Chillon Castle

Where it is & how to get there

• From Geneva: About 1–1.5 hours by train to Montreux or Veytaux-Chillon.
• From Montreux: Walk 45 minutes along the lakeside promenade, or take bus 201.
• By boat: CGN steamers stop at Chillon in season.

The story of Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle stands on a small rocky island on the shore of Lake Geneva. It was the residence of the Counts of Savoy from the 12th century and controlled the road between northern Europe and Italy.

Its underground prison inspired Lord Byron's 1816 poem "The Prisoner of Chillon", and Byron's name is carved into a pillar there. Halls, towers and courtyards can all be explored.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Combine with a stroll along the Montreux promenade.
• Walk the flower-lined promenade from Montreux to the castle.
• Look for Byron's name carved in the dungeon.

What's around Chillon Castle

• MontreuxLakeside town with a promenade.
• Freddie Mercury statueOn the Montreux waterfront.
• Lavaux vineyardsUNESCO terraced vineyards.
• Rochers-de-NayeMountain above Montreux.

Questions travellers ask