Things To Do
in Delémont
Delémont is the capital of the canton of Jura in northwestern Switzerland, nestled in the Sorne river valley. The town blends medieval charm with French-speaking Jura culture and a lively market scene. Its compact old town is threaded with arcades, stone houses, and scenic viewpoints overlooking surrounding hills.
Visitors can enjoy cheese-focused gastronomy, tranquil riverside walks, and access to the Jura countryside just outside the city center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful stroll through the charming old town of Delémont, where you can admire the picturesque architecture and historical buildings. Don't forget to stop by a local bakery to savor fresh Swiss pastries and coffee. Capture the morning light over the Sorne River as you take in the serene beauty of the surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit the Delémont Museum to discover the rich cultural history of the region, filled with intriguing exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, hike through the lush Jura Mountains surrounding the city, soaking in breathtaking views from various vantage points. Enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst nature, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Swiss landscape.
As evening descends, head to one of the local restaurants to enjoy a traditional Swiss dinner, possibly savoring fondue or raclette paired with local wines. Post-dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where the soft evening lights reflect beautifully on the water. Conclude your night by experiencing the local nightlife, perhaps catching a live music performance in a cozy venue.
Begin your day early by embarking on a guided tour of the Jura mountain range, known for its stunning vistas and rocky landscapes. Fill your backpack with provisions and set off on a scenic trail, experiencing the fresh mountain air and wildlife around you. Take breaks to photograph the striking panoramas that unfold as you ascend.
For lunch, find a quaint mountain hut where you can relish a hearty meal prepared with local ingredients. Continue your hike in the afternoon, navigating through diverse terrains and possibly spotting some of the native fauna like chamois or ibex. Enjoy the thrill of reaching a summit, where you can rest and appreciate the expansive views that stretch into neighboring countries.
Return to Delémont in the evening, where you can unwind at a local cafe with a warm drink and some homemade treats. Engage with locals at the café who can share stories about the surrounding region. As night falls, consider attending a cultural event or festival if one is occurring, adding a memorable twist to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥗Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🛏️Hotel night in mid-range hotel | $120-200 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and easy to explore on foot
- Genuine Jura charm and cheese culture
- Very reliable public transport and safety
- High-quality food and wine scene
- Smaller nightlife and limited big-city amenities
- Higher prices typical of Switzerland
- Limited English widely spoken in rural settings
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
- "Je voudrais un café" - I would like a coffee
Places to Visit in Delémont
Visit one of these nice places.
Mediterranean light on timbered façades and arcades makes for classic travel photography.
A historic church with a prominent façade; good for architectural details.
Reflections and riverside light along the Sorne create serene photos.
A vantage point overlooking Delémont with surrounding Jura hills.
Food in Delémont
Delémont Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A melted cheese spread usually served warm with boiled potatoes or rustic bread.
Must-Try!
A fragrant firm cheese shaved into rosettes with a girolle and eaten with bread.
A walnut tart that captures Jura nut sweetness and buttery crust.
Local Jura sausage often enjoyed with lentils or potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal market in the old town offering cheeses, meats, produce and prepared foods.
Occasional roadside stalls selling fresh Jura cheeses and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments; greet with Bonjour and shake hands in formal settings.
French is the local language; keep conversations polite and avoid loud interruptions in public spaces.
Respect typical quiet times in residential areas, especially at night.
Safety
Tipping in Delémont
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or a small extra tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.
Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and Apple Pay are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; showers possible; great for walking tours.
Warm days, long evenings; many outdoor cafés and local events; occasional rain.
Harvest season; vibrant foliage; cooler nights; great for scenic drives.
Cold and often snowy; Christmas markets and cozy interiors; daylight shorter.
Delémont at Night
Hiking in Delémont
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat to rolling paths along the river with shaded sections.
Longer day hikes with panoramic views over the Jura landscape.
Gentle, family-friendly loops close to town.
Airports
How to reach Delémont by plane.
Major international gateway about 60-90 minutes away by train or car.
Small regional airport about 1.5-2 hours by rail connection.
Major international hub roughly 2.5-3 hours away by train.
Switzerland's largest airport about 2-3 hours away by rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primary language and cultural influence in the Jura region.
A community with local families and nearby college students.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular in the Jura, with many scenic day hikes.
Accessible in winter on nearby Jura slopes.
Road and gravel routes around Delémont and the Jura foothills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Delémont.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetarian options; look for dishes with vegetables, cheese or legumes; in French markets ask for sans viande or vegetarien.