Thun lies where the Aare flows out of Lake Thun, about 30 kilometres southeast of Bern. The city is known as the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. There are several options to consider when planning your trip: paths and activities by the water, the architectural history of the Old Town, and museums and events.
Lakeside paths and water activities
The publicly accessible Bonstettenpark is part of the city of Thun and lies directly on the shores of Lake Thun. It is open year-round as a local recreational area. The Thun–Bonstettenpark lakeside walk starts at Thun railway station, passes through Schadau Park and by Thun lido, and continues towards Bonstettenpark. The route also includes a wooden walkway along the protected lakeside marsh. For another viewpoint, Schlossberg viewpoint can be reached from Thun Old Town via historic stairways.
At Thun lido, you can swim in Lake Thun and in swimming pools; a diving tower invites you to jump into the water. As this is a seasonal leisure activity, check the latest opening information before your visit. The solar-powered boat is also seasonal: this water shuttle connects the city centre with the lido, HĂĽnibach, Schadau Park and Aarequai. Check the current operating days before making plans. You can watch surfers at the river wave by the MĂĽhleschleuse.
Old Town and architectural history
Two levels of distinctive raised pavements shape the streetscape of Obere Hauptgasse. Thun was granted town rights in 1264. Another testament to the city's history is Thun Castle, a landmark since the 12th century. Since 2018, the museum in the castle has told its story across seven levels, from the cellar to the towers. From the castle, you can take in views of the mountain panorama, Lake Thun and Thun Old Town.
The religious buildings also reflect different periods: Scherzligen Church has roots dating back to Late Antiquity. The tower of Thun City Church was built in the 14th century; the Baroque nave was added in 1738. Inside are paintings from the 15th century and Baroque stucco work. Schadau Castle stands in Schadau Park, was built in 1846 and is a listed building. Brunch and afternoon tea, as well as sherry and port tastings, are offered there; check current availability before visiting.
Museums, events and market
The Thun Panorama is the oldest surviving circular painting in the world. The Thun Art Museum presents three to four temporary exhibitions each year, mainly of contemporary art. Another cultural option is the Thunerseespiele: every summer since 2003, the festival has presented musicals from around the world as well as its own productions. Check the current events calendar for specific performance dates.
The market also provides a regular occasion to visit the Old Town: fresh vegetables, fruit and other delicacies are offered there on Saturdays, in the heart of the Old Town. As market dates may change, check the current date before your visit.
The options for spending time by the water vary by type and season: the lakeside walk leads from the railway station towards Bonstettenpark, while the solar-powered boat connects several destinations on the water as a seasonal shuttle. You can plan accordingly, depending on whether you prefer to explore on foot along the shore or take a seasonal boat service.
Discover more destinations: Gwatt, Heimberg, Schwanden Ob Sigriswil, Amsoldingen, Unterlangenegg, Hilterfingen, Buchholterberg, Blumenstein.
Return to the higher-level travel overview: Thun.
