Chillon Castle image

Chillon Castle

Tourist attraction Museum Historical landmark Castle Cultural landmark

One of the Best Places To Visits in Le Léman (VD)


Address

Av. de Chillon 21, 1820 Veytaux, Switzerland

Website

www.chillon.ch

Contact

+41 21 966 89 10

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (18.9K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Thursday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Friday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Saturday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Sunday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Monday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: castle (97) visit (36) history (21) audio (18) lake (18) beautiful (18) tour (17) guide (16) experience (15) Geneva (15)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Illia D. 1 year ago on Google
    I recently had the opportunity to visit Chillon Castle and it was an incredible experience. The castle itself is absolutely breathtaking, with its stunning location on the shores of Lake Geneva and its beautifully preserved medieval architecture. The tour guides were knowledgeable and provided a wealth of information about the history of the castle and the people who lived there. I was especially impressed by the audio guide, which allowed me to learn even more about the castle and its history at my own pace. The castle's location on the lake made for some breathtaking views and the gardens were a lovely spot to relax and take in the scenery. Overall, my visit to Chillon Castle was a highlight of my trip to Switzerland and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Wanderlust G. 2 years ago on Google
    A smaller but beautiful complete castle. Nice structural components. Beautiful crystal clear water surrounds it including a shallow clear moat. Access to the towers were not allowed which is the only reason for minus a star rating.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kruimelgebakje 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice Castle near the lake. Didn't go inside the castle on this visit. Free parking (3hours) available. Make sure that you have parking disc. Across the street there is a museum in the mountain. It's a museum about the fortification and militair defense of Switzerland. Very interesting to visit.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vanesa C. 5 months ago on Google • 281 reviews
    This castle is a hidden gem with a mix of history and beautiful surroundings. Stepping inside feels like a journey through time, and the view from there is simply breathtaking. It's a charming place, making it a memorable visit.

  • 5/5 Richard 2 months ago on Google • 255 reviews New
    Another nice castle to look around. Parking is a bit of a pain but we figured it out. Interesting things to see within and great views around. The climb to the top of the main tower was a particular highlight. One weird thing was their reluctance to sell us a family ticket as we only had one chid - never ever had that before!

  • 5/5 Chris G. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful castle with excellent exhibits in each room in English, which really help you understand the history, especially the formation of the banking industry in Switzerland. Great views of the lake from the towers. There is also a good small public beach next door.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Anne-Sophie Rodriguez H. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful castle from the outside but we did not have a chance to visit. However, we did eat at Cafe Byron (great experience and food!) where I burned myself on the very hot metal barrier. They are aware of the danger as children have also done the same but it is up to the castle to fix. They could easily add wood on top of the metal- I hope they do so no one else gets hurt...
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 SOUMYANANDA G. 2 years ago on Google
    The castle is good for a quick evening visit. Takes about 1.5-2 hours roughly to study the captions in great detail and know a bit about the history and the background. The access is easy. There's a boat dock and the railway line that connects the station of Montreux is close by. They do have an entry fee. Some places have access restricted to visitors. You can choose to have an audio guide.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vasilis S. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a beautiful castle. You admire how it is preserved from the ancient years. You can see the transformation if it across the years from room to room. If you follow the recommended plan of the visit, you can see everything, but you are not limited only to this. You can follow your own path and you will always arrive to main open plaza of the castle. The castle has a great view to the Leman lake and it’s so interesting to see how the regions and borders between countries have changed across the years. A beautiful activity for your weekend or free time.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ben P. 11 months ago on Google
    Incredible! Fantastic! Unexpected wonder! Honestly I could not say anything bad about this place especially considering this was a 1 day stopover for us and it was a place I had found online as a recommendation through Social Media. I was not expecting much but as we approached along the walkway on the beach you could see why this has been suggested. Immediately you can see how well preserved this castle is from the moats and walls around the outside and then the rooms, towers and even dungeons on the inside. If you have the time, I would recommend the audio tour to really get an understanding of the castle and its history.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Duong T. 4 months ago on Google
    Such a beautiful castle with a rich history and very nicely preserved with intricate artworks/ artifacts. I was there when there were stands and halls with staff dressed to the time period explaining and engaging visitors in crafts such as candlemaking, bread making, knife forging, a swordsfight and even a donkey petting area. This made the experience very exciting and memorable. The views from and around the castle were stunning. It was snowing when I was there. It must be even more striking when there’s sun and more visibility. I’m very glad I went here as part of the included ticket in the Swiss pass but I would definitely recommend just buying the entrance ticket alone, it is easily a 2-2.5 hour visit very well worth it.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dennis H. 4 months ago on Google • 136 reviews
    Brilliant castle at the lake shore of Lac Leman. Accessible by train or with a boat/ferry. The tour through exhibition is very well structured and information is available in German/English and French. Using the audio Guide is highly recommended, giving a good understanding of the castle use through the centuries.

  • 5/5 Hari Hari M. 3 months ago on Google • 119 reviews New
    This castle is so so so beautiful. It's a must to visit when you're in Montreux. I can't help but be amazed by all the things preserved in the castle, going through all made me think as if I was travelling back to those olden days. Wished I could spend more time here. Good to visit earlier to avoid crowds.

  • 5/5 Vivekananda B. 1 month ago on Google • 108 reviews New
    A brilliant construction on the Lake Geneva with a spectacular view. The attention to detail is mind blowing. This castle has a lot of history dating back the mediaeval times. We got a free entry through the swiss travel pass so we checked it out while we were on Montreux. It was a beautiful building with lots of chambers, rooms, towers and hidden secret compartments and doors. They also have a restaurant by the castle which is quite convenient. We can also walk along the lake from the castle which has a breathtaking view. The entire tour has a guided tour or a audio guide to know about the history. A must visit history place while in Montreux, Switzerland.

  • 4/5 Pam V. 8 months ago on Google
    Fascinating to see the restored work done through the centuries, 1100s forward. So amazing to be able to walk through a maze of courtyards, covered bridges and rooms while experiencing the historical presence of the structure. Accompanying furnishings are thoughtfully curated and arranged, complemented by painted walls from appropriate periods in history. I didn't get an eerie feeling (although I skipped the dungeon and crypt), as I have before when visiting such a structure. Rather, I felt as if I could possibly have lived there during that time period!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leah S. 9 months ago on Google
    This is a really cool spot if you are into history. The castle is magnificent and huge. It was built in the 1200s and is truly marvel. We didn't do the audio tour and I wish we had. It also isn't very wheelchair accessible.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Luke G. 9 months ago on Google
    From most of my castle or fort tours, usually some parts of the area are cordoned off or sold as a different experience. But found that the Chillon castle experience had none of that nonsense with 90% of the castles rooms available for public viewing. If you are expecting paintings and all the artisan displays like those found in other castles, you would not find it here. Free with the Swiss pass and provides a glimpse into the past of the Geneva region. I found the history about the fall of the castle very intriguing, but I will leave that part for you to find out during your visit to the castle! (No spoilers)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 孫紹庭(Shao-Ting S. 8 months ago on Google
    Very beautiful scene around the castle, walkable surroundings everywhere! The best part I guess is 3 hours max of free parking! Never miss if you have nervous of parking panic!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Iron P. 7 months ago on Google
    Did not enter the castle but its located in a pretty location on Lake Geneva. Nice walk in the morning from city centre in montreux takes around 40 minutes. Enjoy the various art work along the path to the castle!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Meth H. 10 months ago on Google
    Located near one of the most beautiful lakes overlooking the alps. A historic castle that has a lot of areas to explore explore including an underground section. This is a very busy place during summer. Go all the way to the top to get a great view.. need about 1 hour or more to enjoy. But note that the parking here is limited and may fill out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mr P. 1 year ago on Google
    Breathtaking castle with the Alps and lake Geneva in the backdrop. Well worth the visit! Some uneven surfaces but has been maintained well for accessibility. The restaurant is rather small with restricted seating but there is a good spot if you walk further down with benches and views. Most staff were friendly!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott R. 6 months ago on Google
    Wonderful castle you can completely walk thru. Do the audio guide, it's well worth the 6 euro and nicely done. I spent 2 hours and that seemed about right to fully take it in. Could certainty get the idea with much less time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing experience to go around inside and visit every wing of this amazing fortress. It's well kept and tended to, it has a lot of visitors during the day, everything inside is well kept and has a panel with information about everything you see. You can easily spend an entire day visiting the castle, definitely recommend if you're also nearby visiting Montreux, it's worth the trip and the money!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christine C. 2 years ago on Google
    We toured several castles on our trip, and this was one of my favorites. It is very well kept up, and it was a great time exploring all the different rooms. It is especially charming from the outside, and made for the most amazing pictures and overall experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nishant C. 1 year ago on Google
    Well maintained, with good and ample signage in English. Connectivity is good as well with the local buses stopping right outside. Castle itself is intriguing, almost like traveling in time with artifacts and untouched walls from the 13th century.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 peter m. 2 years ago on Google
    Chillon Castle set on the Swiss southern shores of Lake Geneva has an outstanding location and has easy access from the road. The stonework is set upon a small island attached to the mainland by a short bridge. Views from the castle across the lake and back up to the mountains are tremendous.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tomáš B. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful castle in an amazing location right on the lake shore. Unfortunately, I can only evaluate from the outside, due to the delay on the highway, we just missed the last entrance. Hopefully next time. On the other hand, we were almost alone there :). Parking is possible on the nearby road for free with a parking disc. The coastal promenade with beautiful views is very pleasant.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Elizabeth H. 1 year ago on Google
    Excellent! One of the best castles we've been to in Europe. Allow at least 2 hours. Would not recommend for children under 8-10 as they would probably get bored or over tired. Also, be aware for mobility challenged individuals...lots of stairs.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nathan C. 1 year ago on Google
    Well worth a visit. Small from the outside but pretty dense inside with a lot of rooms and lots of great info (and was relatively cheap... for Switzerland 😆). Didn't know about the Lord Byron connection before we got here. Views of Lake Geneva are worth it too. We spent around 2hrs here, moving about at a slowish pace and absorbing all the information.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul 2 years ago on Google
    Great value you really get to see a lot. The history is fascinating and everything is written for English, German and French readers. The views are lovely.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 hey.junebug 2 months ago on Google • 70 reviews New
    This is such a remarkably stunning castle in Montreux. Also, it was the inspiration for Prince Eric's castle in Disney's Little Mermaid. How wonderful!

  • 5/5 Aftan S. 5 months ago on Google • 33 reviews
    Amazing experience, well kept, with really good Arabic guidebook, some of the displays has only two languages English is not one of them, free WiFi and free water, walking in that castle took me back in time! Definitely one of the best historical sites..

  • 5/5 Darren P. 4 months ago on Google
    Picturesque medieval castle on the shores of Lake Geneva. Lots of history and paid extra for an audio guide. Well worth the extra 6 Swiss Francs. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

  • 5/5 Saif M. 4 months ago on Google
    Magnificent; efficient, no queue despite numerous tourists, exciting stories, tour guide / audio guide a must; public transport to the castle is easy

  • 5/5 Lydia H. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful castle. Best to see in summer/fall. The entrance comes with an audio guide too, it’s nice to able to understand history of the place as well. Don’t forget to go to the top of the castle, the view is amazing. I totally recommend a visit to Montreux and Chillon Castle if you’re visiting Switzerland.

  • 4/5 tama t. 2 years ago on Google
    Didn't manage to go in as I'm taking a slow walk from the town along the coast walk to the castle. Luckily the surrounding is beautiful as well. Can have a brief historical touch from the information board located outside the castle.

  • 5/5 Rug 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful castle I have ever seen, direct on the Lemano Lake near Montreaux. Absolutely you must visit. I bought the castle's wine as well, I have not tried yet but it seems great.

  • 5/5 SwitPea - Pinay in S. 2 years ago on Google
    A must to every visit in Switzerland. The location of the castle by the Lake, added to its splendour. How many times I have been in this place but I still love to visit it again and again. I just love to picture in my mind the way people lived in Medieval times. I so admire the construction quality of the buildings. I highly recommend this place for a visit, and it is a worth, peaking what's inside. I won't post a pic, it is for you to discover, you won't regret it.

  • 5/5 Berry P. 5 months ago on Google
    It feels like being transported back to the Middle Ages, and whether inside or outside the castle, it's truly astonishing. However, the underground areas gave me a slightly eerie feeling, not because they're bad, but because they're so authentic, making you feel like you're reliving that historical period. The immersive experience is incredibly strong! I recommend renting an audio guide to fully appreciate the charm of the castle.

  • 5/5 - 6 months ago on Google
    Awesome castle from the 1200s right on lake Geneva. We did the self guided tour which was easy to follow and took about an hour. Some really cool history and amazing views of the surrounding area. There is also an option for a longer guided tour if you'd like.

  • 5/5 Rene C. 3 months ago on Google New
    Castle is absolutely beautiful. Breath taking views. Shop has plenty of items to chose from if you like to collect memories.

  • 5/5 Alicia J. 6 months ago on Google
    Amazing castle in Switzerland. The most visited site and foe good reason. Well preserved, grand in size, and in a stunning location. Highly recommend on a visit to Switzerland

  • 5/5 Mario C. 6 months ago on Google
    Amazing experience, lovely small castle from the 11th century. Great condition and amazing way to see how they live in those days. Amazing view of the Alps, lake and surroundings.

  • 5/5 Sue S. 2 years ago on Google
    Anyone who loves history will love this castle. We didn't have time to go in all the rooms, but we still went in many. From the dungeon and the place where the prisoners were held, to the great Hall and one of the bedrooms, it was awesome. Our guide was very knowledgeable also in authentic costume. Enjoyed it very much.

  • 5/5 James H. 6 months ago on Google
    Great castle overlooking the lake, we visited early October on a weekend wasn't very busy and got very lucky with perfect weather. Easy to reach from train station with a short bus ride.

  • 5/5 Soina C. 3 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    Fascinating and beautifully restored place of history. Amazing views of the surrounding area as well. Well worth a visit to see a restored medieval castle!

  • 5/5 Michael B. 7 months ago on Google
    Would visit again and again! The castle is one of the best preserved medieval castles having been extensively studied and preserved. You can buy tickets online or in person at the gate. Depending on when you're visiting you're much better off buying ahead. We visited a couple of hours before they closed and didn't feel rushed exploring the castle. You'll get to visit the dungeons, tower keep, living areas, and even the latrines (which shockingly after ~700 years still smell...used). The brochure guide comes in many languages and is extremely helpful for appreciation. There is a gift shop inside and one outside, each with different items. Staff is friendly and speaks English.

  • 5/5 Barefoot C. 1 year ago on Google
    The most visited historical monument of Switzerland Simply amazing castle 🏰 protected by high walls, dongon and the cobalt waters of Geneva Lake Count at least 90 minutes for the visit Plenty of parking space and refreshing spots around the castle

  • 5/5 Stephanie R. 1 year ago on Google
    The castle was surprisingly incredible! The views were truly amazing, and the audio guide was impressive. My favorite part though were the interactive exhibits throughout. You could make food similar to what they ate in medieval times and try it! You got to sample the spiced wine like they would've made in those same times. There were even employees dressed up throughout the castle helping with this! A truly incredible and enjoyable experience! Took us about 2 hours through while doing these and without rushing.

  • 5/5 Richard T. 1 year ago on Google
    A great exhibit with very well put together presentation including audio tour and paper guides. You will be required to leave you credit card or drivers license as security when collecting your audio guide. Catch a bus or train directly to to castle and back again. Be careful with the low doorways and the uneven flooring in the dungeons. If you’re up to it you can climb the 70 plus steps to the top of the Keep, which is eight stories tall and get a great 360 view of the whole area from the top of the castle. There is quite extensive restoration of the Château with plenty of history preserved.

  • 5/5 Joanna L. 1 year ago on Google
    If you have purchased the Swiss Rail pass, you can get to visit this place for free. Castle guide and tour is simple and easy to follow. Worth to take the time and walk up to the keep for some awesome view.

  • 5/5 Alex A. 1 year ago on Google
    Did not visit inside the castle but the best view is probably from the outside anyway. Walking along the river on either side of the castle provides some memorable photo opportunities of the castle, the Montreux coastline and the mountains across Lake Geneva. Wonderful location.

  • 5/5 Yang L. 1 year ago on Google
    It looks small outside and you can find it very spacious when going inside. Simply follow the signs!

  • 5/5 Judy O. 1 year ago on Google
    A must go experience! We wandered the castle with no audio guide and enjoyed it. I can read about it later. Allow a good 2.5 hours at a leisure pace to view rooms, climb stairs, read signs and not be too overwhelmed. Had a lovely picnic along the promenade trail as well.

  • 4/5 Kumi O. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a beautiful medieval castle located in the Eastern side of lac Leman. You can walk along with the lake from the office de tourisme to casino. Then take a public bus (every 10 min) to the castle. Better visit in the morning when it is not busy. Touring courses (by following numbers up to 40 rooms) take more than 1 hour and passages are all very narrow. May Infants and toddlers not suit for all excursions.

  • 4/5 John D. 2 years ago on Google
    Great castle, lots to see and do. Be warned though, there are some very high bits of the tour that are quite skinny. Nice gift shop, and the red wine is excellent.

  • 5/5 Aleks 8 months ago on Google
    Amazing castle to visit, highly recommended. The tour is clear and easy to follow, we enjoyed very much the many rooms, who are well conserved. The fact that is on an island makes it unique and the sounds of the wave enhances its charme.

  • 4/5 Toh Bee L. 2 years ago on Google
    A warm staff manned the ticketing counter. I got in free with my Swiss Travel Pass. The last timing of entrance is 4pm. The castle closes at 5pm. Chillon Castle overlooks Lake Geneva. I took a 15-min bus ride from Montreux Station. The castle is well kept. It is big and interesting.

  • 5/5 Farhad M. 8 months ago on Google
    Great day trip from Lausanne. The castle has wonderful audio guides for 6francs but the half priced app from the App Store is identical and works just as well. Very well restored. Everything is well organized and very well described. Including the old bathrooms which were a laugh. Great views of the lake. No food in the castle though a cafe is right outside. Helpful staff at the front desk.

  • 5/5 Rahul R. 9 months ago on Google
    A hidden gem in the land of Alps 😍 The experience of exploring the castle was amazing. The guide book provided was extremely useful. We took around 2.5 hours and would defo recommend if in Montreux. Also the castle visit is complimentary with the Swiss pass.

  • 5/5 Mathieu M. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful castle situated on the Léman lake coast. The quality of the visit is excellent with correctly preserved heritage and good story telling. The visit is included in the Switzerland travel pass. There is a café in front of the castle if you need to eat or there's a small beach between the castle and the train station with bench where you can picnic.

  • 5/5 Reza N. 9 months ago on Google
    A beautiful island castle located in lake Geneva with interesting history. The castle has various sections showing different functionalities the castle have had in the past. Make sure to take the stairs to climb up the castle to get an incredible view. There were also galleries inside the castle showcasing antique crafts & objects.

  • 5/5 Jonathan G. 8 months ago on Google
    Highly recommend taking the time to tour through the castle. We purchased the audio guides for extra fee and we were very pleased with the quality and content. It gives the castle and much richer experience. Plan on spending 2 hours there if you walk it all the through. Parking can be difficult based on when you’re going. We had to park down the road and walk the trail by the lake, which was a nice walk too!

  • 5/5 Joe A. 8 months ago on Google
    Took the self guided audio tour and learned so much about this historic castle and its famous prisoners. Beautifully set on a moat on Lake Geneva, it is well worth an afternoon visit to stroll its walls and see its enchanting views all the way up the highest tower.

  • 5/5 V 8 months ago on Google
    Amazing and historic castle. Definitely one of the best castles in Switzerland to visit. Biggest downside is the number of tourists that tour this. Best to go in the morning when it is least busy so you are not caught in crowds of people. I went in the morning and was one of very very few people, and it made the experience much more fun than if I was fighting my way through tour groups.

  • 5/5 Michelle D. 9 months ago on Google
    Gorgeous medieval castle on the Geneva lake with beautiful views. There is a museum inside with various exhibitions and lots to see and learn. It is famously linked to an epic poem by Byron named "the prisoner of Chillon". There is a great café just next to the castle and a souvenir shop. There are lots of benches to sit around and enjoy the view and a perfectly manicured garden all around the castle.

  • 5/5 Marta J. 7 months ago on Google
    Beautiful scenic view in the midst of Montreux. Did not visit the castle (ticket price around ~15 Euros). But you can still view the castle from outside and enjoy the area around. Can recommend going there during the day, the area is not too busy and also not too big, few cafes nearby and parking space also available (street parking).


Call +41 21 966 89 10 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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