Things To Do
in Solothurn
Solothurn sits on the Aare River in northwestern Switzerland, near the Jura foothills. The city is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved medieval and Baroque Old Town. Visitors can explore 11 churches, the grand St. Ursen Münster, and a network of elegant arcades that give Solothurn a timeless charm.
With riverside walks, cafés, and cultural attractions, it feels intimate yet richly storied.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Solothurn and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming old town to soak in the baroque architecture. Stop by a local café for a traditional Swiss breakfast.
Visit the stunning St. Ursen Cathedral, where you can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and the Aare River. Explore the nearby Zytglogge clock tower and learn about its fascinating history. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the eateries lining the cobbled streets.
Indulge in Swiss cuisine at a cozy restaurant, perhaps trying fondue or raclette. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Aare River, where you can appreciate the serene atmosphere. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local bar for some Swiss beer.
Start your day by visiting the historic Rathaus (Town Hall) to admire its beautiful architecture and intriguing history. Wander through the narrow streets, stopping at local shops to pick up souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to check out the art galleries showcasing local talent.
Take a guided walking tour to delve deeper into Solothurn's rich history. As you explore, enjoy lunch at a local bistro, savoring regional specialties. Afterward, head to the Solothurn Museum to learn about the city's past through fascinating exhibits.
Unwind in one of the many parks along the Aare with a picnic dinner. Watch the sunset over the river, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. As night falls, consider attending a cultural event or concert if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee to go | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way ticket (local transit) | $3-4 |
| 🍷Bottle of wine (mid-range) in a restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with a rich architectural heritage
- Beautiful combination of medieval and Baroque architecture
- Efficient public transport and high safety standards
- Touristy in spots, which can raise prices in peak seasons
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Limited large-scale entertainment options on some evenings
- "Grüezi" - Hello (Swiss German)
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
- "Ich habe eine Reservierung" - I have a reservation
Places to Visit in Solothurn
Visit one of these nice places.
Baroque façade and ornate interior; climb the tower for city views.
Colorful façades, arcades, and fountains ideal for street photography.
Water reflections and bridges along the riverbank at various light.
Panoramic vistas of the Jura and Alpine silhouettes on clear days.
Food in Solothurn
Solothurn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried potato cake, a Swiss staple you’ll find in many eateries around Solothurn.
Must-Try!
Cheese fondue, especially popular in the colder months; dip bread and vegetables for a communal experience.
Melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions; enjoyed in cozy taverns during crunchier months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the historic Rathausplatz offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Casual spots around the Old Town serving pastries, pretzels, sausages, and coffee from morning to late afternoon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is important in Swiss culture; plan arrivals a few minutes early when meeting locals.
Greet with a handshake; address by surname with title; in German-speaking Solothurn, Grüezi is common.
Respect residential quiet hours in evenings; avoid loud conversations in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Solothurn
Ensure a smooth experience
In Switzerland, service is often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is common but not required.
Cash and cards (Visa, Mastercard, contactless) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some smaller places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, warm temperatures, and occasional thunderstorms; take advantage of river walks and outdoor terraces.
Mild to cool days with autumn foliage in the Jura hills; great for hiking and city photography.
Cold, with occasional snow; festive markets, cozy cafés, and fondue season.
Chilly mornings warming to sunny days; blossoms along the river and in parks.
Solothurn at Night
Hiking in Solothurn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike with panoramic views; accessible by cable car to the summit during operating seasons.
Gentle to moderate routes through rolling hills and forests within a short drive from Solothurn.
Airports
How to reach Solothurn by plane.
The closest international airport to Solothurn; about 30–40 minutes by rail or car, with connections to Solothurn.
Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by train from Solothurn.
Switzerland’s largest airport; about 1.5–2 hours by train from Solothurn.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Safe, walkable streets and a mix of museums and parks appeal to families visiting Solothurn.
Historic charm, easy walks, and cultural events attract visitors and long-term residents alike.
A cosmopolitan atmosphere with multilingual services and proximity to major European cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime and local club matches draw community interest.
Nearby Alpine regions offer winter sports a short drive from Solothurn.
The Jura foothills and surrounding countryside are popular for year-round outdoor activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Solothurn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer meat-free options; look for risottos, vegetable medleys, and cheese-based dishes; ask for no meat stock.
Vegan-friendly options are growing; request plant-based dishes; for fondue, look for dairy-free alternatives or salads.
Ask for gluten-free breads and pasta; many Swiss restaurants can accommodate with careful preparation.