lake thun cruise from interlaken

One Day Lake Thun Itinerary Sightseeing + Visiting Castles

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As a wanderer, I count Lake Thun , along with Lauterbrunnen in the Jungfrau Region , among my favorite destinations in Switzerland. The turquoise water of the lake, the towering snowcapped mountains above — it’s a sight that paints peace onto our minds . Add the castles to the scene, and it becomes a fantasy in reality.

Did you know that Lake Thun is surrounded by five castles ? I discovered them while exploring the lake, and they simply reinforced my belief that Lake Thun is indeed Switzerland’s fairytale lake . The overall experience at Lake Thun is something I would highly recommend to travelers who, like me, hail from the total opposite side of the world, both literally and figuratively.

Are you one of them? Yes? Well, whether you’re planning an extended weekend in Switzerland or a week-long getaway , Lake Thun is definitely worth considering . If you want to create your own itinerary, my list of 10 beautiful attractions around Lake Thun would be a great start.

However, you might not need to do that since I also have my own Lake Thun itinerary , which you’ll see in a bit. It will give you an idea of how to spend a day in Lake Thun, visiting the highlights, castles, and breathtaking ultimate viewpoints .

When I was exploring Thun, I discovered a plethora of attractions and places to visit.

From unlimited lake cruise rides to mountaintop viewpoints , anyone could easily spend a day at Lake Thun . Let’s not forget the water activities . And if you wish, you could join a group visiting the lake’s classic attractions . There are also once-in-a-lifetime activities available, such as helicopter rides and tandem paragliding flights .

What’s more? More than 10 villages and towns sit around this lake , awaiting you to visit. They could be amazing destinations, especially if you’re the kind of person who loves to wander and go off the beaten path . These include Aeschi, Gunten, Hilterfingen, Hünibach, Interlaken , Krattigen, Leissigen, Merligen , Oberhofen , Sigriswil , Spiez , and Thun . You can check the official website of Switzerland at the resources section of this post to learn more .

With so many things to do and places to visit in Lake Thun, I definitely understand if you might feel a little overwhelmed planning a trip here. Been there, done that! But what would be the best way to explore the lake? Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there could be an ideal way for everyone.

For wanderers, here’s what I can suggest: try the things that are unique to Lake Thun . This means visiting unique attractions like the town of Thun , Oberhofen Castle , Spiez , and either Mount Niesen or Niederhorn . If the weather does not cooperate, consider replacing Mount Niesen or Mount Niederhorn with Saint Beatus Caves , as this attraction can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.

Visit the town of Thun because it has a castle that offers a magical view of the Bernese Oberland ; Oberhofen Castle because of its beautiful blend of scenery and architecture ; Spiez for its unique Mediterranean flair ; and Mount Niesen or Niederhorn for their unique breathtaking views of the region .

This will be our approach for this itinerary.

One of the most important things to do before going on a trip to Lake Thun is to familiarize yourself with the transportation around the lake. This is necessary not only to avoid getting lost, but also to make the most of your trip. It means that we don’t want to waste a significant portion of our day at the lake asking for directions or missing a boat ride from one destination to another.

However, if it’s your first time in Switzerland, here’s some good news: the country has immaculate public transportation, and Lake Thun is no exception. The sole reason I’d consider renting a car for Lake Thun is if I were seeking the ultimate scenic drive . The northern shoreline near Sigriswil is merely one place where you’d prefer to decelerate and immerse yourself in the pleasing landscape for a bit longer.

Public transportation around Lake Thun comes in three forms: trains , buses , and ferries .

Buses cater to the northeastern side of the lake, while trains traverse the towns and villages on the southwestern side of Lake Thun. Ferries make stops at nearly every town or village on Lake Thun, significantly reducing travel time between opposite sides of the lake. Funiculars and cable cars provide connections from the mountain tops to the nearest towns . Refer to the map below for a comprehensive overview of Lake Thun’s public transportation services.

The longest cruise on Lake Thun spans its 17-kilometer length, from Interlaken to Thun (and vice versa)—the towns at the two ends of Lake Thun—and lasts for over 2 hours. Naturally, travel times are shorter when using trains and buses.

IMPORTANT : The last time I checked, the boat ride information on Google Maps was outdated. For more accurate travel time estimates, check the interactive timetable of the Lake Thun boat cruise on bls-schiff.ch (BLS cruise). I’ve included a link to the timetable in the resources section of this post .

Here’s a tip : If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland for a few days, ideally a week , it might be a good idea to get yourself a Swiss Travel Pass . This one-time-purchase card covers many attractions in Switzerland and offers unlimited use of public transportation. Especially if you’re going to be visiting numerous places and using public transportation frequently, this pass can be a real bargain. The cost of a single Swiss Travel Pass is often significantly lower than the combined price of individual admission fees or tickets. The Swiss Travel Pass covers museums, galleries, trains, boats, and buses. Funiculars and cable cars are discounted by 25% to 50%. The only time I think the Swiss Travel Pass might not be worth it is if you’re planning a week-long trip to Switzerland but intend to spend 2 to 3 days hiking or engaging in similar activities that don’t require the Swiss Travel Pass.

Lake Thun One Day Itinerary

Located in the heart of Switzerland, Lake Thun offers visitors several ideal starting points for their journey.

The most popular jump-off locations include Spiez ( west of Lake Thun ), which is frequented by visitors from Gstaad, Montreux, Visp, Kandersteg, Brig, or Zermatt. Interlaken ( southern tip of Lake Thun ) is another common starting point, particularly for travelers from Lucerne and the rest of the Bernese Oberland. Lastly, Thun ( northern tip of Lake Thun ) is a favorite among tourists from Bern, Basel, and Zurich.

Regardless of your origin, though, I recommend beginning your trip at the northern part of Lake Thun , and there is a couple of reasons for this.

• The tourist attractions in the northern part of the lake are conveniently close to each other . This proximity allows you to visit more places in the early part of your day without the crowds that typically gather around midday.
• Thun serves as the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. The city offers stunning panoramas of the Bernese Alps and Lake Thun, providing a visual “appetizer” for the beautiful experiences that await you later in the day .

Morning in Lake Thun

So yes, this trip to Lake Thun begins in Thun . From this charming town, you’ll gradually uncover the beauty of Lake Thun, moving southward towards Oberhofen Castle , drawing ever closer to the even more breathtaking Bernese Alps.

Visual summary of your morning visiting Lake Thun

Thun, in a nutshell, is a small city packed with beautiful sights . Despite its smaller size, Thun bears a striking resemblance to the beautiful city of Lucerne , particularly in terms of its charm. Once you arrive, my suggestion is to immerse yourself in the city’s viewpoints, picture-perfect spots , and notable landmarks. Explore Old Town Thun on foot . It’s a wander-worthy place!

Like Lucerne, Thun has its own version of the Chapel Bridge , known as the Untere and Obere Schleuse Brücke . Thun also has a medieval landmark that dominates its skyline. If Lucerne has the Musegg Wall , Thun has Thun Castle in Schlossberg, which will undoubtedly be the highlight of your visit. There are many things you can see when visiting Thun Castle , but the views from here are the best part! I am one hundred percent sure you’ll love them too!

Note : With this itinerary, you won’t be able to explore the interiors of Thun Castle or visit its tower for the highest overlooking view of the city and Lake Thun. However, you can visit the pavilion behind the church to enjoy a nearly identical view .

If you’re interested in finding the attractions in Thun Old Town and other nearby places, feel free to check out my map of Thun . In this map, you can also find other attractions in Thun that you might want to visit, say, if you finish exploring Old Thun quickly. One such attraction is Thun Panorama, a hidden gem of the town .

On the other hand, Oberhofen Castle is a picturesque castle offering amazing views of Lake Thun . It will be your next destination after Thun. Don’t worry, getting there is pretty straightforward; it’s just a short bus ride away. Bus #21 .

I think you should be excited, especially since Oberhofen Castle offers many beautiful things to see and discover ! Oberhofen Castle is a time-transporting museum… and a stunning architectural surprise in one of its rooms awaits you ! The castle also has a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch while taking in the lake views after exploring the castle and its garden.

Wandering through Thun Old Town, exploring its streets, visiting picturesque spots, and viewing its landmarks may take approximately two hours or less, depending on how quickly you explore. During this time, you can visit the city’s highlights, which include:

• Obere Schleuse Brücke
• Kirchtreppe
• Stadtkirche Thun
• Thun Castle
• Obere Hauptgasse
• Untere Schleuse Brücke
• Rathausplatz

I suggest you start exploring Thun Old Town around 7:30 or 8:00 am because we need to reach Oberhofen Castle as early as possible (but not before 9:00 am, which is the castle’s opening time).

On average, a visit to Oberhofen Castle takes about two to three hours . This includes time spent wandering in the castle park and visiting the castle museum. The duration of your visit to Oberhofen Castle may vary depending on the season. The castle park is open all year round, but the castle museum is only open from mid-May to October. Therefore, your trip to Oberhofen Castle will likely be shorter during the winter months.

Please check the official website of Oberhofen Castle for the latest announcements and schedules to be sure. The website is linked in the resources section of this post .

By the time you finish exploring the castle, it will probably be lunchtime. You have three options:

• Dine at Restaurant Schloss Oberhofen
• Try the restaurants in Oberhofen, which are a 2 to 5-minute walk from the castle
• Eat after the boat ride when you arrive at your next destination: Spiez. (This is the preferred option)

When choosing the restaurant for your lunch, please remember to consider the boat departure times to your next destination , Spiez. Also, factor in the time you will need to purchase boat tickets – it’s even better if you can buy them online.

We aim to maximize our time by experiencing new things and visiting new places, rather than having idle moments waiting for the next boat to arrive and depart. If you wish to check the boat schedule, please visit bls-schiff.ch and use the following locations for departure and arrival:

• Departure (Point A) — Oberhofen am Thunersee
• Arrival (Point B) — Spiez Schiffstation

You can also get to Spiez from Oberhofen by bus and train. However, it would take you much longer and would cost more (unless you already have a Swiss Travel Pass ). 

Afternoon in Lake Thun

After enjoying your lunch, you’ll be heading to Spiez , another picturesque town that boasts yet another castle. Finally, Mount Niesen , which offers a sweeping view of Lake Thun. I recommend Mount Niesen because I simply can’t think of any other place that offers such a panoramic view of Lake Thun! The view from this unique mountain could indeed be utterly spectacular .

However, depending on the season and weather, you might want to consider other attractions like Niederhorn . It’s a beautiful alternative to Mount Niesen , especially since Mount Niesen isn’t easily accessible during winter. The funicular to this mountain only operates outside of the winter season. If the weather turns completely against you, you can still make the most of the day by visiting the Saint Beatus Caves .

Early Afternoon: Spiez

From Oberhofen Castle, you can quickly reach Spiez by a 20-minute boat ride. The last time I checked, there was a 12:00 pm departure from Oberhofen. The boat makes a stop at Gunten before arriving at Spiez. Perched on the southern shores of Lake Thun, Spiez offers 180-degree views of the lake and the Emmental Alps . The pyramid mountain of Switzerland, Mount Niesen, dominates the Spiez skyline with its triangular appearance.

I recommend visiting Spiez as it often adds a slight twist to the Lake Thun journey. Spiez has a surprising Mediterranean vibe , often catching people off guard as they expect to be in the Swiss Alps. The Mediterranean flair should be apparent by the time you disembark from the boat. For instance, you’ll notice the palm trees and the boats docked in Spiez harbor. Various parts of the town will inspire you to take numerous photos!

Visual summary of your afternoon at Spiez, Lake Thun

After a short stroll in the harbor, it’s time to visit Spiez Castle —the main landmark of the town. The castle is only about a 3 to 5-minute walk from the dock. It’s pretty straightforward as you can find the way to the castle along Seestrasse, the only road to the town center.

Like Oberhofen Castle, Spiez Castle has a long history—it’s over 1000 years old! However, unlike Thun and Oberhofen Castle, you can clearly see how the architecture of Spiez Castle has evolved over time . This is evident in the castle’s tower keep and the remaining parts of the castle.

The castle grounds of Spiez Castle consist of a beautiful park , a chapel (Schlosskirche Spiez), and the main castle (also a museum). I wouldn’t recommend going inside the museum at Spiez Castle, especially if you’ve already visited the museum at Oberhofen Castle. It might be a redundant experience for you. However, if you’re curious about what’s inside Spiez Castle, please check its official website linked in the resources section of this post .

Don’t worry if you decide not to go inside Spiez Castle and climb to the tower, which offers a stunning vantage point of Schlosskirche Spiez and Lake Thun. You can still enjoy Spiez Castle by wandering in its splendid garden, beautifully lawned and decorated with flowering plants . From the park, you can already have an overlooking view of Lake Thun and Spiez’s harbor . If you wish, you can go behind Schlosskirche Spiez for an unobstructed view of the lake.

There’s a beautiful house in front of Schlosskirche Spiez . It’s an architectural gem, and I marvel at its gorgeous facade. I believe there are beautiful murals inside its terrace . Also, Spiez Castle’s park has several benches, making it a nice place to hang out for a while—savor the moment you are in the castle!

However, I suggest not spending too long in Spiez Castle. Less than an hour should be enough , especially if it’s the breathtaking scenery of the Bernese Oberland and Lake Thun you want to see. Appreciating the architecture of Spiez Castle, strolling in the castle’s beautiful park, a short meditation in the chapel, and taking a few photos may be enough before it’s time to go to the next destination, Mount Niesen.

Late Afternoon: Mount Niesen

Lake Thun is surrounded by majestic mountains. You’ll start to truly appreciate them as you reach the southern half of the lake, where the peaks rise above 2000 meters. Among these towering mountains, Mount Niesen is sure to catch your attention. Some people call it the ‘Swiss Pyramid,’ and indeed, it will captivate you, especially when you reach Spiez, where this triangular mountain dominates the horizon.

I included Mount Niesen in this one-day Lake Thun itinerary for a couple of reasons. As I have mentioned eariler, Mount Niesen is worth visiting because its summit is one of the best vantage points of Lake Thun and the Bernese Oberland (pretty much like Mannlichen and Harder Kulm ). From the top, you can literally see not only the entirety of Lake Thun but also Lake Brienz—the lake with milky turquoise blue water on the other side of Interlaken.

Visual summary of your late afternoon visiting Lake Thun trip at Mount Niesen

The sense of adventure will fill you up even before you reach the top of Mount Niesen. To get to the summit, you’ll need to ride a funicular . The metallic sound created by the climbing funicular, the steep railway incline, and the scenic views you’ll see as you ascend to the summit are truly breathtaking. Overall, it’s a 30-minute ride to the top, passing through forests and tunnels—all to make you admire the ingenuity of Swiss engineers.

I intentionally scheduled Mount Niesen for the afternoon part of this one-day Lake Thun itinerary because that’s when you can witness the spectacle Mount Niesen creates. Between 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm , Mount Niesen casts a perfectly triangular shadow over Lake Thun , assuming the weather is perfect. It’s a rare spectacular natural phenomenon that only occurs, and you can clearly see it from the summit of Mount Niesen. The perfect triangular shadow appears from the beginning of October .

How do you get to Mount Niesen? Going to Mount Niesen from Spiez is simple, yet it can be time-consuming if you aren’t aware of Spiez’s public transportation departure times .

It only involves two train/funicular rides from Spiez (Spiez train station to Mülenen and Mülenen to Niesen). However, since you’re coming from Spiez Castle, you’ll still have to do a 20-minute scenic hike or take the 11-minute bus ride (no. 61) to get to Spiez train station. The bus station is located in the harbor (near the Seestrasse junction), and the buses depart from it every hour. You can check Rome2Rio or SBB.ch for updated departure times.

Although the funicular to Niesen starts in Mülenen, you’ll still need to walk from Mülenen train station to the funicular valley station as they are located separately. They are close to each other, so there’s no need to worry about another long hike. Once you reach the Niesen funicular valley station, you’re only 30 minutes away from the summit.

The funicular ride lasts for half an hour , which is the same as the departure interval. Just be aware of the departure times of the trains heading to Mülenen from Spiez, especially if you’re aiming to see Mount Niesen’s shadow over Lake Thun. Although the train ride to Mülenen lasts only 5 minutes, the interval between train departure times is 30 minutes . Missing a train means wasting 30 minutes. We don’t want that !

Important to remember: the last funicular departure time from Mount Niesen is 5:45 pm.

Alternative Destinations

After visiting the mountains several times, I’ve learned my lessons. The season, weather, and timing are crucial to truly enjoy the visit. Once, I climbed the mountains and came home very disappointed. It rained during my climb, and all I saw was a white wall of fog. Since then, I always have a backup plan whenever I plan a trip to mountainous areas like Lake Thun and the Swiss Alps in general.

Here’s a tip : just after you finish your lunch, immediately check the live webcam broadcasts for Mount Niesen and Niederhorn . These live broadcasts could save your day; they can give you hints about whether going to the summit is worth it or not. If you see a wall of fog, consider visiting Saint Beatus Caves in the late afternoon after your visit to Spiez. You can check the live cam view of Mount Niesen and Niederhorn at their official websites (linked at the resources section )

If you plan to visit Lake Thun during winter, Niederhorn is the place to go if you also want to see panoramic views of Lake Thun, similar to what you can see from Mount Niesen. Niederhorn is not only accessible during winter, but it also offers a wide range of winter outdoor activities, from skiing to snowshoeing, sledding, paragliding, and more. 

So, where is Niderhorn? Niederhorn is one of the peaks in the Emmental Alps (north of Lake Thun), almost 2000 meters tall. It is one of the mountains you can find on the other side of Lake Thun if you are currently in Spiez. Aside from being a stunning vantage point of Lake Thun, you would also like to come here because it is also a beautiful viewing point of the Jungfrau Region. 

Niederhorn’s slopes decline facing south, toward the Jungfrau massif. It’s like a giant natural theater for the three Bernese Oberland superstar peaks: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The opposite side of Niderhorn has natural scenery to also convince you to come to this mountain. If you’re a landscape photographer, you’ll probably take numerous photos of the spectacular valley, ridge, and cliffs formed by this mountain and Rothorn.

There are a few ways you can get to Niederhorn from Spiez. But since you will be coming from Spiez Castle, which is very close to the town’s harbor, I recommend going for a boat ride. 

Unlike Niesen, there’s no specific time that you need to catch in Niederhorn. You can go to Niederhorn anytime you want and not miss anything.  From Spiez Schiffstation, you have to get a boat ride to Beatenbucht. It is usually a 25-minute boat ride, dropping by a couple of towns in between. 

Alternatively, you can also hop in a boat that has a stop in Gunten (See). Disembark there, and walk to Gunten Dorf (a 5-minute walk). In Gunten Dorf, you can find buses #21 (heading to Interlaken), which would also bring you to Beatenbucht. This route takes a little longer, about 30 minutes of travel time. Once you reach Beatenbucht, ride the funicular up to Beatenberg-Niederhorn cable car valley station. Continue to Niderhorn summit by riding the cable car. Overall, the journey to Niederhorn from Beatenbucht would take not more than 45 minutes. 

I linked the official website of Niederhorn in the resources section . On their website, you can find different programs and activities to make your visit worth it. Also, kindly check the updated timetables and availability of the facilities before heading to the mountain. 

If, unfortunately, you come to Lake Thun with the weather not cooperating, you don’t need to worry. Saint Beatus Caves got your back! 

Saint Beatus Caves is a network of caves above the shores of Lake Thun in the Niederhorn Massif, near Interlaken. It is a popular tourist attraction which showcases a kilometer of underground beauty that includes numerous impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique rock formations.

For me, Saint Beatus Caves is another twist in a journey in Lake Thun. Like, who would expect that there are more to see in Lake Thun other than blue water, charming towns, magical castles, and awe-inspiring mountains? Most importantly, visiting Saint Beatus Caves is both entertaining and educational.

Along the pathways inside the cave, you’ll see the rock formations made even more spectacular by the light installations inside the cave. Information screens are placed beside them to quench the curiosity about the rocks that they can spark in you. You also get to discover a part of Bernese Oberland’s heritage when you visit Saint Beatus Caves. Right at the beginning of your tour inside the cave, the legend of Saint Beatus is narrated by informational screens and boards. 

In a brief summary, the legend says that Saint Beatus, a hermit, killed a fire-breathing dragon that lived inside the cave. And if you are a fan of Lord of the Rings, I’m sure you’ll love the waterfalls that cascade into several streams outside Saint Beatus Caves. The waterfalls spout out under the quaint medieval-looking pathway, which should remind you of Rivendell—the home of the elves. 

So, how can you get to Saint Beatus Caves from Spiez? There are a few ways to get to Saint Beatus Caves from Spiez. The quickest and most scenic route is by boat. 

Saint Beatus Caves has its own ferry terminal (Beatushöhlen Sundlauenen), and you can find boat rides in Spiez that have a stop on it. The boat ride is approximately 50 minutes long. After arriving at Beatushöhlen Sundlauenen, you still have to hike for 20 minutes to reach the entrance to the cave. 

Saint Beatus Caves also has a restaurant, and if you want, you can have your dinner at it. The restaurant also has an epic overlooking view of Lake Thun—have your tummies and eyes satisfied! Disclaimer: Saint Beatus Caves’ restaurant is also a tourist favorite. If you really want to eat there, it’s better to book a table ahead of time. The restaurant gets full quickly, especially during the peak season. 

How to Spend One Day in Lake Thun (see Timestamps)

So, there you have it! That’s how you can spend a day in Lake Thun, no matter the season or weather. If you’re curious about how to carry out this itinerary, here’s the sequence with timestamps:

• 6:00 am — Breakfast
• 7:00 am — Thun Old Town Walking Tour (snack time after the tour)
• 9:30 am — Bus to Oberhofen Castle
• 10:00 am — Oberhofen Castle
• 12:00 pm — Boat to Spiez (last time I checked, 12:05 pm was the departure time of the boat)
• 12:30 pm — Lunch at Spiez castle restaurant & explore the castle park. 
• 1:45 pm — Head to Spiez train station (last time I checked, 1:49 pm was the bus departure time from the harbor)
• 2:00 pm — Depart Spiez (last time I checked, 2:12 pm is the train departure time)
• 2:30 pm — arrival at Mülenen and walk to Niesen funicular valley station
• 3:00 pm — Funicular ride to the summit
• 3:30 pm — Enjoy and relax at Niesen’s summit
• 5:45 pm — Descent from Niesen
• 6:15 pm — Head back to the hotel

Author’s Note : In this one-day Lake Thun itinerary, you might want to skip Spiez Castle (since you’ve already visited Oberhofen Castle) if the schedule seems too packed . I recommend booking your tickets (for the boat, trains, and funicular) online and in advance to save time at the ticket counters . A Swiss Travel Pass and other regional day passes (see the resources section) can be really helpful in saving time and keeping to your schedule.

Also, note that the time stamps above are only estimates. Please double-check the schedules and timetables of the public transportation involved for your Lake Thun trip. Also, please expect adjustments you may apply considering the following factors:

• preventive maintenance of the facilities
• local events

That would be all! I hope you enjoy your journey in Lake Thun. 🙂

Is One Day Enough In Lake Thun?

As you may have discovered throughout this Lake Thun itinerary, it’s impossible to visit every tourist attraction around Lake Thun in a single day. So, do you need an additional day in Lake Thun?

A single day should be sufficient to visit Lake Thun and see its highlights : a charming town, a fairytale-like castle, and a breathtaking mountaintop destination . However, you might want to allocate more time if you’re seeking a relaxing, laid-back trip to Lake Thun. If you prefer, you could arrange it this way: a 2-day visit to Lake Thun . For instance, spend one whole day in Thun and visit Oberhofen Castle, then explore the rest of the Lake Thun attractions on the following day.

Take note : While it might seem tempting to spend more than one day in Lake Thun, I’m not strongly advocating for it. Particularly if your trip to Switzerland is less than a week, one day in Lake Thun is enough , and you can spend the rest of your time seeing other beautiful places in Switzerland .

In fact, you don’t have to venture outside central Switzerland to visit some. Spend a few days in Bern , which is just 30 minutes away from Thun, to see its well-architected city and its scenic city view . Alternatively, you can go to Lucerne. Two days in Lucerne is fun with a mix of nature and city adventure.

And let’s not forget about the Jungfrau Region! There’s so much to see there. I don’t know where to start! LOL. Here are my top suggestions: Aside from Lauterbrunnen, try Wengen , Murren , or Gimmelwald for the utmost idyllic alpine village experience.

Sources & References for this Lake Thun Itinerary

Here are the links that can help you plan further and prepare your Lake Thun trip. 

• Spiez Castle (Official Website)
• Mount Niesen (Official Website)
• Niederhorn (Official Website)
• Saint Beatus Caves (Official Website)
• Lake Thun Cruise Timetable (Official Website)
• SBB.ch (bus schedules, train timetables, regional passes , and more)
• List of activities and tours in Bernese Oberland (GetYourGuide)
• Attractions and more things to do in Lake Thun (Official website of Switzerland)

Hello there! I believe you’re planning a visit to Switzerland soon. If you haven’t booked any accommodation yet, please consider using my partner’s hotel search and booking platform . It’s my favorite, and I’m loving the perks it offers, such as extended free booking cancellation and more. I bet you’ll find it handy too. However, the link is an affiliate link. This means if you book through it, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Think of it as your donation to WanderInEurope, enabling me to write more helpful content like this . Thank you very much!

Do you like visiting lakes? Well, well, well! Switzerland has another stunning lake you can visit. It’s called Lake Brienz and it’s the largest lake with the brightest turquoise water in the entire country (as far as I know). Amazingly, it’s also home to a picturesque village called Iseltwald . For a high-altitude location where you can capture an inverted image of the mountain peaks, Bachalpsee near Grindelwald is the place to go. Check them out! 😍

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Boat Trip on Lake Thun from Interlaken

We took a paddle steamer boat trip on Lake Thun from Interlaken. Here’s what we got up to…

The weather in and around the Lauterbrunnen valley on the first day of our trip here wasn’t great. We woke up to heavy cloud shrouding the surrounding mountains and rain showers, making it less than ideal to head up in to the mountains as we’d originally planned.

So instead we got in the car and drove down out of the valley to the huge nearby ‘Lake Thun’ and one of Switzerland’s best-known towns, Interlaken.

Interlaken sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is a great base from which to get on one of the many boat trips around the lake Thun.

There’s a range of different passenger boats, including old-fashioned paddle steamers which to-and-fro connecting the numerous towns that are dotted around the lakes.

The weather here, at a slightly lower altitude and out of the more mountainous valley area, was better. It was dry, though a bit cloudy, but warmer and a better option than being in the mountains where the conditions weren’t great.

We got on one of the Lake Thun paddle steamers, which was an incredible boat with plenty of space to sit or stand and admire the glorious surrounding scenery.

The highlight of the boat trip on Lake Thun was its huge exposed steam engine right in the middle, that you can stand and watch as it drives the paddles. It was really fascinating.

We decided to get off at some random places at which the boat stopped.

The boat trips on Lake Thun run like buses, with ‘stops’ that include timetables so you can pretty much spend the day travelling around the lake from one stop to the next, enjoying a drink or lunch on the boat, visiting the lake-side towns before ending up back where you started (as long as you pay attention to the timetables).

We had a great, relaxing day although the children were starting to get a bit bored towards the end of it and we were really keen for the weather to clear up so we could get up in to the mountains, which is what we’d come for!

Cruise on Lake Thun

Located close to Interlaken and Bern, Lake Thun is one of the most impressive lakes in Switzerland to enjoy cruise boat excursions. Although the lake is smaller than other essential lakes in the country, it still offers countless cruises. 

Throughout the cruises on Lake Thun, you can see the marvelous scenery of the Alps mountain as you pass through small historic cities having Romanesque churches, castles, traditional city centers, museums, as well as delightful cafes and restaurants.

Amusing cruises on Lake Thun can be easily mixed with unforgettable excursions to various other sights and activities. In the meantime, you can see the surrounding green hills, in addition to the snow-covered Alps of the Bernese Oberland. Lake Thun opens up to the northwest and owns three castles on its shores.

Boat Trip on Lake Thun in the Berner Oberland

Located in the west of Interlaken, Lake Thun is a little broader than Lake Brienz which is on the east of Interlaken. You can make use of various boat trips on the lake, most of which are initiated from Thun and head across the lake to Interlaken in about two hours.

Boat trips are undoubtedly an exciting approach to enjoying the astonishing area and its beauties at low speeds. Most boats consist of two sections: first class and second class. Normally, the second class section is on the upper deck. Many of the boats come with a restaurant or bistro on board. 

During summertime, you can dive into the cruise on the restored steamboat Blümlisalp, which is a real delight. Among the many boat trips available in the area, you can either experience a full round trip or include a cruise as a section of an excursion going up into the mountains. 

It is possible to cruise on Lake Thun from early April to late December, though the main season is between the middle of May and late October. Daily cruises are available starting from early April into the middle of November; however, Sunday cruises are extended into December too. 

During summer, there are up to eight cruises available daily. However, you can find three cruises in spring and only one during late autumn. If you are bringing children with you, it is good to know that some cruises in summer provide supervised playrooms during lunchtime.

Lake Thun Cruise Tickets

A full Thun to Interlaken cruise fare is CHF 43 (CHF 73 return) in Second Class and CHF 71 (CHF 121 return) for First Class. However, many discount options are available.

Boat timetable/schedule

Boats usually depart at :40 from Thun and :10 from Interlaken West. The cruise time is the same in either direction. Boats depart from early morning to evening from Thun and from late morning to early evening from Interlaken West. You find the timetable here .

Dining on a Boat

Eating and drinking are easily possible on the boats as all of them offer a restaurant. Menus with a versatile set of foods and drinks are available to help you make a delicious order. This is going to be the most enjoyable situation to eat your lunch, snack, or dinner as the magnificent scenery is continuously changing. 

Special event cruises and dinner cruises are scheduled throughout the year, but you can find them more crowded during summer and weekends. Reservations are possible for these cruises. On the other hand, speaking of regular cruises, meals are served and charged in addition to the normal cruise fare. Transportation card discount fares are available on regular cruises. Although reservations for individuals are not possible on regular cruises, you can reserve tables. 

On the boats departing at 9:40 (8:40 in summer) from Thun, you can enjoy continental breakfasts, though on Sundays and vacation days only a large brunch is served. Most cruises that start moving around noon offer lunch. It is optional to take meals on regular boats.

You might also like the following article:

Places to Get Brunch in Thun and Surrounding Area

Stops and Destinations on Lake Thun

Thun and Interlaken are the most obvious stops on Lake Thun cruise excursions, as they offer historic churches, castles, and tourist facilities. However, there are many smaller towns on your way that are certainly worth the stop. 

Spiez has an adorable small castle, a Romanesque church, a satisfying town center, and a memorable pool center for sunny days. They say, Spiez has the most beautiful bay in Switzerland. It is highly pleasant to walk on the short lakeshore between Spiez and Faulensee. 

Oberhofen also has a fantastic castle offering exhibits from the Bern history museum, a large park, lakeside walks, and a museum of moving musical instruments. 

The Beatus Caves is a large network of dripstone caves.  that were once home to a gigantic, mythical dragon that was killed by St. Beatus. Nowadays, fortunately, no dragons live in the caves, which are open to visitors. 

A funicular runs from Beatenbucht to Beatenberg. From there, a cable car takes you to the Niederhorn , which offers spectacular views of Lake Thun and, of course, the peaks of the Bernese Alps.

You can enjoy taking a cruise boat on Lake Thun as it is one of the most impressive lakes in Switzerland and offers countless cruising experiences. During your cruises in the area, you can be fascinated by the marvelous magnificence of the Alps mountain as you pass through different towns with numerous tourist attractions. 

It is a great approach to taking a cruise boat and enjoying the amazing scenery around you as you order delicious meals from the restaurant on the boat. You can either take a special event cruise or a regular cruise. Thun, Interlaken, Spiez, Oberhofen, and Beatushöhlen are among the best destinations you can visit during your trip.

I'm an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for Switzerlandical. Let's go on this adventure together as we explore Switzerland. We'll conquer epic trails, soak in jaw-dropping vistas, or stroll down a cobbled street in one of the many beautiful cities. I'll do my best to curate an unforgettable travel experience that leaves you with memories you'll cherish forever.

5 Most Beautiful Castles to Visit on Lake Thun, Switzerland

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 4, 2024

Switzerland has an abundance of stunning lakes and glacial mountain backdrops, but none are quite as lovely as Lake Thun, the largest lake in Bernese Oberland.

Stretching 18km from Interlaken to Thun and scattered with beautiful castles and tiny hamlets, it is the perfect place to visit on a day trip from Interlaken .

We were halfway through our Europe Road Trip and were using Interlaken as our base for a few days. Lake Thun looked amazing in the guidebooks, so we decided to check it out and visit the fairytale castles on Lake Thun’s shores.

Having a car enabled us to visit the five castles and the old town of Thun at our own pace; however, public transport and train services are available from Interlaken to Thun as an alternative. It can also be reached by train from Bern in about 20 minutes or Zurich in about 90 minutes.

One of the loveliest things to do in Thun is to book a lake cruise . The boat will take you between the lakeside villages around Thun to view each castle from the water with a backdrop of some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Switzerland.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Castle Oberhofen – the most photographed castle on Lake Thun

Our first stop of the day was the most photographed castle on the lake, the 13th-century Oberhofen.

This impressive castle sits on the water, giving the impression that it is floating, with its drawbridge and red turreted towers adding to the fairytale illusion.

We had arrived before the castle opened, so we ordered a coffee from the lakeside cafe, sat, and enjoyed the views across the Bernese mountain range.

Inside the castle museum, you will discover its history, find out who has owned the castle through the ages and can view the chapel and oriental smoking room.

Stop by the formal castle garden with flower borders, covered walkways and lake views. If time permits, wander over to the adjacent 2.5-hectare landscaped park.

Address : Stiftung Schloss Oberhofen, Postfach 22, CH-3653 Oberhofen

Opening Hours: Please check the Castle Oberhofen website

Castle Hunegg

A 5-minute drive further along the lake takes you to Castle Hunegg, built in the late 1800s in the style of the Loire valley’s French castles. This fairytale castle is positioned within a 6-hectare park above Lake Thun and facing the Alps.

Unfortunately, the castle was closed when we arrived; even so, the grounds were still lovely to explore.

Looking down towards the lake, we spotted quite a few people swimming, which we found was a regular local pastime in summer.

We hadn’t brought our swim stuff, so we couldn’t join in, although I’m not sure we would have been able to cope with the water’s alpine temperature.

Address : Staatsstrasse 52, 3652 Hilterfingen, Switzerland

Opening Hours: Please check the Castle Hunegg website

Castle Thun

The medieval town of Thun sits at the opposite end of the lake to Interlaken and is very charming. Cobbled streets and narrow alleyways with the River Aare running through its centre add to its attraction.

Its centrepiece is the imposing 12th-century Thun Castle with four distinct turreted towers. We didn’t bargain for the steep climb up to it and were out of breath by the time we reached the top, but our reward was the far-stretching views over and beyond the town.

The castle is a large complex, and there is much to learn from its history, dating back to the middle ages, so you may want to allow a few hours here.

Address : Schlossberg 1, 3600 Thun, Switzerland

Opening Hours: Please check the Castle Thun website

The Old Town of Thun 

The Old Town is located beside the River Aare, and you will find cafes and restaurants to enjoy a drink or a bite to eat.

A Ferris wheel operates in the summer, and a covered bridge leading out over the river is an excellent place to photograph. You might also see a few surfers using the wake of the river to perfect their skills. Only in Switzerland!

As you wander around the town, you will find artisan shops selling Swiss souvenirs alongside traditional Swiss crafts. Several historical buildings date back to the 14th century, including the church and town hall.

Castle Schadau

The beautiful pink 19th-century Castle Schadau sits majestically on the shores of Lake Thun and is a short drive away from the Old Town. Once the home of noble families, Schadau Castle is now a hotel and restaurant .

The views from Schadau Castle down the length of Lake Thun are incredible, as is the panorama of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Castle Schadau’s terrace is the perfect place to stop for lunch and watch the boats cruising along the lake, showing visitors the wonders of this area.

A unique feature at Castle Schadau is the Thun Panorama. It is the oldest existing 360° panorama painting in the world and shows the town centre of Thun at the start of the nineteenth century. You will find it in a roundhouse within the castle’s garden.

Address : Schloss Schadau, Seestrasse, 45CH – 3600 Thun

Parking for available in the local public parking areas marked “Scherzligen-Schadau” just outside the castle and park.

Spiez Castle and Chapel

Medieval Spiez Castle is located on a small peninsula 25 minutes from Castle Schadau.

High above the bay and surrounded by a flower garden and a large well-kept park, the setting is incredible, with far-reaching views of the Swiss mountains. The Romanesque chapel stands separately from the castle and features 12th-century frescoes on its walls.

The grassy lakeside area beneath the castle is a hive of activity, with many families playing in the water. We decided that we would be brave and at least dip a toe into the waters of Lake Thun, but we were not as hardy as we would like to think.

The water was freezing, and we quickly retreated into the sunshine. It seems that lake swimming is only for the sturdy Swiss locals who have grown up gradually acclimatised to its temperature!

Address : Spiez Castle, Schlossstrasse 16, CH-3700 Spiez

Opening Hours: Please check the Spiez Castle website

Our day trip had ended, and we were impressed with what we had seen of Lake Thun and its five castles. It is an exceptional place to explore, from medieval castles and gardens to spectacular lake and mountain views.

We drove from our hotel in Interlaken for this day trip to Lake Thun, but there is plenty of accommodation in Thun if you wish to base yourself by the lake. One last mention, don’t forget your camera, as every turn is a photographer’s dream.

Please Pin for Future Travel to Switzerland

Love the sound of Lake Thun? Then you may like to read:

Lauterbrunnen Travel Guide: A Day Trip from Interlaken

6 Most Beautiful Cities in Switzerland Worth Visiting

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Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Switzerland has never really been an option for me... but lately I have been reading a lot about different places to see and experience in the country, and I have to say that I am getting more and more drawn there :) Your pictures look amazing!

WhereAngieWanders

Thank you, Anne. We did a road trip around Switzerland and it was fantastic. The scenery is out of this world.

Saturday 14th of December 2019

The second picture of Lake Thun is stunning! Thank you for the extremely detailed overview of things to do in this area. Switzerland is on my bucketlist and we'll be sure to check out Lake Thun. I can totally picture myself grabbing a bite to eat, and a glass of wine along the River Aare, and people watching.

We loved it. The fact that one lake has so many wonderful stops around it was just great. I’m glad my blog has encouraged you to visit Lake Thun.

Marissa Mcdaniel

Thursday 19th of September 2019

Wow! All these pictures are beautiful! Definitely adding Lake Thun to places I need to see! Thanks for sharing!

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BLS cruises on lake Thun

Your benefit with the berner oberland pass.

• Free travel
• on Lake Thun and free travel to every boat stop

Experience and relaxation on Lake Thun

The deep blue Lake Thun lies between the cities of Thun and Interlaken, nestled in an imposing mountain scenery.

Enjoy a delicious meal and a glass of wine on a scheduled boat of the BLS Lake Thun Navigation Compa ny, and at the same time admire the sight of historic castles and the unique panorama of the peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

A boat trip is particularly suitable for discovering the diversity of the region around Lake Thun. At the eastern end of the lake lies the town of Interlaken, starting point for popular excursions to the Jungfrau region and the eastern Bernese Oberland.

Save with the Berner Oberland Pass

• Free travel on all scheduled courses on Lake Thun incl. steamboat "Blümlisalp

With the Berner Oberland Pass, you also benefit from the Bonus Partner special price:

• Reduced 1st class upgrade for one day at the price of CHF 12.– instead of CHF 17.–

With the Berner Oberland Pass you can travel free of charge by train and bus to every stop on Lake Thun .

Highlights on and around Lake Thun

• Visits to the castles around Lake Thun: Thun Castle , Spiez Castle ,  Oberhofen Castle or  Hünegg Castle
• Hike to the  Niederhorn
• Visit  St. Beatus Caves Sundlauenen
• Evening cruises on Lake Thun

Information

• BLS Schifffahrt
• Schedule Lake Thun and Brienz 2024

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Schiffstation Thun Seestrasse 9 3600 Thun

Public transportation

Impressions: bls cruises on lake thun.

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Cruise on Lake Thun

Experience lake thun from the boat.

• Thun  

Take note, so that your trip will be perfect

Consult the timetable before your trip

Don’t forget sunglasses, sun cream and binoculars

For groups from 20 people a reservation is necessary

BLS Schifffahrt AG

Lachenweg 19

Phone: +41 58 327 48 11

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.bls-schiff.ch

General information

Operating all year round

• Suitable for any weather
• For classes
• for families
• for individual guests
• Pets allowed
• Suitable for the elderly
• Suitable for pushchair
• Baby changing room
• Handicapped accessible WC
• Barrier-free access
• People with impaired mobility
• Wheelchair user
• People with hearing impairments
• Deaf people
• People with visual impairments
• Blind people
• People with cognitive impairments

please see: www.bls.ch/en/freizeit-und-ferien/schiff/billette-und-abos

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Sailing school lake thun, boat rental sailing school lake thun, lakeside path «strandweg», fun train scheduled rides, bathing area «schiffländte einigen», ludotrail: playing through spiez.

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Pleasure Boat Cruises on Lake Thun in Switzerland

Cruise boats on the Thunersee call at stops such as Thun, Oberhofen, Spiez, and Interlaken West while passing Alpine landscapes of central Switzerland near Bern.

Lake Thun near Interlaken and Bern is one of the best lakes for enjoying cruise boat excursions in Switzerland. The Thunersee is smaller than other major lakes but still offers plenty of cruises with magnificent views of the Alps while passing small historic cities with Romanesque churches, museums, castles, old town centers, and very pleasant outdoor cafés and restaurants. Pleasure cruises on Lake Thun easily combine with excursions to other sights and activities.

Cruising on Lake Thun in the Berner Oberland

Cruising on the Thunersee is possible from early April to end December with the main season from mid-May to late October. Daily scheduled cruises are available from early April to mid-November with Sunday cruises continuing well into December.

Cruising the full length of Lake Thun from Thun to Interlaken West takes just over two hours. In summer, up to eight return cruises are available daily, with three during the spring, and only one during late autumn.

The historic belle époque paddle steamer Blümlisalp (1906) cruise twice daily between Thun and Interlaken West from mid-May to mid-September. On some mid-summer cruises, parents may leave children in a supervised playroom during the lunchtime cruise.

The full Thun to Interlaken West cruise fare is CHF43 (CHF73 return) in Second Class and CHF71 (CHF121 return) for First Class. However, many savings options are available – see Savings Tips for more details.

Cruise Routes and Times on the Thunersee

Almost all cruises on Lake Thun are from Thun to Interlaken West and back. A few cruises turn around at Spiez, Merligen, or Beatenbucht while event cruises commonly depart from Thun and Interlaken West and ending at the original port of departure.

With very few exceptions, the cruise route and times for Thunersee excursion boats are as follows:

Boats mostly depart at :40 from Thun and :10 from Interlaken West. The cruise time is the same in either direction. Boats depart from early morning to evening from Thun and from late morning to early evening from Interlaken West.

Stops and Destinations on Lake Thun

Thun, with its historic old town, church, and castle, and Interlaken with its tourist facilities are the obvious main stops on Lake Thun cruise excursions. However, it is worth stopping en route at many smaller towns too.

Spiez is a major destination with a lovely small castle, a Romanesque church, a pleasant town center, and a fantastic pool center for sunny summer days. Strolling along the lakeshore from Spiez to Faulensee is probably the most pleasant short walk in the region.

Oberhofen has a picturesque castle with exhibits from the Bern history museum, a large park, lakeside walks, and a museum of moving musical instruments. From Beatenbuch, take a funicular to Beatenberg and from there a cable car to the Niederhorn (1950 m) – returning to Beatenberg (1130 m) by monster scooter (trottinet) is possible from the Vorsass station (1580 m).

The Beatushöhlen is a large cave complex and the home of the mythical dragon that St Beatus killed here. Dragons and images of the saint can be seen frequently in the region.

Special Event and Dinner Cruises on the Thunersee

Special event cruises are scheduled throughout the year but particularly plentiful during the summer and over weekends. For special event cruises, discounts are often not available for transportation cardholders. Reservations are possible and even recommended for event and dinner cruises.

Meals are served on most regular scheduled cruises and are charged in addition to the regular cruise fare. Transportation card discount fares are available on these cruises. Reservations for individuals are not possible on regular cruises but table reservations may be made, and during the high season advisable, on any cruise that serves meals.

Continental breakfasts are served on boats departing at 9:40 (and 8:40 in summer) from Thun, except on Sundays and vacation days when a larger brunch is served. Lunch is available on most cruise boats operating around noon. Taking meals is optional on these regular cruises.

Lake Thun is also a popular day-trip destination from Bern. Frequent trains from Bern take only around 20 minutes to Thun or 50 minutes to Interlaken.

More on the Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Region:

• Pleasure Boat Cruises on the Thuner- and Brienzersee
• Book Tours and Activities in the Region with Get Your Guide
• Pleasure Boat Cruises on Lake Thun
• Pleasure Boat Cruises on Lake Brienz
• Tips on Saving on Fares when Cruising on Lakes Thun and Brienz
• Visit Schloss Spiez Castle
• Visit Schloss Oberhofen Castle
• Visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum in Meiringen
• Visit the Reichenbach Waterfalls near Meiringen
• The Ballenberg Open-Air Museum of Swiss Rural Architecture
• Hike through the Aareschlucht Gorge
• Jungfraujoch — Top of Europe — Mountain Railway Excursion

About the author:

Henk Bekker

Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience writing online. He is particularly interested in history, art, and culture. He has lived most of his adult life in Germany, Switzerland, and Denmark. In addition to European-Traveler.com , he also owns a travel website on the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and maintains statistical websites on car sales and classic car auction prices . Henk holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of London.

Home » Switzerland » Pleasure Boat Cruises on Lake Thun in Switzerland

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How Do I Get From Interlaken to Thun?

• July 11, 2023 December 12, 2023

Last Updated on December 12, 2023 by Darla Uhl

Thun  is a part of the Jungfrau Region in the Bernese Oberland, one of the most popular Alpine regions in Europe. Sitting on the northern edge of Lake Thun , it is also one of the biggest cities in Canton Bern.   In case you are based in Interlaken and would like to go to Thun , then this article is for you.

Logistical concerns will inevitably arise. Those who wish to travel by train in Switzerland need to know several specifics before doing so. In this article, we will explore the train journey between Interlaken and Thun.

How do you get from  Interlaken to Thun , Switzerland? Let’s find out.

Overview: Navigating Swiss Transport

You can start by visiting the SBB website:  www.sbb.ch.  Using the website, you can type in your departure and arrival destinations. It will then guide you to where and when you need to be. An app is also available for iOS and Android devices.

If you wish to pay half the fare for all your train rides in Switzerland, a  Half Fare Discount Card (1-month validity) is available on  www.sbb.ch . This allows you to travel for half the price on all SBB routes and most other railways during the duration of your discount card.

Using the Swiss Pass , you get unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat in Switzerland. Over 500 museums are also free or discounted, and there are free or discounted excursions to mountain summits.

Getting tickets from RailEurope is convenient while traveling within Europe and/or visiting multiple countries. Having been in operation since the 1930s, RailEurope ‘s extensive history, user-friendly website and mobile apps, flexible currency payment options, commitment to customer satisfaction, and strategic partnerships with leading rail operators, collectively establish it as a reliable and trustworthy platform for booking European train travel.

You can obtain from RailEurope the following travel passes :

• Swiss Travel Pass – choose between continuous or flexible Swiss train passes for 3, 4, 8, or 15 days. The perks? unlimited use in over 90 Swiss cities, free admission to more than 500 museums , and discounts on mountain railways and cable cars. You also get discounts on high-speed Lyria trains between France and Switzerland as well as Nightjet trains that go through Switzerland. See RailEurope for more information.
• Eurail Global Pass – unlimited train travel to 40,000 destinations in 33 European countries for non-EU residents
• Interrail Global Pass – access to 40,000 destinations in 33 European countries for citizens and permanent residents of the EU

How To Get From Interlaken to  Thun

Thun is accessible by car, bus, or ferry. And there are several ways to get from Interlaken to Thun . We will describe each option below.

How to Get from Interlaken to Thun By Train

The quickest and most convenient way to get from Interlaken to Thun is to ride the direct train.

The following trains can bring you from Interlaken West or Interlaken Ost to Thun :

• Intercity 81 going to Romanshorn
• Intercity 61 going to Basel
• ICE going to Berlin Ostbahnhof
• EC to Hamburg-Altona
• ICE to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf

How to Get from Interlaken to Thun By Bus

You also have the option to go from Interlaken to Thun by taking Bus 21 . It will take a bit longer compared to riding the train but you will see the villages nearby such as Unterseen, Sundlauenen, Beatushöhlen, Merligen, Beatenbucht, Gunten, Oberhofen, Hilterfingen, and Hünibach before reaching Thun.

How to Get from Interlaken to Thun By Boat

Taking the boat from Interlaken to Thun is the most scenic way to travel. The boat doesn’t leave every hour, though. Check the timetable to see when it leaves. 

You should take the boat if you can. It only takes a little longer than taking the bus, but it is much more scenic and relaxing. There will be a bit of walking involved in getting to the caves from the ferry stop.

Interlaken West is the easiest place to start your boat trip to Thun. Take the boat from Interlaken West heading to Thun . After 2 hours and 10 minutes, this boat will stop at the Thun Ship Station .

The most scenic way to get from Interlaken to Thun is to ride the boat. To get to Thun, you will have to:

• If you are coming from Interlaken Ost, take the train or bus going to Interlaken West.
• In Interlaken West, ride the boat going to Thun (See) .
• Exit the boat at the Thun (See) stop.

Thun is accessible by boat two to six times a day from Interlaken depending on the season. You can find the boat schedule on  bls.ch . I highly recommend taking the boat if you have enough time. You can also opt to take the scenic route going to Thun and the train or bus on your way back.

Impressions from the Boat Ride on Lake Thun

Riding the boat on Lake Thun was peaceful and beautiful. I liked the views of Thun, Spiez, Niesen, and the ride in the canal ( Schifffahrtskanal ) that connects Interlaken to Lake Thun. Here are some of my favorite pictures on the boat ride on Lake Thun:

How to Get from Interlaken to Thun By Car

There are many parking lots in Thun and nearby. Here are the best places to park:

• Parkhaus City South – Mönchstrasse 4, 3600 Thun
• Parking Hofstettenstrasse – Hofstettenstrasse 3600, 3600 Thun
• Parking Train Station – Parkplatz, 3600 Thun

How Long Does the Journey From Interlaken to Thun Take?

Here are the estimated travel times for various modes of transportation from Interlaken to Thun (updated December 2023):

How Much Will the Ticket From Interlaken to  Thun ?

As of the time of publishing the article, a single journey ticket costs the following (updated December 2023):

Can You Drive Into Thun?

Yes, you can  take your car directly from Interlaken to Thun . There are several parking lots in the village. Here are the best places to park:

Am I Allowed to Travel From Interlaken To Thun?

Yes, Thun is currently open to visitors. There are no restrictions.

* Disclosure: By clicking on our affiliate links, you may support TouringSwitzerland.com while incurring no additional costs. We appreciate your support!

Related Posts

• 8 Best Things to Do in Lake Thun, Switzerland
• 10 Best Things To Do In Thun, Bernese Oberland
• Is Thun Worth Visiting?
• Thuner Wasserzauber Review: Highlights and Impressions
• 10 Best Day Trips from Thun
• 8 Most Beautiful Lakeside Resorts in Switzerland
• Swiss Alps – The Ultimate Guide
• Interlaken, Switzerland: An Excellent Base in Bernese Oberland
• Interlaken: 8 Reasons Why You Should Visit
• Top 12 Stunning Places Near Interlaken
• Mountains Close to Interlaken Worth Visiting

Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.

Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Andermatt or Grindelwald: Which is Better?
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Cherry Trail in Frick, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ 7 Best Things to Do in Seelisberg, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Exploring Bauen: A Traveler's Guide

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Cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

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Embark on a boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz and enjoy wonderful views of impressive mountains, historic castles and romantic lakeside towns.

Please note that this offer is currently unavailable. You will find more information here as soon as the offer is available again.

Combine the journey with excellent on-board dining. The boat trip combines wonderfully well with all sorts of excursions around the lakes.

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The Lakes of Interlaken (Lake Thun & Lake Brienz)

For anyone who has ever planned on visiting Switzerland, Interlaken is undoubtedly high on the list. It is one of the oldest and best-known summer holiday resorts in the country. Royalty, artists, and tourists from as far back as the 17th century have always come to Interlaken for refuge.

With its name literally meaning “between two lakes”, Interlaken is a beautiful destination made even more alluring as it sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Get to know the Lakes of Interlaken

Interlaken is a popular destination for its location. It’s a favorite spot for active and adventurous travelers and a great base to explore the Bernese Oberland. There are endless options for walks, climbs, treks, and excursions, but none better than a trip to Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

In the beginning, Lakes Thun and Brienz were one giant mass of water. It wasn’t until the last ice age when the rivers Lütschine and Lombach brought over debris over the millennia that caused a partitioning between the lake. This then formed what is called Bödeli, the tongue of land between Lakes Thun and Brienz.

Today, the water level of Lake Brienz is 2 meters higher than Thun and the River Aare flows between the two lakes through the Bödeli. On this land now stand the towns of Interlaken, Unterseen, and Matten.

Even though the two lakes were once one, each has transformed into its own world throughout the centuries.

Image by enriquelopezgarre from Pixabay

Lake Brienz is known as the turquoise gem. While many other lakes in Switzerland share this quality, the color of Lake Brienz is particularly bright and intense. This color is coming from the glacial waters of the Lütschine and the Aare, which wash tiny particles of sediment into the lake.

These particles are very fine, thus sink slowly in the water, creating the magical effect of turquoise waters, amplified only by the cleanliness of the lake.

Early in the morning, Lake Brienz is very calm and almost completely still. So still, that the lake usually reflects the skies and the surrounding mountains. Towering mountain slopes flank both sides of the lake completing the expansive scenery that covers 29.8 square kilometers of glistening waters. With a depth of 260 meters, Lake Brienz is also one of the deepest lakes in Switzerland.

Image by Alex S. from Pixabay

Not to be outdone, Lake Thun is the largest lake in the Bernese Oberland at 47.69 square kilometers. In contrast to the calm, cozy, and serene environment of Brienz, Lake Thun is where all the action happens. In 1835, steamships started commercial transports across Lake Thun to Interlaken.

These are commemorated till today with a cruise at the Blümlisalp. It’s also on Lake Thun where enjoy the jaw-dropping views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau in the distance.

The deep blue color of Lake Thun is made more magical by the castles and vineyards that dot its shores. There are several bathing sites around the lake, tons of water activities, and even music festivals throughout the year that take advantage of the scenic views by the shore.

Organized Tour Options

Private Guided Tour of the Brienz and Thun Lake Region Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken Interlaken Private Tour: Mountains Cows, Thun Lake, and Brienz Lake Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz Winter Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz Interlaken Private Tour with Lake Brienz Cruise and Brienzer Rothorn Summit

Incredible Ways to Enjoy the Lakes of Interlaken

Harder klum.

Photo by kBandara on Foter.com / CC BY

There’s no better place in Interlaken to be mesmerized by both lakes at the same time than Harder Kulm . Needless to say, the views high above the two lakes are spectacular.

Harder Kulm is the nearest mountain to Interlaken . The funicular climbs up to an altitude of 1,322 meters at a 64-degree gradient. It’s a great way to get panoramic views of the surrounding mountains of Interlaken. You can already peak at views of the lakes during the ride, as well as the famous Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau.

The most popular spot to view the lakes is at the overhanging Zwei-Seen-Steg or Two Lakes Bridge . It gives a full view of Lake Thun to the right, Brienz to the left, Interlaken at the center, and the Alpine peaks straight ahead. At the same spot is the Harder Kulm Panoramic Restaurant with the same magnificent views to be enjoyed with a hearty Swiss meal.

Boat Cruise

Photo by James E. Petts on Foter.com / CC BY-SA

There are many boat cruises that cross the waters of Lakes Thun and Brienz. There are different trips to take, like crossing over to the different towns or castles that surround the lakes. One of the most popular trips is towards Giessbach Falls on Lake Brienz. You can also just take a pleasure cruise around the lake and admire the views afloat the clear waters.

Photo by lisibo on Foter.com / CC BY-SA

There are several events that happen on the shores of both lakes to immerse oneself in cultural experiences. The Thunerseespiele is a musical experience with an amazing backdrop. Choirs, dancers, and musicals play onstage while audiences can enjoy wine and delicacies on the stand. The 10-day Am-Schluss is a summer music festival held on Mühleplatz in the center of Thun in July.

Afterward, Interlaken celebrates the Thunfest with musicians from all over the world play in open air. If you’re traveling with family, the Seaside Festival and Seenachtsfest in the bay of Spiez are amazing musical fairs to visit.

Water Sports

Photo by twicepix on Foter.com / CC BY-SA

There is no lack of water sports on Lakes Thun and Brienz. There are many rental kiosks on the shore for kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards. It’s a cheaper way to see the lakes and the mountains up close, plus it’s a great exercise if you explore long enough!

For something more extreme, river surfing, wakeboarding, skilling, banana rides, and jet boats are also popular activities on the lakes.

Free Activities

You don’t have to pay for rent or tickets to enjoy the lake. In the summer, the waters are at a great temperature for a swim. There are several platforms around the shores to get into the water. Some platforms are moored in the middle of the water to sunbathe on.

Visitors can enjoy several paths around the lake for a walk or go biking. Some trails also present a challenge with uphills and winding paths, all within full view of the lakes.

Experience the Lakes of Interlaken

Interlaken is one of the most popular Swiss destinations for good reason. Between the numerous thrilling activities, many options for day trips, and the magnificent views of Lakes Thun and Brienz, you can never go wrong on this trip.

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About the author anna timbrook.

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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Sunset Cruise Lake Thun

On a warm summer’s evening, what could be finer than sailing off to view the spectacular sunset over the lake? A perfect way to relax and unwind after work. In addition, let yourself be surprised by our culinary offer «Hot Stone» menu.

Availability

18 May 2024 until 20 October 2024 Daily

«Hot Stone» menu

Round trip tickets, round trip thun - interlaken boat/train.

Buy tickets

Food & Drink

«hot stone» menu and à la carte offer.

From Monday to Saturday we serve the «Hot Stone» menu. On Sundays, only the à la carte offer is available.

We exclusively source our meat from Dorfmetzgerei Nussbaum in Reutigen. The butcher is well-known for its regional, high-quality meats.

Included with each "Hot Stone": crispy french fries or green salad and three different sauces.    Or choose a menu from our à la carte selection.

Schiffstation Interlaken West Kanalpromenade 1 3800 Interlaken

Travel relaxed by train to Interlaken West. The Interlaken West boat station is located opposite the Interlaken West railway station.

46.682855207417, 7.8508579730988

Frequently asked questions

Where can i buy tickets.

In spring, summer and autumn, all tickets and combination tickets are available on our boats and at the stations in Thun, Spiez, Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost as well as Brienz. During the winter months the stations remain closed. On Lake Brienz, navigation is suspended during the winter.

Day tickets & combi tickets Culinary cruises & special offers Route tickets

Are Fairtiq and EasyRide valid?

Yes, Fairtiq and EasyRide tickets are valid on BLS Lake Cruise. 

Is there a menu for people with allergies?

Yes, we have a menu for people suffering from allergies on every boat. Nevertheless, it is useful to indicate allergies when making your reservation so that we can prepare alternatives for you in advance. Here  you'll find the menu for people suffering from allergies.

What are my payment options in the onboard restaurants?

You have the following payment options in our onboard restaurants:

• Credit card
• Vouchers (issued by Schiffcatering Thuner- und Brienzersee or BLS Lake Cruise)

Can I reserve a specific table or make a request?

We take all requests regarding the choice of table (online via comments) and try to accommodate your wishes as best we can. However, we can unfortunately not guarantee anything, as the wishes are taken into account after the reservation is received (date of request).

Do you have any questions about our offers? Contact us, we will be happy to help you.

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