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Bellinzona: Everything You Need To Know

• August 30, 2021 May 21, 2024

Last Updated on May 21, 2024 by Admin

One of Switzerland’s most famous tourist destinations is in Ticino , the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. In this beautiful region, you’ll discover ancient churches and chapels, as well as vineyards, forests, and crystal clear lakes.

Bellinzona is one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland.  It is an incredibly beautiful and historically rich place. In fact, Bellinzona is known for its three castles (Castelgrande, Montebello, Sasso Corbaro). The three castles, the defensive wall, and ramparts of Bellinzona have been listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 2000.

With its rare example of medieval military architecture that includes multiple castles in the Alpine region, its excellent state of conservation, and its historical influence in managing the entire Ticino valley, the town of Bellinzona deserves a visit.  

This article will discuss the various things you need to know about Bellinzona if you wish to visit.

Bellinzona Has 3 Famous Castles

The city of Bellinzona is famous for its three castles : Castelgrande , Castello di Montebello , and Castello di Sasso Corbaro. The castles in this area are among the best preserved in all of Switzerland. The three castles located in Bellinzona are UNESCO World Heritage sites and so should not be missed.

Still today, three castles dominate the city. Bellinzona’s castles are nestled higher on top than the rest of the town, so they have an excellent view of the surrounding area. They were used as defensive castles and are great examples of medieval defensive architecture. 

Together with the double circuit of walls, these castles were built by the Milanese back in the 15th century. 

• Castelgrande was constructed over the city center on a Roman castle.
• Castello di Montebello on the eastern side of Bellinzona was built in the 13th to 15 centuries.
• Castello di Sasso Corbaro  is set on a high rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. It was built in under six months in 1479.

The castles today house several museums, including ones for history, art, archeology, and local costumes.

Castelgrande Is (Mostly) Free to Visit

The last time we visited Bellinzona, it was free to go up to Castelgrande. Take the lift or look for the signs going up the castle from the old town. You are free to roam around the castle’s grounds and its ramparts. 

There is a fee of CHF 10 for visiting the castle museum and other interior areas. The rest of the castle, going up and down the ramparts, viewing the surroundings as well as the other two castles, or just sitting on the grass under the huge tree – this is all free of charge. 

The opening time for the ramparts is 10:00 am, closing time is 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Bellinzona Is Easy To Reach From Other Swiss Cities

Bellinzona is ideally located and easily accessible from many other large towns and cities in Switzerland. In just 20 minutes you can reach it from Lugano or Locarno. Bellinzona is less than two hours away from cities further north, such as Lucerne and Zurich. Bellinzona is only 1 hour and 24 minutes away by train from Lucerne.

Basel and Bern , two other big Swiss cities, are around 240 to 250 kilometers away. As a result, the journey from these other cities will take longer. For a one-way train trip, it will take around 2.5 to 3 hours. 

As a result of its strategic location, Bellinzona is fairly easy to reach by train from other Swiss cities. The car trip can also take the same amount of time if the traffic is good. However, during peak holiday travel times, there will be heavy traffic on the way, especially in the Gotthard tunnel. Therefore, you should plan accordingly.

A summary of the travel times and approximate distances (kilometers) from various Swiss cities to Bellinzona is shown below. The rightmost column includes an estimate of train travel time.

Bellinzona Is Ticino’s Second-Largest City

Ticino’s second-largest city is Bellinzona, behind Lugano. It also has an old city with Italian-style townhomes that is worth exploring. They are very beautifully decorated and have wall paintings from the 16th century. 

Bellinzona Has a Strategic Location

Bellinzona has been strategically located for centuries. Its excellent location made it popular with several rulers as a venue for their defensive fortifications. Bellinzona is situated at the meeting point of three primary north-south routes over the alpine passes. St. Gotthard, San Bernardino, and Lucomagno can eventually be controlled via Bellinzona. 

• St. Gotthard – Gotthard is an important north-south axis in Europe connecting Bellinzona to Lucerne, Basel, and Zurich.
• San Bernardino – San Bernardino links the Posterior Rhine with the Misox valley to the south. The two places are in the canton of Grisons ( Graubünden ). It is an alternative route to the Gotthard for people living in Eastern Switzerland. 
• Lucomagno – Also known as Lukmanier Pass, the Lucomagno road connects Disentis / Mustér with the Blenio Valley and Biasca in Ticino. It is also a route from Ticino to Grisons ( Graubünden ). 

Piazza Nosetto Has Medieval Roots

The oldest square in the city is Piazza Nosetto . It was developed in the 11th and 12th centuries during the medieval era. It is located at the foot of Castelgrande Hill.  

Due to its central location, Piazza Nosetto also became quite a focal point for the city. It branches off in three directions from this piazza. Via Camminata leads to the south, Via Teatro leads to the west, and Via Nosetto leads to the north.

The former Palazzo Ghiringelli stands on the square. Also worth checking out is Casa Rossa . This beautiful home was built in 1864 and is an interpretation of late Gothic Lombard architecture. It is really pretty.

Caduti Monument Is Dedicated to the Soldiers During the War

“ Monumento ai caduti ” was created by a local sculptor named Apollonio Pessina. A central high-relief was carved as a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the First World War in 1920. In the beginning, the relief was located in Piazza Governo. 

The sculpture was turned into a triptych in 1948, which is an artwork consisting of three panels. Afterward, it was dedicated to all the victims of both world wars. 

This monument is located today near the old town, by the city walls. 

Quintour as a Culinary Experience With an Electric Bike

By using Quintour , you can explore the gastronomic choices available in Bellinzona on your bicycle. It involves a journey from Bellinzona to the Magadino Plains, passing through hills and vineyards, and crossing the Ticino River. While exploring, you will be able to enjoy numerous treats and fresh products from the region. 

The tour begins around mid-morning and ends around late afternoon. A lunch package with local products is included during the tour. And you can definitely enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside on your rented electric bike.

After the tour, you can have an aperitif as a final treat. There is an aperitif in Quintorno between 4:30 and 5:30 PM.

Located at the Bellinzona train station is BikePort, where you can get all the necessary information.

Summary: Is Bellinzona Is Worth Visiting?

Switzerland’s Bellinzona is a place I highly recommend. It is both historically and geographically significant. For travelers in Switzerland, this means that the city is relatively easy to reach even if you live in Central Switzerland.

It is Ticino’s second-largest city and has a lot of shops and restaurants. You can see more than 3 world-famous castles and beautiful architecture in this charming place. You can also enjoy the Dolce Vita way of life. There are nearby vineyards if you travel further.

Moreover, there is also the option of staying in one of the hotels in Bellinzona itself. If you can’t find one, there is definitely another one in the surrounding neighborhood. And even if you do decide to stay in Lugano , Locarno , or Ascona , Bellinzona is only 20 minutes away.

Definitely, Bellinzona is worth going to and one place you will not regret visiting.

• “Three Castles, Defensive Wall and Ramparts of the Market-Town of Bellinzona.” UNESCO World Heritage Center. 2000. Accessed on 30 August 2021. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/884/ .

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Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.

Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

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Together In Switzerland

All Things Swiss

An Ultimate Guide To Bellinzona

Zoe | Ticino

You may be wondering, is Bellinzona worth visiting for your next travel location? The answer is yes! Bellinzona is the capital of the Ticino canton in Switzerland and has lots to offer for those visiting. Bellinzona is the place of Ticino where you can explore castles, shop at the weekly market and hike for the most gorgeous valley views.

There are activities all year round in Bellinzona, with the Christmas Markets being one event that everyone should experience at least once!

Keep reading to see exactly where Bellinzona is, facts, our personal recommended things to do, where to hike and a place to sleep in Bellinzona. We also share a place to eat and more info on the market!

About Bellinzona Switzerland

Where is bellinzona.

Bellinzona is located in the Ticino canton of Switzerland in the very south of the country. It is the capital city of the Ticino canton and home to around 45,000 residents. The city is surrounded by the Lepontine Alps to the east and west, and the Lugano Prealps to the south.

It is easily reachable with many direct trains, such as from Zurich , Lugano and Locarno ! You can check the SBB for the best time for your visit depending on where you are coming from in the first place.

Facts About Bellinzona

Curious what unique factors Bellinzona has? See here our top facts about Bellinzona:

• Bellinzona only receives an average of 102.8 days of rain or snow per year
• The coat of arms is a shows a serpent in silver on a red field
• The name derives from  zona bellica , referring to “war zone”
• The German name of the town is Bellenz

Weather In Bellinzona

Like the most of Ticino, the weather is usually rather sunny, but it can be a bit windy based on the valley location. During summer time, you can expect the usual temperatures of 30°C in the shade. Whereas winter averaging around 1°C as the maximum. So depending on when you visit, make sure your prepared with warm jumpers or suncream!

Based on the weather, it’s of course most popular to visit during the Spring and Summer seasons. Ticino is a popular destination for Swiss nationals visiting from the North as well as tourists, so plan ahead to not miss out.

Things To Do In Bellinzona

The three castles of bellinzona.

The three gorgeous and historical castles in Bellinzona are the top highlights of the city. Each one is unique, but all served an important role in history. Since the year 2000, they combine the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Castelgrande

Castelgrande is the main castle that you can find right in the city centre of Bellinzona. There is a sloping walkway to the top, else to grab the lift from Bellinzona Piazza. You can enter the castle grounds for free, which allows you to see the beautiful walls and city from above. For those who want to learn more, make time to visit the museum, which covers the history from when it was a Neolithic village to the 20th century.

Sasso Corbaro

Many get a local bus to this one, but it’s easy to reach for those who are active. Just like the Castelgrande, the views are beautiful and the castle itself is well worth visiting. The Sasso Corbaro castle is located the highest of the three, it is not within the city walls. There are also temporary exhibits to see here, and to learn more about how the tower was once a prison!

The uniqueness of Montebello is that it’s the only one of the three castles that has deep moats surrounding the walls. It is also very easy to spot the different years of construction to the castle, such as the 13th century walls to the 17th century buildings. Montebello also has a little chapel, which is one of the few buildings that was erected within the castles. You can also visit the Archaeological and Civic Museum here.

We have a fully-loaded, high content Ticino Guide listing local things to see, do and explore with each season: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.  Click here

Hike To Ponte Tibetano Carasc

The Ponte Tibetano Carasc bridge is a great place to hike to on a good, dry day. You can start by taking the funicular first, and then hiking from Curzutt village. This is easily doable within half a day, else you can hike from the base to the bridge for a longer route.

We personally enjoyed this route on a late Autumn day, with the sun shining. It wasn’t busy and the bridge was really spectacular in person!

Hike Motto della Croce

Head to the Motto della Croce location found on google maps for some hiking. It’s nice to start the route from the square in Bellinzona, going up through the castle of Montebello, then Artore and up to Pian Laghetto in the woods up to the motto. For those with some hiking experience, it can take around 3 hours. Once at the top, the views on a clear day are magnificent.

Collegiate of SS. Pietro and Stefano

Located right in the city centre is this 17th century parish church is one of the most important religious buildings in Bellinzona. The church is renaissance style and covered with white-greyish marble, with inside having 5 side chapels and two holy water stoups. All surrounded by a pretty baroque interior.

You are free to walk inside and visit the church when open.

The Weekly Bellinzona Market

The weekly market is always a treat in Bellinzona, with local fresh items being sold to a few souvenirs for the tourists. You cannot miss it on a Saturday, as all the market stands are throughout the old city centre. Treat yourself to some of the local cheeses, fresh breads and top quality products.

When: Saturdays from 7.30 to 13.00 – full version of the market (all year round)

A Walk Along the River

If you want to take a longer walk from the city centre, head towards the river. The river through Bellinzona route allows you sit by the waters edge and enjoy some peace, making it also a great place to read a book on a summers day.

Alternatively you can walk all the way along the path to enjoy the scenery. You can join the locals in some running or fitness along the way.

Dine Out For The Night

For those staying longer than a day, there are many restaurants worth visiting depending on what you fancy. A personal recommendation is Ristorante Pizzeria Grill La Lampara Bellinzona . Here you can relax inside or outside, with the most delicious and fresh dishes to choose from. The pizzas are perfectly cooked and highly recommended!

Bellinzona Piazza Square

Finished in 1999, this concrete designed square is located in the heart of the city surrounded by the shops and a supermarket. It is a place for locals to sit and relax in the sunshine. It is also the roof of the parking below the ground, so it’s central location is ideal for those visiting for a day with a car. On the side of the square you can view a decorative element, which is a fountain representing a snake, the heraldic emblem of Bellinzona.

Bellinzona Christmas Market

For the last two Sundays before Christmas, the Bellinzona Christmas Markets are in full swing. With enjoyable lights, festive activities and Christmas carols, the 200 market stand market is the place to be. Do you want to explore a Christmas Market surrounded by historical UNESCO castles? Then make sure you plan to visit!

Our full Bellinzona Christmas Market post shares all information on the day, what you can see and experience as well as what you can buy!

Easy Day Trip Locations From Bellinzona

From Bellinzona, you can also easily travel to other locations within Ticino from the main train and bus station. So if you are staying in Bellinzona as your base, this is perfect for the following day trips:

• Lugano a 20 minute train ride
• Locarno is also a 20 minute train ride
• Lavertezzo is 1 hour away with train and bus
• Ascona is a 1 hour train ride
• Mendrisio is a 40 minute train ride
• Como is a 1 hour 10 minute train ride
• Milan is a 2 hour train ride

All are within 1 hour of driving too, but we recommend taking public transportation, which is easy, efficient and enjoyable!

For more detailed day trips, check our full post of inspiration that you can all visit in a day!

Bellinzona hotels

For a place to stay, there are many hotels and cute B&Bs in Bellinzona. With lots to choose from, we can recommend the following with good reviews:

• Hotel Internazionale Bellinzona – excellent location in Bellinzona with outstanding hotel service
• Scarpapè – gorgeous apartments with a view of the city and BBQ and hot tub facilities
• Villa del Gusto – a pretty and peaceful place with garden and free parking
• V Apartments – large apartments for those who want to stay longer with kitchen facilities

We have also stayed in Bellinzona while pet sitting. This is always great as you can stay for free at someones home while you pet sit their animals. We did this with the most cuddliest cat for a long weekend in Bellinzona. Curious to do this too? check here !

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• 1 Understand
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around

Bellinzona is a city in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland and the capital of the canton of Ticino , at the foot of the Alps and traversed by the Ticino River. It preserves its medieval atmosphere while offering modern services.

Motorways A2 and A13 are the main roads connecting the city. The A2 heads north through the Gotthard Pass to Lucerne , Basel and over the border with Germany , as well as south towards Lugano and on to Italy . The A13 heads north-east towards Austria , passing the San Bernardino pass and Chur.

Bellinzona is also conveniently connected by the Gotthard railway, and is a standard stop for many intercity trains between Zurich , Lugano , Chiasso and Locarno . Regional services here are operated by TiLo and connect the town to the nearest airport (Milan-Malpensa ( MXP  IATA )), and to Biasca and many other destinations.

Plenty of bus services can be found at the train station. They're operated by PostBus Switzerland and offer alternative ways to travel to a range of destinations in the region.

In 2000, the Castles of Bellinzona were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List .

• 46.19346 9.010524 5 Ponte della Torretta ( Tower bridge ) ( follow the ramparts from Castelgrande in direction west, until the Ticino river ). An historic broken bridge, surrounded by a park long the river. There are some public grill-places around it, that can be used in the summer. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• Carasc Suspension Bridge - Hike the trails or take the Monte Carasso cable car partly up the slope of Mornera, disembark at the second station (Corte di Sotto) and hike to San Barnàrd church, known for its frescoes, then follow the trail beyond the church to Semetina Valley where the 270-m bridge hovers 130 m above the valley with sweeping views. It is Switzerland's longest Tibetan-style suspension bridge.

From Castelgrande follow the wall, also restored, which once went all the way to the Ticino River. A footbridge crosses the part, which was knocked down to allow transit on the Viale Portone . The view from the wall sweeps over the very modern buildings, the pride of Ticino's architects (Casa del Portone, Casa Bianca, Casa Nera, Casa Fabrizia) with the green background of the sports centre with its public pool and tennis courts on the river's edge. From the walkway return to the station either through Città Vecchia from via Orico, or following the Viale Portone or via Mirasole.

• 46.214994 9.038669 1 Lido di Arbedo ( beach bar on the Ticino River ), Castione-Arbedo ( go north along the Via San Gottardo. Just before you get to the Highway exit Bellinzona Nord, on your left hand side, there is a stair leading down to a parking with signs to the beach and its bar ). estimated: M-W 12:00–18:00, Th 10:00–22:00, F-Sa 12:00–03:00, Su 10:00–01:00 . Beach bar, where the Moesa river from Graubünden joins the Ticino River, which gave the canton its name. Only open in Summer. Drinks, music, possibility to barbecue and swim. Beware of the strong current and the cold water. free .  
• 46.19127 9.02048 1 Giardino , Via Orico ( on the corner of Piazza Governo, south west (or left turn) down Viale Stazione from the main train station ). Hidden ristorante/pizzeria frequented by locals offering good quality medium-priced Italian cooking only 7 minutes walk from the main train station.  
• 46.19524 9.02826 1 Hotel Internazionale , Piazza Stazione 35 ( Directly opposite the train station ), ☏ +41 91 825 43 33 , fax : +41 91 826 13 59 .  
• 46.19467 9.02748 2 Hotel Gamper , viale Stazione 29 , ☏ +41 91 825 37 92 .  
• There is a possibility to stay in old historical houses at the Humanità Hostel [dead link] in Cabbiolo, about 25 km from Bellinzona. +41 91 830 14 81, [email protected]
• 46.19 9.024 3 Bellinzona Youth Hostel ( Istituto Santa Maria ), Via Nocca 4 , ☏ +41 91 825 15 22 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00-19:00 , check-out: 08:00-10:00 . This youth hostel is in the building of an old boarding school. Dorm from Fr. 36 . ( updated Jan 2017 )

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Visiting Bellinzona: A Castle City in Switzerland

Located in southern Switzerland, Bellinzona is the capital city of the Italian-speaking Canton of Ticino. The city lies along the banks of the Ticino River, at the junction of three alpine valleys, and is just a short drive from Lake Maggiore.  

What makes Bellinzona so special is that it is home to a stunning old town center filled with Italian and medieval military architecture. On top of that, it is host to three castles which are some of the best preserved in Switzerland. No wonder this town is on the UNESCO World Heritage list .

Strolling around this medieval town is nothing short of incredible. Its rich history pours out of the beautiful churches, castles, buildings, and the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains set the scene perfectly. 

Discover everything you need to know about visiting Bellinzona, including where to stay, how to get there, and what to do.  

Table of Contents

How to Get To Bellinzona

Bellinzona is very easy to reach. Much easier than you might expect considering its southerly location. I will run through how to get there from Zurich, Geneva, and Milan. From these airports you can then take public transport or drive. 

From Milan  

If you are flying into Milan, simply get on the train to Milano Centrale Railway Station. From there it is just a 1.5-hour train ride to Bellinzona with one change in Lugano. The journey is stunning as you rise into the alps, past beautiful lakes, and more. 

Driving from Milan to Bellinzona is also very easy and it should take just 2 hours to get there, again you will see amazing scenery along the way. 

From Zurich   

If you are flying into Zurich, grab the train to Zurich HB central station and get on the direct train to Bellinzona. You should be there in under 2 hours and the train ride takes you through the lowlands and into the alps. 

Driving from Zurich Airport to Bellinzona takes just 2.5 hours, so it is very easy. 

From Geneva 

Geneva is one of the worst hubs to get to Bellinzona from as you will have to go via Zurich. The train takes 4.5 hours but you only have to change once, at Zurich HB, so it is a relaxing journey. 

Driving takes about 5 hours and you will go via Bern, Lucerne, and into the alps. It is a stunning drive!

Things To Do in Bellinzona

See the magnificent bellinzona castles.

Home to three stunning castles; Castelgrande, Montebello Castle, and the Sasso Corbaro Castle, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site , a castle visit is a must while you are in Bellinzona.  

You can visit each one in half a day and should start at the top of the hill at Castello di Sasso Corbaro and then move down to the other two castles of Montebello and finally Castelgrande. 

Castello di Sasso Corbaro

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castello di Sasso Corbaro dates back to the 1400s. Amazingly, it was built in just 6 months and completed in 1479. The views from the castle are incredible as you look over the alps more than 200 meters above the town. 

It is home to a beautiful chapel, a well, and lots of old tunnels. You can spend your time perusing the museum, having a picnic on the castle grounds, and even having lunch at the onsite restaurant, all while enjoying the amazing views.  

Montebello Castle

Montebello Castle , also a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits below Sasso Corbaro. It also dates back to the 14th century and features a special walkway with trap doors that were added in the 15th century. 

It was home to a few notorious families over the years including the Rusconi who spent a lot of years living there. The Ghiringhellis moved in around the 1700s and added a stunning chapel you can still see today. 

The views are beautiful from the site and stretch across the city all the way to the lake. There is also a museum you can visit after going on a tour. 

Castelgrande

Castelgrande is the most impressive of the castles. It has been around since the first century BC and was eventually fortified in the 1200s. It is beautifully renovated and looks like it would have in the 13th century onwards. 

It is home to a museum with awesome exhibitions, a stunning monument, and lots more. There is also a restaurant onsite where you can grab lunch, and lots more to be seen here.  

Take In The Local Atmosphere At Bellinzona Market

One of my favorite things to do in a new city is to go to a local market. It is the best way to not only explore the town but also to be immersed in the local atmosphere. 

The Bellinzona Market is one of a kind. It is a huge Saturday market that runs from the Old Town all the way to the Piazza Nosetto. You should reserve at least a few hours to explore it thoroughly on a Saturday morning before exploring more of Bellinzona. 

This Saturday Market is filled with stalls selling everything from delicious local cheese to regional fruit, delicious bread, and even local sausages which are to die for. You will also find traders selling souvenirs, trinkets, and more.  

Even if you don’t buy anything, just walking amongst the bustling streets and taking in the vibe is very much worth it and you will get to see the Old Town come alive. 

Go Thrill Seeking At The Verzasca Dam

Located outside of Bellinzona close to Lucarno is the amazing Verzasca Dam. Sitting at the head of the Verzasca Valley , the dam is an amazing 220 meters tall and creates the beautiful Lago di Vogorno reservoir behind it. 

Made famous by being featured in the opening scene of James Bond’s GoldenEye, it is today a very popular place to go bungee jumping . If you have the stomach for it, you can dive off the edge of the dam into the stunning valley below.

The views as you look up the valley from the dam are reason enough to visit as you stare over the lake, surrounded by mountains, forest, and up the gorge to the river.  

The hiking opportunities around the dam are also excellent. There are lovely trails around Lago di Vogorno that lead to the river. The old architecture of the nearby towns is also wonderful to see, with the traditional cottages and old churches. 

See The Magical Church Of Chiesa Collegiata dei Santi Pietro e Stefano

The Chiesa Collegiata dei Santi Pietro e Stefano is a beautiful church in the Old Town of Bellinzona. It is a marvel of architecture and art combined, so if you are a history and art lover, this is simply somewhere you have to visit. 

The church dates back to the Renaissance period. It features awesome architectural pieces, the best of which is the amazing clock tower in my opinion. Inside you will find a lavishly decorated interior featuring old paintings from as far back as the 1400s. 

It isn’t just paintings you will see here, the church is famous for its statues too. There are sculptures of King Solomon, King David, Saints San Stefano, and San Lorenzo, and the most impressive of them all are the three statues of Madonna with two angles. 

Between the artwork, the architecture, and the sculptures, this might just be one of the most beautiful churches you will ever see. 

Go Watch A Show At The Old Teatro Sociale

The Teatro Sociale is the only theater in Switzerland from the 1900s. It is, of course, an Italian-style theatre, built in a Neo-Classical style and it is architecturally stunning. 

The architect who built Teatro Sociale, Von Mentlen based it on the famous La Scala theater in Milan. It was then renovated by Giancarlo and Pia Durisch who only made it more beautiful. 

Seeing the theater, located in Bellinzona Old Town is one thing, but why not go to a performance while you are there? The theater hosts a plethora of different shows every week and the acoustics are to die for. 

You can see what upcoming shows are on and book tickets on their website here . There is nothing quite like seeing a show in an old theater for me, so I’d highly recommend going. 

See The Amazing Architecture Of Palazzo Civico di Bellinzona

The Palazzo Civico di Bellinzona is another architectural marvel you have to visit while strolling around the streets of Bellinzona. 

The palace, which is also the town hall, dates back to the 1300s but has been rebuilt many times, most recently in the 1920s by Enea Tallone.

This means the palace features multiple architectural styles over the ages including the Renaissance-style entrance with its arcade, along with the wooden roofs, and narrow windows. 

Haematstil style architecture is also heavily featured which is a Swiss-Italian patriotic style that emerged during WWII. 

While strolling around the palace, you will be quite amazed especially as you take in the textures of the building, the towers, ramparts, and lots more. 

You will find the palace in the center of town close to the castles and the theater. It is great to combine a day of sightseeing with a lovely alfresco lunch afterward.  

Enjoy Art, Architecture, and Stunning Gardens at Villa Dei Cedri

Villa Dei Cedri is an old villa that dates back to the 1800s that today features a wonderful art collection and a beautiful park with vineyards. 

The museum is home to a collection of art that ranges from the 1850s to the present day by artists from the Ticino region along with Lombardy and the rest of Switzerland. 

The works capture the crossover between the periods of realism and symbolism. You will find works by Grubicy de Dragon, Chiesa, De Grada, Foglia, Lavagnino, and lots more. 

Once you are done enjoying the exhibition, be sure to walk around the park while noting the beautiful neo-classic style of the villa from lots of different vantage points. The park is also a great place for a picnic or simply relaxing in the shade with a good book.

The villa is on the outskirts of town and is a bit of a stroll away, but it is worth it.  

Hang Out In The Oldest Square In The City – Piazza Nosetto

Piazza Nosetto sits in the center of the town and it dates back to the middle ages, making it the oldest and most important square in the city.  

The Piazza Nosetto is filled with walnut trees, from which it gets its name, and these walnut trees have been a key part of the square since old times. You can also see young walnut trees in the square too.

In the old times, it was home to the city well where all the locals got their water from and it is also where the town hall and the seat of the mayor have been for centuries. 

Sitting in the Piazza Nosetto in the shade of the trees you can think back to all the amazing historical things the square has seen. 

Located in the center of town next to the town hall, between the castles, and the palace, you can easily add it to your day of sightseeing. 

Go Hiking Around The San Bernardino Pass

The San Bernardino Pass is one of the most historically important Swiss mountain passes as it created trade routes across the alps. It dates back to the 1400s when the valleys of Mesolcia and Hinterrhein were first connected. 

It was then further improved in the 1820s and today is an awesome road to drive as you get to go up the valley and up to the alpine peaks. At the top of the San Bernardino Pass, you will have incredible views down both valleys as well as stretching views across many alpine peaks. 

At the top, you will find lots of hiking and mountain biking trails as well as close-up views of more than 8 alpine peaks.  

You can only access the pass during the summer as it is closed in winter. The journey up to the top is also stunning and very much worth it. 

Where to Stay in Bellinzona

There are plenty of great hotel options available in Bellinzona from 4-star hotels to bed and breakfasts. I would suggest staying somewhere central so all the sights and the train station are within easy reach on foot. 

The Hotel & SPA Internazionale Bellinzona is an excellent choice if you want a little luxury along with a very central location. 

If you are on a budget the Bellinzona Youth Hostel is a great option. It takes just 3 minutes to talk to the town center and 10 minutes to the train station. Also, the famous Castello di Montebello is just up the hill. 

Where to Eat in Bellinzona

Being in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, the food in Bellinzona is quite amazing. You, of course, will find tastes of Italy at the restaurants but also traditional Swiss cuisine, European influences, and local products such as preserved meats, cheeses, local honey, and sausages,

A great place for a romantic dinner and Italian food with great wine is Trattoria Cantinin Del Gatt . The food is excellent, the vibe is lovely, as is the service, and it is reasonably priced too. 

For great pizza, outdoor dining, and a great atmosphere, head to Ristorante Giardino . 

If you are looking for a special night out, the Osteria Castello-Sasso Corbaro is the place to go. This is fine dining at its best with views across Bellinzona and two of the three castles. 

Interesting Facts About Bellinzona

• The Romans first built in Bellinzona due to its strategic position connecting northern Italy with the alps and Switzerland
• It is home to a unique festival called Rabadan which takes place in February each year. The festival takes over the whole town and lasts for 5 days
• The opening scene of James Bond – GoldenEye was shot at the Verzasca dam down the road
• It is home to some of the best medieval defensive architecture in the Alps
• The richly decorated patrician houses are stunning 

Best Time To Visit Bellinzona

The best time to visit Bellinzona is in the months of May, June, September, and October. What makes these months so great is the reliably amazing weather and the fact that the city isn’t too busy with tourists. 

You should expect sunny days, almost every day, with temperatures around the 60℉/20 C mark. It is also outside of school holidays and the busy tourist season meaning you get better deals on accommodation and have a quieter city to explore. 

What is Bellinzona Known For?

Bellinzona is famous for its three stunningly well-preserved medieval castles as well as its historic old town and local market.

Is Bellinzona Worth Visiting?

I couldn’t imagine a town more worth visiting than Bellinzona, especially if you love art, architecture, nature, and amazing food. 

Take in the old castles, palaces, and piazzas, the market in the Old Town, and then head out into nature to see alpine peaks, lakes, rivers, and lots more. 

Bellinzona is literally a slice of Italy in Switzerland which gives you an amazing combination of a beautiful ancient city, rich culture, better food, and all in one of the most beautiful parts of the planet.  

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Castles of Bellinzona

The castles of Bellinzona are one of Ticino's main attractions and, with the old walls that are still standing, represent the sole medieval military complex in the Alpine region. They became part of the UNESCO World Heritage in 2000. A visit to the castles, also connected by a tourist train, is like diving into history: an excursion enjoyed by all ages thanks to the splendor of the fortifications with their high towers and crenulated walls. Of interest is also the walk inside Bellinzona's historic centre , especially on Saturdays, market day. Audio guides are also available.

Bellinzona's strategic position at the crossroads of the alpine routes connecting the North to the South ( Gotthard , Lukmanier , San Bernardino, Nufenen) is the reason why around the year 400 an important defensive project with three castles, towers and city walls was built. The Dukes of Milan were the ones to block the valley of the River Ticino. It was meant to impede the Swiss Confederates from gaining ground in the South. This passage, at the valley's narrowing point, is the only access to the North.

Castelgrande

To access the first castle, Castelgrande, you may take the elevator from the Piazza del Sole or on foot by going up the alleys that begin in the city's historic centre in the vicinity of the Collegiata . This castle, like the others, is also accessible with the little tourist train that leaves from the Piazza Collegiata. Castelgrande, that in the 80s and 90s was subject to an accurate restoration directed by the architect Aurelio Galfettti, is equipped with two high towers and crenulated walls that are partially accessible on foot. It houses a museum illustrating the history of the city as well as temporary exhibits, and a good restaurant managed by the Canton Ticino Tourism School. The site on which Castelgrande stands is rich in history and archaeological findings unearthed during excavations in 1984-85 confirm that the site was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period (5500-5000 B.C.) and date back to Roman times. Excavations in 1967 brought to light evidence of the first fortification from the 4th century A.C. Documents dating from the 6th century. also mention the existence of this first defensive construction. The castle as we see it today was built in various stages and has undergone several restorations. The castle construction began in the 13th century; it was enlarged in 1473-86 and later restored in the 17th and 19th centuries. The White and Black Tower date from the 13th and 14th centuries and are respectiverly 27 and 28 meters high. Architect Mr. Aurelio Galfetti carried out the latest extensive restorations in 1984-1991. The inner courtyard, the entrances, the elevator and the steps leading down to the town center are a stunning exemplification of the castle’s transformation. The battlements are divided into three sections, one of which still descends right into the town center. At the time of the Visconti, this remaining bulwark reached down as far as the river Ticino. It was built in the late 14th century and fortified by the Sforza dukes of Milan between 1486 and 1489. In 1515 parts of the wall were destroyed by a terrible flood. The elengance of the 27-metre-high White Tower (1250-1350) and the impressiveness of the 28-metre-high Black Tower (1310) are also worth mentioning. In the Black Tower you can play with an amusing "Escape Room" dedicated to the Rabadan Carnival, Bellinzona's historic event, which is one of Switzerland's largest carnival events.

From Castelgrande you can reach the castle of Montebello, located on the opposite hill, by descending the stairway leading to Piazza Collegiata and ascending the alley adjacent the namesake church. This castle also houses a history and archaeology museum. Montebello is the name of the hill on which the castle stands, 90 meters above Castelgrande. The defensive walls of the old town originate here and join up with those from San Michele hill. There are still parts of both branches of these walls protecting the north and south sides of the fortress. The internal nucleus of the castle dates back to the 13th/14th century and has been restored several times. Most probably, it was built by the Rusca family of Como who kept it for a long period of time, even during the rule of the Viscontis. The external courtyards with the towers and the "Rivellino" were built by Sforza-engineers in the second half of the 15th century During Swiss occupation, the castle was called Castello di Svitto but it was renamed Castello di San Martino when Ticino became an independent canton. Towards the end of the 18th century, the castle was acquired by the Ghiringhelli family who ceded it to the Canton in 1903 on the occasion of the first centenary of independence. Inside this castle, an interesting archeological itinerary (Archeologia Montebello), allows you to retrace the history of the medieval manor, accompanied by a guide in four languages to be downloaded on smartphone.

Sasso Corbaro

The third castle, Sasso Corbaro, dominates the city from above enjoying a spectacular view. It can be reached both from Montebello by following the stretches of trails through the vineyards and the stretches of road, accessible also by car. It houses exhibition halls and an excellent restaurant. The Sforzas built the third castle, called Sasso Corbaro after the hill on which it stands, in 1479 after the defeat of the Milanese troops at the Battle of Giornico. It was designed and completed in the incredibly brief time of 6 months by the military engineer Benedetto Ferrini of Florence who died of the plague shortly before its completion. Its dominant position, 230 meters above the town, meant better protection of the Ticino Valley. The Castle, starkly geometrical in shape, stands in a square courtyard enclosed by high walls which are as much as 7 meters thick at the point where they join the keep on the northern side. In the square courtyard enclosed by high walls is the donjon (or keep) with its mighty walls reaching 7 metres in thickness. The lookout tower on the southern side is still almost intact. During early Swiss occupation, the castle was known as the Castle of Unterwalden but was renamed Castle of Santa Barbara in 1818. Today it is called Sasso Corbaro or Castello di Cima. It was abandoned in 1798 and started to deteriorate. It would have fallen into complete disrepair had the Canton not interceded in 1870, handing it over to an organization, which planned to turn it into a hotel, and later to three Bellinzona-families who transformed it into a summer residence. In 1919, the state regained possession of the castle and began a restoration that included the rebuilding of the "Rivellino" (or outer courtyard), the entrance gates, the 17th century chapel and the well. (Bellinzona Turismo)

• Duration of the activity: 3h
• Duration from Locarno: 4h
• Duration from Lugano: 4h

Opening hours

Dalle 8.30 alle 17.00 nel periodo estivo

More information

Tourist Office Bellinzona Piazza Collegiata 6500 Bellinzona +41 91 825 21 31 [email protected] www.bellinzonaevalli.ch

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Home » Activities » Museums » Castles

How to visit the Bellinzona Castles

• Last Updated: 16 Apr 2019
• By Tanya, Founder of Swiss Family Fun

If you buy something through a link here, we may earn a commission. See our disclosure policy . Note that p rices and opening times may change without notice.

After many years in Switzerland, we finally visited the famous castles in Bellinzona, checking another adorable Swiss village off our family travel bucket list. The castles look like they are straight out of a fairy tale or perhaps a life-sized Playmobil set, ready for your imagination to run wild.

There are lots of options for your visit: you can visit one or more castles, reach them by foot or shuttle, see some for free or pay to see it all. We’ve got all the info and advice for planning your trip below.

Overview of Bellinzona Castles

What we liked about the castles, walking to the castles, shuttle tour, tickets for the castles, opening times, accessibility, castle in town: castelgrande, castle in the middle: montebello, castle on the hill: sasso corbaro, how to get to bellinzona, pin this for later.

Note: We visited the Bellinzona castles as part of a press trip sponsored by Ticino Tourism . 

There are three castles to visit: Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro, as shown on the map below. These castles were built in the medieval age and, in the 1500s, were part of a fortress protecting Switzerland from Italy. Now they are an UNESCO World Heritage site and can be toured by the public. More about the castle history here .

At each castle, you can walk around the ramparts, climb the towers, learn history in the museums, and soak in valley views. The castles are a bit similar but each has a bit of a different character and views. So if you have time, I recommend visiting all three.

More about the individual castles lower down in this post…

We spent most of our time just wandering the walls, imagining fighting off invading armies and dropping hot oil on the enemies through the grates above the outer walls. If your child is ready for some imaginative play and needs props, don’t worry; the castle gift shops sell bow & arrow kits and costumes for kids.

We visited two of the museums and learned a bit, but if you want lots of historical info, you might consider a guided tour at Castelgrande.

For families, I liked that each of the castles had large grassy areas where the kids could run around and be silly and not worry about breaking anything or falling off something. Then I could take lots of photos in peace and wrangle them with a loud voice without bothering anyone.

How to get to the castles

Castelgrande is in the old town and easy to reach. The other two castles are on the hills above Bellinzona. You can either walk to those castles or take a shuttle tour. Many choose the shuttle because of the elevation gain.

If you want to walk to all the castles, it’s a 5.5 km loop as shown below, plan about 3 hours including time visiting the castles. It’s about a 15 min walk from Castelgrande to Montebello (about 600m distance with about 60m elevation gain mostly on stairs). From Montebello to Sasso Corbaro, it’s about 1.8km and 150m elevation gain, part on forest paths, partly on sidewalks. For details, see this loop trail between the castles .

We did a longer hike way up in the hills above the castles, about 8.5 km, which took about 5 hours with time visiting the castles. See Bellinzona Castle Hike for details.

Because of the hills, many people take a shuttle tour, which lasts 90 mins, visiting each of the three castles. You can buy tickets when you get on the shuttle or from the Ticino Turismo office at the train station. You can get off at any of the castles and catch the next shuttle.

Tours depart at 10.00, 11.20, 13.30, 15.00, 16.30 at Piazza Collegiata (Sunday – Friday). On Saturdays, the 11:20 and 13:30 tours depart instead from Piazza Teatro , probably because the Saturday market blocks some of the streets.  More info about the shuttle here .

You can also take the public PostAuto bus up to the the highest castle, Sasso Corbaro, then walk down the hill to the middle castle Montebello , then finish in the old town at Castelgrande.  PostAuto Line #4 runs between Bellinzona, Piazzale Stazione and Bellinzona, Cast.Sasso Corbaro , about every two hours on weekends and holidays, only a couple times a day on weekdays. It costs CHF 2.10 for a one way ticket. Check the schedule before heading out.

While you can visit the outer castle areas for free, the castle entrance fees let you explore more: walk the ramparts, climb the towers and visit the small museums/exhibitions inside the castle.

You can pay entrance fees at each individual castle or buy the Bellinzona pass , which covers all three castles. In 2023, this costs CHF 28/adult, CHF 18/child, CHF 70 family pass.

If you are staying in a hotel, hostel or campsite, you get the Ticino Ticket for free, which gives a discount on the Bellinzona pass and discounts on many other attractions and free public transportation all around the Ticino region. 

You can visit the outer grounds of the castles 24/7 but the museum and inner castle features (ramparts & towers) have opening times as follows:

• Castelgrande – open daily year round 10:00 to 18:00 (closes at 16:00 in winter).
• Montebello & Sasso Corbaro – open daily 10:00 18:00 mid March to early November, closed in winter

You might want to plan your trip during one of the special events at the castles , like the Medieval festival (25-26 May 2019) or the open air cinema on the castle grounds in August.

It is possible to visit the grounds of each castle with a stroller or wheelchair. But inside the castles and museums, there are lots of stairs and no lifts. Castelgrande has the best access for wheelchairs and strollers, with a lift taking you up to the castle grounds, where you can explore much of the outer grounds without stairs.

Castelgrande is the easiest to visit, right in the old town, an easy 600m walk from the train station. This is a good choice if you are short on time or energy.

You can visit the castle grounds and some of the ramparts for free 24 hours a day, including what you see below.

I loved the big grassy areas inside the castle walls, which makes it easy for kids to run and explore. However, there are no barriers on some of the ramparts, so be careful with small or rowdy kids so they don’t fall off.

For a small fee, you can explore more of the ramparts, climb the tower and visit the museum. We visited at sunset, so we didn’t visit the museum or inner parts of the castle. We’ll just have to go again so I can tell you about it.

Our kids also loved running around the plaza just below the castle, which is frequented by skateboarders.

Montebello is about a 15 min walk (600m) above Bellinzona. You can walk there on a trail with stairs, take a shuttle or drive there (there is a small parking lot adjacent to the castle). I think this one is the prettiest with the best family photo opps.

It has small museum inside the tower talking about the archaeological history of this area and artifacts found here.

We loved the big grassy area in front of the castle with lots of room for a picnic with a view.

Sasso Corbaro is highest on the hill, about a 1.8 km walk from Castelgrande or 1km from Montebello. Most people take the shuttle here because its so far up the hill. If you choose to walk up, part of the trail is on footpaths in the neighborhood and forest and part is on sidewalks along the road.

Since this castle is highest on the hill, it has the best views from the ramparts and towers, but the views are quite similar at all the castles. There was a small art exhibition inside the castle, which changes seasonally.

This might be one of the easiest small villages in all of Switzerland to reach. It’s right off the freeway and has a direct train connection from Zürich or Milan. Once you get there, everything is so close that you can simply walk or take a shuttle.

By train: It’s best to take the train to Bellinzona because a) it’s an easy fast connection from Zürich or Luzern and b) you don’t risk getting stuck in Gotthard tunnel traffic, which is notoriously bad on weekends and holidays. The old town and main castle are an easy 500m walk from the train station.

From Zürich, a direct train runs twice an hour, taking only about 1hr45 mins. A round trip ticket with a SBB Half-fare card costs CHF 59.90. They regularly offer Sparbillet discounts on this route if you book early.

By car: Drive to Bellinzona, taking the exit 45 off the A2 freeway and following signs to town.

There are several parking areas in town and street parking in the neighborhood surrounding the old town center. The closest parking to the castle is Autosilo Piazza del Sole ( Piazza del Sole 7, 6500 Bellinzona ). One website says it charges about CHF 12 for 5 hours. This parking is accessible by lift and so is the castle.  Another option is P+Rail Bellinzona at the train station (currently 80 places, open 24/7, CHF 12/day).

Are you ready to explore the castles yet?

See our other Bellinzona posts  and all our Ticino posts .

• TAGS: Bellinzona , Castle

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4 Responses

Did you say plan 3 hours to walk the whole 5.5km loop AND visit the three castles? Isn’t that too little time? I was thinking 6 hours (2 hours to walk, 4 hour allowance for the three castles).

If you plan to go inside the castles, you will need more time. I think your estimate sounds good.

Thanks for the info! Do you know whether there is a parking spot for a big motorhome? thanks!

It’s a good question and unfortunately not one I know the answer too. I’d recommend calling the tourist office in Bellinzona. They should speak English and be able to help you. Good luck!

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