# Essential Sion Travel Guide: What to See & Do

**Discover Sion: Medieval Castles Above the Rhône Valley**

Sion is one of Switzerland’s most distinctive small cities. Located in the heart of Valais, it combines medieval history, vineyard-covered hills, and impressive Alpine scenery. The compact old town is defined by two remarkable landmarks: the ruins of Tourbillon Castle and the fortified Basilique de Valère, which stand on neighboring hilltops above the city.

## Tourbillon Castle and Valère Basilica

### Tourbillon Castle

Built in the 13th century, Tourbillon Castle is a striking reminder of Sion’s medieval past. Its elevated position offers sweeping views across the Rhône Valley, the surrounding vineyards, and the distant mountains.

### Basilique de Valère

Opposite Tourbillon Castle, Valère Basilica dates from the 11th century. It is home to an extraordinary musical treasure: a playable pipe organ believed to have been constructed around 1435.

Together, these landmarks are among the most memorable things to see in Sion. Reaching them requires walking along uphill paths and stone steps, but the climb reveals the city from a different perspective. From above, historic rooftops, cultivated slopes, and rugged Alpine peaks create a dramatic panorama.

## Vineyards, Wine, and Valais Traditions

Sion’s identity extends beyond its medieval castles. The city reflects the traditions of Valais through its regional wine, local cuisine, and relaxed way of life, shaped by the valley’s sunny climate.

The vineyards surrounding Sion are more than a scenic backdrop. They are an important part of the city’s cultural and economic identity, connecting the landscape with local traditions.

## Why Visit Sion?

For travelers wondering what to see in Sion, the city offers a distinctive combination of heritage, landscapes, and wine. Its medieval landmarks, vineyard-covered hills, and Alpine views make it an especially rewarding destination.

Sion also provides an authentic introduction to French-speaking Switzerland without the scale or bustle of a major urban destination.

## Walk Sion with Neywo

Neywo turns Sion into a self-guided audio tour. Stories arrive as you reach the place they belong to, and the route reshapes when you wander off it.

## More in Switzerland

- [St Moritz](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/st-moritz.md)
- [Stein am Rhein](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/stein-am-rhein.md)
- [Zermatt](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/zermatt.md)
- [Zürich](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/zurich.md)
- [Appenzell](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/appenzell.md)
- [Ascona](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/ascona.md)
- [Basel](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/basel.md)
- [Bern](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/bern.md)
- [Geneva](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/geneva.md)
- [Gruyères](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/gruyeres.md)
- [Interlaken](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/interlaken.md)
- [Locarno](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/locarno.md)

## Elsewhere in Switzerland

- [Lausanne](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/vaud/lausanne.md) — Vaud
- [Montreux](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/vaud/montreux.md) — Vaud
- [Vevey](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/vaud/vevey.md) — Vaud
- [Lucerne](https://neywo.com/destinations/switzerland/lucerne.md)

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