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Porrentruy in the heart of Ajoie
Baroque buildings, historic streets and the castle define Porrentruy, the former residence of the Prince-Bishops of Basel. Museums, small cafés and unusual walking tours make this town in the Ajoie region a varied destination for a day trip.
A town full of history and culture
In Porrentruy, the past and present are closely intertwined. The castle rises above the old town, once serving as the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Basel. Down in the narrow streets, historic fountains, colourful façades and small squares shape the town's character.
Porrentruy is best explored on foot. It's worth wandering into the side streets and discovering what lies behind the façades of its old buildings. Those keen to learn more about the town will find not only traditional sights but also unusual guided tours, museums and fascinating insights into the geological history of the Jura.
Travel comfortably to Porrentruy by train. The historic old town is just a short walk from the station.
Historic streets and Baroque façades
Narrow streets, historic fountains and grand townhouses tell the story of Porrentruy's eventful past. Along the Grand-Rue in particular, many buildings dating back to the era of the Prince-Bishops have been preserved.
Notable landmarks include the Town Hall, the Jesuit Church and the former Hôtel-Dieu hospital. Between them, small shops, restaurants and cafés offer plenty of opportunities to stop and relax. Those who take their time exploring the old town will discover beautiful details on façades and doorways.
High above the rooftops
Porrentruy Castle is visible from afar. Between 1524 and 1792, it served as the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Basel. The complex was extended over several centuries and today combines medieval and Baroque architectural elements.
One of its most striking features is the medieval Réfous Tower, which rises above the castle grounds. A walk through the castle courtyard is also worthwhile for the views over the old town's rooftops and the rolling hills of the Ajoie region.
More information about Porrentruy Castle
A key to the town's hidden places
What's hidden behind Porrentruy's locked doors? The “Circuit Secret” offers a chance to find out. With a special key from the tourist office, you can access places that are normally closed to the public.
The route takes you to hidden areas of the castle, the historic water reservoir and the Hôtel-Dieu, among other locations. Along the way, light and sound installations by artist Camille Scherrer bring the town's history and the legends of the Jura to life.
More about the Circuit Secret of Porrentruy
A world of plants in the heart of Porrentruy
Just a few steps from the historic centre lies one of Switzerland's oldest botanical gardens. Alongside native plants from the Jura, you'll find numerous roses, herbs and flowers. The garden is particularly colourful in spring, when the irises are in bloom.
The greenhouses offer a variety of plant collections, from tropical species to cacti and carnivorous plants. It's a lovely place to take a break while exploring the town, even if you're not a plant enthusiast.
More information about the Botanical Garden
A world of plants in the heart of Porrentruy
Just a few steps from the historic centre lies one of Switzerland's oldest botanical gardens. Alongside native plants from the Jura, you'll find numerous roses, herbs and flowers. The garden is particularly colourful in spring, when the irises are in bloom.
The greenhouses offer a variety of plant collections, from tropical species to cacti and carnivorous plants. It's a lovely place to take a break while exploring the town, even if you're not a plant enthusiast.
More information about the Botanical Garden
Playing golf in the heart of the town
Urban Golf takes you away from traditional greens and straight into the streets of Porrentruy. A nine-hole course leads past historic buildings, through narrow streets and across squares. Instead of conventional golf holes, the aim is to hit marked targets in as few strokes as possible.
Clubs, balls and a course map are available from the tourist office. It's a different way to explore the town with friends or family.
Urban Golf Porrentruy
Discover the history of watchmaking
Watchmaking has a long tradition in Porrentruy. On a guided tour, you'll learn more about this craft and its importance to the region.
The trail starts at the sundials in the Botanical Garden and passes landmarks including Saint-Pierre Church, Porte de France and the Hôtel-Dieu Museum. Along the way, you'll encounter historic clocks, sundials and a Foucault pendulum.
The guided tour is available for groups and must be booked in advance.
More information about the Watchmaking Trail
Dinosaur footprints in the heart of Porrentruy
Around 150 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed what is now the Jura region. Their tracks were discovered during construction work in Porrentruy and can now be seen at the Dinotec site.
More than 100 fossilised footprints offer a glimpse of the animals that once walked here, including tracks left by the carnivorous Allosaurus. Life-size dinosaur models and information about the Earth's geological history complete the tour.
More information about Dinotec
Search for fossils yourself
What does it feel like to discover a fossil that's millions of years old? At the Le Banné excavation site, you can find out for yourself. Using simple palaeontological tools, visitors can search for remains of marine animals that lived in the Jurassic Sea around 152 million years ago.
An information pavilion explains the region's geological features. Fossil hunting is a particularly enjoyable addition to a visit to Porrentruy for families with children.
More information about the excavations at Le Banné
A culinary tradition in November
St Martin's Festival is one of the most important traditions in the Ajoie region. Every November, locals and visitors come together to enjoy regional dishes prepared according to traditional recipes.
Restaurant menus feature hearty meat dishes, sauerkraut and the traditional cream tart known as Totché. The festival is accompanied by markets selling regional products and various events. The celebrations continue the following weekend with the so-called “Revira”.
More information about St Martin's Festival
Regional crafts during Advent
In December, Porrentruy gets into the Advent spirit. At the Christmas market in the Hôtel des Halles, local artisans showcase their products.
Browse handmade gifts, Christmas decorations and culinary specialities at your leisure. Afterwards, why not take a stroll through the festively decorated old town?
More information about the Christmas Market
Art in the open air
At the POPA Festival, optical art takes centre stage beyond the museum walls. Artists create new murals that become permanent additions to Porrentruy's streetscape.
You can discover these works on a walk through the town's different neighbourhoods, revealing a surprisingly modern and creative side of Porrentruy.
More information about POPA
Art in the open air
At the POPA Festival, optical art takes centre stage beyond the museum walls. Artists create new murals that become permanent additions to Porrentruy's streetscape.
You can discover these works on a walk through the town's different neighbourhoods, revealing a surprisingly modern and creative side of Porrentruy.
More information about POPA
Porrentruy also has plenty to offer when it comes to food and drink. Alongside classic dishes, the restaurants and cafés in the old town serve regional specialities, including Totché, a savoury cream tart made with yeast dough, and Damassine AOP, a fruit brandy made from small red plums grown in the Ajoie region.
Marché Saint-Germain
If you enjoy trying regional specialities or want to take something home, Marché Saint-Germain is well worth a visit. The selection ranges from cheese, bread and pastries to seasonal fruit and vegetables, delicacies and handmade products. Tastings and events featuring regional produce are also held regularly.
More information about Marché Saint-Germain
Auberge d'Ajoie
Auberge d'Ajoie is a lovely place to take a short break. The café serves homemade pastries, light meals and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. An ideal stop before continuing your tour of the town.
More information about Auberge d'Ajoie
The historic centre is just a short walk from the station. Many sights, museums and restaurants are easily accessible on foot.
