Thun, Schloss Thun Cities

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Intro

With its historic buildings, towering raised promenades steeped in history, the white castle on the Schlossberg and the fantastic views over the lake set against the backdrop of the imposing Bernese Alps – Thun’s charm enchants locals and tourists alike.

Description

Thun lies at the north-western end of Lake Thun, and is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. The River Aare, which flows from Lake Thun to Bern, shapes the cityscape of the eleventh-largest city in Switzerland with some 44,000 inhabitants.

The city’s most famous landmark is the mighty Thun Castle, with its tower that was built between 1180 and 1190, which towers majestically over the Old Town. A historical museum is housed in the tower rooms, showcasing finds from the past 800 years relating to the region and its history, as well as a special exhibition which changes each year. Pride of place goes to the restored 12th-century knights’ hall, however. The view from the castle tower of the mountains and the lake is also unparalleled.

The historical raised promenades in Thun’s old town are yet another highlight. But they are not the only reason to enjoy a stroll through the cobblestone streets. As well as traditional rows of houses, Thun is home to various small shops on different levels that invite visitors to browse and explore.

Thanks to its enormous diversity, the city of Thun is worth a visit at any time of the year: While the charming old town and the delightful river and lakeside promenade are bursting with life in the spring, cultural open-air events such as the popular Lake Thun Festival get everyone in the mood for a summer of fun.

Autumn, on the other hand, is the ideal season in which to get in touch with your artistic side, whether at the Thun Art Museum or the Thun Panorama in Schadau Park, an imposing panoramic painting of the city from 1814. And then again, walkers have always been particularly drawn to the coldest season too, with its wintry lakeside landscapes, and which offers the perfect opportunity for fine diners to enjoy the culinary delights on offer in the city’s many restaurants.

Winter

Christmas is the perfect time for a shopping trip through Thun’s festively dressed old town. And the Christmas market on Waisenhausplatz is a popular spot to meet for a chat over a mug of mulled wine. After an active winter’s day, the numerous restaurants, especially along the banks of the Aare, offer the perfect place in which to enjoy culinary delights and pleasant company. Even in the winter season, a boat sails on Lake Thun every day. So it is still possible to explore the city and region from the water at this time of year. Thanks to its outstanding transport links, Thun is also an ideal starting point for numerous winter activities throughout the entire Bernese Oberland holiday region.

Summer

Thun is also known as the summer capital of Switzerland. With mountains, rivers and the magnificent lake on its doorstep, Thun is a paradise for sports enthusiasts, sun worshipers and keen swimmers. You can even go surfing right in the heart of the city. But the opportunity to enjoy a spot of indulgence is always just around the corner too. Whether that’s strolling through the old town, enjoying an aperitif on Mühleplatz or a delicious dinner on the banks of the Aare. Another particularly special way to enjoy a hot summer’s day is with a boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. On Lake Thun, the “Blümlisalp” paddle steamer transports its passengers back in time to the days of the magnificent Belle Époque. But all 14 of the boats that operate on the two lakes offer breathtaking views of the three world-famous peaks, the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

News

The news listed here is maintained by the regional / local tourist offices, which is why Switzerland Tourism can not guarantee the content.

  • Embark on a guided tour of Thun and let a knowledgeable guide lead you through the streets of Thun. 
    You will learn lots of interesting and exciting facts about history and culture. 

    April to November every Saturday at 2.00 pm
    In July and August additionally on Wednesday afternoons at 2.00 pm.

    Book your place on the tour HERE.

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Hotels

  • Thun, Bern Region Boutique-Hotel Spedition 3 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism
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  • Thun, Bern Region Hotel Seepark Thun 4 Stars

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  • Thun, Bern Region Schadau Castle 3 Stars

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  • Thun, Bern Region The Lab Hotel 3 Stars

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  • Thun, Bern Region Hotel Krone Thun 4 Stars

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  • Thun, Bern Region alpha thun 3 Stars

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  • Thun, Bern Region Hotel Restaurant Schlossberg 3 Stars

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  • Thun, Bern Region Hotel Restaurant Holiday Thun 3 Stars

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  • Hilterfingen-Hünibach, Bern Region Hotel Restaurant Chartreuse 3 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism
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Current Offers

  • Thun Hiking: Lake Thun Panorama Trail

    3 nights, The pyramid-shaped peak of the Niesen watches over the southern shore of Lake Thun and accompanies... from CHF 745
    Offer details

    Price per person in double room
    valid: 19.03.2024 - 31.12.2024

    Learn more about Hiking: Lake Thun Panorama Trail
  • Schloss Schadau Hotel - Restaurant, Thun Stay for 4 nights, pay for 3

    4 nights, 4 Nights in Double room, Breakfast, Public transport ticket for Thun per person per night, Welcome... from CHF 660
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    Price per person in double room
    valid: 19.03.2024 - 31.03.2024

    Learn more about Stay for 4 nights, pay for 3
  • Schloss Schadau Hotel - Restaurant, Thun Romance by the lakeside

    1 night, 1 Night in Price per double room, Half-board, 1 x degustation menu per person per night, Welcome... from CHF 640
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    valid: 19.03.2024 - 31.05.2024

    Learn more about Romance by the lakeside
  • BEATUS Wellness- & Spa-Hotel, Merligen Wellness by the lake

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    valid: 19.03.2024 - 18.04.2024

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Travel information: Thun