Martigny Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and tips for traveling in Martigny, Switzerland.


Martigny is a charming town located in Valais, Switzerland, known for its cultural richness, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, Martigny has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Martigny.

Introduction to Martigny

Martigny is a historic town located in the Rhone Valley, surrounded by picturesque mountains and stunning landscapes. It has a rich history dating back to the Roman times and is known for its cultural heritage, art museums, and historical monuments. Martigny is also a gateway to some of the best skiing and hiking areas in Switzerland. The town is easily reachable by car, train or bus, and it’s an ideal destination for a short trip or a longer stay.

List of Places to Visit in Martigny

Martigny is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions, presenting an array of places to visit that are sure to cater to every interest. Let’s take a look at some of its most popular attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Martigny has some intriguing cultural landmarks, including several museums, galleries, and historic sites.

  • Fondation Pierre Gianadda - A prominent cultural center in the town, the Fondation Pierre Gianadda houses impressive art exhibitions, classical music performances, and sculpture gardens. The museums are home to ancient Roman artifacts and permanent exhibitions of works by Renoir, Degas, and Rodin.

  • Château de la Bâtiaz - This 13th-century castle is perched on a hill overlooking Martigny and presents splendid panoramic views of Valais. It’s a great place for a hike or to relive the medieval times.

  • Gare de triage - The railway yard is one of the largest and oldest in Switzerland and presents an interesting layout of carts and locomotives.

Natural Attractions of Martigny: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Martigny is nestled amidst the Alps, presenting breathtaking views and numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions:

  • Mont-Blanc Express - A scenic train ride to Chamonix, France is a must, providing spectacular views of the mountains and the charming French alpine town.

  • Grand St. Bernard Pass - A historic pass used by travelers for centuries is perfect for hiking and trekking. It’s home to hospice and monastery, providing a glimpse into the lives of St. Bernard dogs.

  • Le Catogne - A nearby mountain, Le Catogne, presents a fantastic hike for nature enthusiasts, providing stunning views of Martigny and the surrounding areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Martigny

Martigny is a perfect base for hiking and biking in Switzerland, with some great routes nearby. Here are some popular hiking trails and biking routes to explore:

  • Le Tour des Muverans - A multi-day hiking route in the Muveran Mountains is a great way to enjoy the sights and sounds of Valais. The route offers great scenery, challenging climbs, and peaceful camping spots.

  • Bisses du Trient - A trail exploring the picturesque bisse is perfect for beginner hikers, providing an insight into the waterways of Valais.

  • Rhone Route - A popular biking route that runs along the Rhone River is an ideal way to explore Martigny and its surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Martigny: Activities and Tours

Martigny has plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy during your visit. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais - Valais is known for its excellent wines, and a visit to Martigny is incomplete without a wine tour. Enjoy a day of wine tasting, visiting different vineyards, and learning about the local specialty.

  • Freefall Parachuting - For the adventure seekers, freefall parachuting in the town provides an adrenaline-charged experience.

  • Martigny Gourmand - A food tour exploring the culinary delights of Martigny is a must-do on your visit.

Week-Long Itinerary for Martigny

A week-long itinerary for Martigny includes a perfect blend of culture and nature. Here’s our recommended itinerary for a memorable week in Martigny:

[table] Day | Activities —-|———– Day 1 | Explore the town of Martigny and visit the museums and art galleries, including the Fondation Pierre Gianadda. Day 2 | Hike up Le Catogne to enjoy the scenic views of Martigny and the Rhone Valley. Day 3 | Take a bike ride along the Rhone route, stopping at different landmarks and enjoying the scenic views. Day 4 | Visit the Château de la Bâtiaz and Grand St. Bernard Pass. Day 5 | Go wine tasting in Valais and indulge in the local specialty. Day 6 | Take a day trip to Mont-Blanc Express and explore Chamonix. Day 7 | Relax and enjoy the local cuisine and culture of Martigny.

Food and Drink Scene of Martigny

Martigny has an exciting culinary scene that reflects the local produce and flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Raclette - A Swiss specialty, melted cheese served alongside potatoes, pickled onions, and gherkins.

  • Fondue - Another Swiss specialty, melted cheese served with chunks of bread and pickled vegetables.

  • Valaisanne Platter - A local specialty that includes cured meats, dried fruits, nuts, and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Fendant - A dry white wine made from the local grape variety.

  • Walliser Trockenbeerenauslese - A sweet dessert wine made from the Valaisan grape.

Where to Stay in Martigny: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Martigny offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some recommended hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to consider:

  • Hotel White Angel - A luxury hotel located in the heart of Martigny, offering excellent amenities and impeccable service.

  • Hotel Vatel - A comfortable hotel with a modern design, located near the town center.

  • Youth Hostel Martigny Hostel - A budget-friendly hostel that offers clean and basic amenities for a comfortable stay.

  • Le Rosat Guest House - A cozy guest house located near the train station, offering excellent value for money.

What to Buy in Martigny: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Martigny is known for its excellent produce, specialty foods, local wines, and handicrafts. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  • Local Wines - Valais is known for its fantastic selection of wines, and it’s a must-buy souvenir from Martigny.

  • Swiss Chocolates - Switzerland is famous for its luscious chocolates, and it’s a perfect gift item to bring back home.

  • Local Cheese - Switzerland is famous for its cheese, and Martigny offers some fantastic selection of local cheese to buy and bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Martigny

Martigny is a town that takes pride in its cultural richness and traditions. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there are few local customs to keep in mind:

  • When greeting anyone, it’s customary to shake hands, and it’s important to address people by their titles and last names.

  • Dress codes are important in Martigny, and it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting churches and other places of worship.

  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, especially in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Martigny

Martigny can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June - September) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. The winter months (December - February) are ideal for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Martigny

When visiting Martigny, it’s important to keep in mind the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Be respectful of local traditions and customs.

  • Dress according to the occasion and the season.

  • Explore the local wine, cheese, and cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.

  • Litter in the town or natural surroundings.

  • Be noisy or disturb the peace and quiet of the locals.

Safety and Health

Martigny is a safe and healthy destination, but it’s always important to take care of yourself when traveling. Here’s some information on safety and health in Martigny:

Safety in Martigny

  • Martigny is a safe town, but it’s always advisable to take precautions against theft and other petty crimes.

  • The town is well-illuminated, and it’s safe to walk around even at night.

Health in Martigny

  • The town has excellent medical facilities and reliable emergency services.

  • It’s essential to carry adequate travel insurance that covers medical expenses and other emergencies.

Getting to Martigny: Transportation Options and Logistics

Martigny is well-connected by rail, road, and air, providing easy access to the town from different parts of Switzerland and Europe. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Martigny

  • Geneva Airport - Located at a distance of 89 km from Martigny, Geneva Airport offers excellent connectivity to different parts of the world.

  • Bern Airport - Located at a distance of 130 km from Martigny, Bern Airport is a small airport that offers limited connectivity.

Bus Stations Near Martigny

  • Martigny Gare - The main bus station in Martigny, located near the train station.

Other Options

  • Trains - Martigny has excellent rail connectivity, and the town is served by the Swiss Federal Railways, providing access to other parts of Switzerland.

How to Get Around in Martigny

Martigny is a small town that can be easily explored on foot. However, there are other transportation options to consider, depending on your preferences and budget. Here’s some information on getting around in Martigny:

  • Bus - The town has excellent bus connectivity, with frequent services to different parts of the town.

  • Train - The Swiss Federal Railways connect Martigny to other parts of Switzerland and Europe.

  • Taxi - Taxis are available in Martigny, but it’s advisable to book in advance as they are not readily available.

Where to Go Next from Martigny: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Martigny is an excellent base for exploring some of the best skiing and hiking destinations in Switzerland. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Verbier - A renowned ski resort located at a distance of 30 minutes, providing access to some of the best skiing slopes in Switzerland.

  • Chamonix, France - A charming French alpine town that can be visited via the Mont-Blanc Express.

  • Zermatt - A car-free town located at the base of Matterhorn mountain and is known for its world-class skiing and hiking destinations.

Conclusion

Martigny is a charming town that caters to a broad range of interests, from cultural and historical enthusiasts to adventure seekers and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, Martigny is sure to leave a lasting impression. Follow this comprehensive tour guide for Martigny and have a memorable trip.

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