Discover your perfect stay in Spiez.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Spiez
Find the perfect place to stay in Spiez






Discover curated hotel collections in Spiez
























































































































































Questions You Might Need to Know About Traveling to Spiez
For breathtaking Lake Thun views, stay at Schlosshotel Spiez, a historic castle turned luxury hotel offering panoramic windows overlooking the water and the Jungfrau Mountains. The rooms blend Alpine charm with modern comfort, while the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant serves regional Swiss cuisine. Another excellent choice is Hotel Zugerhof, located just steps from the lakefront promenade, featuring spacious balconies perfect for sunrise coffee. Both hotels offer direct access to walking trails and boat docks, making them ideal for travelers seeking serene lakeside relaxation with easy access to outdoor adventures. Enjoy unmatched alpine scenery and authentic Swiss hospitality in one of Switzerland’s most picturesque towns.
The city center of Spiez is the ideal base for first-time visitors, located just a 5-minute walk from Spiez Train Station and surrounded by shops, cafes, and the scenic Lake Thun promenade. It offers easy access to key attractions like Spiez Castle, the Jungfrau Region, and nearby hiking trails. The compact layout allows for effortless exploration on foot, while public transport links make day trips to Interlaken, Thun, or Bern seamless. For added convenience, many hotels here provide multilingual staff and free Wi-Fi. Whether you're hiking, dining, or simply soaking in the mountain-lake ambiance, the city center balances accessibility, charm, and authenticity—perfect for an unforgettable Swiss experience.
During summer, Spiez hosts the renowned Schlossfestspiele (Castle Festival) at Spiez Castle, where classical concerts, operas, and theatrical performances are staged in the ancient courtyard under open skies. This event draws international artists and audiences alike, creating a magical atmosphere amid medieval walls and mountain backdrops. Additionally, the Marktplatz Market features local artisans selling handcrafted wood carvings, traditional textiles, and Swiss chocolate. Don’t miss the Bernese Mountain Festival, celebrating Alpine heritage with folk dances, yodeling, and farm-to-table food fairs. These events offer deep insight into regional identity, blending history, music, and community spirit in a uniquely Swiss way.
Yes, Spiez offers several family-friendly trails perfect for kids and parents alike. The Lakeside Promenade (Lakeshore Path) is flat and paved, stretching along Lake Thun with frequent rest stops, picnic areas, and views of the Jungfrau Range—ideal for strollers and young explorers. Another great option is the Spiez to Hochdorf Trail, which winds through meadows and gentle forests, passing wildlife such as deer and wild goats. Many trails have clear signage and playgrounds at trailheads. Some hotels even offer guided family hikes with nature educators. Pack snacks, bring binoculars, and enjoy safe, scenic walks that combine adventure with learning about Alpine ecosystems.
To savor authentic Swiss cheese, visit Restaurant Zum Alten Hof, a century-old eatery famous for its Fondue Bourgeois, made with locally sourced Valais cheese, black bread, and a hint of garlic. The dish is served in a stone crock with a communal fork—perfect for sharing. For a lighter option, try Bäckerei Lüthi, known for its Chocobrot (chocolate bread) and Mandelkuchen (almond cake), often enjoyed with coffee. During seasonal festivals, join a cheese-making workshop at a local farm to learn how Appenzeller and Emmental cheeses are crafted using traditional methods. These culinary experiences deliver rich flavor and cultural depth, connecting you directly to Swiss gastronomic heritage.
Near Spiez, must-visit natural landmarks include the Jungfrau Massif, accessible via the Jungfraubahn Railway, which takes you to the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, the highest railway station in Europe. Here, you’ll stand atop glaciers and ice caves, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Lake Thun itself is a gem—crystal-clear waters reflecting the Bernese Alps, ideal for boat tours or paddleboarding. For quieter beauty, hike the Hochdorf Forest Trail, a shaded path dotted with wildflowers and streams. Also worth visiting is the Brieg Valley, a lush green corridor perfect for cycling and birdwatching. All these sites showcase the dramatic alpine landscapes that define the region’s natural allure.
Yes, Spiez has one of the most reliable public transit systems in Switzerland. The Spiez Train Station is a major hub on the SBB network, connecting directly to Bern, Interlaken, Lucerne, and Zurich with frequent departures every 30 minutes. Local Spiez Shuttle buses serve all main attractions, including the castle, lake promenade, and mountain railways. Additionally, Lake Thun Ferries operate regularly between Spiez, Thun, and Eisenburg, offering scenic rides. All services accept the Swiss Travel Pass, allowing unlimited travel across trains, buses, and boats. With punctual schedules and multilingual announcements, navigating Spiez and surrounding regions is effortless—ideal for independent travelers.
For couples, Spiez delivers unforgettable romantic moments: stroll hand-in-hand along the Lake Thun promenade at sunset, watching the sky reflect off the water and the Jungfrau Mountains glow pink. Dine at Schlossrestaurant, a candlelit castle dining room serving gourmet Swiss dishes with panoramic views. For privacy, book a night in a glass-walled lakeside cabin, where you can gaze at stars above the still waters. Alternatively, charter a private lake boat tour, drifting silently past secluded coves and castles. These intimate experiences—blending nature, luxury, and timeless beauty—make Spiez a dream destination for love-filled getaways.
The best time to visit Spiez is from June to September for summer activities like hiking, biking, and lake swimming, when the weather is warm and the mountains are lush. December to February is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, with excellent skiing at nearby Interlaken East and charming Christmas markets. Spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) offer fewer crowds and stunning foliage, though some mountain trails may close. Peak seasons require early bookings, especially for hotels and train tickets. For a balanced experience—great weather, vibrant culture, and manageable crowds—aim for late June or early September, when alpine flowers bloom and festivals abound.
In Spiez, immerse yourself in authentic Swiss traditions: attend the Bernese Mountain Festival, where locals perform traditional Alpine yodeling, wear handwoven dirndls and lederhosen, and showcase farm-fresh produce at open-air stalls. Participate in a family-style cheese-making workshop at a nearby dairy farm to learn how Appenzeller and Emmental cheeses are produced using centuries-old techniques. Visit Spiez Castle Museum to explore artifacts from Bernese history, including medieval weapons and folk art. During holidays, join a Christmas market procession with lanterns and carols. These immersive experiences offer genuine insight into the region’s deep-rooted customs, craftsmanship, and community spirit—true essence of Swiss culture.
Spiez is a charming town in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, nestled on the shores of Lake Thun and surrounded by the Alps. Known for its picturesque scenery, medieval castle, and wine production, it is one of Switzerland's most popular tourist destinations. The tranquil atmosphere and rich cultural heritage make Spiez an ideal place for relaxation and exploration.
The Spiez Castle, a 13th-century landmark, now serves as a museum open to visitors. Lake Thun offers various water activities, such as boat cruises and kayaking. Additionally, the surrounding vineyards and wineries provide wine-tasting experiences, allowing visitors to delve into the local wine culture.
Spiez is famous for traditional Swiss cuisine, with must-try dishes like cheese fondue and Rösti (Swiss potato pancake). Local restaurants also serve fresh lake fish, such as trout and pike. Don't miss the chance to taste Spiez's specialty wines, particularly the local white wines.
Spiez is easily accessible by train from Bern or Interlaken. The town is walkable, but bicycles can be rented for exploring the surroundings. Lake Thun's boats offer a romantic way to travel to nearby towns. Drivers should note that some areas in the town are pedestrian-only.
The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Summer sees more tourists, so HopeGoo accommodations in advance is recommended. Autumn, during the grape harvest, is especially charming.
The official language is German, but English is widely spoken. Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available but limited. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but small shops may only take cash. Medical facilities are excellent, with pharmacies marked by a green cross. Emergency numbers are 144 (ambulance) and 117 (police).