Switzerland is one of the best tourist destinations in Europe because of its snowcapped mountains, great lakes, lush surroundings, and top-class restaurants. It is a country that is also dotted by exquisite castles and palaces that dates back to ancient times. The alpine scenery is at the backdrop, and it will fulfill all your fairytale. The country is rich in diversity and uniqueness. Thousands of tourists flock the country on an annual basis.
Swiss landscapes are some of the exceptional in Europe, if not the whole world. The crystal clear lakes, cities, towns, and awe-inspiring alpine views are just some of the things that you can do in Switzerland. Besides, you will find some of the spectacular castles in the area amidst the picturesque panorama.
Keep reading as we’re going to show you 12 iconic castles in Switzerland you must visit.
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Thun Castle
The Thun castle is also popularly known as Schloss Thun, and it was constructed in the 12th century. It is located in the city of Thun and forms a major picturesque at the entrance of the Bernese Oberland. Ideally, it was built to act as a fortress, and it was a symbol of power with its imposing feature.
The Knight’s Hall has been preserved over time, and it is a location that you should not miss to visit in Switzerland. Visitors are allowed to visit all the five floors of the castle, including its prison that was constructed in 1886, and this has been turned into a historical museum. You will get to understand the real history of this location as you involve yourself in the data and books in the museum.
Apart from Thun Castle, there are many exciting things to do in Thun. Be sure to plan your itinerary on time.
The castle is open from 10 am to 5 pm from April to October as well as from 1 pm to 4 pm as from November to January. The entry fees are CHF 10 for adults and free for kids under 6 years.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Chillon Castle
The Chillon Castle is a medieval fortress that is located at the shore of Lake Geneva is a magnificent sight that you should visit. It is an authentic medieval site that dates back to the 12th century. The Chillon castle was residence to the counts of savoy from the 12th to 16th centuries, and it stands as one of the most attractive activities in Montreux.
The Chillon castle receives over three hundred thousand visitors on an annual basis. The castle is surrounded by water, and this creates natural surroundings that are exceptional and unique to visit. The underground dungeons depict the gothic architecture, and the great halls look out to amazing views of Lake Geneva.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Gruyère Castle
The Gruyere castle is situated in the medieval town of Gruyeres in Fribourg. The structure has been home to multiple families, and it was built from 1270 to 182. The little known town has become more popular because of the castle and the museums in the area.
Multiple museums tell history dating back over 800 years. The castle opened doors to the public in the year 1938 and ever since it has been operational for an extended period.
You will find glass windows that date back to the Middle Ages and paintings of the 19th-century artists. The charges are 12CHF for adults and free for children below six years.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Kyburg Castle
The Kyburg castle museum is one of the most exceptional destinations in Switzerland that you must visit. It is situated above the river and in Zurich Canton, the city of Winterthur. The castle was constructed as early as 1027, and it served as the throne for the noble families who ruled the region in ancient times.
However, in the year 1865, this castle became the first in Switzerland as it opened its doors to the public. The museum is run by Schloss Kyriburg society, and it is open throughout the year.
A tour around the museum will give you insights on the development of the castle and the changes that have been done over time.
Castelgrande
Castelgrande is the first castle, and after its fortification, it dates back to the 4th century and with its primary defensive wall constructed in the 6th century. After numerous episodes of renovation, Castelgrande is now a museum, and it has a restaurant with panoramic terraces that you can enjoy some of the most amazing views of the area.
The castle is open throughout the year with specific opening hours. Be sure to check the local guidelines on the opening hours.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Castello di Montebello
This is located about a hundred meters above Castelgrande, and it is on the Montebello hill. The bowels of the castles go back to the 13th century, and it has been restored multiple times to preserve its original state.
You can enjoy some of the most spectacular views from Lake Maggiore. The castle is open throughout the year, and you should check the cost of visiting the area.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Castello di Sasso Corbaro
This is a castle that is located in the Ticino valley, and after the defeat of the Milanese troops, a military engineer by the name Benedetto Ferrini constructed this castle within 6 months. The castle is surrounded by a 4.7-meter thick wall that protects the geometry of the castle.
It is important to note that the castle has undergone numerous transformations, and it is now open to the public as a museum and a chapel. The opening hours are from 1030am to 4 pm.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Vufflens Castle
Vufflens castle is located in the beautiful region of Morgen in Vaud canton. The castle is a fortified Romandy castle with brick construction, which dates back to the 15th century.
There are numerous vineyards that you can visit in the area as well as they learn more about the castle from the books and historical data available in the area.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Rapperswil Castle
Rapperswil Castle is one of the most visited castles in Switzerland as it sits at the shores of Lake Zurich. The castle was constructed at the end of the 12th century, and it covers areas from Lindenhof via Rapperswil. Schlossberg is the southern flank of the hill. There is the oldest vineyard that can be seen.
There is a park that serves as the home for fallow deer. Besides, it offers a perfect location that is good for children as there is a playground. Within the castle, there is a polish museum that was opened in the year 1975.
In this castle, you can see the history of the country and the museum as well. The history talks about Nobel Prize winner Marie Currie. You can also walk along the medieval wall as you enjoy the best views of the city.
Tarasp Castle
In the year 1919, Tarasp Castle opened its doors to the public, and it is here that the long history of battles and sieges have continued over time. The castle was built in the 11th century, and it was initially Austrian, but after the long struggle restored and it became Swiss. The castle was restored over thirteen years.
Castle Tarasp, as is popularly known as an imposing structure in the Graubünden region, was constructed on a 100-meter high rock. The castle dominates the Engadine region, and it overlooks the hamlet at the Lake of Tarasp and castle hill. Visitors have the chance to view the multiple bedrooms, the castle chapel, grand halls, and the famous organ with over 2500 pipes.
The castle is usually open on Tuesday and Thursday, and you should check at the times of the day that the castle will open. It is important to note that payments in euros or Swiss francs are acceptable.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Munot Fortress
Munot Fortress is a popular tourist destination that is situated in the Swiss city of Schaffhausen, and it is an accessible location where you can have ultimate fun checking out the history of the city. If you’re currently exploring Zurich, then heading for a day in Schaffhausen is a perfect activity to do.
The castle overlooks the Rhine River, and it boasts of panoramic views of the river and its surroundings. The fortress has always been used for defense, and it is not a place of residence.
Over time the fortress has been renovated and upgraded to ensure that it is functioning optimally.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
Tourbillon Castle
Located in the mountainous region of Switzerland, the Tourbillon castle is situated at the top of the mountains and it is edged at the top. The castle was built between the 13th and 14th centuries and still stands as the most attractive activity in Sion.
This castle has undergone numerous changes over time to incorporate modern features, and it is open to the public for most of the time of the year.
Make sure to visit their official website for more information and details.
What are your favorite castles in Switzerland? Share your thoughts and experiences below.
