Things To Do
in Sion
Sion is a historic city in the Rhône Valley of Valais, where ancient towers rise over cobbled streets. The twin hilltop fortresses of Valère and Tourbillon dominate the skyline, offering panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards and the Alps. The city is a gateway to some of Switzerland's best vineyards, thermal springs, and Alpine trails.
With a compact, walkable center and easy access to nearby ski resorts, Sion blends old-world charm with outdoor adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sion and check into your cozy accommodations nestled in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, where medieval architecture meets stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy a fresh Swiss breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and roasted coffee.
Visit the impressive Valère Basilica, perched atop a hill, and marvel at its ancient pomp and stunning views of the surrounding Alpine scenery. Explore the local shops for unique souvenirs, including Swiss chocolates and handicrafts. Enjoy a traditional Swiss lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample fondue or raclette.
As the sun sets, savor a lovely dinner at a restaurant offering locally sourced dishes, accompanied by fine Swiss wines. Take a nighttime walk through the Illuminated streets, admiring Sion’s beautiful castles and vibrant atmosphere. Wind down your night at a cozy bar, enjoying a sweet Swiss dessert with a nightcap.
Begin the day with a visit to the Museum of History, diving deep into Sion's rich cultural heritage through engaging exhibits. Enjoy a guided tour that reveals hidden stories of the region, enriching your understanding of its traditions. After the museum, savor breakfast at a nearby bakery, sampling their famous Swiss pastries.
Stroll through the Park of Loughborough, soaking in the tranquility of its beautiful gardens and scenic paths. Later, visit the nearby Château de Tourbillon, experiencing breathtaking views and learning about its historical significance. Refuel with lunch at an outdoor café, enjoying the ambiance and fresh mountain air.
Enjoy an evening of Swiss music and folk dance at a local cultural event or community gathering happening that night. Taste the flavors of Sion by dining at a restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine and local wines. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk back to your accommodation, planning for the adventures that lie ahead.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-230 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
| 🛒Grocery trip for a day | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic center with hilltop forts
- Fantastic wine and vineyard scenery nearby
- Efficient public transport and strong safety
- Great base for alpine day trips
- Expensive dining and lodging
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for mobility
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais ceci" - I would like this
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Sion
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic hilltop fortress with sweeping views over Sion and the vineyard valley.
Romantic ruins perched above the town, especially stunning at sunset.
Colorful façades, arcades and lively daily life for street photography.
Golden light along the river with terrace vineyards framing the town.
Food in Sion
Sion Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Melted local cheese served with potatoes, pickles and onions.
Must-Try!
Cheese fondue made with Valais cheeses, ideal for sharing with companions.
Crisp potato pancake, often topped with onions, cheese, or eggs.
Air-dried beef sliced thinly and enjoyed with bread or cheese.
Valais white and red wines commonly paired with meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering cheeses, breads, fruits and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In French-speaking Sion, say Bonjour and a smile; handshake is common in business.
Being on time is valued in professional and social settings.
When tasting, take small sips, listen to guides, and avoid rushing the other tasters.
Safety
Tipping in Sion
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; rounding up or tipping 5-10% is appreciated if service is good.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still used in smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days ideal for hiking and lake visits; thunderstorms can roll through in the afternoons.
Harvest season; vineyard tours and wine tastings; cooler evenings.
Snowy peaks nearby; ski resorts like Crans-Montana are accessible; cold but sunny days.
Mild temps; blossoms in the vineyards; occasional rain.
Sion at Night
Hiking in Sion
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic irrigation canal path with vineyard scenery and valley views; easy to moderate.
A classic alpine ridge hike offering dramatic summit views; moderate to challenging.
Val d’Anniviers area with high alpine lakes and glacier views; longer trek.
Gentle, scenic walks along the river through the Valais wine region.
Airports
How to reach Sion by plane.
Small regional airport with limited services; convenient for domestic flights and access to the valley.
Major international hub about 2-3 hours by train or car from Sion; good for international connections.
Switzerland's largest airport; wider flight options, longer transfer to Sion.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in Sion; strong cultural ties to the wine region.
A mix of visitors from Switzerland and abroad attracted to the Alps and vineyards.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Valais is renowned for its ski areas; Crans-Montana offers extensive runs and scenery.
Abundant alpine trails and vineyard walks in the Rhone valley.
Road cycling along the valley and mountain biking on nearby hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sion.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus include vegetarian options; ask for cheese-based dishes and seasonal vegetables.