Trip Planner: Europe / Switzerland / Swiss Alps / Canton of Ticino / Bellinzona / Castelgrande

Castelgrande, Bellinzona

4.6

#1 of 21 in Things to do in Bellinzona

Must see · World heritage site · Castle · Tourist Spot

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Tour a World Heritage-listed medieval castle and take in views of Bellinzona and the surrounding mountains at Castelgrande. Originally built to fortify the passageway to the Alps, the castle represents the largest and the lowermost of the three fortresses in the town. Walk the grounds and tour the tunnels of the structure that are the result of the extensive building projects undertaken by the Dukes of Milan in the 15th century. Watch an informational movie and tour a small exhibit upon entrance. Climb up the two towers for views of the surrounding Swiss landscape. There is no cost to enter; come prepared for stair-climbing and some tight spaces. Plan my Bellinzona trip by asking Inspirock to come up with tips and suggestions.

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Tours to Castelgrande

FROM $308 BOOK WITH VIATOR Lugano and Bellinzona private full-day tour Lugano and Bellinzona private full-day tour

5.0

Duration: 8 hours

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FROM $275 BOOK WITH VIATOR Castles of Bellinzona Switzerland, private guided tour, from Lugano Castles of Bellinzona Switzerland, private guided tour, from Lugano

5.0

Duration: 4 hours

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Castelgrande reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

518 reviews

Google

4.6

By Michael A

This place really brought us up to snuff on the history of the area. We always wondered why Italian speaking Switzerland. The castle/fortress is really cool and the information well presented.

This place really brought us up to snuff on the history of the area. We always wondered why Italian speaking Switzerland. The castle/fortress is really cool and the information well presented. more »
By P9948GAtomh

Awesome castle to explore, DEFINITELY worth the trip from Lugano. Here is some stuff to know if you're not from Switzerland/Europe, especially any Americans like me who wasnt sure what to expect or..... more

Awesome castle to explore, DEFINITELY worth the trip from Lugano. Here is some stuff to know if you're not from Switzerland/Europe, especially any Americans like me who wasnt sure what to expect or..... more »

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Google

By Alicja

Wonderful place! Castles of Bellinzona are the best-kept late-medival fortifications in Switzerland. These amazing buildings with a defensive structure may be a part of your "by the way" tour or the one-day trip. You may walk from one castle to another or just take a bus. In case you choose to walk be prepared for a breath-taking city views. Additionally, the smallest castle is also a museum with beautiful pieces of art. I would definitely recommend this place to all - best friends, couples and families with kids.

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By Wanderers Compass Travel Blog

This is a challenge to get too and was our least favorite of the three castles in the city. Still worth the trip up but it is a work out. You will need to part in town. The restaurant at the caste is nice.

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