Chasselas – a grape variety known for being tasted at a young age – we vinify it so that it can be enjoyed several years after bottling.

Address : Rte du Village 23, 1184 Luins, Switzerland

Château Rochefort

Rochefort Castle is a castle near Lake Geneva that dates back to the 14th century. It’s the perfect place for oenotoerism in an picturesque village. The castle offers a full wine experience with wine tastings, events, a supper club, and bed and breakfast rooms.

Address : Pl. de l’ Eglise, 1165 Allaman, Switzerland

Visit the Swiss castles around Lake Geneva

Best Castles near Zurich

Τhe vibrant and culturally rich Swiss city of Zurich is a charming combination of natural scenery and bustling city streets, with a thriving financial centre as well as a growing hip and artistic scene that attracts a real variety of visitors every year.

As well as the enchanting city itself, Zurich also has a multitude of historic castles that occupy its outskirts, which make for perfect cultural day-trips from the metropolis. This list will highlight the best castles near Zurich, their key points of interest, as well as practical information, such as location, and opening and closing times.

The Best 10 Castles to Visit Near Zurich

1. uster castle.

Situated just outside of the centre of Zurich in the municipality of Uster lies the gorgeous Uster Castle, which is an impressive hilltop castle that is believed to have been built around the year 1200, by the House of Rapperswil.

One of the key features that attract visitors to Uster Castle is its unique and intriguing architecture; it consists of a core tower with an outer structure, and it has fantastic interiors as well, which are open to the public to visit.

Where:  Uster When:  1200 Open for visit:  Yes, check here for more information.

2. Castle Kyburg

Castle Kyburg is a beautiful castle that overlooks the incredible Toss River; it is situated in the Kyburg municipality of Switzerland and makes for a perfect day trip from Zurich. It is believed that the first fortification on this site was built in the second half of the 10 th  century, by the Counts of Winterthur.

The original castle was destroyed by Conrad II in either the year 1028 or 1030, though it was soon rebuilt. Over the following centuries, the castle was rebuilt and renovated on several different occasions, until it finally became a museum in the 19 th  century.

Where : Winterthur When:  10 th  century Open for visit : Yes, check here for more information.

3. Regensberg Castle

The beautiful Regensberg Castle is a stunning medieval hilltop castle that was constructed by the House of Regensberg in the mid-13 th  century; it is situated in the municipality of Regensberg and is the perfect place to visit for a day trip from Zurich.

The architecture of Regensberg Castle is charming; it consists of an upper castle, and a lower castle, which was added in the 14 th  century. There are also remnants of the 13th-century castle, in the form of the round tower, which is incredibly well-preserved, and very much in its original state.

Where : Regensberg When : 13 th  century Open for visit : Yes, check here for more information.

You might be interested in:  Famous castles to visit in Switzerland. 

4. Meersburg Castle

The stunning Meersburg Castle, or as it is sometimes known as, Alte Burg, is an impressive medieval castle in the town of Meersburg, which is perched scenically upon Lake Constance in Baden-Wurttemberg, in Germany. This is one of the oldest inhabited castles in the whole of Germany; there are remains that date back to the 7 th  century.

The original castle has changed shape over the years, and many parts of it were destroyed; in the 18 th  century, a New Castle was constructed, and both of these castles are visible and accessible to this day. Meersburg Castle is a fantastic place to visit as a day trip from Zurich; the town itself is lovely, and the castles offer so much history.

Where : Meersburg When:  7th-century origins Open for visit:  Yes, check here for more information.

5. Lenzburg Castle

Located in the beautiful and historic town of Lenzburg in the Canton of Aargau, lies the gorgeous Lenzburg Castle, an incredibly important and old Swiss landmark. The castle is situated upon a 504 m hill, which towers above the town below, and it is built upon historic Neolithic burial grounds.

Though the castle has been rebuilt and renovated on several different occasions throughout the centuries, the original castle dates back to around 1036, and part of this original castle still stands today. Lenzburg Castle was originally built as the seat of the Counts of Lenzburg, and today, it is a listed heritage site of national significance and is open to the public.

Where:  Lenzburg When : 11 th  century Open for visit:  Yes, check here for more information.

6. Castle Hallwyl

Castle Hallywl is an impressive and important moated castle in Switzerland; the castle is situated upon two islands that are located in the River Aabach, which is in Switzerland’s Seengen municipality. The first mention of this castle dates back to the year 1256, though there is some evidence to suggest that the castle was actually constructed at the end of the 12 th  century.

It was originally the home of the Lords of Hallywl, and it consisted of a large residential tower, which was expanded during the 14 th  century. In the 19 th  century, the castle was partially rebuilt on the contemporary Neo-Gothic architectural style, though in 1914, this was largely reversed. Today, the castle is open to the public.

Where : River Aabach When:  12/13 th  century Open for visit : Yes, check here for more information.

7. Meggenhorn Castle

Situated outside of the Swiss city of Lucerne, in the town of Meggen, lies one of the most gorgeous castles in the whole country, Meggenhorn Castle.

It was originally constructed in the 19 th  century, between the years 1868 and 1870, by the architect Edouard Hofer-Grosjean; it was constructed in the popular and contemporary Neo-Gothic architectural style, and it has some incredible features, such as its dramatic turrets, Gothic arched windows and doorways.

The castle today is enveloped by vineyards, and it functions primarily as a tourist attraction, though it does also serve as a venue.

Where : Meggen When:  19 th  century Open for visit : Yes, check here for more information.

8. Wildegg Castle

Wildegg Castle was originally founded in around the year 1242, and it has a primarily military history; it played a critical role in sending forces to support and defend in the conflict against the Turish invasion of Vienna in the late 17 th  century.

The castle houses a fascinating museum, as well as some impressive gardens, which attract a huge volume of visitors; it is a great day trip from Zurich.

Where : Wildegg When:  13 th  century Open for visit : Yes, check here for more information .

9. Laufen Castle at the Rheinfalls

Laufen Castle is an impressive castle located in the Laufen-Uhwiesen municipality, and it has a truly vast heritage; its first mention dates back to the year 858 when it was resided in by the Barons of Laufen until it was later passed over. The castle is today open to the public, where visitors can discover its expansive history and all of the gorgeous original features.

Where : Laufen-Uhwiesen When : 9 th  century Open for visit : Yes, check here for more information.

10. Heidegg Castle

Originally constructed between the 12 th  and 13 th  centuries, Heidegg Castle is an impressive and fascinating fortress that served as the Home of the Lords of Heidegg.

It is today a Swiss Heritage Site of National Significance, and attracts many visitors, equally for its history, and its stunning views. There is also an interesting museum housed on the site, and many people come to explore its history as a day trip from Zurich.

Where : Hitzkirch When:  12 th /13 th  century Open for visit:  Yes, check here for more information.

2 thoughts on “Best Castles near Zurich”

What an awesome place to go. I love the pictures

Castle Hallwyl is indeed an awesome place. Loved the interactive nature of the exhibitions and the variety of topics as well as the manner the information was presented. The treasure hunt was great and the French Kings Exhibition is fantastic! I recommend to anyone to spend a day there!

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Inside Germany, Austria and Switzerland’s most beautiful castle homes

Posted: 31 May 2024 | Last updated: 31 May 2024

Incredible castles fit for royalty

With enchanting grounds, impressive interiors and fascinating histories, castles and châteaus are a common sight in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. There are thousands of regal residences to be found in this idyllic corner of Europe and what's more, some of them are available to spend the night in or even own.

If you're dreaming of a home with towering turrets, private parklands or just plain old kerb appeal, take a look at some palatial properties that are fit for a king or queen...

Arenfels Castle, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

There's no denying that Arenfels Castle is one of the most majestic in all of Germany.

Located in Bad Hönningen, in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, the regal residence has a rich history and, thanks to its 365 windows, 52 doors and 12 towers, has been lovingly nicknamed the 'Castle of the Year'.

Arenfels Castle dates back to the 13th century, however, a significant reconstruction took place in the latter half of the 16th century, transforming it into a three-winged Renaissance château.

About 300 years later, between 1849 and 1858, the castle was modernised again, with architect Ernst Friedrich Zwirner leading the Neo-Gothic renovation. Sadly, during World War II, the castle was severely damaged during the battles for Remagen Bridge, but it has since been restored.

Today, Arenfels Castle is available to rent on Airbnb, with numerous rooms available to choose from. This is the Gate Room and features a grand four-poster bed.

There's also the Wellness Room , which boasts an open bathroom in the corner of the bedroom. With a Buddha statue and a freestanding tub, it's the perfect space for unwinding after a day of exploring.

There are 15 rooms in total, each unique, but just as luxurious as the next, plus a vinotheque – or wine bar – with an outdoor terrace.

Plus, guests can enjoy access to the rolling vines outside and explore all the Rhine region offers, from forests to hiking trails and river walks.

Burg Plankenstein, Lower Austria, Austria

Known as Plankenstein Castle, or Burg Plankenstein locally, this enchanting fairytale residence is positioned on an elevated plot in the heart of Texingtal, a town in Lower Austria.

800 years old, the castle belongs to Erich, who fell in love with the place when he visited it for a festival many years ago. When the castle landed on the market in 2010, he fulfilled his childhood dream and bought it.

Since then, Erich has dedicated his time to reviving the castle using original materials and attention to detail, while considering contemporary comforts.

He regularly works away, so rents out numerous rooms in the castle on Airbnb enabling lucky guests to experience life inside one of Austria's most remarkable historic homes.

The castle was first mentioned in 1186 and was built by a powerful noble family. Sadly, in the 1800s, the castle fell into a state of disrepair and was partially renovated in the 1970s, before Erich rescued the place.

Today, it's beautifully refined, elegant and historic, with characterful communal rooms boasting impressive antiques, intricate plasterwork and hardwood floors.

There are five bedrooms listed on Airbnb, including the Tower Room , the Knight's Room and  Room 23 . Each one is uniquely styled, but the Tower Room (pictured) is perhaps the most authentic, with rotund walls, exposed bricks, pretty arched windows and rustic timber accents.

Plus, thanks to the castle's elevated position, many of the rooms enjoy enchanting views across the surrounding countryside.

Edelweiss Castle, Graubünden, Switzerland

Nestled in the Imboden Region in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, Edelweiss Castle isn't just beautiful, it's located in one of the world's most enchanting landscapes.

Just down the road from Lake Cauma and enclosed by mountain peaks, the property is like a beacon for weary hikers and skiers.

Sadly, we don't know how old the residence is, but we do know it was constructed in Art Nouveau style, a movement that ran from the 1880s until the First World War. Far from being old-fashioned, the castle has certainly been modernised since its construction.

For starters, it has a lift that will take you from an underground car park or the entrance on the ground floor to your own private apartment inside the castle.

Laid out over three floors, the apartment comes with a living area, a kitchen, a dining zone, three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The space features soaring ceilings, sloping walls, quirky windows and modern furnishings.

Perfect for six guests, the castle apartment also benefits from mountain views and guests can take in the scenery from their own private rooftop balcony among the turrets complete with lush planting, a firepit and ample seating. 

Eberstein Castle, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Eberstein Castle is described by Baden-Württemberg Sotheby's International Realty as the "landmark of the Murg Valley".

Located in picturesque Gernsbach, surrounded by lush vineyards, this romantic and timeless fortress highlights exactly why Germany is known as the castle capital of the world.

Nestled on almost 105 acres of land, Eberstein Castle was constructed in the 13th century and is closely connected with the family of the Margraves of Baden – the ruler of the region. It originally served as a fortress and residence of the rulers, but over the centuries, the castle has been extended and rebuilt several times.

One of the most significant changes took place in the 18th century when architect Friedrich Weinbrenner was commissioned to remodel the castle in the classicist style.

There are 16 double bedrooms within the castle's hotel, as well as numerous enchanting living spaces and even a restaurant. This circular room is magnificent, with its statement ceiling and gilded details.

There's also a hall of mirrors, a castle parlour, a distillery room and a formal dining room that's protected by two (faux) armoured guards.

Vineyards surround the castle and there's also a botanical-inspired garden and numerous stunning courtyards where we wouldn't mind whiling away the hours.

For sale  with Baden-Württemberg Sotheby's International Realty in May 2024, for an undisclosed sum, we're sure this grand stately home could be described as priceless!

Schloss Ernegg, Lower Austria, Austria

About as romantic as castles get, Schloss Ernegg is ideally located in the heart of Austria and is over 1,000 years old. It was first documented in 979 when Otto II, a Holy Roman Emperor, gave the land between the two Erlauf rivers to Bishop Wolfgang von Regensburg.

In 1524, Wolfgang von Oed, Emperor Ferdinand I’s cup bearer, bought the castle and his crest can still be found above the tower's entrance.

Originally, the castle featured four towers and was surrounded by a moat. Today, most of its architecture dates back to the 16th century.

The castle has received a lot of renovations and additions over the centuries and Wolfgang von Oed is thought to have added the frescos above the arcades that can still be seen in the courtyard today. 

Schloss Ernegg has belonged to the Auersperg family since 1656 and has been lovingly restored. Today, lucky guests can book their stay on Airbnb .

It can also be hired for weddings and events. Sprawling as well as stunning, the castle can accommodate 50 people at any one time and there are several cottages on-site, too, all located within walking distance of the castle's front door.

All of the rooms are wonderfully traditional and each has its own unique style. Some have exposed beamed ceilings, four-poster beds and grand light fixtures, while others are more pared back, with elegant window coverings and antique furnishings.

There's also a stunning formal dining room, with carved timber doors and a decorative ceiling, as well as enchanting grounds that guests can explore.

14-room mansion, Chexbres, Switzerland

With all the charm, space and style of a historic castle, this gorgeous property was built in 1996, yet it looks like it's been on this idyllic lake-side plot in Switzerland for centuries.

Described by Knight Frank as a "stupendous 14-room mansion", the residence is situated in Chexbres, a Swiss village known for its vineyards, and enjoys 180-degree views of Lake Geneva. 

Constructed from the finest materials, the romantic home offers plenty of traditional architectural details, including stone from Bourgogne, magnificent wrought ironwork, Versailles parquets and period woodwork.

Every single room is bursting with lovely touches and, thanks to the home's age, are all in exceptional condition.

Inside, you'll find 7,254 square feet of living space, which encompasses formal lounges and dining spaces, a huge kitchen, seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms.

The 14-room main house isn't the only one on the estate, either. There's a caretaker’s cottage and a three-car garage. But that isn't all, as this home is full of surprises...

A secret underground tunnel serves as a private art gallery and links the two buildings on the estate. Oh, and there's also a luxurious vaulted basement, which serves as a tasting room and a storage cellar for the finest vintages.

On the market in May 2024 for CHF 19 million, which equates to £16.4 million ($20.8m), the impressive castle is truly unmatched.

Saar Castle, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

Located in Serrig, in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, Saar Castle is relatively modern, as far as castles go. Overflowing with medieval architecture, it has a rich history that dates back to the 20th century.

Originally a Riesling vineyard and production centre, the castle supplied the court of the Kaiser (the ruler of Germany) in 1912 and was owned by descendants of the Rothschild family, according to the Airbnb listing .

The masterful property has been lovingly restored and yet, stepping inside, appears to have been frozen in time.

With antique furnishings, grand fireplaces, a sweeping timber staircase, stained-glass details and glossy wood floors, every room is a celebration of the home’s unique history. This double-height lounge sits at the centre of the house and is one of the finest spaces.

Other rooms include a library, a formal living room, a kitchen, seven bedrooms and one bathroom, making it ideal for 14 guests.

Many of the rooms boast large windows with enchanting river and mountain views. 

There’s also an office on the second floor, which would be ideal for budding authors, looking for an inspirational spot to pen some chapters.

Plus, the castle benefits from a private park and two outdoor terraces – perfect for taking in the surrounding scenery and enjoying a morning coffee in true style.

Château du Châtelard, Montreux, Switzerland

Château du Châtelard is a real medieval castle that was built in 1441. Positioned in Montreux, in the heart of the Swiss Riviera, the ancient residence stands proud on a hill, with mesmerising views across the peaks and troughs of the region.

The castle is home to endless suites and apartments and this particular one is available to rent via Airbnb .

Quirky and full of character, the apartment comes complete with an open-plan living space, with a bed tucked away in an alcove. There's also a rounded kitchen with a dining zone.

The bedroom sits behind a curtain, enabling the lucky occupant to enjoy some privacy. There's also a bathroom and a sofa bed, which means up to four people can stay here.

Everywhere you look you'll spot beautiful period features, such as timber floors, glistening chandeliers and vintage furniture. There are no doubt a few hidden rooms and secret spaces in this castle...

Guests can explore the castle's ancient grounds and enjoy access to some of the country's most impressive natural landscapes. In fact, from many of the windows, you can take in vistas of Lake Geneva and the snowy peaks of the Alps. 

Château de Vaumarcus, Neuchatel, Switzerland

Château de Vaumarcus is undoubtedly one of the finest relics from the Middle Ages in Switzerland. Positioned on a rocky hilltop, it offers unrivalled panoramic view of Lake Neuchâtel below.

The castle is enclosed by more than seven acres of land and boasts a sprawling, 17,577-square-foot interior. Let's explore...

Château de Vaumarcus, Neuchatel, Switzerland S

Amazingly, the castle benefits from 200 rooms, across six buildings. There’s a château with a dungeon and two apartments, a Palais with seven luxury apartments, a shepherd's house, numerous offices and a reception hall.

Of course, every single room is incredible, with the finest materials, furnishings and fabrics on display.

This formal dining room has to be one of the castle's most impressive spaces. With its stunning wooden ceiling, exposed stonework, glossy parquet floor and medieval-inspired details, it's certainly a room that would be fit for a king or queen's banquet. Plus, its windows frame truly unforgettable landscape views.

This romantic bedroom is also a highlight, with its beamed ceiling and incredible four-poster bed. Outside, there are enchanting gardens and terraces for soaking up the scenery.

On the market with Cardis Immobilier Sotheby's International Realty in May 2024, it had an undisclosed asking price, which only adds to the allure of this dramatic and dazzling castle.

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