Let's begin our journey with two of Switzerland's most famous castles - Chillon and Gruyères. Chillon Castle, picturesquely located on Lake Geneva, is a true gem of medieval architecture. Its history dates back to the 11th century, and its walls hide stories of Savoy rulers, prisoners and poets. Visitors can admire the magnificent halls, underground dungeons and impressive fortified walls. The entrance fee is around CHF 30 per adult (as of 2023), which may seem quite a hefty sum, but the views and wealth of history fully compensate for it. Note that parking in the area can be problematic, especially during the tourist season.

A little farther east is the equally fascinating Gruyères Castle, towering over the charming medieval town of the same name. This 13th-century castle offers not only a history lesson, but also unforgettable views of the Alps and surrounding pastures. The castle is famous for its perfectly preserved interiors, which allow you to travel back in time to the medieval and Renaissance eras. An additional attraction is the opportunity to taste the famous Gruyère cheese in the surrounding restaurants. The entrance ticket to the castle is slightly cheaper than Chillon, making it more affordable for families.

Comparing the two castles, Chillon offers a more elaborate structure and a richer military history, while Gruyères impresses with its picturesque location and the atmosphere of a medieval town. Both sites are well suited for family visits, offering interactive exhibitions and educational programs for children. It's worth noting that Chillon Castle is more easily accessible for those with limited mobility, while Gruyères may present some difficulties due to its hilltop location.

Moving deeper into Switzerland, it's impossible to miss two impressive mountain fortresses - Schloss Tarasp and Thun Castle. Schloss Tarasp, located in the canton of Grisons, is a monumental structure towering over the picturesque Engadine valley. This 11th-century castle, restored in the early 20th century, combines medieval architecture with modern art, making it unique in Europe. Visitors can enjoy not only the magnificent interiors and art collections, but also breathtaking views of the Alps. The castle is relatively difficult to access, which can be a challenge for families with small children, but makes up for it with an unforgettable experience.

Thun Castle, on the other hand, is located in the heart of Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Thun. This massive fortress dating back to the 12th century offers a fascinating journey through the region's history. The castle's five levels house a historical museum, where you can admire medieval artifacts and learn about the daily life of the former inhabitants. A special attraction for children is the opportunity to try on knight's helmets and shields on the top floor. The entrance fee is about CHF 10 per adult (as of 2023), making it one of the more affordable castles on our list.

Comparing the two castles, Schloss Tarasp stands out for its unique combination of medieval architecture and modern art, while Thun Castle offers a more traditional, but no less fascinating historical experience. Schloss Tarasp may be more difficult to visit with young children due to its location, while Thun Castle is more family-friendly, offering interactive elements and easier access.

It's worth noting that both castles offer differentiated experiences: Schloss Tarasp allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the Alps and modern art installations, while Thun Castle focuses more on the educational aspect of medieval history. Regardless of your choice, both places guarantee an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Switzerland's fascinating history.

At the end of our journey, we will discover three unique castles that showcase the diversity of Switzerland's medieval architecture: Vufflens Castle, Bellinzona Castles and Habsburg Castle.

Vufflens Castle, located in the canton of Vaud, is a true gem of Gothic architecture. Its distinctive 60-meter-high brick tower towers over the surrounding vineyards, creating an unforgettable view. Although the castle is privately owned and cannot be toured inside, its exterior architecture and surroundings are well worth seeing. It's the perfect place for a romantic stroll or a family picnic in the shadow of the medieval walls.

Bellinzona Castles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a complex of three fortresses towering over the town of Bellinzona in the canton of Ticino. Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro form an impressive defensive system that used to control the Alpine passes. Each of the castles offers a unique experience: Castelgrande impresses with its extensive walls and two towers, Montebello offers a fascinating archaeological museum, and Sasso Corbaro provides the best views of the valley. Admission tickets are affordable, and the ability to visit all three castles in one ticket makes it an attractive option for families.

Habsburg Castle, the cradle of the Habsburg dynasty, is a relatively small but historically important site. Located on a hilltop in the canton of Aargau, it offers a fascinating journey through the history of one of Europe's most powerful families. Tours are free, making it an excellent option for frugal travelers. Look out for interactive information stations that present the history of the castle and the Habsburg family in an accessible way.

Comparing the three locations, Vufflens Castle stands out for its architecture and picturesque surroundings, but limited accessibility may be a drawback for some tourists. Bellinzona Castles offer the most comprehensive experience, combining history, culture and beautiful views, but require more time to visit. Habsburg Castle, though the smallest, has the most historical significance and is the most affordable.

All in all, each of these seven castles offers a unique experience and allows you to see Switzerland's medieval history from different perspectives. Whether you're looking for romantic views, fascinating history or attractions for the whole family, Swiss castles are sure to meet your expectations. When planning your trip, consider the location, accessibility and offerings of each castle to create the perfect itinerary to suit your family's needs and interests.