14 Enchanting Castles in Switzerland That Will Leave You in Awe

Switzerland, a land of dramatic alpine landscapes, pristine lakes, and idyllic villages, is also home to some of the most enchanting castles in the world. These architectural marvels are steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, making them perfect for travel photography.

Here, we’ll cover 14 of Switzerland’s most photogenic castles. From lakeside marvels to hilltop strongholds, you can visit these castles to capture postcard-perfect shots.

The Most Beautiful Castles in Switzerland

1. Tarasp Castle

Tarasp Castle, from its hilltop location in the Lower Engadine region, overlooks the serene valley and surrounding alpine peaks. This 11th-century castle dominates the landscape with its pristine white walls and towering spires, offering the perfect backdrop for photos.

The castle is surrounded by verdant meadows during the summer and a blanket of snow in winter. Don’t forget to capture the castle’s reflection in the nearby Lai da Tarasp lake for a magical shot.

2. Chillon Castle

Arguably the most famous Swiss castle, Chillon Castle (Château de Chillon) sits elegantly on the shores of Lake Geneva near Montreux. This 12th-century gem is surrounded by the lake’s turquoise waters and framed by the majestic Alps.

Photographers flock here for the magical scene of the castle’s medieval turrets and the serene lake waters. Sunrise and sunset are especially enchanting, as the sky’s soft hues cast a warm glow over the castle. A boat ride around the lake provides a unique angle to capture the castle from a different perspective.

3. Thun Castle

Located in the picturesque town of Thun in the Bernese Oberland, Thun Castle is an eye-catching medieval structure set against the striking backdrop of the Alps. The beautiful lake and town perfectly complement this impressive 12th-century structure.

You can capture the castle and picturesque surroundings from various vantage points and distances.

4. Oberhofen Castle

Also situated on the shores of Lake Thun just a short distance from Thun Castle, Oberhofen Castle is a dreamlike lakeside beauty that seems to almost float on water. This 13th-century castle combines medieval architecture with hints of romanticism, making it one of Switzerland’s most photogenic landmarks.

The castle’s iconic lakeside turret (tower) offers a picture-perfect subject, especially when framed by lush gardens in the foreground and the turquoise lake in the background. For a unique perspective, capture the castle from one of the nearby paddle boats.

5. Aarburg Castle

Perched high on a rocky hill, Aarburg Castle dominates the town of Aarburg in the canton of Aargau. This imposing medieval military fortress dates back to the 12th century.

The castle’s location above the River Aare allows photographers to create dramatic shots. The sweeping views of Aarburg’s rooftops and the surrounding hilly landscape from the castle grounds offer further creative possibilities.

6. Vufflens Castle

Vufflens Castle, located in the Vaud region near Lake Geneva, is a fairytale-like château built in the 15th century. With its distinctive brick walls and towering round turrets, this castle is an architectural marvel.

Surrounded by vineyards and breathtaking views of the Alps, Vufflens Castle and its surroundings offer endless photo opportunities.

7. Gruyères Castle

High on a hill in the charming medieval town of Gruyères, this 13th-century castle is as iconic as the cheese it shares its name with. The castle is surrounded by storybook-like vistas of green meadows, quaint villages, and rolling hills.

Gruyères Castle offers many photo opportunities—its immaculately maintained gardens, the rustic town below, and the sweeping mountain views in the distance.

8. Munot Fortress

Towering above the Rhine River in the town of Schaffhausen, Munot Fortress is a historic landmark dating back to the 16th century. Its circular design makes it architecturally unique and highly photogenic.

Munot’s elevated position provides panoramic views of the old town, the Rhine River, and the surrounding vineyards. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly stunning conditions to capture the fortress against a colorful sky.

9. Montebello Castle

Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed castles of Bellinzona in Ticino, Montebello Castle is a striking medieval fortress, originally built in the 13th century, set amidst the lush, hilly landscape of southern Switzerland.

The castle’s sloping hills and stone walls allow for dramatic compositions, especially when shot from the nearby Castelgrande. For wide-angle shots that showcase Montebello’s grandeur, head to one of the higher viewpoints.

10. Château d’Aigle

In the vineyard-covered hills of Aigle in Vaud, Château d’Aigle is a 12th-century castle that looks straight out of a storybook. Its dramatic setting against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains makes it a must-visit.

Capture the contrast between the castle’s orange roof tiles and the lush greenery of the vineyards surrounding it. The castle is especially photogenic during harvest season when the vineyards turn golden.

11. Valère Castle

Located in the canton of Valais, high above the city of Sion, Valère Castle (also known as Valère Basilica) is an impressive medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century. Its hilltop location offers expansive views of the city and the Rhône Valley.

12. Stockalper Palace

Stockalper Palace in Brig is a striking example of baroque architecture. Built in the 17th century, its three domed towers and arched courtyards are truly unique.

Photographers will appreciate the palace’s gorgeous architecture paired with the surrounding Alpine scenery, and the nearby gardens add a lush foreground to your compositions.

13. Grandson Castle

On the shores of Lake Neuchâtel lies Grandson Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 11th century. Its reflection in the lake’s calm waters creates a mystical atmosphere perfect for photography.

14. Kyburg Castle

Perched on a forested hill in the Zurich countryside, Kyburg Castle is a well-preserved 13th-century fortress with a rich history. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing medieval life.

Kyburg Castle’s setting amidst dense foliage is ideal for capturing shots during summer or autumn when the surrounding trees explode with seasonal colors.

Step Into Switzerland’s Storybook World of Castles

From serene lakesides to majestic hilltops, Switzerland’s castles offer endless photo opportunities. Each castle tells its own story while providing a spectacular backdrop. Whether you’re drawn to their centuries-old history or simply mesmerized by their picturesque settings, these castles are bound to leave you in awe.