The Chillon Castle is one of the most remarkable and eye-catching castles in Switzerland (and arguably in Europe). It is picturesquely located on the banks of Lake Geneva in the French part of Switzerland. Today it is the most visited historic building in the Alpine European country.

Chillon is not only visually stunning but also boasts an impressive history. For almost 400 years, it was the residence and profitable toll station of the Counts of Savoy. Perhaps surprisingly, the country with the greatest density of castles is Wales. One of the must-see castles in England is the living castle of Warwick Castle in the Midlands.

The Most Popular Castle In Switzerland & History

Chillon Castle is called "Château de Chillon" in French and is situated on an island in Lake Geneva in the French-speak Swiss canton of Vaud. The military history of the city of Chillon long predates the Medieval and Middle Ages times and goes all the way back to the Roman period. The Romans maintained an outpost there to guard the Alpine passes.

• Location: Lake Geneva, Vaud Canton, Switzerland

It was occupied by the House of Savoy and then by the Bernese from 1536 to 1798. Now it is owned by the State of Vaud. It was placed strategically where it could guard the passage between the Vaud Riviera and the Rhone Valley. That route allows a quick route from Germany and France to Italy. It was able to control important military and commercial routes and apply tolls.

The current castle hails from several centuries of construction and redevelopment. Today it is around 100 meters long and around 50 meters wide. The castle spans three great periods - the Savoy Period, the Bernese Period, and the Canton of Vaud Period.

The military significance of the castle eventually gave way to the romanticism of writers and poets from around the world.

Related: Must-Know Tips For Visiting Switzerland For The First Time

Tours Of Chillon Castle

Visitors can explore the castle at their leisure on a self-guided tour. Most people on self-guided tours take around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the medieval marvels of the castle.

For guided tours of Chillon, there are plenty to choose from - these include castle tours, wine tours, and others.

"Must See, Must Do At Chillon Castle" Tour:

This tour explores the cellar, prison, great halls, the Bernese chamber, the duke's chamber, the chapel, and the sentry walks so that visitors can see the best that the castle has on offer. Visitors also learn about the 'forgotten chambers.'

• Duration: 50 Minutes
• Price: 95 CHF ($95) Per Group Plus Admission Fees

Tour With Guided In Medieval Costume:

Get in the mood and travel back in time with one's guide in a period dress. The tours explore the mysteries of the hidden passageways, the underground Gothic vaulted ceilings, and the prison where a famous prisoner called Bonivard was held.

• Duration: 50 Minutes
• Price: 145 CHF ($145) Per Group Plus Admission Fees

Tour Followed By Castle Wine Tasting:

Mix the tour of the castle with some Swiss wine tasting. Enjoy a glass of their red or white Clos de Chillon that's grown in the castle's own vineyard. Try a gourmet taster of sumptuous castle life and take a Chillon souvenir glass home.

• Duration: Depends On The Chosen Package
• Price: Depends On The Chosen Package

Related: This Is Why You Should Consider Visiting Switzerland In The Summer

Planning A Visit To Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is open year-round and is one of the top Medieval attractions in Switzerland. Chillon Castle is open to the public and offers both self-guided and guided tours. Visitors can see the interiors of some of its main rooms (like the grand bedroom, cave stores, hall, and more). Visitors see four great halls, three courtyards, and various bedrooms (some of which have been decorated to what they would have been in the 14th century).

Opening Hours:

• April to October: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (Last Entry 5.00 pm)
• November to March: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm (Last Entry 4.00 pm)

Admission Fees:

• Adult: 13.50 CHF ($13.50)
• Child: 7.00 CHF ($7.00) Aged 6 to 15 Years Old)
• Family: 35.00 CHF ($35.00)

Admission fees can be paid with credit cards or in cash (including Euros and US Dollars in addition to Swiss Francs).

While there, relax and get a bite at Café Byron at the castle.