Thun Travel Guide

Thun is a charming Swiss town that has a lot to offer visitors, from stunning scenery to outdoor adventures and cultural attractions. This travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan your trip to Thun.


Thun is a charming Swiss town that has a lot to offer visitors, from stunning scenery to outdoor adventures and cultural attractions. This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan your trip to Thun.

Introduction to Thun

Thun is a picturesque town located in the Bernese Highlands region of Switzerland. It is situated on the Aare River and is surrounded by mountains, with the iconic Niesen peak visible from almost anywhere in the town. Thun is known for its charming Old Town, historic castle, and stunning mountain scenery. It’s a popular destination for both summer and winter vacations, with plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and local food and drink to enjoy.

List of Places to Visit in Thun

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Thun Castle: Built in the 12th century, Thun Castle is one of the oldest and most historic landmarks in the town. Today, it houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the castle and the town.
  • Thun Art Museum: This museum has a vast collection of Swiss art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as contemporary international art exhibits.
  • Schloss Schadau: This 19th-century castle is located on the shore of Lake Thun, just a short walk from the town center. It has a beautiful park and lake views, making it a popular wedding venue.

Natural Attractions of Thun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Niesen: This pyramid-shaped mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in the region, and it’s visible from almost anywhere in the town. Visitors can take a funicular or hike up to the top for stunning views of the Alps and the Thunersee.
  • Lake Thun: The largest lake in the region is a popular spot for boating, swimming, and sunbathing in the summer months.
  • Stockhorn: This mountain offers some of the best hiking and skiing in the region, as well as stunning panoramic views from the summit.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thun

Thun is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails available in the region. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Aare Trail: This 62-kilometer trail runs from Thun to Bern, following the Aare River and passing through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region.
  • Gantrisch Panorama Trail: This 18-kilometer trail offers stunning views of the Gantrisch mountain range, as well as a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
  • Stockhorn Hiking Trail: This challenging trail runs from the Stockhorn summit down to the town of Erlenbach, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

Best Things to Do in Thun: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour of Lake Thun: This scenic boat tour offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as stops at charming towns along the way.
  • Thun Beer Tour: This tour takes visitors on a journey through the local beer scene, with stops at some of the town’s best breweries and pubs.
  • Paragliding or Hang Gliding: For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try paragliding or hang gliding over the stunning alpine scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thun

Day Activity
1 Explore the Old Town and Thun Castle
2 Take a boat tour of Lake Thun
3 Hike the Stockhorn Hiking Trail
4 Visit Schloss Schadau and the Thun Art Museum
5 Sample local beers on the Thun Beer Tour
6 Take a day trip to the nearby city of Bern
7 Relax and enjoy the scenic views of the region

Food and Drink Scene of Thun

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rösti: This hearty Swiss dish is made from fried grated potatoes and is a staple of the local cuisine.
  • Fondue: A classic Swiss dish made from melted cheese, served with bread and other tasty dipping items.
  • Älplermagronen: This traditional dish is similar to mac and cheese, made with pasta, cheese, and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Thun has a thriving local beer scene, with breweries like Bier Factory Thun and Stadtbier creating some of the best brews in the country.
  • Wine: While Switzerland isn’t as well-known for its wine as other European countries, Thun has some excellent local wineries producing high-quality wines.

Where to Stay in Thun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thun has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes:

  • Hotel Freienhof: This historic hotel located on the banks of the Aare River offers stunning views and luxurious amenities.
  • B&B Oberhofen: This charming guesthouse in nearby Oberhofen is a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Youth Hostel Thun: This modern hostel provides affordable accommodation in the heart of the town.

What to Buy in Thun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Swiss Chocolate: No trip to Switzerland is complete without sampling some of the country’s famous chocolate.
  • Swiss Army Knife: These iconic knives have been made in Switzerland since the 1800s and are a popular souvenir.
  • Cheese: Switzerland is famous for its cheese, and there are plenty of local varieties to choose from in Thun’s markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Thun

Switzerland has a unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of, such as:

  • Punctuality: This is an essential value in Swiss culture, and visitors should make sure to arrive on time for appointments and meetings.
  • Respect for Nature: Switzerland is known for its stunning natural scenery, and visitors should respect the environment and take care not to damage it.
  • Language: Swiss German is the most commonly spoken language in the region, but many people also speak English and French.

Best Time to Visit Thun

Thun is a great destination to visit all year round, with each season offering its own unique charm. In the summer months, the region comes alive with outdoor activities and events, while winter is a great time for skiing and winter sports. However, spring and autumn also have their own beauty, with fewer crowds and stunning autumnal foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thun

Do:

  • Respect the environment: Switzerland is known for its pristine natural beauty, and visitors should respect the environment and take care not to damage it.
  • Try local foods and drinks: Thun has a rich food and drink scene, with plenty of delicious local specialties to try.
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities: Thun is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking, biking, and water sports available.

Don’t:

  • Be late: Swiss culture values punctuality, so visitors should make sure to arrive on time for appointments and meetings.
  • Be too loud: Switzerland is a relatively quiet country, and visitors should be mindful of making too much noise in public places.
  • Drive too fast: Swiss roads are well-maintained, but they can be narrow and winding, so visitors should be cautious and drive at a safe speed.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thun

Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low rates of crime and violence. However, visitors should still take the usual precautions to avoid theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Thun

Switzerland has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care at local hospitals and clinics if necessary. It’s also important to be aware of the risks of sunburn and altitude sickness when visiting the region.

Getting to Thun: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Thun

The closest international airport to Thun is Zurich Airport, which is approximately 120 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a train or rental car to Thun.

Bus Stations Near Thun

Thun has a bus station located in the town center, with regular buses running to nearby towns and villages. Visitors can purchase tickets at the station or online in advance.

Other Options

Thun is easily accessible by train from other Swiss cities like Bern and Zurich. Rental cars are also available for visitors who prefer to drive themselves.

How to Get Around in Thun

Thun is a relatively small town, and most places are within walking distance. However, there are also several public transportation options available, including buses and trains. Bicycles are also available to rent in the town center.

Where to Go Next from Thun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Thun is located in the heart of the Bernese Highlands, with plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Some popular options include:

  • Jungfrau Region: This stunning region is home to some of the most famous peaks in the Swiss Alps, including the iconic Jungfrau mountain.
  • Interlaken: This charming town is located between two lakes and is a popular destination for outdoor activities and adventure sports.
  • Bern: Just a short train ride from Thun, the Swiss capital is known for its historic Old Town and vibrant cultural scene.

Conclusion

Thun is a charming Swiss town that has something for everyone, with stunning natural scenery, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities to enjoy year-round. This comprehensive travel guide covers everything visitors need to know to plan their trip to Thun, from where to stay and what to eat to the best hiking trails and nearby destinations. Book your ticket and discover the picturesque beauty of Thun!

Thun castle Thun castle The Thunerhof, a former hotel now housing the museum of art. The Thunerhof, a former hotel now housing the museum of art.