Spiez, Switzerland: travel guide & 12 things to do in the Swiss town

A small town full of charm, Spiez is located in the heart of Switzerland on the banks of the deep-blue Lake Thun. In my opinion, this fairytale Swiss town is a real hidden gem in Switzerland.

Surrounded by picturesque mountains, Spiez offers breathtaking views and a serene environment. I think it’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The quaint town is known for its historic castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Now a museum, the castle offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history and encourages you to take a step back in time. 

Spiez is also home to a wonderful vineyard that proudly produces some of the most mouth-watering wine in the region. I’d recommend taking a tour and sampling some of the appetising local wines.

Watch my Spiez travel vlog to see what I got up to when I visited, or continue reading below:

Nature lovers and adrenaline junkies, I know you’re going to love Spiez! Visitors of all ages to Spiez can enjoy a range of outdoor activities including hiking, skiing and water sports.

With its stunning unspoilt natural beauty and rich history, I really believe that Spiez is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Switzerland.

How to get to Spiez

Spiez is a beautiful town located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. I love how easily accessible it is via various modes of transportation:

By train

Spiez is lucky to have a well-connected train station served by various trains from major Swiss cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Bern.

The train journey from Zurich to Spiez takes as little as 1 hour 30 minutes, while the journey from Geneva to Spiez takes around 2 hours 20 minutes. 

Good to know: You can get to Spiez from nearby Lauterbrunnen in under an hour by rail. Lauterbrunnen is a stop on the Wengernalpbahn Railway, one of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland.

The Wengernalpbahn Railway is included as part of the Swiss Travel Pass.

By car

Spiez is easily accessible by car via the A6 motorway. The journey from Bern to Spiez takes around 30 minutes, while the journey from Zurich takes around 1 hour 45 minutes. 

You can rent a car to explore the gorgeous Swiss towns from major car rental companies located at the airports or in the city centres.

Discover more of my favourite day trips from Zurich or unearth my pick of the best hotels in Zurich.

By plane

The nearest airport to Spiez is Bern Airport, which is located just over 30 kilometres away. You can take a train or a taxi from the airport to Spiez.

Alternatively, visitors can also fly into either Zurich Airport or Geneva Airport, which are located between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 20 minutes away by train.

By boat

It’s also possible to reach Spiez by boat, as the town is located on the shores of Lake Thun. Boats operate from various towns on the lakeside, such as Thun and Interlaken. 

Good to know: I’d recommend checking the timetable and booking tickets online on the BLS website.

Swiss Travel Pass

I know that travelling in Switzerland can be expensive, especially if you plan on visiting multiple cities or attractions.

Fortunately, the Swiss Travel Pass can help save you money while providing unlimited access to public transportation, including trains, buses, and boats – I’d really advise investing in one.

The Swiss Travel Pass is available for purchase for a duration of three, four, eight, or 15 consecutive days, and it provides access to over 90 museums and attractions in the country.

Additionally, children under the age of 16 can travel for free with a parent or guardian who has a Swiss Travel Pass.

One of the key benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass is that it eliminates the need to purchase individual tickets for each mode of transportation.

This can save time and hassle, especially for anyone who plans on travelling frequently during their trip.

Additionally, the pass allows for unlimited travel on scenic routes, such as the awe-inspiring Golden Pass Line or the bucket list worthy Glacier Express, which I think is just fantastic!

Good to know: The Swiss Travel Pass does not cover private mountain railways, cable cars, or other forms of transportation that are not part of the public transportation network.

However, pass holders can receive discounts on these types of transportation.

Best time of the year to visit Spiez

The best time to visit Spiez depends on the type of experience you are hoping for on your trip.

Spring (March – May)

Spring is my personal favourite time to visit Spiez, with the snow in the higher regions starting to melt and the flowers beginning to bloom.

The town is surrounded by luscious greenery, making it the perfect time to go on hikes and walks in the mountains and forests or visit the local gardens and parks.

Spiez also hosts various spring events, such as seasonal markets and the Spiez Tulip Festival.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is the peak season in Spiez, with warm temperatures and long days bringing visitors wanting to enjoy some outdoor activities.

The town is bustling with tourists during this time, and the lake is filled with boats and swimmers. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and more in the surrounding mountains and forests. 

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is a quieter time in Spiez, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. The town is surrounded by beautiful autumn foliage, making it a great time to explore the true natural beauty of the area.

This is a good time to visit the vineyards and taste the local wines, or simply sit back and relax by the lake. I think it sounds dreamy!

Winter (December – February)

Winter is a magical time in Spiez, with snowy mountains and frozen lakes creating a Swiss winter wonderland.

Now is the time to go skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered landscape.

It’s worth noting that Spiez hosts its own Christmas market, so expect the town to be busier during the festive season. Although I think the increased number of visitors is worth it for the magical festive atmosphere!

12 best attractions and things to do in Spiez

With a range of activities and attractions, I love that Spiez has something to offer everyone, from nature lovers to history enthusiasts.

Here is my pick of the best things to do in Spiez:

1. Step back in time at Spiez Castle

Opening times: 

• Open from 1st May – 31 October 2023
• Monday 14:00 – 17:00; Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 17:00
• In July and August, open until 18:00

Prices: 

• Adults: CHF 12
• Children aged six to 16 years old: CHF 5
• Children under six: free of charge
• Family ticket A (1 adult with maximum four children under 16): CHF 20
• Family ticket B (2 adults with maximum four children under 16): CHF 30

This mediaeval castle is situated on a hill overlooking Lake Thun, providing an ideal spot to soak up the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Spiez Castle was built in the 13th century and has stood the test of time. While visiting, you can explore the castle and learn about its engaging history through interactive exhibits and informative displays.

The castle’s chapel is particularly noteworthy, featuring beautiful stained glass windows that cast rainbow hues on the intricate wood carvings.

In addition to its immense historical significance, Spiez Castle has also become a popular venue for weddings and other events searching for a unique twist.

The castle’s picturesque setting and stunning architecture make it the perfect backdrop for a romantic ceremony or special celebration.

Good to know: If you’re taken by the castle’s immense history, I’d recommend opting for a professional guided tour to find out all there is to know.

2. Walk the Spiez Vineyard Sensory Adventure Trail

Spiez Vineyard Sensory Adventure Trail is a unique outdoor experience that allows you to explore the vast vineyards while engaging all of your senses.

It’s designed to showcase the beauty and history of the vineyards while providing an interactive and educational experience.

The trail is 0.96 kilometres long and along the way, you can stop at various stations that offer different sensory experiences and panels with QR codes to scan to learn more.

These stations include tasting different grape varieties, smelling the different aromas of the vineyard, and feeling the different textures of the soil that is used.

My favourite part of the trail is the wine tasting station, where visitors can sample some of the local wines produced in the vineyards.

The wines are paired with local cheeses and bread, providing a true taste of the region. Note that this is only available on Wednesdays between 13:00 and 19:00 in the shop of the Viticulture Association, so time your walk right!

Good to know: The total ascent for this trail is around 50 metres, so this may not be suitable for people with mobility issues. 

3. Take a stroll along the Spiez Promenade

I love taking a stroll along the lakeside promenade at Spiez. It’s scattered with cafés and restaurants too, making it an ideal walk to take if you want to stop off for a bite to eat.

It’s well-maintained, meaning that it is suitable for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. 

Enjoy the stunning sights of Lake Thun’s bright blue waters glistening against a backdrop of magnificent mountains.

I’d recommend taking a moment to relax on one of the many benches on the promenade to simply soak up the beauty of the Swiss landscape. 

Good to know: The promenade is a great place to bring a picnic and hone the art of people-watching on the lake. 

4. Ascend Niesen Mountain

Opening times: April – mid-November

Prices:

• Free to hike
• Train with the Swiss Travel Pass: free to Mülenen, then 50% discount for the funicular.
• Train with the Bernese Oberland Regional Pass: free
• Train with the Half Fare Card: CHF 45 from Interlaken

Tourists from all around the world visit Spiez to take on the challenge of ascending the Niesen Mountain.

Standing at 2,362 metres tall and part of the Bernese Alps, the Niesen Mountain offers unparalleled views of the surrounding Swiss landscape.

To reach the summit of Niesen Mountain, you can either take a funicular railway that takes you to the top in just 30 minutes (my option of choice!), or take up the challenge of the hike.

The funicular railway is the longest in Europe and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once at the summit, you can enjoy an immense panoramic view of the Swiss Alps, Lake Thun, and the surrounding valleys.

Luckily, there is also a restaurant at the summit where you can indulge a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking views and hikers can refuel.

Good to know: For the daredevils among us, paragliding activities are available at the summit – undoubtedly an unforgettable experience! 

5. Experience a Lake Thun boat cruise

To experience the beauty of Spiez, I’d really recommend taking a boat cruise on Lake Thun.

The lake is surrounded by gorgeous mountains and fairytale towns, and the cruise offers breathtaking panoramic views that are hard to beat on land.

The boats depart from the Spiez harbour, and there are several different Lake Thun cruise options available to choose from.

My favourite option is a round trip to the wonderful town of Interlaken and back. On the way, you’ll pass by small Swiss villages, historic sites, and lush green forests.

During the summer months, there are also special sunset cruises available, which offer a romantic and unforgettable experience.

The boats depart in the evening and take you on a leisurely tour of Lake Thun as the sun sets behind the mountains.

Good to know: The boats themselves are comfortable and spacious, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Many also have a bar on board where you can purchase mid-cruise drinks and snacks.

6. Try your hand at watersports on Lake Thun

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, I know you’ll find an activity to suit at Spiez’s Lake Thun.

Personally, I’d recommend a spot of kayaking on Lake Thun – simply rent a kayak and explore the lake at your own pace.

For those looking for a more thrilling experience, wakeboarding and waterskiing are also available on Lake Thun.

These sports are perfect for those who love a challenge and want to push themselves to the limit. Don’t worry – lessons are available from experienced instructors to help you get started.

Good to know: If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, I’d advise trying stand-up paddleboarding.

You can rent a board and paddle around the lake, taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying the peacefulness of the water.

7. Go swimming at Spiez Lido

Opening times: May – September

Prices:

• Adults: CHF 6.60
• Children: CHF 3.30
• Apprentices: CHF 5.50

Spiez Lido is a popular spot for open-air swimming in Spiez – and I can see why. The lido is situated right on the shores of Lake Thun, and is an ideal spot for a refreshing dip on a hot summer’s day.

The lido has a large swimming pool, a children’s pool, and a diving board. Sun loungers and parasols are available, and I’m happy to report that the water in the pool is heated, making it comfortable for swimming even on cooler days.

Aside from swimming, there are plenty of other exciting activities available at the Spiez lido for the whole family. You can play beach volleyball or try your hand at table tennis and mini-golf.

There is a playground to keep little ones entertained and a restaurant serving up snacks, drinks and other refreshments throughout the day.

Good to know: The lido is easily accessible by public transportation, with a bus stop just a short walk away. There is also plenty of parking available for those who prefer to drive.

8. Release your inner child at the Toy Museum

Opening times:

• April – October: Tuesday – Sunday 14:00 – 17:00
• November – March: Tuesday – Sunday 14:00 – 16:00 

Prices:

• Adults: CHF 8
• Children under 12: free
• Guided tour for up to 11 people: CHF 50

A must-visit destination for both toy enthusiasts and families with young children, the Toy Museum in Spiez houses a vast collection of toys spanning various eras and countries.

Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection of dolls, teddy bears, trains, cars, and other toys. The museum also has a play area where children (and adults) can interact with various toys and games.

I think the highlight of the Toy Museum is the model train exhibit featuring a large collection of model trains and railways, including a replica of the famous Swiss Jungfrau railway.

You can watch the trains in action and learn about the history of Swiss railways.

Good to know: The museum also hosts various events and workshops throughout the year. These events include toy-making workshops, puppet shows, and special exhibitions.

9. Walk to Faulensee

Spiez has a picturesque walkway that stretches for around 2.5 kilometres along the shores of Lake Thun to Faulensee, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the turquoise waters of the lake.

It’s one of my favourite spots in the area, and the path has plenty of benches and picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Plus, there are also barbecue pits for a sunset feast.

The walkway starts in Spiez and ends at Faulensee and is relatively flat, making it both wheelchair accessible and suitable for prams.

Dotted along the path are many impressive art sculptures, showing off the rich Spiez culture. 

One of the highlights of the walk along the Spiez pathway is the stunning view of the iconic Niesen mountain towering over the lake and providing a dramatic backdrop for photos.

If you’re brave enough, you can also take a dip in the lake from one of the designated swimming spots along the path or rent a paddleboat to explore the waters. I’ll admit, I couldn’t quite face the cold!

Good to know: The route finishes by the dock at Faulensee, so if you don’t feel up to walking back down the path, I’d recommend hopping on a boat or ferry for the return journey.

10. Indulge in a spa day at Eden Spiez

If you’re hoping for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience while you’re in Spiez, I’d highly recommend a visit to Eden Spiez is an absolute must. It’s where I stayed throughout my time in Spiez.

Located right in the heart of the town, this luxurious spa offers a range of delightful treatments and facilities to help you unwind, de-stress and feel pampered.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a perfectly serene and tranquil atmosphere. The spa’s interior is tastefully decorated with calming tones and natural materials, helping to create a sense of complete peace and ultimate relaxation. 

Eden Spiez offers a variety of indulgent spa treatments, including expert massages, luxurious facials, body wraps, and much more.

Make the most of your visit and also enjoy the spa’s sauna, steam room, indoor pool and outdoor pool.

Good to know: If you’re looking for a more comprehensive spa experience, Eden Spiez offers a range of packages that combine various treatments and facilities.

I’d really recommend staying overnight too, and sampling the Michelin-recommended restaurant at the hotel.

Discover more of the best Swiss spa hotels in my ultimate guide.

11. Visit Diemtigtal Nature Park

Found just a short drive away from Spiez, Diemtigtal Nature Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

The park itself is home to some incredibly diverse plants and animals, including rare species, which you might be lucky enough to spot. 

One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Niesen-Diemtigtal Panorama Trail.

This route takes you on a 12 kilometre journey through some of the park’s most beautiful landscapes, ascending almost 80 metres.

Along the way, there are several lookout points to take in the breathtaking views – so remember your picnics!

If you prefer a more leisurely pace, Diemtigtal Nature Park also offers walks led by professional guides and also nature tours.

During these tours, the guides are on hand to provide you with valuable insights into the park’s ecology and wildlife, and answer any questions you might have.

Good to know: Alongside hiking and guided tours, Diemtigtal Nature Park offers a range of other activities, including fishing, horseback riding and adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking. 

12. Take a day trip to Interlaken

Interlaken is one of my favourite Swiss tourist destinations located just under 20 kilometres from Spiez. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, the town is surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps. 

The Jungfrau Railway, which runs from Interlaken to the Jungfraujoch, is one of the most famous train rides in the world, transporting you through tunnels and over bridges, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.

I’d recommend joining a guided day trip to Jungfraujoch for the ultimate experience. 

Thrill seekers, I know you’ll love Interlaken! Soar over the mountains and lakes while tandem paragliding or experience white water rafting on the Lütschine River. 

For more ideas, have a read of my guide to the best things to do in Interlaken or discover my pick of the best hotels in Interlaken.

Good to know: You’ll find several traditional Swiss restaurants that serve delicious local cuisine, as well as international restaurants that offer a variety of dishes in Interlaken.

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Best hotels in Spiez

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a charming boutique hotel, Spiez has several options to choose from. Here’s my pick of the best hotels in Spiez:

1. Hotel Eden Spiez

Best for: Luxurious spa break

Address: Seestrasse 58, 3700 Spiez

For a touch of luxury with incredible views of Lake Thun and the Swiss Alps, I’d highly recommend checking into Hotel Eden Spiez.

The hotel has 45 elegantly furnished rooms, all of which are equipped with modern amenities.  My room had the most breathtaking views from the balcony; it was an absolute dream to wake up to each morning. 

Make sure you enjoy the hotel’s spa, which includes a sauna, steam room, and indoor pool. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves mouth-watering Swiss cuisine.

2. Belvédère Strandhotel

Best for: Lakeside lido

Address: Schachenstrasse 39, 3700 Spiez

Belvédère Strandhotel is a charming boutique hotel located right on the shores of Lake Thun. The hotel has stylishly decorated 56 rooms that offer stunning views of the lake and the mountains. 

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s private beach and lido, as well as its restaurant, which serves delicious Swiss and international cuisine.

3. La Belle Vue Boutique Hotel & Cafe

Best for: Authentically Swiss

Address: Seestrasse 36, 3700 Spiez

La Belle Vue Boutique Hotel & Cafe is a boutique hotel focusing on style, comfort and nature.

The hotel has 18 boutique-style rooms, all of which are decorated and furnished with natural materials to bring a rural feel to the rooms. 

Here, you can enjoy the hotel’s delightful café which serves mouth-watering homemade light bites and brunch to the tune of a cosy coffee culture.

4. Hotel Movieworld

Best for: Cinema lovers

Address: Schlosslistrasse 1, 3700Spiez

Hotel Movieworld is a unique hotel that is dedicated to celebrating the world of cinema. I love that this vibrant hotel features themed rooms from some of your favourite films and franchises like 007. 

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s very own cinema, which screens classic and modern movies. Afterwards, you can enjoy both traditional Swiss and international cuisine at its restaurant.

5. Hotel Seegarten-Marina

Best for: Incredible views

Address: Schachenstrasse 3, 3700 Spiez

Located right on the shores of Lake Thun, Hotel Seegarten-Marina is a charming hotel with enviable views of the castle and lake.

With its own restaurant and pizzeria, the hotel keeps its guests happy with mouth-watering cuisine and tasty dishes. 

Best places to eat in Spiez

1. Belle Epoque at Eden

Best for: Fine dining

Address: Seestrasse 58, 3700 Spiez

Belle Epoque at Eden is a Michelin-recommended restaurant with a sophisticated menu showcasing regional flavours.

Here, you’ll experience fine dining with a focus on local and seasonal produce – I had a truly delicious meal here. The restaurant has a beautiful terrace that overlooks Lake Thun; perfect for balmy summer evenings.

2. Ristorante Riviera by Elio

Best for: Beautiful lake views

Address: Seestrasse 67, 3700 Spiez

An Italian restaurant that is dedicated to excellent hospitality, Ristorante Riviera by Eliohas a warm relaxed atmosphere.

Serving authentic Italian cuisine, the menu includes a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood. 

The restaurant also has a great selection of delicious Italian wines. The outdoor seating area has an unparalleled view of the lake and the nearby mountains.

3. La Belle Vue Café & Bistrot

Best for: Cosy vibes

Address: Seestrasse 36, 3700 Spiez

La Belle Vue Café & Bistrot is a charming café and bistro that serves a whole host of breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, and tasty cakes and bakes.

The bistro offers a more extensive menu with a stronger focus on bringing you authentic Swiss cuisine. The cosy interior welcomes you in and the terrace provides fantastic views of the castle and the church.

4. Restaurant Krone

Best for: Authentic Swiss cuisine

Address: Seestrasse 28, 3700 Spiez

Restaurant Krone champions authentic and traditional Swiss cuisine. Rustic interiors with wooden beams and a fireplace set the scene of a delightful meal. 

The menu includes classic Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue, raclette, and rösti. The restaurant also serves a wonderful selection of Swiss wines.

5. Restaurant Wiler

Best for: Casual dining

Address: Gygerweg 18, 3700 Spiez

Just a short drive from Spiez is the quaint village of Wiler and homely Restaurant Wiler. The restaurant has a beautiful garden with views of the mountains to compliment your food. 

The menu includes a variety of meat and fish dishes, as well as some appetising vegetarian options. 

Frequently asked questions

Is Spiez worth visiting?

Absolutely! I adored Spiez and was surprised at how quiet it was compared to other Swiss towns. It seamlessly blends old-world charm and history with astonishing natural beauty.

As well as having an incredibly rich local history and culture, there are plenty of things to do in Spiez that make it a worthwhile visit. 

What are the best day trips from Spiez?

What I love about Spiez is that it makes a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding Swiss towns and attractions.

You can easily take a train or drive to the nearby town of Interlaken, a popular tourist destination known for its adventure sports and stunning scenery. 

The famous peaks and glaciers of the Jungfrau region make for another great day trip from Spiez.

For a more laid back day trip, I’d really recommend taking a boat trip to the picturesque town of Thun or visiting the charming village of Lauterbrunnen, known for its brilliant waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.

Gruyères is a fairytale-inspired mediaeval town in the rolling green hills of the Swiss countryside. Full of character – and cheese – this town is a great day trip from Spiez, taking under 1 hour 20 minutes by car. 

Slightly further afield at 1 hour 30 minutes away, you can find Montreux, an intriguing Swiss town that has something for everyone – from a chocolate train to exhilarating watersports.

A similar distance away from Spiez is Lucerne, a serene town and true hidden gem of Switzerland.

Can you go skiing near Spiez in winter?

Yes, there are plenty of ski resorts near Spiez that offer a variety of snowy slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

The closest ski resort is the Aeschi Ski Area, which is less than a 10 minute drive from Spiez. It has 10 kilometres of ski runs and is the ideal starting point for families and beginners. 

For more advanced skiers, I’d recommend the luxury ski resort of Gstaad is just over an hour’s drive away and offers a wide range of slopes and off-piste skiing.

The Jungfrau Ski Region, which includes the famous resorts of Grindelwald, Wengen, and Murren, is also easily accessible from Spiez and offers some of the best skiing in Switzerland.

Watch my Spiez travel vlog to see what I got up to when I visited or let me know any questions in the comments.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? You may also like:

• 15 best spa resorts in Switzerland
• 12 most scenic train rides in Switzerland 
• 21 beautiful fairytale towns in Switzerland