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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Sion.
Sion, a picturesque town nestled in the Swiss Alps, offers a plethora of activities to suit every taste and interest.
Whether you’re looking to chase the adrenaline rush or seeking some serene moments of contemplation, Sion has something to offer for everyone.
So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Sion:
1. Château de Tourbillon
A medieval castle situated on a hill overlooking the city of Sion in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s ramparts, towers, and interior rooms that have been restored to showcase their original splendor. The castle also houses a museum with exhibits on local history, art, and culture.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains from the castle’s towers.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are many stairs to climb to reach the castle. Also, consider visiting in the late afternoon to catch the spectacular sunset over the mountains.
2. Château de Valère
A medieval castle situated in the town of Sion in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the castle ruins, Gothic-style church, and Museum of Valère located inside the castle.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the Rhone Valley and the Alps from the castle’s terrace.
Insider travel tips: Visit the castle during the summer months when it hosts concerts and festivals. Wear comfortable shoes as the castle grounds are uneven and hilly.
Don’t forget to take a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and significance.
3. Basilique de Valère
The Basilique de Valère is a fortified church located in Sion, Switzerland. It is one of the oldest surviving churches in the country and dates back to the 11th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the Romanesque architecture and beautiful frescoes that adorn the interior of the church. The church also houses a collection of historic items including antique furniture, religious paintings, and sculptures.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Basilique de Valère is the view from the top. Visitors can climb the tower and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
4. Musée d’histoire du Valais
A history museum located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland.
What to see or do: The museum takes visitors on a journey through the history and culture of Valais, from the Stone Age to the present day.
Exhibits include archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, historical documents, and religious objects. Visitors can also learn about the famous St.
Bernard dogs, which were bred in Valais and used as rescue dogs in the Alps.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the display of the famous Deschwanden collection, a collection of more than 4,000 objects representing the traditional culture and everyday life of Valais.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions and events. The museum is closed on Mondays, and admission is free on the first Sunday of each month.
Visitors can purchase a combination ticket that includes admission to other museums in Sion, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Nature.
5. Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Glarier
A stunning 15th-century Gothic cathedral in the historic city center of Sion, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, including the famous “Rose Window.
” Attend a church service or concert, or take a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s history and significance.
Don’t miss: The unique bell tower, which is separate from the main building and accessible by a narrow stone stairway. The view from the top is breathtaking and provides an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding Alps.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos. Dress modestly out of respect for the religious setting.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming old town of Sion and a visit to the nearby castle.
6. Grande Dixence Dam
Grande Dixence Dam is a concrete gravity dam located in Sion, Switzerland. It is one of the tallest and most impressive dams in the world, standing at a height of 285 meters.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour to the top of the dam, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and the nearby Lac des Dix.
The tour also includes a visit to the underground power plant, where visitors can learn about the technology used to harness the power of the water.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to walk across the dam’s impressive crest and take in the stunning views of the amphitheater-shaped valley below.
Insider travel tips: – Book your guided tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly during peak season.
7. Les Bains de Saillon
Thermal Bath and Spa Center located in the town of Saillon, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Relax in the outdoor and indoor thermal pools, take a dip in the Hammam, sauna or steam room, schedule a massage or treatment, or enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant.
Don’t miss: The outdoor hot tubs that overlook the Swiss Alps and the Rhone Valley.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for fewer crowds and lower prices. Bring your own towels to save money on rentals.
For an extra dose of relaxation, stay at the onsite hotel.
8. Le musée de la nature à Sion
The Museum of Nature in Sion is dedicated to the natural heritage of the Valais region in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the extensive collections of botanical, mineralogical, geological, and paleontological specimens from the area.
The exhibits include detailed displays of fossils, including a life-size replica of a stegosaurus, interactive exhibits on the glaciers and Alpine geology, and a comprehensive exhibit on the flora and fauna of the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the interactive displays on the area’s glaciers and the extensive mineral and gemstone collection.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should take advantage of the audio guide, available in multiple languages, to enhance their visit. The museum also offers regular workshops, guided tours, and special exhibits throughout the year.
Plan ahead and check the museum’s website for upcoming special events.
9. Le Musée de la Vigne et du Vin
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of wine in the Valais region of Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the process of winemaking, admire a collection of wine presses and tools, and view a restored wine cellar.
The museum also features temporary exhibitions related to wine and hosts tastings.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of historic wine bottles, some dating back to the 18th century.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the museum’s location in the heart of the Valais wine region and explore nearby vineyards and wineries. Check the museum’s website for information on special events and tastings.
10. Musée des Beaux-Arts
The Musée des Beaux-Arts is an art museum located in the charming Swiss town of Sion.
What to see or do: The museum features a fantastic collection of Swiss art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as temporary exhibitions that showcase both local and international contemporary artists.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the museum’s permanent collection, which includes works by famous Swiss artists such as Albert Anker, Eugène Burnand, and Ferdinand Hodler.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
11. La Chapelle de Notre-Dame des Douleurs
La Chapelle de Notre-Dame des Douleurs is a small, yet beautiful chapel located in the heart of Sion, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Baroque architecture and intricate designs of the chapel’s interior. The stained glass windows, painted ceiling, and ornate altar are some of the highlights.
Don’t miss: One of the most unique features of this chapel is the Holy Stairs, which are replicas of the steps that Jesus is believed to have climbed during his trial.
Visitors can climb these stairs on their knees, as a form of penance and devotion.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to visit the chapel, be sure to check the opening hours beforehand, as they can vary depending on the day of the week.
Also, entry is free, but donations are appreciated to support the upkeep of the chapel.
Finally, while climbing the Holy Stairs can be a moving experience, it’s important to pace yourself and listen to your body to avoid injury.
12. Chemin des vignobles
Chemin des vignobles (Vineyard Path) is a picturesque trail that winds through the vineyards near the town of Sion in Switzerland.
What to see or do: The trail is a great way to experience the stunning scenery and learn about the history of wine production in the region.
The path is well-marked and easy to follow, with numerous opportunities to stop and admire the views, take photos, and even sample some of the local wines.
Don’t miss: Make sure to stop at some of the local wineries along the way to try the Valais wines, which are renowned throughout Switzerland.
Keep an eye out for the numerous historical landmarks along the trail, including ancient churches, castles, and watchtowers.
Insider travel tips: Bring along a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots along the route. The trail is relatively easy to walk, but wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
Consider visiting during the fall to see the colorful vineyards at their most beautiful.
13. Mont d’Orge Cave
Mont d’Orge Cave is a natural cave located in Sion, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful underground world of the cave, admire the stunning rock formations and learn about the geology of the area on a guided tour.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of the valley from the cave entrance, and the chance to sample some of the delicious regional cheeses that are aged inside the cave.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for navigating uneven terrain and cooler temperatures inside the cave. Guided tours are available in several different languages.
14. Labyrinthe Aventure
A giant outdoor maze park spread over 15,000 square meters in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Get lost in the nine different mazes that are designed to challenge visitors of all ages. Each maze has a unique theme, including a labyrinth with a medieval castle and another with a time-traveling theme.
There is also an area for children with mazes designed specifically for their age group.
Don’t miss: The giant treehouse in the center of the park offers a great view of the entire maze, and the giant slide that will have you zipping through the trees and back to the ground in seconds.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring sunscreen and water. The park is located on a hill and can get quite hot in the summer months.
Plan to spend at least a few hours here to really explore all of the mazes. Keep an eye out for hidden surprises in each maze, such as secret pathways and hidden rooms.