Castles in Geneva: History around the Lake

Geneva, a city of pristine beauty located by the shimmering Lake Geneva, offers a rich collection of historical sites. Among them its ancient castles that stand prominent.

Each castle I visited offered a unique glimpse into the past. Some of them were formidable fortresses and some – opulent palaces. Read on to decide which of the castles in Geneva do you want to visit…or maybe all of them!

Château de Chillon: Switzerland’s Medieval Past

My visit to Château de Chillon was nothing short of magical. Chillon’s architecture is a composite of 25 buildings and three courtyards, encircled by two concentric defensive walls. As I approached the castle, the first sight of its stone walls and turrets emerging from the misty shores of Lake Geneva filled me with awe. No wonder the castle has inspired having inspired Lord Byron’s poem “The Prisoner of Chillon”.

I crossed the iconic drawbridge, feeling like I was stepping back into medieval times. Inside, the chill from the stone corridors and dungeons was palpable, a stark reminder of the fortress’s grim past as a prison. Climbing up to the watchtowers, the view was breathtaking—the serene lake surrounded by mountains provided a perfect backdrop to the formidable architecture​. Château de Chillon is perhaps the most iconic of castles in Geneva.

With its origins dating back to the Roman era, this castle was primarily under the control of the Counts of Savoy until the 16th century. It then passed into the hands of the Bernese and later the Vaudois, serving various roles from a defensive fortress to a state prison. Today, it stands as the most visited historical building in Switzerland, attracting visitors with its majestic structure and picturesque setting.

Ticket Prices: CHF 13.50 ($15 USD)

Free parking is available in front of the castle. However, you need to display a parking permit, which can be obtained from the ticket office. As the car park can fill up quickly, consider using the Tronchenaz car park in Villeneuve as an alternative. You can also take public transportation.

Morges Castle: A Bastion of Museums

At Morges Castle, the experience was vastly different but equally enriching. The castle’s robust military architecture spoke of its strategic importance in bygone days.

Built in the 13th century by Louis of Savoy, this castle now houses four museums, each dedicated to different facets of military and cultural history. These include the Military Museum, the Swiss Historic Figurine Museum, the Artillery Museum, and the Paderewski Museum.

Each museum within its walls houses fascinating artifacts that illustrated the region’s martial history. Walking through the castle, I felt a deep connection to the past, surrounded by displays of ancient weapons and uniforms that told stories of valor and daily life in the military.

Ticket Prices: CHF 9.00 ($9.90 USD). There is free parking available near the castle.

Free entry: Available on the first Saturday of each month for all visitors​.

Nyon Castle: A Peaceful Afternoon

Nyon Castle, with its distinctive white façade, sits regally in the town of Nyon. The Castle was a highlight with its white walls contrasting beautifully against the blue lake below. Originally a 12th-century Savoyard stronghold, it now serves as a local history museum and is famed for its fine porcelain collection. Standing on the terrace, looking out towards the lake and distant Alps, I felt a serene calmness. Indeed, the castle’s terrace offers some of the best views over Lake Geneva and, on clear days, Mont Blanc​.

Ticket Prices: CHF 8.00. Parking is available nearby, so you can use any public parking and and walk up to the castle.

Free Entry: Available on the first Sunday of each month​.

Rolle Castle: A Stroll Through History

Visiting Rolle Castle offered a more relaxed experience. Although the interior is not accessible to the public, the open courtyard and the architecture provided a glimpse into the medieval life. The lakefront promenade nearby was delightful; the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore and the playful laughter from the nearby play areas created a cheerful atmosphere. It was a leisurely stroll with views of Lake Geneva, blending nature with history​.

Prices: Visiting Château de Rolle is generally free as the interior is not typically open to the public. However, you can explore the exterior and enjoy the beautiful surroundings at no cost.

There is public parking available near the castle.

Château de La Sarraz

Château de La Sarraz, nestled in the Swiss canton of Vaud, offers a fascinating journey through history. Dating back to the 11th century, it has witnessed numerous expansions and modifications through the 13th and 15th centuries. This castle’s unique feature is its continuous ownership by the same family throughout most of its history until it was opened to the public.

As I approached the gates of Château de La Sarraz, I could feel a palpable sense of history emanating from its ancient stones. Entering the castle, I was struck by the immediate shift from the exterior grandeur to the intimate interior. The rooms were filled with exquisite collections of furniture and artwork, carefully preserved.

One of the highlights was a guided tour about the history of the castle’s architecture and the notable figures who had passed through its halls. Outside, the castle grounds were a serene escape. The park, open to the public year-round, offered beautifully manicured gardens and a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

Yvoire Castle: The Medieval Sentinel

Across the lake in France, Yvoire Castle dominates the medieval town of Yvoire. The castle itself is private and not open to the public, so I viewed it from a distance. Despite that, Yvoire Castle presence is integral to the town’s charm and medieval character. Visitors to Yvoire can enjoy the beautifully preserved buildings and floral displays that make the town a popular day-trip destination.

Walking through Yvoire, with its cobblestone streets and quaint shops, felt like walking through a storybook village.

Bellerive Castle

Bellerive Castle is situated in the municipality of Collonge-Bellerive in the Canton of Geneva, Switzerland. It has a rich history that intertwines with the political and social developments of the region. Constructed in 1666 for Charles-Emmanuel II, the castle sparked significant local resentment that escalated into conflict between the Republic of Geneva and the Duchy of Savoy.

I walked through the meticulously landscaped gardens, as the interiors are not always open to the public. Architecturally, Bellerive Castle is a beautiful example of a château, reflecting the design and aesthetics of the period. After all, the castle has a status of a Swiss heritage site of national significance.

Which Castles in Geneva Would You Visit?

The castles around Geneva are not just relics of the past but living monuments that continue to awe and inspire. They each tell a story of power, intrigue, and artistry, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Whether you’re exploring the dungeons of Chillon or admiring the porcelain of Nyon, these castles offer a journey through history that is both educational and visually stunning.