Nyon
A historic 12th-century castle on Lake Geneva, offering museum exhibits and spectacular Alpine views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Nyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 12th-century castle on Lake Geneva, offering museum exhibits and spectacular Alpine views.
"Fabulous views and worth visiting!"
🎯 Train to Nyon is Easy
Take the train from Geneva Cornavin to Nyon in just 15 minutes!
🏰 Castle Views are Amazing
Enjoy fabulous views of the city, lake, and Alps from the castle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nyon Castle
City of Nyon
Explore this 12th-century fortress, now a museum showcasing armor, paintings, and porcelain. Offers stunning lake and mountain views.
Lake Geneva Promenade
Lakeside
A picturesque walk offering breathtaking views of the lake and the French Alps. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Old Town Charm
Below the Castle
Wander through the charming streets of Nyon's old town, with its gardens and historic architecture.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Nyon
Getting to Nyon Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Train to Nyon is Easy
Take the train from Geneva Cornavin to Nyon in just 15 minutes!
🏰 Castle Views are Amazing
Enjoy fabulous views of the city, lake, and Alps from the castle.
🚶♀️ Walk the Promenade
A lovely walk in the gardens and surrounding area below the castle.
🅿️ Parking Can Be Pricey
Convenient parking is available underneath the castle, but it is expensive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Train to Nyon is Easy
Take the train from Geneva Cornavin to Nyon in just 15 minutes!
🏰 Castle Views are Amazing
Enjoy fabulous views of the city, lake, and Alps from the castle.
🚶♀️ Walk the Promenade
A lovely walk in the gardens and surrounding area below the castle.
🅿️ Parking Can Be Pricey
Convenient parking is available underneath the castle, but it is expensive.
♿️ Accessibility Note
The last steps up to the castle can be steep; consider mobility issues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Nyon Castle for its historical significance, well-maintained exhibits, and particularly its breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. The charming old town and lakeside promenade are also highlighted as enjoyable aspects of a visit. Some note that parking can be expensive and the final ascent to the castle may be steep for those with mobility issues.
"Small but very interesting land mark, well maintained, amazing views on the Alps of Savoy and when clear sky views on the Mont Blanc just in a straight line in front, from the popular esplanade of the castle. Just below the castle is the old town, a few gardens and a promenade."
Trixi
"We continued our historical odyssey of castles in the canton of Vaud, today visiting the Château de Nyon this second Saturday of March 2025. This magnificently restored castle dates back to around 1300 with a considerable fortification in the 16th century and taken over by the city of Nyon in the late 18 hundreds. Interestingly, the local prison was still operational on the top floor of the castle till 1979. After this the whole building has been converted into a historical and porcelain museum, reflecting on the importance of the city of Nyon. Our visit coincided with the international women's day and just now the museum features a special exhibition on women from Nyon and the surrounding region that have uniquely stood out over the centuries. Interestingly, there is only one of these women that has been considered worthy of giving her name to a street in town, at least in 1940. What a shame!!"
Sebastian Reiz
"A lovely castle where you can sit and enjoy the view. Bring your own drink or from one of the places nearby.
Convenient but expensive parking underneath. The most beautiful elevator when you go up to the castle. Well worth it. A bit steep on the last steps going up so can be a bit difficult if you have mobility issues."
UnDiplomatic Wife
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nyon is easily reachable by train from Geneva Cornavin station, with journeys taking approximately 15 minutes.
This makes it a very convenient destination for a day trip from Geneva. The train station in Nyon is within walking distance of the castle and the lakefront.Yes, Nyon is very well-connected by public transport. The train line NStCM (Nyon-Saint-Cergue-Morez) serves the region, and there are also bus services.
Nyon is a compact town, and most attractions, including the castle and the lakefront, are easily accessible on foot. The walk from the train station to the castle is scenic and pleasant.
Nyon hosts various events, including the popular Paleo Festival, one of Switzerland's largest music festivals.
It's worth checking the local tourism website for event schedules.Absolutely! Nyon is an ideal destination for a day trip from Geneva due to its short travel time and concentrated attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee to enter Nyon Castle, which houses a museum. It's advisable to check the official website for current ticket prices and opening hours.
Opening hours for Nyon Castle can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Nyon tourism website or the castle's dedicated page for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
No, the lake promenade and the gardens around Nyon Castle are free to access and enjoy.
Information on discounts, such as for students, seniors, or groups, is typically available on the official Nyon Castle website. It's always a good idea to inquire directly if you think you might qualify.
While the primary draw of visiting the castle is to explore the museum exhibits, you can still enjoy the exterior architecture and the surrounding esplanade with its views without purchasing a museum ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Nyon Castle, you'll find exhibits on the region's history, including armor, paintings, and porcelain. There are also special exhibitions, such as one on notable women from Nyon's history.
The castle offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the French Alps, including Mont Blanc on clear days.
The castle itself has some steep steps, particularly on the final ascent, which might pose a challenge for those with mobility issues.
However, the promenade and gardens below are more accessible.Reviews mention a 'most beautiful elevator' when going up to the castle, suggesting it's a unique or aesthetically pleasing feature of the access to the castle grounds.
Information on guided tours is usually available through the official Nyon tourism website or directly at the castle. These tours can offer deeper insights into the castle's history and exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Nyon offers a variety of dining options. For pizza, Luigia is a recommended spot.
The town has restaurants catering to different cuisines and budgets.You can find a range of cuisines in Nyon, from traditional Swiss dishes to international options. The town has restaurants serving pizza, and likely other European and global flavors.
There are dining establishments in the old town below the castle and along the lakefront, offering convenient options after your visit.
While there might not be specific picnic areas within the castle itself, the promenade and gardens offer lovely spots to enjoy food you've brought.
While not explicitly mentioned, being in the Vaud region, you might find local specialties like cheese dishes or regional wines. Exploring local bistros is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The esplanade of Nyon Castle offers incredible photo opportunities with views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
The lake promenade and the charming old town streets are also highly photogenic.Yes, Nyon Castle provides a picturesque backdrop for photography, especially with the lake and mountains in the background.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting for photography in Nyon, enhancing the views of the lake and castle.
Photography rules inside museums can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff at Nyon Castle about their policy on interior photography.
The combination of the historic castle, the expansive lake, and the distant mountain ranges creates unique photographic compositions. The 'most beautiful elevator' could also be an interesting shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the castle itself has some steep steps, the overall experience is manageable for most families. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as enjoying them on the promenade is a pleasant option. The easy train access from Geneva makes it a stress-free day trip for families looking for a mix of history, scenery, and outdoor activity.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there's an admission fee for Nyon Castle's museum, the exterior views and the surrounding grounds are accessible and offer a great taste of the location. Bringing your own food and drinks to enjoy on the promenade can significantly cut down on dining costs. Look for local bakeries or supermarkets for affordable picnic supplies.
couples
Consider visiting during the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light, which enhances the beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Afterwards, explore the intimate streets of the old town and find a cozy restaurant for a delightful dinner, perhaps trying a local Vaudois specialty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Nyon Castle: History and Exhibits
The castle's strategic location on the southern shore of Lake Geneva provides not only historical significance but also breathtaking vistas. Visitors often remark on the stunning views of the lake and the French Alps, making it a visually rewarding experience. The esplanade below the castle is a popular spot for enjoying these panoramic scenes, especially on clear days when Mont Blanc is visible.
While the castle itself is a historical marvel, the journey to it and the surrounding areas are also part of the experience. The 'most beautiful elevator' mentioned by visitors adds a touch of novelty to the ascent. The old town, with its gardens and promenade, offers a charming contrast to the castle's imposing structure, inviting further exploration.
Nyon's Lakeside Charm and Old Town
Below the imposing Nyon Castle lies the charming old town. Its narrow streets, historic architecture, and small squares invite visitors to wander and discover its hidden gems. The old town provides a more intimate glimpse into Nyon's past and present, with local shops and cafes adding to its character.
For those looking to combine history with culinary experiences, Nyon offers a range of dining options. From pizzerias like Luigia to other local eateries, you can find something to suit your taste after exploring the castle and the lakeside. The town's accessibility by train from Geneva also makes it an easy and rewarding destination for a day trip, allowing ample time to soak in its unique atmosphere.
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