Intro
Olten is centrally located on the Aare and is one of the most important railway cities in Switzerland. In the historic old town, cross the covered wooden bridge. The Swiss Writers' Trail, with around 70 listening stations, makes Olten a special destination for culture and literature fans.
This is Olten
Olten is considered an important railway junction in Switzerland and attracts visitors with a lively old town on the Aare. The small town is located at the southern foot of the Jura in the canton of Solothurn. Thanks to its central location, it is an ideal starting point for excursions to the Swiss Plateau and the Jura.
Discover Olten
In the old town, stroll through narrow streets with historic buildings. The covered wooden bridge is one of the city's landmarks and connects the two banks of the Aare. From the city tower, the so-called Witches' Tower, you can look out over the rooftops of the old town. A walk along the Aare will take you to cafés, restaurants and small shops.
Swiss Writer's Path
The Swiss Writer's Path is one of the best-known literary trails in Switzerland. Around 70 listening stations present texts by authors such as Alex Capus, Franz Hohler and Pedro Lenz. On the Quai Cornichon, you will also hear 33 satirical punchlines from winners of the Swiss Cabaret Prize Cornichon. The path leads you along the Aare through Olten.
Railway town of Olten
Olten is known as a railroad town because the Basel-Chiasso and Geneva-St. Gallen rail lines intersect here. Every day, tens of thousands of people travel via Olten station, one of the country's most important transport hubs. In the historic SBB main workshop next to the station, SBB passenger coaches are still serviced today. Guided tours will give you exciting insights into the history and technology of Swiss railways.
Around Olten
In the direction of the Jura, numerous hiking and cycling trails lead through sparse deciduous forests. After an ascent through the Tüfelsschlucht gorge near Hägendorf, you can enjoy a wide view over the Swiss Plateau from the Allerheiligenberg and the Belchen. Steep Jura rocks and former quarries are popular climbing areas. In nearby Gretzenbach you will visit the largest Thai temple complex in Switzerland. Between Olten and Aarau there is an 18-hole golf course.
Experience Olten for less
With your accommodation's Digital Guest Card, you can travel free of charge by bus and train in the A-Welle tariff area. In addition, you benefit from numerous discounts at museums, leisure activities and restaurants in the region.
