Things To Do
in Thun
Thun is a charming town located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. Situated along the shores of Lake Thun, the town offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Thun's old town is characterized by historic buildings, including a picturesque castle overlooking the town.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the river, explore the local shops and cafes, and take boat cruises on the beautiful lake.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Thun's charming old town, where you can admire medieval architecture and colorful buildings. Don't forget to stop by the Thun Castle for a panoramic view of the town and lake.
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River and enjoy the scenic views. Stop by the local shops and cafés to experience the local vibe and perhaps grab a souvenir.
In the evening, dine at a lakeside restaurant and indulge in Swiss cuisine while taking in the sunset over Lake Thun. Consider a short walk along the promenade to conclude your day.
Begin with a hike to the hard-to-miss Niesen Mountain, also known as the 'Swiss Pyramid'. The ascent offers breathtaking views of the Alps and the surrounding lakes.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at the summit or at one of the scenic viewpoints. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby trails or relaxing while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Return to Thun and unwind at a local beer garden. Taste regional beers and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere as the day comes to an end.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery with stunning lakes and mountains.
- Rich cultural history and charming old town.
- High quality of life with excellent public services and healthcare.
- Safe and clean environment.
- Strong public transportation system making travel easy.
- High cost of living, including housing and everyday expenses.
- Limited job market, particularly for non-skilled workers.
- Cold winters and heavy snowfall which may be challenging for some.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier as German is the primary language spoken.
Best Activities in Thun
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the breathtaking Swiss Alps on a hiking trip in the Bernese Oberland region, offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and picturesque landscapes.
Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on Lake Thun, taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains and charming towns along the shores.
Embark on a cycling adventure along the Aare River, exploring the picturesque countryside and enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Thun with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Thun
Visit one of these nice places.
Located by Lake Thun, offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Provides panoramic views of the old town of Thun, the Aare River, and the Bernese Alps.
A popular viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of the Bernese Oberland and Lake Thun.
Food in Thun
Thun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Swiss dish made of grated potatoes, pan-fried until crispy and often served with various toppings such as cheese, bacon, or fried eggs. A must-try comfort food available at many local restaurants like Schlossberg or Cafe Mokka.
Must-Try!
Also known as Alpine macaroni, this hearty dish features macaroni mixed with creamy cheese, caramelized onions, and topped with applesauce. Enjoy this classic Swiss comfort food at Restaurant Rathaus or Restaurant Rossli.
A traditional Swiss meat dish consisting of a variety of meats such as pork, beef, and sausage, accompanied by sauerkraut, green beans, and potatoes. Try this flavorful dish at Restaurant Sternen or Restaurant Barenplatz.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Thun better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Thun Farmers' Market to sample fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade bread. The market also features a range of street food stalls offering regional delicacies like raclette, bratwurst, and freshly baked pastries.
Visit the Seepark Market for an eclectic selection of international street food, including Mediterranean specialties, Asian fusion dishes, and tantalizing desserts. This lively market is perfect for indulging in diverse culinary treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Thun, it's customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal settings. It's also polite to address people using their titles and last names, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Swiss people value punctuality, so it's important to arrive on time for social and business meetings. Being late without a valid reason may be perceived as disrespectful.
In Switzerland, people value their personal space, so it's important to maintain an appropriate distance when engaging in conversation. This is particularly important when interacting with strangers or in public places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Thun with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Thun
Ensure a smooth experience
In Thun, Switzerland, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In Thun, Switzerland, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. It is advisable to carry some cash for small transactions, especially in more traditional establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Thun.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Thun, as the weather starts to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom. You can expect pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Thun, with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and exploring the nearby mountains and lakes.
Autumn brings stunning foliage to Thun, with the surrounding forests and mountains painted in vibrant colors. It's a great time for scenic drives and nature walks.
Winter transforms Thun into a picturesque wonderland, with opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and enjoying traditional Swiss winter activities. The Christmas markets are also a highlight.
Thun at Night
Hiking in Thun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known as the 'Swiss Pyramid', Niesen offers stunning views and various hiking trails. The hike can be challenging, but the scenery is worth the effort.
The Stockhorn is a popular mountain trail with panoramic views of the Bernese Alps. It offers a mix of easy and moderate hiking paths, suitable for hikers of all levels.
A picturesque lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The trails around Schwarzsee are great for leisurely walks and moderate hikes.
An easy hike to the viewpoint over Interlaken and Lake Brienz. The Harder Kulm provides breathtaking views and is accessible for families.
A local mountain near Bern, offering easy hiking trails through beautiful forests and meadows. It’s a great spot for picnics and enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Thun through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Thun by plane.
The closest international airport to Thun, located approximately 30 km away in Belp, serves both domestic and limited international flights.
One of the largest airports in Switzerland, located about 140 km from Thun, it offers extensive international connections.
Switzerland's busiest airport, located roughly 110 km from Thun, providing a wide range of international flights.
An international airport located about 180 km from Thun, serving the tri-national area of Switzerland, France, and Germany.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Thun's population comprises Swiss citizens, reflecting the national demographics.
A significant number of residents in Thun come from Germany, contributing to the local culture and economy.
Includes individuals from other European nations such as Italy, France, and Portugal.
This group consists of immigrants from Asia, Africa, and the Americas, contributing to Thun's multicultural landscape.
Thun has a growing elderly demographic, reflective of trends seen in many Swiss cities.
Younger demographic includes university students and young professionals attracted to the area.
The Soul of Thun
Discover the essence of Thun through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Thun, with numerous local clubs and a strong fan base supporting the Thun FC.
Ice hockey enjoys significant popularity in Thun, with the local team, SC Thun, competing in the Swiss Ice Hockey leagues.
This traditional form of wrestling is culturally significant in Switzerland, and events may be held in Thun.
Due to its mountainous terrain, mountain biking is a popular recreational activity in and around Thun, attracting both locals and tourists.
Swimming is a common sport in Thun, with many facilities and natural swimming spots, particularly in Lake Thun.
Running has a strong following in Thun, with many trails and parks available for jogging and training.
Tennis is a widely practiced sport in Thun, with several clubs offering facilities and coaching.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Thun provide diverse vegetarian and vegan selections, including fresh salads, plant-based sandwiches, and innovative meat-free dishes. Popular venues for vegetarian and vegan options include Cafe Sowieso and Burgerstube.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find accommodating eateries in Thun, offering gluten-free versions of traditional Swiss dishes, as well as gluten-free pizza, pasta, and baked goods. Notable gluten-free-friendly establishments include Restaurant Rathaus and Zunfthaus zu Metzgern.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Thun with these cultural adventures.
