Sion Travel Guide

This travel guide to Sion, Switzerland covers everything you need to know about the city's culture, history, nature, food, and more. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around.


Introduction to Sion

Located in the Valais region of Switzerland, Sion is a charming city that boasts a rich history, stunning nature, and a thriving food and drink scene. Also known as Sitten in German, the city is situated in the middle of the Rhone valley surrounded by mountains and vineyards, which makes it a popular destination for both culture and nature enthusiasts. With this comprehensive travel guide to Sion, you will discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Sion

Sion has a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top places to include in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • La Maison Supersaxo - A stunning 14th-century mansion that now houses the Tourist Office and an exhibition on the history of Sion.
  • Museum of Valais Arts - A cultural museum that displays a collection of paintings, sculptures, and crafts from the Valais region.
  • Valere Basilica and Chateau de Tourbillon - Two iconic landmarks that sit atop a hill overlooking the city. The Valere Basilica is a 12th-century church that houses the oldest playable organ in the world, while the Chateau de Tourbillon is a medieval castle.
  • Archaeological Museum and Fortress - A museum that showcases the history of Sion and the Valais region from prehistoric times to the present day, and the Fortress of Valere, which offers amazing panoramic views of the city.

Natural Attractions of Sion: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Les Bains de Saillon - A thermal spa where visitors can relax in the hot springs and enjoy wellness treatments.
  • Lake Geneva - A large freshwater lake that offers a variety of water sports, such as swimming, boating, and windsurfing.
  • Sion Vineyard Trail - A hiking trail that takes visitors through the vineyards of the Rhone valley and offers stunning views of the mountains and the city.
  • Zoo des Marécottes - A popular zoo that houses a variety of Alpine animals and offers a unique cable car experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sion

Sion offers a variety of hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the beautiful natural scenery of the region. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • The Bisse du Mont d’Orge – A stunning hiking trail that follows a historic water channel and offers breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley and the Valais Alps.
  • The Torrent-Neuf – A challenging hiking trail that follows a beautiful mountain river and leads to the Salanfe Dam and Reservoir.
  • Sion - Crans-Montana Bike Tour - A scenic bike tour that takes riders through the vineyards of the Rhone valley and up to the mountain village of Crans-Montana.

Best Things to Do in Sion: Activities and Tours

Sion offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to all interests and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in Sion:

  • Wine Tasting Tour – A tour of the local vineyards and wineries that includes wine tastings and a guide to Swiss wine-making techniques.
  • Paragliding Adventure – An adrenaline-fueled activity that allows visitors to soar above the mountains and take in breathtaking views of the Rhone valley.
  • Chocolate Tasting Tour – A tour of the local chocolate shops and factories that includes tastings and an introduction to Swiss chocolate-making methods.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sion

With so much to see and do in Sion, a week-long itinerary is the perfect way to explore the city and its surroundings. Here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Old Town of Sion and visit La Maison Supersaxo
Day 2 Visit the Valere Basilica and Chateau de Tourbillon
Day 3 Hike the Bissee du Mont d’Orge
Day 4 Take a wine tasting tour of the local vineyards
Day 5 Visit the Museum of Valais Arts and the Archaeological Museum
Day 6 Take a paragliding adventure above the Rhone valley
Day 7 Relax and unwind at Les Bains de Saillon thermal spa

Food and Drink Scene of Sion

Switzerland is famous for its cheese, chocolate, and wine, and Sion is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to sample during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Raclette and Fondue - Two Swiss cheese dishes that are served with potatoes and bread. Raclette is melted cheese served with vegetables and pickles, while fondue is melted cheese served in a communal pot and eaten with bread.
  • Tarte aux abricots - A local apricot tart that is traditionally eaten for breakfast or dessert.
  • Valaisanne platter - A meat platter that includes cured beef, ham, and sausages.

Local Beverages

  • Swiss wine - Sion is located in the heart of the Rhone Valley vineyards, which produce some of Switzerland’s best wines, including Fendant and Syrah.
  • Kirsch - A clear cherry brandy that is popular throughout Switzerland.
  • Cholera – A local savory pie that gets its name from the disease and is typically made with potatoes, leeks, apples, cheese, and cured meat.

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

Sion offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

  • Hotel Castel – A luxury hotel set in a historic castle that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
  • Les Rocailles Hotel – A cozy hotel located in a quiet neighborhood near the city center.
  • Hotel du Rhone – A budget-friendly hotel located next to the train station.

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

Sion is known for its local cheese, wines, and chocolate, which make great souvenirs to bring back home. Other great gift ideas include apricot jam, Swiss army knives, and local crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Sion

Switzerland is proud of its unique customs and traditions, and Sion is no exception. Here are some local customs to keep in mind:

  • Language - While Swiss German is the most widely spoken language in Sion, French is also spoken in the city, as it is located near the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
  • Public Transport - Swiss public transport is punctual, clean, and efficient. Make sure to purchase your ticket before boarding the train, bus, or tram, as fines for not having a ticket can be steep.
  • Tipping - Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland, but it is polite to round up the bill or leave a small tip for good service.

Best Time to Visit Sion

The best time to visit Sion depends on your interests and preferences. Summer (June to August) is the busiest season and offers the warmest weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and wine harvest festivals. Winter (December to February) offers winter sports, Christmas markets, and the famous carnival of Sion. Spring (March to May) offers blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and less crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sion

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Sion:

Do:

  • Do try the local cheese, wine, and chocolate.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.
  • Do bring a jacket or sweater even in the summer as the temperature can drop at night.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or smoke in public places.
  • Don’t be late for public transport.
  • Don’t forget to bring cash as some shops and restaurants might not accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Switzerland is generally safe, with low crime rates, good healthcare, and high hygiene standards.

Safety in Sion

Sion is safe for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take common sense safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Sion

Swiss healthcare is of a high standard, but it can be expensive. Make sure to have travel insurance before embarking on your trip. Sion also has excellent medical facilities and pharmacies, so make sure to bring any necessary medication with you.

Getting to Sion: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sion is accessible by train, bus, car, and plane. Here are some transportation options to consider when planning your trip:

Airports Near Sion

The closest airport to Sion is Geneva Airport, which is located approximately 150 km away. Zurich Airport and Basel-Mulhouse Airport are both roughly 250 km away.

Bus Stations Near Sion

Sion has a modern bus station that connects the city with other towns and cities in the Valais region. The station is located next to the train station.

Other Options

Sion is located at the confluence of two major highways, making it easy to reach by car. There are also several car rental agencies located at the airport and in the city center.

How to Get Around in Sion

Sion is a small city that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Buses and trains also run regularly, connecting the city with other towns and cities in the region.

Where to Go Next from Sion: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sion is located in the heart of the Valais region, which offers a variety of nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some of the best options:

  • Zermatt - A famous mountain resort that offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps.
  • Crans-Montana - A popular ski resort that offers a variety of winter sports and stunning mountain views.
  • Martigny - A historic town that is home to several cultural attractions, including the Gianadda Foundation, which houses a collection of modern and contemporary art.

Conclusion

Sion is a hidden gem in the Valais region of Switzerland, offering a blend of culture, history, nature, and gastronomy. With this comprehensive travel guide, you now have everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Sion. From hiking trails and wine tastings to cultural attractions and outdoor adventures, Sion has something for everyone. So why not book your trip now and discover the charm of this Swiss city for yourself?

Basilique de Valère Basilique de Valère