Martigny as a family: Saint Bernard dogs, trains and museums that are actually fun
Michael Ambass
2 min read
At the crossroads of the Valais valleys, Martigny is an ideal family stop: you’ll meet Saint Bernard dogs, vintage cars, sparkling minerals and even a little train that tours the town. Here is how to put your day together.
The town is compact: most of the places mentioned can be reached on foot or with Le Baladeur, the little tourist train that loops around the sights — already an attraction in itself for children.
Barryland, the family star
You can’t visit Martigny without meeting its famous residents: Barryland tells the story of the Saint Bernard dogs, with real dogs to watch. From age 2, wonder is guaranteed — allow plenty of time, children never want to leave.
Surprisingly kid-friendly museums
- La Fondation Pierre Gianadda: art exhibitions sit alongside a car museum and a sculpture garden where children can roam freely.
- Le Musée des Sciences de la Terre: giant crystals and fluorescent minerals, perfect for budding geologists from age 4.
- Le Musée de l’Automobile: dozens of gleaming vintage cars that light up the eyes of children and grown-ups alike.
To move and to play
- Monstrofun: the indoor play park for 2 to 12 year olds, the refuge for rainy days.
- Western City: a western-themed park with shows and activities, from age 3.
- EVA Martigny: the virtual reality arena for teenagers from age 12 — the argument that persuades the older ones to come along.
- L’Épicentre: creative workshops and leisure activities for 3 to 12 year olds.
Our suggested day
Morning: Barryland at opening time, when the dogs are at their liveliest. A picnic or a break in the town centre. Afternoon: the Musée des Sciences de la Terre or the Gianadda depending on the weather and the ages, then a ride on Le Baladeur to wind down. On rainy days, Monstrofun takes over.
And if your children enjoyed the history and the old stones, keep going with our finest castles to visit as a family in French-speaking Switzerland.
Browse all the activities for children in Martigny and, more widely, our ideas in the canton of Valais, sorted by age and by season.
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