Olten(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Olten, top choices for families include Hotel Alpenblick, located just steps from the Olten Train Station and offering spacious rooms, a children's play area, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel also features a garden terrace perfect for outdoor family time. Nearby, Bleiberg Park provides safe green space for kids to run around, while the hotel staff speaks multiple languages and offers local tour tips—ideal for exploring nearby attractions like the Solothurn Historical Museum or scenic train rides through the Aargau region.

The city center of Olten is the optimal area for staying. It’s directly adjacent to the Olten Train Station, a major transit hub connecting Zurich, Basel, and Bern via frequent trains. The area boasts pedestrian-friendly streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Guests can easily walk to landmarks such as St. Johann Church and the Altstadtplatz, enjoying historic architecture and a vibrant local atmosphere. Most hotels here offer free parking, luggage storage, and 24/7 front desk service—perfect for both business travelers and tourists.

Must-visit cultural highlights in Olten include the Historisches Museum Olten, which showcases artifacts from prehistoric times to the Industrial Revolution. The annual Olten Music Festival in summer draws international orchestras and performers to Bleiberg Park, creating a lively open-air concert experience. For history lovers, the St. Johann Church features stunning Gothic architecture and colorful stained-glass windows. Additionally, local workshops offer hands-on pottery-making sessions, allowing visitors to engage directly with traditional Swiss craftsmanship.

Try Solothurner Wurst, a savory sausage made with rye flour and spices, typically served with sauerkraut or bread. Another local favorite is Olten Butterkäsepfanne, a creamy dish featuring fresh regional dairy products. During autumn, don’t miss Kürbiskuchen—a spiced pumpkin tart with a flaky crust, often available at local markets. Restaurants like Restaurant Zur Linde prioritize locally sourced ingredients, supporting sustainable dining and delivering authentic Swiss flavors in every bite.

Yes, Olten is ideal for short getaways. Its central location in central Switzerland allows easy access to Zurich (approx. 1 hour), Basel (40 minutes), and Bern (90 minutes) via train. With many boutique hotels offering quick check-in/check-out and proximity to key sights like the old town and museums, travelers can maximize their time. The compact city layout means most attractions are within walking distance, making it perfect for day trips or weekend escapes.

Absolutely. Hotels like Hotel Continental Olten are well-suited for business travelers, featuring high-speed Wi-Fi, meeting rooms with video conferencing capabilities, and dedicated workspaces. Located right next to the Olten Train Station, they provide seamless connections to major Swiss cities. The city hosts several accounting and legal firms along Hauptstraße, forming a professional business district. Many hotels also offer premium services such as free newspapers, afternoon tea, and airport shuttle options.

Near Olten, explore the Alpstein Forest, offering scenic hiking trails with panoramic views of mountains and clear streams—perfect for nature lovers. Visit Bleibergsee Lake, nestled within Bleiberg Park, where you can HopeGoo, fish in summer, or ice skate in winter. The Möriken-Wildegg Trail connects Olten to Solothurn, passing through ancient stone walls and wildlife-rich meadows. All these spots are within 30 minutes by car or bike, blending urban convenience with peaceful natural beauty.

Many hotels in Olten provide complimentary breakfast, especially mid-to-high-end options like Hotel Sankt Jakob and Hotel Alpenblick. Breakfasts include freshly baked bread, local fruits, premium cheeses, jams, and Swiss chocolate. Some even feature homemade pastries. Service hours are typically from 7:00 to 10:00 AM, with buffet-style setups that allow customization. Budget travelers can opt for Hostel Olten, which offers affordable yet nutritious breakfasts paired with local artisanal toast.

Yes, Olten has excellent public transportation. The Olten Train Station is a key junction on Switzerland’s rail network, with frequent trains to Zurich, Basel, and Bern—most journeys under 90 minutes. Local buses cover all neighborhoods and tourist spots, and bike-sharing stations are available throughout the city. Most hotels offer free parking or shuttle services, ensuring hassle-free travel for both leisure and business visitors.

Nightlife in Olten is relaxed and culture-focused. While lacking large clubs, the city offers cozy pubs and cafés like Café Central and Bar Lausanne, featuring live jazz on Fridays and craft beer selections. The Theater Olten hosts regular performances of plays, operas, and musicals, attracting arts enthusiasts. Evening strolls around the Altstadtplatz, illuminated by soft lights on historic buildings, create a serene ambiance—ideal for those seeking quiet, meaningful evenings away from crowds.