About Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is one of the most visited castles in Switzerland and Europe, located on the eastern side of Lake Geneva just southeast of Lausanne. It’s a little island castle, with access through its gates from the quay. 

No one knows how old the castle is, but the earliest records date back to 1005. Walking the castle defences you’ll be able to see why the Counts of Savoy kept their ships there while enjoying summer life on the lake in the 12th century. A fort impenetrable, it also controlled the road from Burgundy to the Great Saint Bernard Pass. A castle on the water was a great sign of prestige for Peter II who expanded the castle. Get a glimpse into the daily life of the Court of Savoy in the Weapons Room, Great Halls, Chapel, Underground, and even in one of the four courtyards. Each room brings the history of the castle to life. From a noble residence, it was eventually converted to a prison. Its sparely decorated bedrooms will allow you to feel how the countless prisoners jailed there in 1530 felt. During the Wars of Religion, François de Bonivard, a monk and politician, was imprisoned there for defending his home against the dukes. He had gained some popularity while he was imprisoned and later became the muse for Lord Byron's 1816 poem The Prisoner Of Chillion.

Must See

  • The main attraction is the castle building itself.
  • The dungeons.
  • The toilets which are decorated with medieval art.
  • Stunning views from castle windows and guard towers.
  • Weapons, armour and a souvenir shop. 

How to reach

Transportation to Chateau de Chillon is easy by car, train, bus or boat.
Buses stop directly in front of the castle and bus line 201 provides transportation to Chillon Castle from Vevey (30 minutes), Montreux (10 minutes), and Villeneuve (5 minutes). Buy tickets on the bus.
S-Bahn line S1 stops at Veytaux, the closest station to the castle.
One can also take a scenic walk along the lakeside.

Tips

  • Book your tickets online to avoid a queue.
  • Audio guides are also available in various languages.
  • An exploration map is available in different languages for children with which they can explore the castle.
  • Wheelchairs and strollers are not accessible inside the castle due to the huge number of stairs and uneven paths.
  • There is an audiovisual screen, which offers virtual tour and themed mini-films for people with mobility challenges. 
  • The castle is open year-round and only closed on December 25 and January 1.
  • Hiking and cycling are also appealing options for getting to Chillon Castle.
  • There is a restaurant, down the road, where you can stop to try local cuisine. 
  • Free parking is available on either side of the road.
  • Also, visit Clos de Chillon vineyard which is along the way towards the castle.
  • A really fine wine shop is there inside the castle. 

Visit Time

Sunday:            9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

Monday:            9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

Tuesday:           9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

Wednesday:      9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

Thursday:          9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

Friday:               9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 

Saturday:          9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 

Time Icon

Waiting Time

None

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

Adults - CHF 12.50   
Children - (aged 6 to 16) CHF6
Family tickets are CHF29 for a couple with own children under 16.
The Swiss Museum Pass is accepted.

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Time you can spend

2 hours

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 2.87°C

 

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