Chillon Castle

Introducing Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle, located on the shores of Lake Geneva near Montreux, Switzerland, is a medieval castle built on water. One of Europe's ten oldest castles, Chillon Castle is renowned for its rocky construction on the shores of Lake Geneva. From a distance, it appears to float, making it a unique gem in architectural history and one of Switzerland's most renowned monuments. The rooms within Chillon Castle are elegantly decorated, showcasing medieval helmets, utensils, swords, and other items, reflecting the lifestyle of the nobility. The beautiful walls and decorations within the castle also evoke the romantic atmosphere of the castle's past.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate maritime climate, suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lake Geneva , castle room, 1-3 hours

Tickets

Adults: CHF 12

Children: CHF 6

Attraction opening hours

Wednesday-Monday 10:00-17:00

Closed on Tuesdays

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Most Popular FAQs for Chillon Castle

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Chillon Castle is one of Switzerland’s most iconic historical landmarks, located on the shores of Lake Geneva. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison. It is particularly famous for being mentioned in Lord Byron’s poem "The Prisoner of Chillon," which immortalized its dark history as a place of imprisonment. Today, the castle is a symbol of Swiss heritage and a major tourist attraction.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Chillon Castle is located near Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. It is easily accessible by public transportation: you can take a bus or train to Montreux and then walk to the castle in about 10 minutes. If you're already in Montreux, the castle is also within walking distance from the town. Taxis and private vehicles are also convenient options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Chillon Castle is typically open every day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM during the high season (April to October), and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the off-season (November to March). The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid large crowds. Spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer visitors.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Chillon Castle is approximately CHF 13 for adults and CHF 4 for children aged 6-16. Tickets can be purchased directly at the castle or online through the official website for convenience. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required for general admission, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (summer months and holidays) to avoid long lines. For special tours or events, booking in advance is advisable, typically a few days ahead of time.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Chillon Castle, including the dungeons, towers, and exhibitions, it takes around 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to take a guided tour, you should allow 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the experience.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The dungeon, which is the most famous area of the castle, immortalized by Lord Byron’s poem.
• The Great Hall, where historical events and banquets took place.
• The tower rooms, offering incredible views over Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.
• The castle's medieval chapel, with its well-preserved frescoes.
• The castle's lakeside promenade for breathtaking views of the lake and Alps.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Italian. Audio guides are also available in several languages and can be rented at the entrance. The audio guides provide an informative and engaging experience, highlighting the castle's history and key areas of interest.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The lakeside promenade, offering the best views of the castle against the backdrop of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps.
• The tower rooms, where you can capture panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape.
• The outer walls of the castle, where you can get a full view of the castle’s architecture and the lake.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the castle's outer walls and the lakeside promenade, then move inside to the dungeon and the Great Hall. Proceed to the tower rooms and take in the views. Don't forget to visit the medieval chapel and the exhibition rooms. A recommended route is: 1) Lakeside promenade, 2) Dungeon, 3) Great Hall, 4) Towers and views, 5) Chapel and exhibitions.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at Chillon Castle, but special events such as concerts, exhibitions, and historical reenactments are held occasionally, especially in the summer. It’s recommended to check the castle’s website for upcoming events and special programs.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Chillon Castle can get crowded, especially during the summer months and on weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon during weekdays, especially during the off-season (November to March).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Chillon Castle has clean restrooms, a café with snacks and drinks, and a gift shop selling souvenirs, books, and local products. There are also benches around the castle grounds where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The castle is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors with some limitations. There are ramps and elevators for easier access to certain areas. However, some parts of the castle, like the dungeon, involve steep stairs and may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility issues. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits and the outdoor areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted at the ticket counter, gift shop, and café. Cash payments in Swiss Francs (CHF) are also accepted, but it’s best to carry cards for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Café du Château, located within the castle, offers drinks and light snacks with views of the lake.
• La Rouvenaz, a restaurant in Montreux, serves Swiss cuisine and is a short drive from the castle.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at the castle’s café, and nearby restaurants like La Rouvenaz offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Halal options may be more limited, but Montreux has several international restaurants that cater to various dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, an elegant hotel near Lake Geneva, is only a short drive away.
• Hotel de la Paix, located in Montreux, offers a comfortable stay with a scenic view of the lake.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Montreux Jazz Festival, held annually in July, is one of the world’s most famous music festivals.
• The Rochers-de-Naye, a mountain peak offering panoramic views and a marmot park, is accessible by train from Montreux.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The souvenir shop at Chillon Castle offers items like books on the castle’s history, Swiss chocolate, and local handicrafts. You can also find postcards, magnets, and medieval-themed souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Chillon Castle, the best transportation options are the Montreux train station, which offers regular services to Lausanne, Geneva, and other Swiss cities. There are also buses and taxis available for further travel around the region.