Sion is a small Swiss city packed with history, charming narrow streets, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a place where exploring on foot is a joy, especially if you get a guide who can bring the city’s stories to life. Among the many ways to experience Sion, a wine tour and a city highlights walk stand out for their unique flavors and insights. These tours show different sides of Sion—one showcasing its renowned local wines and ancient Roman sites, the other revealing secret corners and local favorites through the eyes of a resident. If you’re trying to decide how to spend your time, these experiences are both engaging and memorable.
In this guide, we’ll focus on two of the best tours in Sion. First, the Sion: Sion Wine Tour combines history, culture, and wine tasting, perfect for those curious about local flavors. Second, the Sion: City Highlights Walking Tour with a Local offers a quick, lively introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks with a personal touch. Both tours give you a taste of Sion, but each caters to different interests and travel styles.
Below, we’ll explore these options in detail, highlighting what makes each tour special, who it’s best suited for, and whether it’s a good value for your money.
1. Sion: Sion Wine Tour – wine tasting and guided tour
At number one on our list, the Sion Wine Tour offers a delightful mix of history, local culture, and exceptional wine. For around $72 per person, you’ll spend about two hours exploring Sion’s old town with a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes a visit to three historic sites, including Roman baths, giving you a sense of the city’s ancient roots, while also providing a tasting of five Sion wines and a selection of Valais cold cuts. This is a great option if you enjoy learning about local traditions through food and drink.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of education and experience. Your guide shares stories about Sion’s past as you wander cobblestone streets, making history come alive. Then, at Le Verre à Pied, you’ll enjoy a 10% discount on purchases—a nice perk if you want to take a bottle home. The wine tastings are thoughtfully curated, showcasing Sion’s best offerings, and the cold cuts complement the wines perfectly. This tour is ideal for wine lovers or those seeking a relaxed way to get acquainted with Sion’s culture.
Guests on this tour rave about the friendly guide and the chance to sample local wines in a cozy setting. It offers good value considering the multiple sites visited and the tasting experience included. It’s best suited for travelers who want a bit of everything—history, local flavors, and a leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a structured, informative outing that pairs Sion’s historic sites with its best wines.
2. Sion: City Highlights Walking Tour with a Local
Coming in second, the City Highlights Walking Tour offers a lively, personalized way to see Sion in 1 to 2 hours. Starting at Pl. du Midi 40, you’ll meet a local guide who shows you the city’s most important landmarks, including the impressive Sion Cathedral, Rue du Grand-Pont, and the Basilique de Valère. This tour is all about uncovering Sion’s authentic charm through the eyes of someone who knows its secrets.
The tour is intimate, with a small group of no more than 8 travelers, allowing for a flexible and personalized experience. The guide tailors the walk to your interests, whether that’s architecture, history, or local favorites like cafes and shops. The itinerary includes sightseeing at the twin hilltop fortresses and sacred landmarks, offering a well-rounded overview of the city’s highlights. It’s a great choice for those short on time but eager to get a real feel for Sion.
The tour’s strength lies in its local perspective, with tips on where to eat, drink, and explore afterward. Since it’s hosted by an independent local, it often feels more authentic than a generic group tour. The only potential downside is that it’s a quick overview, so if you want an in-depth dive, this might be too brief.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers who want a personal, flexible introduction to Sion’s top sights and local life.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and schedule. If you love wine and want to learn about Valais’ viticulture while exploring Sion’s Roman past, the Wine Tour is your best bet. For a quick, lively introduction to the city’s landmarks with insider tips, the City Highlights Tour offers a more personal and spontaneous experience.
Think about your budget—both tours are affordable, but the wine experience offers a longer, more leisurely outing with tastings included. If you’re limited on time or prefer a flexible, informal stroll, the walking tour fits perfectly. It’s also worth considering your fitness level; both tours involve walking, but the city highlights walk is shorter and more adaptable.
Booking early is advised, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time slot. Check availability in advance, and if you’re a wine enthusiast or history buff, these tours will give you a memorable taste of Sion.
Final thoughts
Both tours capture different sides of Sion and cater to distinct interests. The Sion Wine Tour is perfect for those who enjoy local flavors and want a relaxed, educational experience paired with history. Meanwhile, the City Highlights Walking Tour is great for travelers eager for a quick, authentic look at the city’s most iconic sights with a local guide.
If you have the time, doing both makes sense—first a quick walk to get your bearings, then a wine tour to deepen your appreciation. Either way, booking early will help you secure a spot and make the most of your visit. Get ready to enjoy Sion’s stories, scenery, and flavors—these tours are sure to make your trip unforgettable.
