Swiss Museum of Games, La Tour-de-Peilz

A castle by the lake entirely dedicated to play

Located in the castle of La Tour-de-Peilz, with its feet almost in Lake Geneva, the Swiss Museum of Games is a unique place in Switzerland. Here, games are not just displayed behind a glass case: they are told, understood, and, above all, practiced. From board games to skill games to games from around the world, the collection traces the entire history of play through the ages and cultures. The setting, between old stones and a view of the water, adds real magic to the visit. It's an outing that appeals to both young and old.

What your children will discover

Your children will travel through time and around the globe through hundreds of games. They will discover how people used to play, what certain mysterious objects were for, and how games reflect the societies that invented them. From precious chess games to ancient card games, from marbles to mechanical toys, each room holds a surprise. The museum also emphasizes games from around the world, a great opportunity to open children's eyes to other cultures.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The great advantage of the place is that you can play. Many games are available to try on site, with family or between siblings. You settle in, read the rules, start a game: the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, far from the museum where you have to whisper. The park around the castle also invites you to take a break by the lake after the visit. Plan for some time, as once they start, children rarely want to leave.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 4 years old, up to adolescence
• Duration: count on 1.5 to 2 hours, or more if your children play a lot
• Price: adult 15 CHF, child from 6 to 16 years 9 CHF, free up to 5 years; reduced rate 9 CHF (students, AVS/AI)
• Stroller accessibility: yes, the museum is accessible with an elevator
• Transport: in La Tour-de-Peilz, accessible by train (CFF station) then on foot or by bus; check the official website for the exact route
• To plan: time to play, and something to extend with a walk by the lake
• Ideal season: all year round, as the museum is indoors

Parents' tips

• During the Vaud school holidays, the museum is open 7 days a week: convenient for a rainy day
• Really give your children time to try the games: that's the whole point of the place
• Enjoy the park and the shores of the lake right next door for a break or a picnic
• The Les Remparts parking lot in the city is very helpful if you come by car
• Accessible parking spaces for people with reduced mobility are located in front of the main entrance, Rue du Château

Useful information

• Address: Rue du Château 11, 1814 La Tour-de-Peilz
• Official website: https://museedujeu.ch
• Hours: Tuesday to Friday 11am-5:30pm; Saturday and Sunday 10am-6pm; open 7 days a week during Vaud school holidays; hours to be confirmed on the official website
• Access: CFF station of La Tour-de-Peilz nearby; parking in the city (Les Remparts)

Why we recommend it

Because it's a museum where you don't just look: you play. For a family, it's the promise of a shared, playful, and educational moment, in a beautiful setting by Lake Geneva. Children learn without realizing it, and parents often rediscover games from their own childhood. A sure bet on the Vaud Riviera, in good weather as well as on gray days.

In two words

A real castle, hundreds of games to test with family, and the lake right next door: a clever outing where you learn while having fun, all year round.