Cheese, Chocolate & Castles: A Perfect Day in Gruyères

Tour La Maison du Gruyère: Learn how Switzerland’s iconic cheese is made and, if timing allows, watch the daily cheese vat output in action. You can enjoy a meal at the museum’s restaurant before or after the tour, and it’s the perfect place to stock up on cheese souvenirs to bring home to family and friends. You’ll eat plenty of gruyère cheese while in Switzerland, and there is something so fun about seeing where it is made! You do not need to book your ticket ahead of time, and this makes a perfect first stop if you arrive by train as it is right next to the station.

Wander Gruyères’ Old Town: Meander through cobblestone streets, admire storybook architecture, and take in the alpine views surrounding the village. Getting to explore the town is one of the best parts of the day. Breathing in the fresh air as you make your way, it feels magical and surreal.

Step inside Gruyères Castle: Discover the medieval fortress perched above town, offering sweeping views and a window into the region’s history. This is an absolute must-see historical site. You can book a guided tour, or explore at your leisure—either offers a great experience. The grounds are beautiful, even when the gardens are not in bloom, and the temporary exhibits inside are thoughtfully curated and always educational.

Indulge at Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory: Enjoy an interactive journey through Swiss chocolate-making, complete with generous tastings at the end. Along with the cheese museum, this is one of the sites that brings the most people to the area! It is a can’t-miss, and best to book your timed entry ticket online before you arrive to guarantee entrance. It also sits a little ways out of town, so make sure to budget for transportation time or be ready for a longer walk.

Experience the HR Giger Museum & Bar: Move through the artist’s surreal museum before unwinding with a drink in the iconic, otherworldly bar next door. The museum feels straight out of the set of “Alien” and provides a stark contrast to the rest of the town. Highly recommend trying the Alien Blood Shot if you like sweet drinks or the Face Hugger Shot if you like spicy. Also a great place to taste Swiss wines.

Immerse yourself in the Tibet Museum: Take in an impressive collection of Tibetan and Himalayan sculptures, paintings, and ritual objects. This museum is absolutely a hidden gem, and one that travelers often miss on a day trip. Walking inside feels like stepping out of a medieval village and into a spiritual oasis surrounded by beautiful stained glass windows. The museum is on the smaller side, so no need to budget more than 30 minutes or so.

La Chalet de Gruyères: If you only have time for one meal, I would absolutely recommend making a reservation at Chalet De Gruyères. The fondue is above and beyond, and the ambiance is fairytale alpine perfection.

Le Saint Georges Restaurant: Offering traditional Swiss, French, and Italian cuisine, Le Saint Georges is a wonderful option for a nicer lunch or dinner. In addition to fondue, which you will find in most places, they also have a delicious selection of pastas and pizzas.

Auberge De La Halle: Another wonderful option for the famed Gruyères raclette and fondue. A reservation is recommended. Fun fact—this is also a popular meeting place for local board meetings and assemblies.

HR Giger Bar Museum: There is nothing like the feeling of having a drink or a snack at the HR Giger Bar. You will be fully engrossed in the science fiction decor, sculptures, paintings, and film memorabilia. No matter what time you go, it will feel like you are having a drink in the middle of the night, in the best way possible.

Restaurant La Fleur de Lys, Gruyères: Offering beautiful outdoor seating, La Fleur de Lys shines in lovely weather. The restaurant is part of the Hotel de la Fleur de Lys, a boutique hotel in the town. This is a great stop for a bite during your packed day.