Medieval towns around Murten

Murten, Estavayer-le-Lac and Avenches: explore charming old towns on a day trip in the Lake Murten and Estavayer-le-Lac region. Immerse yourself in the region’s heritage with guided tours, discover castles or stroll through historic streets. Extend the experience with a stay on site, with accommodation and restaurants in the heart of the old towns.

Medieval towns

The old town Murten is situated on a hill at the Murtenlake.

Town, Estavayer-le-Lac

Estavayer-le-Lac captivates with its medieval old town, castle and charming narrow streets. Between lake, nature and heritage, the town invites leisurely strolling.

Avenches, an ancient city that has become a medieval village of singular charm.

Guided tours

Guided city tours

Discover the towns of Murten, Estavayer-le-Lac and Avenches on a guided tour. Accompanied by a guide, enjoy fascinating stories at the heart of these charming towns.



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Historic landmarks
Cultural Heritage, Estavayer-le-Lac

In the heart of the medieval city, the Chenaux castle dominates Lake Neuchâtel. Built from 1284, only one of the 3 towers has survived: the current dovecote.

Cultural Heritage, Murten

The castle dates to the time of Count Peter of Savoy II who ordered its construction in 1255. Under the castle gate, dating from 1516, much rebuilding took place.

Culture and Heritage, Avenches

The amphitheatre of Aventicum, the former capital of Roman Helvetica, has a full house during its various festivals.

Cultural Heritage, Estavayer-le-Lac

Usually closed to the public, the donjon of the Chenaux castle reveals its secrets for a few months.

Cultural Heritage, Murten

The Bern Gate was first mentioned in history in 1239. It was completely destroyed during the battle against Charles the Bold. Over the years, it had to be rebuilt several times.

Cultural Heritage, Murten

The rampart walls were built in several stages and from a variety of materials such as gravel, tuff and sandstone. The lower 15 layers of stone date from before the town’s construction (12th century).

Heritage highlights
Guided city tour, Estavayer-le-Lac

Discover the rich heritage of our historic city of Estavayer-le-Lac.

Guided city tour, Murten

Murten welcomes you with an innovative touristic offer in the latest exciting ways, including the popular QR codes. To our knowledge, Murten is the first Swiss city to have extensively integrated QR codes in a tourism project.

Culture and Heritage, Avenches

This easy, accessible hike lets everyone discover the grandeur of Roman Helvetica’s ancient city of Aventicum, through its vestiges.

Guided city tour, Estavayer-le-Lac

Travel one day to the heart of the Middle Ages in Estavayer-le-Lac? Yes! families set off in the footsteps of Humbert of Savoy, known as the Bastard, thanks to a game that allows them to discover the medieval town and its rich historical past while having fun answering 10 questions.

Culture and Heritage, Avenches

Walk along and discover the history and riches of Avenches, this charming medieval town built on a hill in the 11th century!

Extend your stay and enjoy accommodation in the historic old towns of the region.



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Dining in the old town

In the "Steak n'Cheese" in the most beautiful cellar of the old town of Murten, you can enjoy regional specialities.

Restaurants, Murten

In the heart of Murten's old town we spoil you in an untwungner atmosphere. Whether for lunch, aperitif or a cosy dinner - the cheese dairy is the meeting point for connoisseurs.

Restaurants, Estavayer-le-Lac

Located at the heart of the old town, La Gerbe d'Or boasts an excellent “bistronomie” menu at the crossroads of gastronomic cuisine and refined brasserie menus, all while showcasing local products.

Il Baretto by FMR is a convivial address in the heart of Estavayer-le-Lac, where you can eat and drink at any time of day. With generous Italian cuisine, tasty daily menus and creative house cocktails, the atmosphere is both relaxed and refined.

Restaurants, Murten

The Bistrottino restaurant in the heart of the old town of Murten offers authentic Italian specialties. Fresh...

Restaurants, Murten

The new Eintracht stands for healthy and affordable meals for all: brutally local where possible, compromising where necessary, minimalist but without sacrificing quality.