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Chillon Castle
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Switzerland

Chillon Castle

7.6
4.6/5
263 reviews

Chillon Castle stands on a small rocky island jutting into the eastern end of Lake Geneva, facing the lakeside town of Montreux and connected to the shore by a wooden bridge. The entire castle follows the contours of the oval island rock, surrounded by water on all sides. From the shore, it appears to float on the lake, with its gray-white stone walls and reddish-brown conical towers reflecting the lake and mountain scenery like a painting. The land-facing side is studded with arrow slits and shooting ports, forming a heavily fortified defense structure, while the lakeside features elegant Gothic arched windows, once the residence of the House of Savoy—a harmonious blend of strength and grace in this ancient waterborne fortress. The earliest written records of the castle date back to the mid-12th century, though its central keep was built in the 11th century, predating documented history. Strategically located on a vital north-south European trade route, merchants traveling to Rome via the Great St. Bernard Pass would pass by its gates. The House of Savoy leveraged this position to collect tolls and expanded the castle into their summer palace in the 13th century. After Bernese forces captured it in 1536, it successively became a bailiff's residence, armory, and prison. The castle's fame stems partly from its dungeon: François Bonivard, abbot of Geneva's St. Victor Abbey, was chained to a pillar here for years after opposing the Duke of Savoy's control of Geneva, until his rescue by the Bernese. In 1816, Lord Byron visited, immortalized the story in his poem "The Prisoner of Chillon," and carved his name on the pillar. Rousseau featured it in "Julie, or the New Heloise," while Hugo and other literati also wrote about it. Crossing the wooden bridge into the castle reveals courtyards, halls, bedrooms, the keep, and dungeons—like stepping through a three-dimensional medieval history book. The underground prison is particularly noteworthy: its walls are built from the island's natural rock, topped with Gothic vaulting typically reserved for cathedrals, with Byron's inscribed pillar still standing. Several grand halls once hosted Savoyard feasts, their windows framing Lake Geneva's vistas. The Bernese bedroom displays an elaborate four-poster bed with heating, a bathroom, and running water—remarkably advanced for its time. The Chapel of St. George preserves 14th-century religious murals, rare survivors of Reformation iconoclasm. The armory exhibits medieval to 17th-century weapons—swords, halberds, arquebuses, crossbows, and armor—offering insights into period warfare. Visitors should linger: beyond interior artifacts, the lakeside path offers classic panoramic views of this aquatic fortress.

Veytaux · 39.2km from Sion

Experiences you can't miss in Sion

Featured Culture & history in Sion

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Sion: Sion Wine Tour - wine tasting and guided tour
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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FromBRL 394.18
Geneva Audio Tour: Financial Titans and Timeless Stones
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
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20% off
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Chaplin's World: Entry Ticket
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The Olympic Museum: Entry Ticket
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FromBRL 134.22
Neuchatel Highlights Audio Tour: Historic Gems
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
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Fort de Chillon History Museum: Entry Ticket
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Duration: 2 hrs
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Bern self-guided audio walking tour (8 stops, approx. 2 hrs)
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Duration: 2 hrs
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FromBRL 43.22

Featured Food & drink in Sion

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Private Bern Old Town & Emmental Cheese Tour from Zurich with Tastings
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Duration: 8 hrs
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FromBRL 3,977.37
From Zurich: Alpine Winter Horse Carriage Ride & Fondue Private Tour
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Duration: 7 hrs
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From Zurich: Swiss Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Private Tour
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Duration: 9 hrs
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From Zurich: Alpine Sledging & Private Fondue by the Lake Tour
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Duration: 7 hrs
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From Zurich: Swiss Alpine Vineyard & Wine Tasting Private Tour
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Duration: 3 hrs
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FromBRL 10,361.20

Featured Outdoor & sports in Sion

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Half-day Geneva city sightseeing tour in Switzerland | Optional Lake Geneva cruise
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Interlaken skydiving experience in Switzerland
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5.0/5
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Duration: 3.5 hrs
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From Zurich or Lucerne: Bernese Oberland Winter Private Tour
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Duration: 9 hrs
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Zermatt: Winter Alpine Adventure & Guided Matterhorn View Private Tour
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From Zurich: Grindelwald & Interlaken Alpine Private Tour
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Duration: 11 hrs
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From Zurich: Beginner Alpine Hike & Scenic Mountain Private Tour
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Duration: 4 hrs
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FromBRL 4,679.25
Sion Today's weatherShowers 7-13℃
Sion weather for the next 2 days11/13: 2-11℃, 11/14: 5-14℃

Free things to do in Sion

What travellers say about Sion

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yybalance30 June 2026
5.0
It's beautiful. I came at the end of May, and the weather was very comfortable; you could wear short sleeves to see the snow.

Glacier 3000

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Tania Akter (Bangladesh)8 December 2025
5.0
Nendaz (4 Valleys) offers a truly captivating alpine experience with its expansive ski terrain, stunning panoramic views, and relaxed Swiss charm. The resort provides excellent access to one of Europe’s largest ski areas, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced skiers seeking variety and adventure. Snow conditions are consistently good, and the wide network of lifts ensures smooth access to scenic slopes and thrilling off-piste routes. Beyond skiing, Nendaz delights with peaceful mountain villages, cozy restaurants, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It's a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility—an outstanding choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Nendaz (4 Valleys)

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Sobel Phang29 October 2024
5.0
The Matterhorn is one of the most iconic mountains in the Swiss Alps, renowned for its distinctive pyramid shape and stunning beauty. The surrounding area, particularly Zermatt, provides a charming alpine village experience with a range of outdoor activities. The Gornergrat railway offers spectacular panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks.

Matterhorn

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Hossain Hoq Prohor11 September 2026
5.0
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is one of Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain destinations, offering an unforgettable experience high in the Swiss Alps. Surrounded by magnificent snow-covered peaks, vast glaciers, and breathtaking alpine scenery, the journey to the summit is an adventure itself. The panoramic views from the top are truly mesmerizing, especially on a clear day when the mountains seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Walking through the snowy landscape feels like entering a winter wonderland. The impressive Aletsch Glacier adds even more beauty to the experience. Jungfraujoch is a must-visit destination for travelers who love mountains, snow, photography, and extraordinary natural landscapes.

Jungfrau

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草凡人19 April 2025
5.0
Take the train to Montreux and stroll along the shore of Lake Geneva. Beyond the water are the snow-capped mountains, stretching quietly. Chillon Castle is on a small stone island near the water. It is not big, but it takes you back to medieval Europe. It is worth a visit.

Chillon Castle

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Gully2 February 2025
5.0
It is one of the prettiest places I have ever seen. In summer time, you’re almost guaranteed to have great weather. There are multiple paths to hike for more and less experiences trekkers.

Golden Pass Railway

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Traveltheworld@bd9 February 2026
5.0
Crans-Montana is a stunning alpine resort that blends natural beauty with relaxed sophistication. Set high above the Rhône Valley, it offers sweeping mountain views, crisp air, and sunshine-filled days. In winter, the ski slopes are واسعة and well-groomed, suitable for all levels; in summer, hiking trails, golf courses, and lakes create a peaceful outdoor escape. The village atmosphere feels welcoming yet refined, with cozy cafés and scenic terraces. Whether you’re seeking adventure or quiet rejuvenation, Crans-Montana delivers a balanced mountain experience that feels both invigorating and serene in every season for visitors worldwide.

Crans-Montana

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Sion?

Don't miss these attractions in Sion: Glacier 3000, Nendaz (4 Valleys), and Matterhorn. If you like Culture & history, try Sion: Sion Wine Tour - wine tasting and guided tour. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Restaurant Les Armures popular restaurant reservation service in Geneva, Switzerland.

You can give Restaurant Les Armures popular restaurant reservation service in Geneva, Switzerland and Restaurant reservation service for Café du Centre, a popular restaurant in Geneva, Switzerland a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

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