Discover the Majestic Bellinzona Castles: A Family Travel Guide

Nestled just north of the Italian border in the breathtaking Swiss landscape, lies the charming town of Bellinzona. Renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture, Bellinzona’s crown jewels are undoubtedly its three magnificent castles. These fortresses, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer an incredible journey through time and are an ideal destination for families seeking adventure and cultural enrichment.

Bellinzona Castles Family Travel — The impressive Bellinzona Castles stand as a testament to history.

If you, like many others, are fascinated by the grandeur of European castles, Bellinzona will undoubtedly capture your heart. Its unique offering of three castles in close proximity makes it a truly special destination. Planning a trip to Switzerland with kids? The Bellinzona Castles should be at the top of your list.

During our summer family road trip, perfectly situated between Zurich, Switzerland, and Lake Como, Italy, we discovered the captivating allure of Bellinzona and its three castles. This strategic location made it an unmissable stop on our journey.

Ticino, Switzerland: A Region of Natural Beauty and History

Bellinzona Switzerland Town View — The picturesque town of Bellinzona, Switzerland.

The Ticino region, located in southern Switzerland, boasts some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. From the serene shores of Locarno to the vibrant city of Lugano, Ticino offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Bellinzona, with its historical significance and strategic position, stands as a gateway to both the Alps and Italy.

Historically, Bellinzona was considered “the key to the Alps” from the south and “the key to Italy” from the north, highlighting its importance as a strategic crossroads. This significance led the Dukes of Milan to construct a series of fortresses in the 15th century, effectively guarding the city.

The Three Castles of Bellinzona: A Historical Marvel

Two of the Three Castles of Bellinzona — A view showcasing two of the impressive Bellinzona Castles.

The three castles of Bellinzona, each unique in its architecture and history, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.

Castlegrande: The largest and most accessible, situated closest to the city center.
Montebello: Located in the middle, rising 90 meters above Castlegrande.
Sasso Corbaro: The highest castle, towering 230 meters above the town, offering panoramic views.

Planning Your Visit to Bellinzona Castles: Essential Tips

To make the most of your visit to the Bellinzona Castles, consider these helpful tips:

Tip #1: Prepare for Parking and Walking

Bellinzona Switzerland Town Square — The charming town square of Bellinzona, Switzerland.

Reaching Castlegrande, the first castle, requires parking near Piazza Collegiata or Piazza Nosetto. From there, you’ll notice Castlegrande majestically rising about 50 meters above the city. The route to the castle is well-marked, even without a map. Simply head towards it!

The paths leading to Castlegrande are characterized by narrow, steep, cobblestone stairs. Follow the signs and arrows pointing towards the castle, and prepare for a bit of a climb. Trust us, the effort is well worth the reward!

Tip #2: Wear Comfortable Shoes for Exploring

Walking up to the Bellinzona Castles — Navigating the steps leading to the Bellinzona Castles.

Given the numerous steps involved in reaching Castlegrande, comfortable shoes are essential. The cobblestone steps, while charming, can be uneven and require sturdy footwear. While we managed in flip-flops, sneakers are recommended for optimal comfort and safety.

Upon reaching the main level of Castlegrande, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding valley and the other two castles. Castlegrande itself boasts various sections, including a beautiful courtyard adorned with modern sculptures that complement the historic structure.

Tip #3: Indulge in a Meal at the Castlegrande Restaurant

Blueberry Risotto at Bellinzona Castlegrande — A delectable blueberry risotto enjoyed at the Castlegrande restaurant.

Within Castlegrande, you’ll find a museum and a delightful restaurant. The restaurant provides a perfect spot to relax and refuel after exploring the castle grounds. The outdoor seating area, partially covered by a grapevine-laden pergola, creates a charming ambiance.

We highly recommend stopping for a glass of wine (for the adults) and milk (for the kids) while soaking in the breathtaking views. The menu, featuring Italian and German options, includes a variety of entrees, snacks, desserts, and beverages. Don’t miss the surprisingly delicious risotto with mushrooms and blueberries!

Tip #4: Ascend to the Top of the Towers for Panoramic Views

Bellinzona Castles Tower Walls — The impressive tower walls of the Bellinzona Castles.

For an even more spectacular view, ascend to the top of one of the towers. Modern stairwells make the climb accessible, leading you to panoramic vistas of the city below.

The connecting walkways can be narrow, so those with a fear of heights or very young children may want to skip this part. However, for many, this experience is a highlight of their visit.

Tip #5: Explore the Underground Tunnel for an Adventurous Experience

Underground Tunnel at Bellinzona Castlegrande — The intriguing underground tunnel at Bellinzona Castlegrande.

Be sure to thoroughly explore the vast grounds of Castlegrande. On the southwestern side, past the expansive green lawns, lies the entrance to an underground tunnel. Although unmarked, the tunnel is visible from a distance, inviting exploration.

The tunnel offers an authentic and exciting experience. Dimly lit with small openings along the top, it features cobwebs, uneven dirt ground, and a length that creates a sense of adventure. This was a favorite part of our trip!

It was an amazing experience!

Bellinzona Castles Above Tunnel — The view of the Bellinzona Castles from above the underground tunnel.

Exiting the tunnel reveals the extent of your underground journey. Looking back at the towers from the lush green lawn above the tunnel is a truly magical moment. We all thoroughly enjoyed this part of our visit.

Due to time constraints, we were only able to visit Castlegrande. We spent approximately two hours in Bellinzona before continuing our journey towards Zurich. If you have a full day, we highly recommend exploring at least one of the other two castles. Each castle possesses a unique character, making it a rewarding experience to compare them.

Castlegrande Bellinzona Switzerland — Castlegrande, one of the three magnificent castles of Bellinzona, Switzerland.

The castles of Bellinzona, Switzerland, are open year-round. We encourage you to check the official website for updated restaurant and museum hours. We also recommend planning your visit on a warm, sunny day to fully enjoy the outdoor experience. Among the castles we’ve visited in Switzerland, Bellinzona is undoubtedly a favorite!

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