Switzerland is well-known for its awe-inspiring scenery, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, and jaw-dropping mountain railways. But did you know it also has one of the highest densities of castles per square mile in Europe?
According to experts, there could be as many as 500 castles dotted around Switzerland. While some are in ruins, others are well-preserved and open to visitors. You’ll find hilltop fortresses surrounded by vineyards and elegant lakeside châteaux with lavish interiors.
Many of these Swiss castles are also museums where you can take guided tours and explore interactive exhibits. Whether you're delving into medieval heritage, admiring magnificent ballrooms or relaxing in manicured gardens, each castle has its own story to tell.
With so many to choose from, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best castles in Switzerland. Plus, read to the end to discover 5 bonus castles in the Alps.
- Let these popular tours of Switzerland spark your wanderlust
1. Château de Chillon
Location: Montreux, Canton of Vaud
Local language: French
When to visit: Year-round
Where better to start than Switzerland’s most-visited historic building – Château de Chillon. This medieval fortress has been guarding the shores of Lake Geneva for centuries, first as a residence for the Counts of Savoy, then as a strategic stronghold.
Wander its grand halls, explore eerie dungeons, and admire the 14th-century murals. Take one of the guided tours for local insights into the storied past of Chillon Castle.
It’s not just the castle’s legends that’ll captivate you. Look beyond its walls, and you’ll fall for the snow-capped mountains of the Swiss Alps.
For something extra special, arrive by boat on a tour from nearby Montreux. From the water, it’s easy to see how Château de Chillon inspired the castle in Disney’s The Little Mermaid.
- Explore at your own pace on a self-drive tour of Switzerland
- Related: Disney movies set in Europe
2. Château d’Aigle
Location: Aigle, Canton of Vaud
Local language: French
When to visit: Year-round
Surrounded by vineyards in the Rhône Valley, Château d’Aigle is a must-visit for wine and history lovers alike. Built in the 12th century by the Knights of Aigle, it’s now home to the Vine and Wine Museum.
Exploring the castle, you’ll learn about its medieval past and uncover the region’s winemaking tradition. Get stuck into interactive displays for all ages, and come summer, stroll the vineyard paths around the castle.
If learning about the local tipple isn’t enough, try some for yourself on a wine-tasting tour between April and October.
- Related: Best things to do in Switzerland
3. Château de Gruyères
Location: Gruyères, Canton of Fribourg
Local language: French
When to visit: March to November
Built in the 13th century by the Counts of Gruyère, you’ll find this fairytale castle in the heart of Swiss cheese country.
Over the years, Château de Gruyères passed through various hands until the Bovy brothers bought it at auction in 1848. They renovated and transformed the castle into an artists’ residence before it was opened to the public in 1939.
Nowadays, it’s home to a remarkable art collection and historic exhibits. The rooms are full of medieval furniture, intricate tapestries, and remarkable paintings. Be sure to take a walk in the garden for sweeping views of the rolling countryside.
Grab an audio guide or learn about the castle’s secrets on a guided tour. Don’t forget to ask your guide about the women of Gruyères. According to legend, they saved the city by using goats to drive off invading troops.
- Related: Most beautiful lakes in Switzerland
4. Château de Neuchâtel
Location: Neuchâtel, Canton of Neuchâtel
Local language: French
When to visit: April to September
Overlooking Lake Neuchâtel, this turreted castle is perched above the picturesque town of Neuchâtel. While most of Château de Neuchâtel dates from the 15th century, the Romans built the oldest wing in the 12th century.
Get a glimpse into medieval life as you roam its towers and courtyards. Nowadays, you can take guided tours of its ancient chambers, where an expert will reveal details of the castle’s architectural evolution. Keep your camera handy to snap photos of the lake from your lofty vantage point.
Good to know: The castle only welcomes visitors on certain days as it houses the regional government, so you’ll need to check ahead for specific opening times.
5. Castles of Lake Thun: Schloss Thun, Schloss Oberhofen and Schloss Spiez
Location: Lake Thun, Canton of Bern
Local language: German
Head for Lake Thun, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland. Here are 3 of our favourites.
Schloss Thun
When to visit: Every day from April to October and on Sundays from November to January
Visit the picture-perfect town of Thun, and Thun Castle will catch your eye. Overlooking the Aare River at the northern end of Lake Thun (Thunersee), this 12th-century castle has been transformed into a museum showcasing local history.
From its towers, you'll get incredible views of the Bernese Alps and Lake Thun. And don’t miss the grand Knight’s Hall – it’s one of the best examples from the Middle Ages.
Schloss Oberhofen
When to visit: May to October
Set amidst peaceful English-style gardens on the eastern shore of Lake Thun, you won’t want to miss Schloss Oberhofen. The fairytale castle dates back to the 13th century and has a distinctive tower rising from the lake.
There’s also a museum and frescoed chapel to explore, not to mention the restored Oriental smoking room. Head to this wood-panelled chamber to lounge on a divan and soak up the view.
For a romantic dining experience, check out the neighbouring restaurant, where you can enjoy a candlelit dinner overlooking the lake.
Schloss Spiez
When to visit: May to October
Nestled on the shores of Lake Thun, Schloss Spiez is a charming medieval castle surrounded by vineyards. Go on a guided tour or visit the fascinating museum to learn about the castle’s former noble residents. You can trace the castle’s history back to the 10th century.
Stroll through its beautiful gardens or climb the tower to marvel at the mountain scenery. Take a boat trip around the lake for views of the castle from the water.
- Related: Must-see mountains in the Alps
6. Château de Tourbillon
Location: Sion, Canton of Valais
Local language: French
When to visit: March to November
In the city of Sion, the striking ruins of Tourbillon Castle are hard to miss. Once a residence for the Bishops of Sion, this hilltop castle was constructed in the late 13th century.
The castle is largely in ruins today because of a devastating fire in the 18th century. As you explore the area, you’ll come across the remains of medieval walls and a chapel with 15th-century frescoes.
The hike up to the castle is well worth it. You’ll have unrivalled views of the Basilique de Valère complex on a neighbouring hill, with the stunning Rhône Valley as your backdrop. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the hike.
7. Palais de Rumine
Location: Lausanne, Canton of Vaud
Local language: French
When to visit: Year-round
Despite its name, the Palais de Rumine in Lausanne is not a traditional palace but a grand Renaissance-style building with a castle-like appearance.
Built in the late 19th century on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, it houses museums dedicated to art, archaeology, geology and natural history. You can spend hours exploring its vast collections of ancient artefacts and contemporary art.
If you do visit, make sure to check what exhibitions are on. You could also dive into sporting history at the city’s Olympic Museum, just a 15-minute walk away.
8. Schloss Laufen
Location: Rhine Falls, Borders the cantons of Schaffhausen and Zürich
Local language: German
When to visit: Year-round
You’re in for a treat when you visit Schloss Laufen. While the history here will enthrall, you might find it’s the roaring Rhine Falls that steal the show.
Sitting above one of Europe’s largest waterfalls, Schloss Laufen dates back over 1,100 years. Inside, the castle museum showcases the region's heritage and the power of the falls.
You can even take a thrilling boat ride to the base of the falls or follow hiking trails for a close-up view of the thundering water. Then, why not round off your visit with fine dining at the castle’s restaurant?
Top tip: This is a popular spot, especially during summer, so we recommend going in the morning for a quieter experience.
9. Bellinzona Fortress: Castel Grande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro
Location: Bellinzona, Canton of Ticino
Local language: Italian
When to visit: Year-round
The 3 castles – Castel Grande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro – and their impressive medieval fortifications are part of the Bellinzona UNESCO World Heritage Site. During medieval times, the fortifications blocked off the entire valley.
Get insight into the area's history as you explore the museums inside Castel Grande and Montebello. Make sure to walk the trail that takes you between all the castles. Their hilltop locations mean you could spot Lake Maggiore on a clear day.
All 3 castles are open to the public, but Castel Grande is the only one you can visit during winter.
- Combine your visit to Switzerland with a tour of Northern Italy
- Related: Fun facts about the Alps
10. Schloss Kyburg
Location: Kyburg, Canton of Zürich
Local language: German
When to visit: April to October
Visit Schloss Kyburg, and you’ll feel as though you’ve travelled back to the 11th and 12th centuries when the Kyburg dynasty was at full power.
Located near Winterthur town, it is one of Switzerland’s best-preserved medieval castles. It opened as a museum in 1865 and was the first of its kind in Switzerland.
There are over 800 years of history to uncover as you walk through the castle museum. You’ll see authentic medieval furnishings, an armoury, a knight's hall and a dungeon.
Take a guided tour or pick up an audio guide. Later, soak up the scenery on a walk in the surrounding woods. You could also check out the nearby Bruderhaus Wildlife Park. Here, you can glimpse species, including lynx, bison and Przewalski horses in forest enclosures.
11. Schloss Hallwyl
Location: Seengen, Canton of Aargau
Local language: German
When to visit: April to October
Picture the quintessential castle, and something like Schloss Hallwyl is probably what’ll come to mind. Complete with a moat, this 12th-century fortress is spread across 2 islands, connected by wooden bridges.
The castle now houses a museum where you can learn about the noble families that once lived there.
What’s more, from spring to autumn, the castle puts on events for all ages. For instance, time your visit right, and you could enjoy an open-air film screening, opera or heritage day. Check the castle’s online calendar page for a list of what’s coming up.
12. Belfort Ruins
Location: Brienz, Canton of Graubünden
Local language: Romansch and German
When to visit: June to September
The Belfort Ruins stand on a rocky promontory around a 30-minute drive from Davos in southeast Switzerland. Once home to the Lords of Vaz, the 12th-century fortress was destroyed in 1499 during the Burgundian Wars.
Climb the steps from the car park today, and you’ll be treated to a peaceful spot with incredible views of the valley. While there’s no museum or guided tours here, it’s the perfect place for a photo opportunity. Plus, there’s a picnic area with a grill, water fountain and benches.
13. Stockalperschloss
Location: Brig, Canton of Valais
Local language: German
When to visit: Tuesday to Saturday from May to October, and only on Tuesdays from January to April.
Stockalperschloss is a grand castle in the canton of Valais. It’s an impressive Baroque palace built by the wealthy silk merchant Kaspar Stockalper in the 17th century.
The palace has a beautiful courtyard and 3 golden towers, which the locals call the “Three Wise Men”.
The castle museum tells the story of Stockalper’s influence on trade through the Simplon Pass. Guided tours of the palace are only available in German, but you can browse the Simplon exhibition and explore the gardens for free.
14. Schloss Habsburg
Location: Habsburg, Canton of Aargau
Local language: German
When to visit: Year-round
Schloss Habsburg was the birthplace of the Habsburg dynasty. This powerful family ruled much of Europe for centuries, including Austria, Spain, Hungary and the Roman Empire.
“Radbot the Founder” built the first fortress here around the year 1020. Since then, the site was developed by numerous Counts of Habsburg.
The castle has a free museum and a VR experience that’ll show you what life was like in the 1200s. Inside the small museum, you’ll uncover the story of the castle and the rise of the Habsburg family.
From the castle’s hilltop position, you’re in a great spot to marvel at the surrounding mountains. You can walk along the ancient defensive walls, have a picnic nearby, or take a guided tour.
The restaurant serves fine local produce and has a well-stocked wine cellar, making it well worth a visit.
15. Schloss Meggenhorn
Location: Meggen, Canton of Lucerne
Local language: German
When to visit: Year-round
Schloss Meggenhorn is a Neo-Gothic gem perched on a hill with sweeping views of Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus. Surrounded by vineyards, parklands and a farm, this 19th-century castle is a lovely spot for a relaxed outing.
The castle is just a 15-minute drive from nearby Lucerne, but there’s also a public boat route that’ll get you to the castle in around 30 minutes from the city. Just make sure to check the seasonal timetable ahead of your trip.
Once you get there, tour the castle’s opulent rooms, explore the gardens, or walk through its rambling vineyards. In summer, grab a bite to eat in the bistro in the castle’s orangery. Or, come winter, cosy up with a hot drink in the ballroom café.
The castle is open for guided tours on select weekends in the summer, but you can also wander the grounds year-round.
Fun fact: If you’ve been to France, you might feel as though you recognise Schloss Meggenhorn – it was inspired by Château Chambord in the Loire Valley.
- Experience Lake Lucerne with a guide on an Alps small group tour
5 Bonus castles in the Alps
Go beyond Switzerland on a multi-country tour of the Alps, and you could also check out these 5 Alpine castles:
- Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany: The ultimate fairytale castle and inspiration for the castle in Disney's Cinderella.
- Nymphenburg Palace, Germany: Once a Baroque summer residence for Bavarian rulers.
- Fortress Hohensalzburg, Austria: This is one of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval fortresses.
- Schloss Schönbrunn, Austria: A UNESCO-listed attraction in Vienna where you could attend a concert in the palace orangery.
- Castello Scaligero di Sirmione, Italy: A rare example of a lakeside castle with a working drawbridge.
- Cross destinations like Austria, Germany and Switzerland off your travel wish list with these multi-country Alps tours
- Related: Amazing Europe itinerary ideas
Discover Switzerland’s castles for yourself
Visiting Switzerland’s castles is more than just sightseeing – it’s a journey through time. Whether you're marvelling at sumptuous interiors, wandering through dramatic ruins, or enjoying the picturesque surroundings, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Switzerland’s past.
If you love the idea of a Swiss escape but aren’t sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. Book a top-rated tour of Switzerland with Nordic Visitor, and our local travel experts will take care of the planning. They’ll use their insider insight to arrange your accommodation, local transport and activities.
You’ll also have access to our 24/7 helpline while you’re travelling, so if something unexpected crops up, we’ll be able to support you. Take your pick from Switzerland self-drive trips and Alps guided small group tours.
Get in touch, and a dedicated travel consultant will craft a memorable Swiss getaway for you.
