Travelers seeking something a little different in Switzerland’s Jura region will find the Circuit Secret Porrentruy offers a playful, intriguing look at the town’s lesser-known sights. This 2.5-hour experience is packed with visits to unusual sites, historic stories illuminated by light and sound, and a chance to uncover secret spots that most visitors overlook.
What makes this tour stand out? It’s the combination of interactive storytelling, authentic local history, and the opportunity to access some of Porrentruy’s more hidden corners. Whether you’re traveling with family, history buffs, or curious explorers, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.
One thing to consider is that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so if you or your group have mobility needs, it’s worth planning ahead. This experience suits those who love discovering local secrets in an engaging, relaxed setting and are comfortable with small-group adventures.
This experience made our article of The 3 Best Tours & Experiences In Porrentruy.
Key Points
- Unique secret spots: Discover 11 unusual places in Porrentruy, including the old castle prison and mythic sites.
- Light and sound magic: Historic events are brought to life through captivating visual effects.
- Historical insights: Learn about figures like Pierre Péquignat and local legends such as the wyvern.
- Family-friendly: The tour’s playful storytelling makes it perfect for families with children.
- Value for money: At only $15, the experience includes access to additional local museums.
- Flexible booking: Free cancellation and pay later options make planning easy.
What You Can Expect from the Circuit Secret Porrentruy
The tour kicks off at the Jura Tourisme reception desk in Porrentruy, where you’ll pick up a special badge that grants access to secret locations and sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The badge also entitles you to two-for-one entry to the Museum de l’Hôtel-Dieu, enhancing the value of your visit.
Throughout the 2.5 hours, you’ll be guided (or explore on your own if you prefer) around 11 hidden spots, each with its own story or mystery. Some locations are traditional, like the old castle prison, where visitors often imagine the echoes of past prisoners and dramatic tales from centuries ago. Others are more fantastical, like the revival of the wyvern, a mythical creature believed to draw energy from the water — a visual spectacle brought to life with stunning light and sound effects.
The tour also ventures into the old town, where narrow streets and historic facades provide a charming backdrop to this storytelling journey. The guide may share stories about Pierre Péquignat, a rebellious figure who challenged the prince-bishop, revealing the tension and drama that shaped the town’s history.
Looking for more options in Porrentruy? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Highlights That Make It Special
Exploring Unusual Places
While many visitors stick to the main sights, this tour takes you behind the scenes—literally and figuratively. Discover secret spots like the old castle prison, which you might not see on a typical walk, and enjoy the thrill of unlocking windows into the past.
Interactive Light+Sound Showcases
A standout feature is how historic events are dramatized through light and sound effects. For example, witnessing the story of Pierre Péquignat with vivid visuals makes the history feel alive and personal. The mythical wyvern’s resurrection isn’t just a story but an immersive experience that keeps guests captivated.
More Great Tours NearbyMuseum Access and Extra Value
The inclusion of a visit to the Musée du PIRE by Plonk and Replonk adds a playful, modern twist to the experience. Plus, the badge grants two-for-one access to the nearby Museum de l’Hôtel-Dieu, offering a deeper dive into local history and culture at no extra cost.
Family-Friendly and Engaging
Reviewers highlight how much families enjoy this experience, describing it as “lots of family fun,” with children fascinated by the stories and visual effects. The tour’s storytelling approach makes history accessible and entertaining for all ages.
The Itinerary in Detail
The journey begins at the Jura Tourisme office, where the process is straightforward: rent your badge, get some quick instructions, and you’re ready to start exploring. The small group setting (limited to 10 participants) ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.
You’ll walk through the old town, discovering lesser-known corners and secret alleys. The 11 secret places are carefully chosen to reflect Porrentruy’s diverse history and legends. Some stops are marked by light+sound productions that animate the stories—imagine watching the tragic tale of Pierre Péquignat unfold in vivid color or witnessing the mythical wyvern’s revival amid flickering lights.
At the old castle prison, you can imagine what life was like for those confined within the walls centuries ago, a stark contrast to the lively storytelling elsewhere. The stories about local figures like Péquignat provide context to the town’s rebellious spirit, while the mythical wyvern adds a fantastical touch that appeals to children and adults alike.
The tour wraps up back at the starting point, leaving guests with a newfound appreciation for Porrentruy’s hidden treasures. The whole experience is designed to be fun, informative, and, importantly, accessible for those who enjoy discovering local secrets at their own pace.
Why This Tour Is Worth It
We believe the Circuit Secret Porrentruy is a fantastic choice for travelers who love uncovering the lesser-known sides of a destination. For just $15, you gain access to an expertly curated selection of secret locations, each brought to life with modern storytelling techniques. The light and sound shows elevate the experience from simply walking around to feeling immersed in the town’s legends.
The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a more personal connection to the history and myths of Porrentruy. The fact that the tour is bookable with flexible cancellation options adds peace of mind, especially for spontaneous travelers or those with uncertain schedules.
Along With the core experience, the inclusion of free museum entries makes this a cost-effective way of exploring the town’s history in multiple ways. Whether you’re a history buff, a family with kids, or someone simply looking for a different way to see Porrentruy, this tour offers authentic, memorable moments.
Who Will Benefit Most?
This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive, story-driven tours and are curious about local legends and history. It appeals especially to families looking for an engaging outing that combines education with entertainment. If you’re a lover of visual effects and mythical tales, you’ll find the light and sound presentations particularly captivating.
However, those with mobility challenges should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and some of the secret spots involve walking on uneven surfaces or stairs. It’s also ideal for visitors seeking a relaxed pace rather than a physically demanding activity.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews highlight that children find the stories and visual effects engaging, making it a family-friendly experience.
How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable activity for a half-day outing in Porrentruy.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially since the tour is limited to small groups (up to 10 people). You can reserve now and pay later if preferred.
What languages are available?
Tours are hosted in French and German, catering to the main language groups in the region.
Is the experience accessible for all?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the locations visited.
What does the experience include?
The tour includes badge rental, access to secret spots, and entry to the Musée du PIRE. The badge also grants 2-for-1 entry to the Museum de l’Hôtel-Dieu.
Final Thoughts
The Circuit Secret Porrentruy offers a delightful mix of history, myth, and visual storytelling that makes exploring the town’s lesser-known corners truly memorable. With its reasonable price, engaging format, and focus on authentic local tales, it’s a wonderful way to add depth and fun to your visit. Ideal for curious families, history lovers, or anyone eager to discover Switzerland’s hidden stories in an interactive way.
If you’re looking for a tour that balances entertainment with education, and offers an intimate look at Porrentruy’s secret life, this experience is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and maybe a camera to capture those magical moments.
📍 This experience made our list of the 3 best Tours & Experiences in Porrentruy