Castello Visconteo City Archaeological Museum

The Castello Visconteo in Locarno, Switzerland, is a Renaissance castle housing the city's archaeological museum. Its permanent collections include an archaeological exhibition tracing Locarno's history from the Bronze Age to the Roman era, including one of Europe's most important collections of Roman glass, as well as a Lapidarium and 18th-century costumes and ceramics. The castle also presents historical exhibitions on events of European relevance that shaped Locarno, such as the Locarno Pact of 1925. The building itself features 15th-century frescoes, painted coats of arms, and ancient wooden ceilings, with a tower offering views over the city.

Families and Kids

The castle offers guided tours and family activities, including a LEGO castle and a family library. Children up to 18 years enjoy free admission.

Information

  • Visit duration: 90 min
  • Barrier free: No
  • For rainy days: Yes
  • Topic: History
    • Guided tours: Yes
    • Children experience: Child friendly
    • Children age group: 6-12, 12-18
    • Children activities: Tours and demonstrations
    • Entrance fee: 15 CHF
    • Free entrance: No
    • Price range: $$

Opening hours

Open Tuesday to Sunday and on public holidays from 10:00 to 16:30; closed on Mondays. The castle is closed during the winter season from November to March.
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
10:00-16:30
Wednesday
10:00-16:30
Thursday
10:00-16:30
Friday
10:00-16:30
Saturday
10:00-16:30
Sunday
10:00-16:30

Admission fees

15 CHF
Adult admission
10 CHF
AHV/IV and groups (min. 10 people)
8 CHF
Students from 18 years (with student card)
0 CHF
Children up to 18 years and schools: free admission
10 CHF
Groups (min. 10 people)

Contact

Webpage
castellolocarno.ch
Address
Via Bartolomeo Rusca 5, 6600 Locarno

Access

Nearby stops

  • Locarno, Piazza Castello150 meters walking distance
  • Locarno S. Antonio750 meters walking distance

Travel duration

From
Travel time
Locarno
6m
Bellinzona
31m
Lugano
40m
Luzern
1h 49m
Zug
1h 52m

FAQ

  • Is the castle accessible to visitors with disabilities?
    The museum is partially accessible to people with disabilities. Visitors are asked to call in advance if possible so that the necessary assistance can be arranged.
  • When is the castle closed during the year?
    The Castello Visconteo is closed during the winter season from November to March, as well as on Mondays. It is also closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
  • Are guided tours available at the castle?
    Yes, guided tours are available on request for groups and interested visitors. Requests should be submitted at least 10 days in advance, and reservations can be made by writing to mediazione.musei@locarno.ch.
  • What can visitors see in the permanent exhibitions?
    The castle houses an archaeological exhibition covering Locarno from the Bronze Age to the Roman era, including one of Europe's most important collections of Roman glass, as well as a Lapidarium and an exhibition of 18th-century costumes and ceramics.

Included in