Thun - Discovering Switzerland

Travelling to Thun

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Thun, a pretty good destination in Switzerland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Thun and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Thun, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Switzerland, here's everything to know about Thun for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Thun

Thun is a picturesque lakeside town located in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. It is located at the confluence of the Aare River and Lake Thun, and is surrounded by the Bernese Alps. Thun is known for its well-preserved Old Town with historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets. The town has numerous outdoor activities to offer, including hiking, skiing, and boating. Thun is also home to several museums, notable landmarks such as the Thun Castle and the Scherzligen Church, and various cultural events throughout the year.

What to visit in Thun

Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Thun, Switzerland: 1. Thun Castle: This medieval castle dates back to the 12th century and offers stunning views of the town, the River Aare, and the Swiss Alps. Visitors can explore the castle's museum, which includes exhibits on Swiss folklore and history.
2. Lake Thun: This picturesque lake is surrounded by mountains and is a great place for swimming, boating, and hiking. Visitors can also take a cruise on the lake to enjoy the scenery.
3. Swiss Gastronomy Museum: This unique museum showcases the history and culture of Swiss cuisine, including cheese, wine, chocolate, and more. Visitors can explore the exhibits and even taste some of the local delicacies.
4. Thun Panorama: This circular painting is over 150 years old and depicts the town of Thun and surrounding landscapes. Visitors can view the painting while standing on a rotating platform, creating a 3D effect.
5. Thun Old Town: This charming area of the town features winding cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Visitors can explore the area on foot and admire the architecture and sculptures.
6. St. Beatus Caves: These mysterious underground caves are said to be where St. Beatus once lived. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the various rock formations and learn about the history and legends of the caves.
7. Schadau Castle: This 19th-century castle is located on the shores of Lake Thun and is now used as a museum. Visitors can explore the castle's rooms and gardens and enjoy the views of the lake and mountains.
Overall, Thun is a beautiful town with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Switzerland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Thun.

When to go on holiday to Thun

Thun is a beautiful city in Switzerland that can be visited any time of year, depending on your preferences. If you enjoy winter sports, then the best time to visit Thun would be from December to February, when the city is covered in snow, and the nearby ski resorts are in full swing.
If you prefer mild weather and outdoor activities, then the best time to visit Thun would be between May to September, when you can enjoy hiking, cycling, and water sports such as swimming, sailing, and paddleboarding on the beautiful Lake Thun.
Additionally, Thun has a rich cultural scene, and there are numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Thun International Jazz Festival and the Thun-Panorama Music Festival, which take place in July and August, respectively.
Therefore, the ideal time to visit Thun depends on what activities you plan to do and your personal preferences.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Thun

There are several ways to get to Thun, Switzerland. Here are a few options: 1. By Train: Thun has excellent rail connections, with regular trains running from major Swiss cities such as Zurich, Bern, and Geneva. The Swiss Federal Railway (SBB) operates the trains and the journey time from Zurich to Thun is around 75 minutes.
2. By Car: Thun is located approximately 30 km (19 miles) south of Bern. You can rent a car or take a taxi from the Bern-Belp Airport or any nearby city. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the city center.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services connecting Thun with other towns in the Bernese Oberland region. The bus station is located beside the train station.
4. By Boat: During the summer months, you can take a scenic boat trip from Interlaken on Lake Thun to arrive in Thun. This is a popular and enjoyable way to travel and takes around 2 hours.
I would recommend checking the timetable of each option and choosing what suits you best based on your schedule and budget.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Thun, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Thun

Here are some typical foods of Thun, Switzerland, along with a short description of each: 1. Rösti: This is a traditional Swiss dish made of grated potatoes that are fried until crispy. It is served as a side dish or main course with various toppings like cheese, bacon, or eggs.
2. Berner Platte: This is a hearty meat dish made with a variety of meats like pork, beef, and sausage. It is usually served with sauerkraut, roasted potatoes, and beans.
3. Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: This is a popular dish in Thun and Switzerland, made with sliced veal cooked in a cream sauce with white wine, mushrooms, and onions. It is often served with rösti or pasta.
4. Raclette: This is a cheese dish where sliced cheese is melted over a hot grill and then scraped onto potatoes, vegetables, or bread. It is a popular winter dish in Switzerland and is often served with pickled onions and gherkins.
5. Älplermagronen: This is a Swiss pasta dish made with macaroni, potatoes, cream, and cheese. It is usually served with apple sauce and fried onions.
6. Toblerone: This is a famous Swiss chocolate bar with a unique triangular shape made of milk chocolate with honey and almond nougat.
7. Swiss cheese: Switzerland is famous for its cheese, and there are many types to try, such as Emmental, Gruyere, and Appenzeller. These cheeses are often served with bread, grapes, and wine.
You can find general info about typical foods in Switzerland here.

Is Thun an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Thun is known for being a relatively expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities can be higher than in other parts of Switzerland. However, there are ways to budget for your trip, such as staying in a hostel or budget hotel, cooking your own meals, and finding free or inexpensive activities to do in the area. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Thun

Thun has various areas where visitors can find suitable accommodation based on their preferences and interests. Some popular areas for accommodation in Thun include: 1. Thun Altstadt (Old Town) - This area is located in the heart of Thun, and offers a charming atmosphere with beautiful historic buildings. Visitors can find many cozy boutique hotels and guesthouses in this area.
2. Thunersee Lakefront - This area offers stunning views of Lake Thun and the surrounding mountains, and is a great option for those who enjoy water activities. There are many hotels and vacation rentals located along the lakefront.
3. Thun West - This area is located on the outskirts of Thun and offers a quieter setting away from the city center. Visitors can find many comfortable hotels and guesthouses in this area.
4. Thun South - This area is known for its modern architecture and proximity to popular attractions such as the Jungfraujoch railway. Visitors can find many modern hotels and vacation rentals in this area.
Overall, Thun offers a variety of accommodation options in different areas to suit a range of preferences and budgets.
You can check hotel prices at Thun here:
Booking.com

Is Thun a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Thun is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Switzerland, in general, is one of the safest countries in the world. However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings and belongings, and to follow basic safety rules such as not walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. It is also recommended to keep your valuables in a secure place and to use common sense to avoid potential risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Switzerland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Thun.

What type of travelers will enjoy Thun the most?

Thun, Switzerland is a great destination for everyone. It is a magical place with breathtaking scenery, rich culture and lots of fun activities. Couples will enjoy Thun for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and opportunities for hiking and biking with a loved one. The picturesque town offers many cozy restaurants, cute cafes, and charming accommodations.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and outdoor sports activities. For example, you can rent a Kayak and paddle the Aare River, ride a bike around Lake Thun or hike the surrounding hills for some epic views.
Families will also love Thun for its family-friendly attractions like the Thun Castle, the Swiss Museum of Games, and the Lake Thun Panorama. There is also a kids' park in Thun known as "Hohliebewald," where children can enjoy playing hide and seek, scaling climbing walls, and sliding down giant slides.
Overall, Thun is a diverse destination that has something for everyone, no matter what age or interests.

How to get around Thun

There are several options for transportation in Thun, Switzerland. The most common methods for getting around the city are by walking, bicycling, taking the bus or using a car. Thun has an extensive network of walking and cycling paths, making walking or cycling a convenient and eco-friendly option. Buses are also a popular way to get around Thun, with frequent and reliable services provided by the local public transport company. Taxis are also available, but they are usually more expensive than other modes of transportation. Finally, if you prefer to drive, car rental services are available in Thun.

What to see around Thun

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Thun: 1. Interlaken: a beautiful town known for its stunning views of the Swiss Alps and the turquoise waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
2. Lauterbrunnen: a picturesque village located in a valley surrounded by towering waterfalls and snowcapped mountains.
3. Grindelwald: a charming Alpine village that offers plenty of hiking trails, cable car rides, and skiing opportunities.
4. Bern: the Swiss capital is also a cultural hub with excellent art museums, historic buildings, and a vibrant shopping district.
5. Gruyères: a quaint medieval town famous for its cheese-making heritage and stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
6. Lucerne: a beautiful city with a picturesque old town and a stunning lake surrounded by mountains.
7. Lake Geneva: a beautiful lake dotted with vineyards and charming villages, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
For every travel information about Switzerland you can click here.

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