Aare River Promenade
A scenic promenade along the Aare River in Thun, offering beautiful views, refreshing swims, and a perfect spot for leisurely strolls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for swimming
Aare River Promenade
Best Time
Ideal for swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic promenade along the Aare River in Thun, offering beautiful views, refreshing swims, and a perfect spot for leisurely strolls.
"A walk along the banks in Thun. Relax and follow the lake and riverbed. There is always something to see here, even in winter."
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
Be aware of currents and use designated entry/exit points for a safe swim in the Aare River.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Strolls
The promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk, offering beautiful views of the river and lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thun's Riverside Charm
Thun
Stroll along the picturesque banks, enjoying views of the lake and riverbed. A perfect spot for relaxation any time of year.
Refreshing Aare River Swim
Designated swimming areas
Take a dip in the clear, cool waters of the Aare. Best enjoyed during the summer months for a truly invigorating experience.
Lakeside and Riverbed Views
Along the promenade
Enjoy the scenic beauty where the Aare River meets Lake Thun. Always something to see, from tranquil winter scenes to vibrant summer days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Flow: Best Times to Visit
Navigating the Aare: What to Know
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
Be aware of currents and use designated entry/exit points for a safe swim in the Aare River.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Strolls
The promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk, offering beautiful views of the river and lake.
☀️ Summer Dip
For the best swimming experience, visit during the warmer summer months when the water is most inviting.
📸 Scenic Views
Capture stunning photos of the river meeting the lake, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊♀️ Swim Smart
Be aware of currents and use designated entry/exit points for a safe swim in the Aare River.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Strolls
The promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk, offering beautiful views of the river and lake.
☀️ Summer Dip
For the best swimming experience, visit during the warmer summer months when the water is most inviting.
📸 Scenic Views
Capture stunning photos of the river meeting the lake, especially during sunrise or sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Aare River Promenade for its beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere, highlighting it as a perfect spot for leisurely walks and enjoying the connection between the river and Lake Thun. While the water is refreshing, some note its coolness, especially outside peak summer months, and advise caution regarding currents for swimmers.
"Nice"
Al Fadhil
"A walk along the banks in Thun. Relax and follow the lake and riverbed. There is always something to see here, even in winter. Always my pleasure"
Elke Hausammann
"Superb quay for a nice walk. The center is close. We had a lovely day"
M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aare River Promenade is easily accessible in Thun. You can reach it by public transport, with buses stopping frequently near the riverbanks. If you're driving, there are parking facilities available in the city center, a short walk from the promenade.
Absolutely! The promenade is a well-maintained path perfect for walking, strolling, and enjoying the scenery. It's flat and accessible for most visitors.
Yes, the Aare River Promenade is accessible year-round. While swimming might not be ideal in winter, it offers a peaceful and scenic walk with beautiful views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Aare River Promenade is completely free. You can enjoy the views and atmosphere without any admission fees.
Swimming in the Aare River is generally free, as long as you use the designated public access points. Always be mindful of local regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include leisurely walks, enjoying the river and lake views, and swimming during warmer months. There are also cafes and shops nearby to explore.
While popular, the Aare River has currents. It's crucial to be aware of these and only swim in designated areas with clear entry and exit points. Locals advise caution and respect for the river's power.
The water temperature varies seasonally. While it can be quite cool, especially in May, it becomes more bearable and inviting for swimming in June and July.
Yes, the promenade is close to Thun's city center, which offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find options for a quick bite or a full meal.
Definitely! The promenade offers beautiful photographic opportunities, especially where the river meets the lake. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, and let the kids run around in the open spaces. The proximity to Thun's city center also means easy access to playgrounds and family-friendly cafes for breaks. It's a relaxed environment where everyone can enjoy the beautiful scenery.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy by the river, or opt for affordable local bakeries and cafes in the nearby Thun city center for a budget-friendly meal. Swimming in the river is also free, making it a fantastic way to cool off during the summer without extra costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Swimming in the Aare: A Local's Guide
Respect the River: The Aare is a powerful natural force. While it's a beloved spot for locals, it's important to treat it with respect. Avoid swimming alone if you're not an experienced swimmer, and always check local conditions before entering the water. The promenade itself provides excellent vantage points to observe the river's flow and choose the safest spot for your swim.
Beyond the Swim: Even if swimming isn't your priority, the Aare River banks are a fantastic place to relax. You can find spots to sunbathe, read a book, or simply watch the world go by. The proximity to Thun's city center also means you can easily combine a riverside visit with exploring the charming town.
Photography Hotspots Along the Promenade
Iconic Views: Look for shots that include the historic bridges spanning the Aare, the reflections of the sky and buildings on the water's surface, and the distant mountain scenery. The promenade itself, with its pathways and occasional seating areas, can add a sense of scale and human interest to your photographs. Don't forget to capture the unique atmosphere of the 'kokby' (vaults) along the riverbank, which have been transformed into vibrant cafes and bars, adding a touch of local character.
Seasonal Beauty: The promenade's charm isn't limited to summer. Winter offers a serene, often snow-dusted landscape, while spring and autumn bring vibrant foliage and a crisp atmosphere. Each season provides a different palette and mood for photographers to explore, making it a rewarding location to revisit throughout the year.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit