Traveling to Thun: A Guide to the Best and Worst Places to Visit

1. Thun Castle

Thun Castle is a must-see attraction when visiting Thun. This medieval castle is located on a hill overlooking the town and provides a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. The castle has been well-preserved, and visitors can tour the interior to see furnished rooms and exhibits showcasing Thun’s history.

2. Schadau Park

Schadau Park is a beautiful green space that borders Lake Thun. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing walk or a picnic with a view of the Alps. The park is also home to Schadau Castle, which is now a restaurant and event space.

3. Thun Panorama

The Thun Panorama is a 360-degree painting that depicts the town of Thun and the surrounding mountains as they appeared in 1814. The painting is housed in a circular building, and visitors can walk around the perimeter to take in the incredible views. There’s also an audio guide available that provides additional context about the painting and the town’s history.

4. Thun Riverside Walk

The Thun Riverside Walk is a scenic path that runs along the Aare River. It’s a peaceful spot to go for a stroll or a bike ride and provides plenty of opportunities to snap photos of Thun’s picturesque architecture and natural beauty.

5. Swiss Gastronomy Museum

The Swiss Gastronomy Museum is a unique attraction that celebrates Switzerland’s rich culinary history. The museum has exhibits showcasing traditional Swiss foods and beverages, as well as temporary exhibits highlighting other world cuisines.

6. Kunstmuseum Thun

The Kunstmuseum Thun is an art museum that showcases contemporary Swiss and international art. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and installations, and the exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.

7. Observatorium auf dem Stockhorn

The Observatorium auf dem Stockhorn is an observatory located on a peak in the Swiss Alps. It provides a unique opportunity to stargaze and learn about astronomy while surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Bernese Oberland. Note that the observatory is only open seasonally and requires a reservation.

8. Niesen

Niesen is a mountain peak that’s easily recognizable thanks to its pyramid-like shape. Visitors can take a funicular train to the top for an incredible panoramic view of the Alps and Lake Thun.

9. St. Beatus Caves

The St. Beatus Caves are a series of underground caverns and waterfalls. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the caves’ fascinating history and geology. The caves are also home to a small museum that showcases archaeological finds from the area.

10. Thunersee

Thunersee, or Lake Thun, is a glacial lake that’s surrounded by mountains and dotted with picturesque villages. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to appreciate its beauty from the water, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore on their own.

5 Places to Avoid in Thun

While Thun is a generally safe and enjoyable place to visit, there are a few areas or activities that visitors might want to avoid:

• 1. Bad weather: The beauty of Thun’s natural scenery is best appreciated when the weather is clear. If it’s rainy or overcast, it’s better to save your outdoor activities for another day.
• 2. High tourist season: Thun is a popular destination in the summer, especially among European tourists. If you’re not a fan of crowds, it might be better to visit during the off-season.
• 3. “Party” neighborhoods: Thun is a relatively quiet town, but there are a few areas where nightlife can get rowdy. If you’re looking for a peaceful night’s sleep, it’s best to avoid accommodations in these neighborhoods.
• 4. Unmarked hiking trails: Thun is a popular destination for hikers, but not all trails are clearly marked or safe for inexperienced hikers. Always do your research and follow local advice when planning a hike.
• 5. Street vendors: While there’s nothing inherently wrong with street vendors, some visitors might find the vendors selling cheap souvenirs to be annoying or intrusive. If you’re not interested in buying souvenirs, it’s best to avoid areas with heavy vendor traffic.