Gruyères Castle
Rue du Château 8, Gruyères, Switzerland, 1663
One of Switzerland's most famous castles and historic sites, this medieval turreted fortress sits atop a hill at the foot of the Fribourg Pre-Alps. The chateau at Gruyères Castle houses a museum with collections showcasing eight centuries of Swiss history and art—and is a must-visit for history buffs and travelers seeking a taste of medieval charm.
The basics
Visit this fairytale chateau to journey through some of Europe’s finest stained-glass windows, landscape paintings, period furniture, and medieval tapestries. Pay admission to explore the castle, exhibits, a footpath around the museum, and the castle garden (from April to October). Combined tickets cover the chateau and area museums, including the HR Giger Museum (Musée HR Giger) and Gruyères Tibet Museum. Tours from Basel and Lausanne combine castle visits with chocolate and cheese tastings—classic Swiss experiences.
Things to know before you go
Photography without flash or tripods is permitted inside the castle.
The castle doesn’t have a café or restaurant on-site; a playground and picnic area are available near the castle.
Admission discounts are available for seniors, students, children, and groups—children under 6 enter for free.
Due to numerous staircases, access is limited for visitors with reduced mobility; people using wheelchairs can access the esplanade, courtyard, and part of the garden.
You can book guided tours at least two days before your visit.
How to get there
Gruyères Castle is north of Gruyères, roughly 1.5 hours east of Geneva by car. On public transport, Gruyères is served by the Gruyères Train Station and the Gruyères Ville bus stop, which lies near a parking lot a short walk from the château. The town of Gruyères is closed to traffic, and you’ll have to park and walk through town to reach the castle from various parking lots.
When to get there
The castle is open daily, including Christmas and New Year’s, with hours varying by season. From April to October, it typically opens earlier and closes later. Generally, it’s best to visit on clear days for optimal mountain views. The last entry is 45 minutes before closing, typically 5pm or 6pm.
Where to get Swiss Fondue in Gruyères
While in Gruyères, don't miss the chance to savor the region’s famous cheese fondue, part of quintessential Swiss mountain cuisine. The town is renowned for its Gruyère cheese, and several local restaurants offer traditional fondue experiences that pair perfectly with a castle visit. Le Chalet de Gruyères on rue du Bourg has one of the best fondues in town, while the Restaurant de La Croix-Blanche near the castle is a close second.
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