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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Martigny.
Martigny is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering a plethora of activities that will take your breath away.
From exploring stunning museums to hiking picturesque trails, Martigny has something to offer every kind of traveler.
Get ready to be swept away by the beauty and charm of this quaint Swiss town.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Martigny:
1. Barryland – Musée et chiens du Saint-Bernard
Barryland is a museum dedicated to the famous Saint Bernard dogs, located in Martigny, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history of the breed, their role as rescue dogs, and see live St. Bernards in the outdoor enclosure.
The museum also has interactive exhibits, a video room, and a gift shop.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the visit is the opportunity to meet and pet the friendly St. Bernards in the outdoor enclosure.
Additionally, be sure to visit the kennels to see the dogs resting after a day of work.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to arrive early, especially during peak season, as the museum can become crowded.
2. Fondation Gianadda
Art museum and cultural center located in Martigny, Switzerland.
What to see or do: View an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient to modern times. Attend concerts, lectures, and other events in the cultural center.
Admire the stunning Roman ruins located on the museum grounds.
Don’t miss: The temporary exhibits featuring renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh. The sculpture park, showcasing works by Rodin, Moore, and many others.
The annual car exhibition featuring rare and classic automobiles.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer when the outdoor concert series is in full swing. Take advantage of the audio guide available in several languages to learn more about the exhibits.
Plan to spend several hours at the museum, as there is much to see and do.
3. Les Gorges du Durnand
A natural wonder located in Martigny, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a gorge with a series of waterfalls, pools, and narrow passes that are carved into the rock.
The Gorges du Durnand provides a unique chance to get up close and personal with nature, as you walk on the precarious walkways and bridges above the river below.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the attraction is the 30-meter-high waterfall, which cascades into a large basin that visitors can stand beside or swim in during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: The walkways can be slippery and steep, so wear appropriate footwear and be careful. It is also recommended to visit in the morning or later in the day when it’s less crowded.
Additionally, the gorge is only open from May to October, so plan accordingly.
4. Roman Amphitheatre
The Roman Amphitheatre in Martigny, Switzerland, is an ancient arena built almost 2,000 years ago.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the amphitheatre and marvel at the impressive architecture that was once used to stage gladiatorial battles and other public spectacles.
The site also features an on-site museum that showcases artifacts and provides insight into the history of the arena.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to stand on the arena floor and imagine the roaring crowds of ancient times. Be sure to also check out the reconstructed stage where performers and animals once made their dramatic entrances.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and avoid the heat.
5. Pierre Gianadda Foundation
Art and cultural center located in Martigny, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visit the museum featuring exhibitions of world-renowned artists and sculptors like Rodin, Miró, and Giacometti. Explore the permanent automobile exhibition with over 50 vintage and modern cars on display.
Enjoy concerts, theater performances, and film screenings in the auditorium. Stroll through the sculpture park and gardens offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
Don’t miss: The Roman Museum showcasing the rich history of the region, including a functioning 2nd-century Roman theater and an underground archaeological site.
The Foundation also hosts a Christmas market in December, with over 50 exhibitors selling handmade crafts and local delicacies.
Insider travel tips: The restaurant on-site offers delicious Swiss cuisine and a terrace with breathtaking mountain views. The Foundation is open year-round, and tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
The town of Martigny is easily accessible by train or car and is a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including nearby ski resorts and hiking trails.
6. La Bâtiaz Castle
A medieval castle located on a hill overlooking the town of Martigny in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved towers, walls, and courtyards. The castle also houses a small museum with exhibits on local history and archaeology.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the Rhône Valley and the surrounding mountains from the top of the castle’s towers.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are steep steps and uneven surfaces throughout the castle. Visitors should also bring a jacket or sweater as it can get chilly inside the castle walls.
The castle is closed on Mondays.
7. Museum of the Earth
Museum of the Earth, a fascinating natural history museum located in Martigny, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore and discover the wonders of the natural world through the extensive permanent exhibition featuring over 1,700 specimens of minerals, rocks, fossils, and more.
Marvel at the interactive displays and multimedia installations showcasing the formation of the Earth, the evolution of life, and the geological features of the planet.
Don’t miss: The impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons and the reconstructed fossils of prehistoric mammals, including the giant mammoths, cave bears, and saber-toothed tigers.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit on a sunny day, as the museum also offers a beautiful outdoor park with a geological trail and a stunning view of the surrounding Alps.
Don’t forget to check out the temporary exhibitions and events organized throughout the year, as they often feature renowned scientists and experts in the field of geology and paleontology.
You can easily reach the museum by train or car, and there is a parking lot available on site.
8. Temple à Tête de Hérisson
Temple à Tête de Hérisson is a Roman temple ruin located in Martigny, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe the remarkable temple ruins that are over 1,800 years old. The temple was originally dedicated to the god Mercury and features an impressive masonry technique used for its construction.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to appreciate the intricate architectural details of the temple ruins such as the Corinthian columns and the intricate stonework of the podium.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as they will need to walk up a steep hill to reach the temple site.
9. Col de la Forclaz
A mountain pass situated at an altitude of 1,527 meters in the Swiss Alps.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Rhone Valley, hike on the nearby trails, and drive through the winding roads.
Don’t miss: The Col has been a hub for paragliding and hang-gliding, so don’t miss the chance to take a tandem flight or watch the colorful gliders in the sky.
Insider travel tips: The pass is open only during summers, so plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, be prepared for steep and narrow roads while driving up to the pass.
10. Art et Culture
The town of Martigny is known for its rich culture and art scene, with numerous museums and exhibitions dedicated to world-class artwork.
What to see or do: The Barryland St. Bernard Museum – Experience the history of the iconic Swiss St.
Bernard breed with interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
Don’t miss: The Collection de l’Art Brut – This unique museum houses a diverse collection of outsider art from around the world. Open your mind and discover unexpected and unconventional artwork.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months when the town comes alive with festivals and open-air concerts.
11. Martigny-Croix
A charming village located in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
What to see or do: Martigny-Croix has plenty of outdoor activities to offer, such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding in the winter months.
You can also explore the surrounding mountains on a bike or take a scenic drive through the area’s stunning natural landscapes.
Additionally, the village is home to several museums, including the Pierre Gianadda Foundation, which showcases a diverse collection of art and artifacts.
Don’t miss: Visiting the Pierre Gianadda Foundation, where you can see works by Monet, Van Gogh, and other famous artists. If you’re interested in Roman history, be sure to check out the city’s Roman amphitheater and ruins.
Insider travel tips: The village is relatively small, so it’s easy to explore on foot. If you’re traveling in the winter months, be sure to bring appropriate clothing and equipment for skiing and snowboarding.
Additionally, if you’re interested in visiting the Pierre Gianadda Foundation, consider going in the morning to avoid crowds.
12. La Cote d’Arbroz
La Cote d’Arbroz is a small mountain village located in the Swiss Alps near Martigny.
What to see or do: Visitors to La Cote d’Arbroz can enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains. The village also has a small museum dedicated to local history.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views of Mont Blanc and other nearby peaks from the mountaintop trails and viewpoints.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring proper gear for hiking or skiing, depending on the season. Check ahead for trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
And don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the friendly locals!
13. Le Châtelard VS
Le Châtelard VS is a charming alpine village located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking or skiing in the nearby mountains, as well as exploring the local museums and churches. The village also has a number of shops and restaurants to explore.
Don’t miss: One must-see attraction in the area is the Barryland St. Bernard Museum, which is dedicated to the famous St.
Bernard dogs and their history in the Alps.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try some of the local cheeses and wines during your stay in Le Châtelard VS.
Additionally, the best time to visit for skiing is typically from December to March, while hiking season runs from June to September.
14. Montagne-expériences
Montagne-expériences is an outdoor adventure company in Martigny that offers a variety of activities in the beautiful Swiss mountains.
What to see or do: Visitors can take part in various adventurous activities like hiking, rock climbing, canyoning, and glacier trekking. Montagne-expériences also offers winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Don’t miss: One should not miss the chance to see the stunning views of the Swiss Alps while taking part in any of the adventure activities offered by Montagne-expériences.
Insider travel tips: It’s essential to wear appropriate clothing and shoes depending on the activity and weather. It’s recommended to book activities in advance during peak season.
The guides are professional and experienced, making it a safe and thrilling experience for all.