Sion

🏰 Top Attractions in Sion

– Valère Basilica (Basilique de Valère)
A Romanesque-Gothic church perched on a hill with sweeping views over Sion and the Rhône Valley. Home to one of the world’s oldest playable organs (circa 1435).
– Tourbillon Castle (Château de Tourbillon)
Ruins of a 13th-century castle set dramatically on a rocky hill opposite Valère. A scenic hike leads to panoramic views over the city and Alps.
– Old Town (Vieille Ville)
A charming medieval center filled with narrow alleys, fountains, historic buildings, cozy cafés, and lively markets.
– Sion Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Glarier)
A Gothic-style cathedral located in the heart of the old town, known for its peaceful atmosphere and historic artifacts.
– Musée d’Histoire du Valais (History Museum)
Located in the Valère complex, this museum explores the cultural and historical heritage of the Valais region.
– Les Îles Leisure Park
A beautiful recreational area with lakes, walking paths, picnic spots, and swimming — ideal for families and outdoor lovers.
– Art Museum (Musée d’Art du Valais)
Showcasing a mix of classical and contemporary art, often with a focus on Alpine and regional themes.
– Sion Wine Trail & Vineyards
Surrounded by terraced vineyards, Sion is a perfect starting point for wine tasting — especially local varieties like Petite Arvine and Cornalin.
– Underground Lake of Saint-Léonard (nearby)
The largest underground lake in Europe, located just a few minutes from Sion — guided boat tours available.
– Bisses Walks (Bisse de Clavau)
Hike along ancient irrigation canals through vineyards and cliffs — combining history, nature, and panoramic views.

✨ Sion: Alpine Heritage and Sunshine in the Heart of Valais

Sion, the capital of the canton of Valais, is a hidden gem where ancient history, mountain views, and sun-drenched vineyards meet. With its medieval castles, peaceful Old Town, and warm southern ambiance, Sion is a place to slow down and connect with the rhythm of Alpine life. This guide will take you through the town’s serene streets, natural beauty, and cultural richness—all under more than 300 days of sunshine a year.

🏰 Medieval Heights: Castles and the Old Town

Sion’s skyline is crowned by two iconic hilltop landmarks: the Castle of Tourbillon and the fortified Basilica of Valère. Climb the gentle paths to either summit and enjoy sweeping views of the Rhône Valley while exploring the town’s fascinating past. The Old Town below is a labyrinth of cobbled lanes, fountains, and centuries-old buildings that invite quiet discovery.

🌿 Vineyards, Valleys, and Natural Walks

Sion is surrounded by terraced vineyards, which produce some of Switzerland’s finest wines. Walk the Bisse de Clavau, a historic irrigation canal path that winds above the valley through vineyards and cliffs. The calm, panoramic views and local wine-tasting stops make it a perfect slow travel experience.

🎨 Museums, Music, and Local Traditions

Despite its size, Sion offers a rich cultural life. The Art Museum, the Valais History Museum, and the Museum of Nature are all located in beautifully restored buildings. Classical concerts in the Valère Basilica, featuring one of the oldest functioning organs in the world, provide moments of pure, meditative beauty.

💆 Southern Spirit and Alpine Wellness

With its sunny climate and mountain backdrop, Sion invites a relaxed and healthy lifestyle. Markets offer fresh Valaisan produce, and cafés spill out onto quiet squares. Nearby thermal baths like those in Saillon or Ovronnaz offer spa escapes just a short drive away.

🍷 Wine and Cuisine of the Valais

Sion is at the heart of Swiss wine country. Enjoy tastings of Petite Arvine, Cornalin, and other regional specialties in small cellars or at open-air festivals. The cuisine blends hearty alpine tradition with Mediterranean influences—think raclette, dried meats, and orchard fruits enjoyed at a gentle pace on a sunny terrace.

💆 Rest, Rejuvenate, and Enjoy the Moment

Whether it’s a morning coffee overlooking the water, an afternoon bike ride along the Aare, or a sunset swim in the lake, Thun invites visitors to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Many hotels offer spa services or direct lake access, enhancing the town’s sense of wellness and ease.

Sion is a place where the past lives gently in the present, and where the Alps offer not just adventure, but calm and clarity. Whether you’re walking among vineyards, listening to medieval music, or simply enjoying the light on a castle wall, Sion invites you to take your time and discover its quiet beauty.