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Explore the three medieval castles—Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro—each offering unique views and historical insights. Enjoy panoramic vistas of Bellinzona and the surrounding Alps. Visit the Castelgrande Museum for exhibitions on local history. Stroll through the town's charming streets and sample regional delicacies like Bissoli chestnut treats.
Located in the Swiss canton of Ticino, Castelgrande sits on Mount San Michele. Built in the 15th century by the Duke of Milan, it is the largest of Bellinzona's three castles. Built to deter attacks from the Swiss Confederation, it is a stone fortress whose tower offers a commanding view of the city, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sun-soaked city. The Castelgrande boasts invaluable historical value and a unique Italian warmth and charm.
Temperate maritime climate, suitable for all seasons
Monte San Michele, 1-3 hours
free
Monday 10:00–18:00
Tuesday 09:00–22:00
Wednesday 09:00–22:00
Thursday 09:00–22:00
Friday 09:00–22:00
Saturday 09:00–22:00
Sunday 09:00–22:00
Bellinzona's castles are among the most outstanding examples of late-medieval military architecture in the Alpine region. Constructed to control access to the Alpine passes, they were of considerable value to the Duchy of Milan and later seized by the Swiss in 1500 CE. The fortifications, including Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, along with the town walls, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 for their exceptional preservation and historical importance.
Bellinzona is located in the canton of Ticino, southern Switzerland. The castles are situated within walking distance from the town center. Visitors can reach Bellinzona by train from major Swiss cities like Zurich or Lugano. Once in town, the castles are accessible on foot or via local buses.
Castelgrande is open daily year-round from 10:00 to 18:00 (closes at 16:00 in winter). Montebello and Sasso Corbaro are open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 from mid-March to November. The best times to visit are early in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Entrance to the castle grounds is free. However, access to museum exhibitions requires a ticket. Adult tickets are CHF 13, children CHF 5, families CHF 30, students/seniors CHF 10, and Ticino Ticket holders CHF 9. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the official website.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Online booking is available through the official website.
Allow 2 to 3 hours to explore all three castles and their surroundings. If visiting the museums, plan for an additional hour.
Must-see highlights include the panoramic views from Castelgrande's towers, the medieval frescoes in Montebello, and the well-preserved ramparts of Sasso Corbaro. The Castelgrande Museum offers insights into the region's history.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Portuguese. Tours can be booked in advance through the official website. Audio guides may also be available on-site.
The best viewpoints are from the towers of Castelgrande and Sasso Corbaro, offering panoramic views of Bellinzona and the surrounding Alps. The town's old streets and castle walls also provide excellent photography opportunities.
Start at Castelgrande, exploring its towers and museum. Then, walk to Montebello to view its frescoes and enjoy the surrounding gardens. Conclude at Sasso Corbaro, which offers the most dramatic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Night visits are not typically available. However, special events and temporary exhibitions are occasionally held at the castles. Check the official website for current events and schedules.
The castles can be crowded on weekends and during the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially in the spring and autumn.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and small cafés. Water fountains are available on-site. There are no large shops, but small souvenir stands may be present during peak seasons.
The castle grounds are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some interior areas and towers have stairs and may be challenging for visitors with mobility impairments. Accessible tours are available upon request.
Both cash and card payments are accepted at the ticket counters and cafés. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller denominations, for convenience.
Nearby dining options include Ristorante Internazionale, offering Mediterranean cuisine, and local cafés in the town center. For a more casual experience, try one of the traditional grottos serving regional dishes.
Vegetarian options are commonly available at most restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be more limited but can be found in some establishments. It's advisable to check menus or inquire with staff in advance.
Recommended accommodations near the castles include Hotel Internazionale Bellinzona, Hotel Cereda, and Ostello Montebello. These offer convenient access to the castles and town amenities.
Nearby attractions include the Villa dei Cedri Museum, the town's historic center with its arcades and piazzas, and the surrounding Alpine trails. A day trip can also include a visit to the Verzasca Valley or Lake Maggiore.
Souvenir shops are located within the town center, offering items such as local crafts, postcards, and regional food products like chestnut-based treats.
Bellinzona is well-connected by train to other Swiss cities and regions. The train station is within walking distance from the castles. For further exploration, consider renting a car or using local buses to reach nearby attractions.
