Things To Do
in Thun
Thun sits on the northern shore of Lake Thun, framed by vineyards and the surrounding mountains. Its well-preserved medieval old town centers on Rathausplatz and the imposing Thun Castle. The lakeside promenade and the Aare River create a picturesque setting that invites strolling and coffee breaks.
As a gateway to the Bernese Oberland, Thun offers easy access to boat trips, scenic rail journeys, and nearby Alpine trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Thun and check into your accommodations, taking a moment to settle in and refresh. Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Aare River, soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the iconic Zähringerbrücke bridge, a perfect spot for photos.
After lunch, dive into the history of Thun by visiting the Thun Castle, where you can explore the museum and climb to the tower for panoramic views of the city. Wander through the charming old town's narrow streets, lined with delightful shops and cafés. Stop for a coffee and slice of local cake at a riverside café, immersing yourself in the laid-back atmosphere.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Thun, where the sky transforms into glorious hues. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, savoring traditional Swiss fare while gazing out at the shimmering lake. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, under the blanket of stars.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery before heading out for an exciting hike in the nearby Niesen mountain. The trail offers various paths suited for all levels, while the breathtaking views at the summit are well worth the effort. Take your time to capture the stunning landscapes on your camera.
After descending, treat yourself to a well-deserved lunch in a mountain hut, enjoying local Swiss specialties. In the afternoon, explore the nearby village of Spiez, known for its beautiful vineyards and the historic Spiez Castle. Take a leisurely walk by the lakeside, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
For dinner, return to Thun and indulge in a meal at a restaurant that specializes in fresh fish from the lake. Later, relish a quiet evening at a local bar, chatting with friendly locals and other travelers. Consider trying some Swiss wines to round off your delightful day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $60-100 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in Thun (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚆One-way local transit ticket | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake and alpine scenery within reach
- Excellent public transport and compact, walkable town center
- Safe, clean, and easy to combine with broader Bernese Oberland trips
- Generally higher prices than many destinations
- Lively nightlife is limited to a few venues and seasonal events
- More distant peaks require day trips or longer travel to access major hikes
- "Grüezi" - Hello (formal, in Swiss German)
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Thun
Visit one of these nice places.
The castle sits above the old town with sweeping views of the lake and mountains; a classic foreground for sunset shots.
Colorful, historic façades along the cobblestone streets provide charming street photography opportunities.
Lakeside lawns, gardens, and castle architecture offer picturesque angles against Lake Thun.
The promenades and harbors along the lake create reflective water scenes, especially at golden hour.
Waterfront walks with bridges and greenery, perfect for atmospheric river views and city silhouettes.
Food in Thun
Thun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A crisp, pan-fried potato dish that forms a hearty base in many meals; great with eggs, bacon, or mushrooms.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught lake trout prepared with herbs or butter, often served with potatoes and vegetables.
Swiss alpine macaroni with potatoes and cheese, typically eaten with apple compote on the side.
Classic melted cheese served with bread for dipping; ideal for colder evenings in the town or at mountain restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the old town offering local cheeses, bread, produce, sausages, and pastries.
Seasonal vendors along the promenade offering light bites, pastries, and snacks with lake views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Switzerland values punctuality; greet with a friendly 'Grüezi' in German and wait in line calmly. Tables and seats are often reserved, so ask before taking a spot.
Keep voices moderate in public areas, especially on public transport; avoid loud conversations on trains and buses.
Safety
Tipping in Thun
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is typical for good service.
Cash (CHF) and cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments (TWINT, Apple Pay) are common in towns like Thun.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and warm temperatures; ideal for lake swims, boat trips, and hiking in the Bernese Oberland. Expect crowds around the lakefront and in the Old Town; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Mild days with colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and gentle hikes. Markets and wine regions nearby are especially pleasant in this season.
Chill and possible snow; festive ambiance with winter markets in the Old Town. Nearby mountains offer excellent skiing; layer up when exploring outdoors.
Blossoms and longer days; a good time for lakefront strolls and early-season hikes before higher elevations snow melt.
Thun at Night
Hiking in Thun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Alpine circuit from Erlenbach to Stockhorn with panoramic views and relatively easy to moderate sections.
Steep funicular ascent to a broad summit with sweeping lake and mountain views; popular in summer.
Forest and lake hikes near Schwarzsee with beautiful scenery and multiple trail options.
Classic high-creek hike offering alpine scenery; accessible via train from nearby towns with a scenic ride.
Airports
How to reach Thun by plane.
Regional airport with connections to several European cities; easy rail link to Thun and the Bernese region.
Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by train to Thun; wide range of international connections.
Another international gateway about 2.5–3 hours by train; offers many transatlantic and European flights.
Good international options with train connections to Thun, though typically longer than to Zurich.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly German-speaking Swiss, with a mix of families, professionals, and retirees; a steady stream of international visitors.
Year-round visitors attracted by lake views, hiking, and access to the Bernese Oberland.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the region with strong local leagues and nearby venues; a common winter activity.
Immediate access to the Bernese Oberland mountains offers day trips to ski resorts in winter.
Year-round outdoor activity with scenic routes around Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer cheese-based dishes, seasonal vegetables, and vegetarian versions of Swiss classics; ask for non-meat options or dishes featuring local produce.