Château de Gruyères (Gruyères Castle) rises above the medieval town of Gruyères in Switzerland’s canton of Fribourg. It’s a fortress-turned-museum with furnished rooms, temporary exhibitions, and great views of the Pre-Alps.
Key takeaways
- As of 2026-01-31, tickets cost CHF 13 (adult), CHF 9 (senior/student), CHF 5 (ages 6–15), and free for under 6.
- Open daily year-round; hours change by season, and last entry is 45 minutes before closing.
- Same-day combined tickets are offered with nearby museums in Gruyères.
- Guided tours must be booked in advance (at least 2 days) and cost extra.
History of Gruyères Castle
Archives mention the castle as early as 1244. Built in the 13th century, it was the main home of the Counts of Gruyère and later served other rulers and residents over the centuries. Today, it operates as a museum and welcomes visitors to explore “eight centuries of history.”
What to see at the castle
Walk through historic rooms filled with furniture, objects, and art, then step outside for photo spots on the ramparts. A complete visit (including the temporary exhibition) takes about one hour.
Ticket prices and combined tickets (as of 2026-01-31)
Your ticket covers the castle, the seasonal garden, and temporary exhibitions. For the latest details, see the official ticket prices and opening hours.
| Ticket type | Price (CHF) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 13 | Standard admission |
| Senior / Student | 9 | Valid ID required |
| Group (min. 15 adult entries) | 9 | Per adult entry |
| Children 6–15 | 5 | Under 6: free |
| Family (2 adults + up to 3 children) | 29 | Children under 16 |
Same-day combined tickets (use on the same day) include:
- Castle + La Maison du Gruyère: CHF 17
- Castle + HR Giger Museum: CHF 20
- Castle + Tibet Museum: CHF 18
Free entry is also offered for some passes and partners, including the Swiss Museum Pass and Raiffeisen MemberPlus (see eligibility details).
Opening hours and last entry
The castle is open every day of the year. Seasonal hours are:
- April–October: 9:00–18:00
- November–March: 10:00–17:00
Last entry is 45 minutes before closing. If you want to take your time, arrive about one hour before closing.
Guided tours and special events
Guided tours are available for groups (often up to 20 people per guide). Options include a classic guided tour, “speedy” tour, storytelling tour, and more. For example, a standard guided tour is listed as entrance tickets + CHF 110 per guide. Details and booking options are listed on the official guided tours and activities page.
The castle also runs temporary exhibitions and hosts events through the year. Check the official program if you want to visit during a specific exhibition.
Tips for visiting Gruyères Castle
- Plan your time: allow about one hour for the full visit.
- Family note: strollers and back baby carriers are not allowed in the castle rooms.
- Photos: allowed for private use, but no flash.
- Accessibility: the interior has many stairs; wheelchair access is limited to the esplanade, courtyard, and (seasonally) part of the garden.
FAQs
What are the ticket prices for Gruyères Castle?
As of 2026-01-31, adult tickets are CHF 13, seniors/students are CHF 9, children aged 6–15 are CHF 5, and children under 6 enter free. A family ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children under 16) is CHF 29.
Is Gruyères Castle open all year?
Yes. It is open daily year-round, with seasonal hours.
How late can I enter?
Last entry is 45 minutes before closing time.
Do I need to reserve a guided tour?
Yes. Guided tours and special activities must be booked in advance (at least two days).
Can I visit with a stroller or back baby carrier?
No. Strollers and back carriers are not allowed inside the castle rooms.
Are photos allowed inside?
Yes—without flash, and for private use.
