Perched on the banks of Lake Geneva, Nyon is a picturesque town dating back to the Middle Ages. Today, it’s a haven for holidaymakers in search of summer sunshine, as the medieval Old Town is incredibly atmospheric, surrounded by elegant castles and chateaus. History buffs will swoon over Roman monuments and WWII relics, while nearby vineyards and a pleasant marina offer plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation.

Things to do

With its whitewashed turrets, Nyon Castle looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairytale. It anchors the Old Town and has a fascinating local history museum in the basement. Nearby Prangins Castle is another highlight, housing a section of the Swiss National Museum.

Steep staircases and walkways lead from the Old Town to the lakefront and marina. The quays and promenades are the perfect places for a sunset stroll, stopping at cafes, galleries and waterfront restaurants along the way.

Nyon sits halfway between Geneva and Lausanne and is surrounded by the La Côte winemaking region. For wine lovers, touring the vineyards and cellar doors along the Route du Vignoble is a must.

Settled since the 13th century, Nyon is dotted with excavation and archaeological sites. Some of the best finds are now on display at the Roman Museum. Another highlight is the 10-kilometre-long Toblerone Line, built to defend the city during WWII, named after the famous chocolate bar.

Getting around

Nyon is tiny, which means the best way to explore the city is on foot. The town is a short 20-minute drive from Geneva Airport, with plenty of taxis available. Almost all trains travelling between Geneva and Lausanne stop in Nyon. Passenger ferries and cruise boats also call at the port, which can get busy on weekends.