No visit to Montreux is complete without visiting the Chillon Castle, which happens to be the most visited historical site in the whole of Switzerland! Impressive in size and grandeur, it transports you back to the middle ages from the moment you step inside the courtyard. The first information of the Chillon castle dates back to the 12th century. The word ‘Chillon’ meant ‘rocky platform’ in an ancient Latin language, in reference to the flat rock that the castle is situated on giving it an illusion of floating above the waters.

Due to its excellent positioning along the shores of Lake Geneve, the castle provided natural protection, as well as strategic and economic control over the passage between northern and southern Europe.

Aside from the audio guide (which you can rent for 6CHF), there are also digital panels in multiple languages in every room. They provide excellent background information on room’s functions, details on the furniture and paintings, and I found that pretty helpful for some brief reading up on history at your own pace.

If you love all things medieval, time will pass by in a breeze, and you can easily spend 2 hours to fully explore the castle. However it could also be deemed boring if you are not a castle enthusiast! To each its own.

As there are many steps and slopes within the castle, do note that the Chillon Castle is not fully wheelchair accessible nor suitable for baby prams. Nevertheless, there are two audiovisual screens in the cafeteria which offer a virtual tour and eight mini themed films of the castle.

Note: If you are visiting during Christmas period 2-3, 9-10 and 16-17 December, there are special programmes and activities for children in the castle!

Prices:

Adults: 15 CHF

Children: 7 CHF

Free with Swiss Travel Pass