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

In Thun, the top choice for families is Hotel am See, located directly on the Lake Thun shoreline. This hotel features spacious family suites, a children’s play area, and free bicycle rentals. Guests enjoy panoramic lake views from large windows, while nearby attractions like Thun Castle and the historic Old Town offer engaging cultural experiences. The hotel also provides wellness facilities including a heated indoor pool and sauna, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure. Its central location ensures easy access to restaurants, shops, and scenic walking paths along the lakefront.

The Old Town (Altstadt) district is the most desirable area for visitors. Nestled beside Lake Thun and within walking distance of key landmarks such as Thun Castle and St. Michael’s Church, this historic quarter combines picturesque cobblestone streets with modern comforts. It’s home to cozy cafés, local boutiques, and traditional Swiss eateries. Many boutique hotels and guesthouses here blend heritage architecture with contemporary amenities, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life in Bernese Oberland—perfect for travelers who value atmosphere and accessibility.

Visitors to Thun can participate in the annual Lake Thun Music Festival, held at an open-air stage with performances ranging from classical to jazz. Another highlight is the traditional cheese-making workshop at a local farm, where guests learn to craft Eichberg Cheese using time-honored techniques. In winter, explore snowshoeing tours through alpine meadows, guided by locals in traditional gear. These immersive experiences offer deep insight into Alpine rural life and regional craftsmanship.

Yes, Thun Lake offers exceptional photo opportunities. Early morning at the island chapel (St. Peter's Chapel) reveals stunning reflections in the still water. For dramatic compositions, visit the Thun Castle viewpoint at sunset, capturing silhouetted mountains against golden skies. The Bregenzer Aue wetlands provide a peaceful setting for wildlife photography, especially migratory birds. These lesser-known locations deliver breathtaking shots of natural beauty and serene alpine landscapes.

Many hotels in Thun provide comprehensive outdoor support. For instance, Alpenhof Hotel offers free maps, route suggestions, and equipment rentals like hiking poles and crampons. They partner with local guides to arrange trekking in the Bernese Alps or canoe trips on Lake Thun. Some even feature luggage storage and shuttle services, allowing guests to travel light. Whether scaling Staufenberg Mountain or exploring forest trails, these services ensure a seamless adventure experience.

Beyond standard Swiss dishes, try a traditional Swiss meatball cooking class at Old Town Kitchen, where you’ll prepare Waldviertel meatballs using locally sourced black pork and homemade bread. Another unique experience is the lakeside picnic etiquette workshop, led by a local hostess, teaching how to pair fresh Thun trout with mountain honey bread. Enjoy your meal on a lakeside deck, surrounded by nature—perfect for slow, mindful dining in a stunning alpine setting.

Absolutely. Thun is ideal for short breaks. Many hotels offer half-day packages that include castle tours, lake cruises, and local food vouchers. With trains from Zurich or Bern taking just one hour, guests can arrive quickly and settle in within minutes. Most properties provide express check-in/out and free luggage storage, enabling stress-free exploration. Whether strolling through the cobbled Old Town or hiking up Staufenberg Hill for panoramic views, everything is accessible without hassle.

Winter in Thun shines with its blend of snowscapes and wellness. During ice-covered periods, guests can enjoy ice skating on Lake Thun or unwind at the Thunersee Thermal Spa. The seasonal Christmas Market in the Old Town Square features handmade chocolates, mulled wine, and artisan wood carvings. Additionally, ride the steam train to Brügg, passing through snowy forests and mountain villages, offering a nostalgic journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Must-visit landmarks include Thun Castle, dating back to the 12th century and now housing a regional museum showcasing medieval armor, noble furnishings, and ancient manuscripts. St. Michael’s Church boasts exquisite Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and a towering spire. The Old Town’s town hall, built in the 16th century, preserves original wooden façades. These sites are all within walking distance, making them perfect for self-guided or guided tours that reveal Thun’s rich historical legacy.

Yes, many luxury hotels in Thun offer multilingual concierge services. Lakeside Manor features bilingual staff fluent in German, English, and French, ready to assist with reservations, translation, and personalized tours. Some partner with local cultural institutions to provide interactive audio guides and digital maps with multilingual content. Additionally, select hotels offer Swiss German language lessons for guests wanting deeper cultural immersion—making every stay more enriching and connected.