If you’re looking for an idyllic European town to visit in the summer, look no further than Spiez, Switzerland. This small town is nestled on the shores of Lake Thun surrounded by stunning mountain views. If you are looking for things to do in Spiez during the summer months, we have some great ideas!
Things to Do in Spiez, Switzerland in the Summer
The summer months in Spiez are filled with warm sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
If you’re planning a trip to Spiez in the summer, here are some must-do activities to add to your itinerary:
Spiezer Zügli
If it is your first time in Spiez, you can get to know the city by taking the little blue & white train around town.
It runs from Easter through October and will take you to many of the important sites in Spiez while you listen to an audio guide that goes over the history of the area.
Schloss Spiez
The castle was first built in the 12th century and has been expanded and renovated several times over the centuries.
Today, it houses a museum which is open to the public.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many furnished rooms and chambers that showcase what living quarters would have looked like between the 13th & the 19th century.
You will see things like the great hall which is really enormous and has wonderful views of Lake Thun.
Guests will see what a fully functioning kitchen would look like as well as the types of food that people ate in medieval times.
Along with the normal history of the time period, you will also learn about some of the dark times and prisoners who were kept in the tower.
You will even be able to see evidence of their presence with graffiti they left behind.
There are a lot of stairs and climbing so make sure that you wear the right shoes!
If you choose to venture to the top of the castle tower, you will find a beautiful panoramic view of the lake and the mountains.
Take time to explore the outside of the castle as well as there are beautifully manicured gardens.
Part of the joy of visiting Spiez in the summer is all the colorful flowers you’ll be able to see. The gardens are absolutely stunning this time of year!
Spiez Vineyard Sensory Adventure Trail
This trail is perfect for hikers who want to explore a local vineyard.
It only takes and hour to hike and visitors will find 12 information boards where you can scan a QR code to watch 12 short films that detail the life of a winemaker!
It is a nice way to experience Spiez on foot while learning about their wine-making process.
Water Activities on Lake Thun
While you could spend all your time in Spiez on foot, you certainly would be missing out on some great water activities.
Since Spiez sits on the Thun, you will have access to numerous water sports.
A boat trip on Lake Thun with the Bernese Oberland as a backdrop is an unforgettable experience.
You will find a boat rental at the Bay of Spiez that rents out pedal boats, electric motor boats, and sailboats from May to September.
It is a lovely way to spend a summer day on the Thun!
If you’re looking for a charming places to visit in Switzerland, make the trip to Spiez. With so many things to do in Spiez, it would make a wonderful day trip or weekend getaway!
How to Get to Spiez
From Interlaken, Spiez is a quick boat ride on Lake Thun or can be reached by bus.
For other places, Spiez can be reached by train. The trains run every half an hour from Bern, Basel and Zürich.
If driving, you will take the A1 from Zürich/Bern or A6 from Thun.
What People Ask About Spiez
What is Spiez Known For?
Spiez is best known for Spiez Castle that sits on the Bay of Spiez. Visitors will find many things to do in Spiez including exploring the castle, grounds and the gardens when visiting.
What language do they speak in Spiez Switzerland?
German is the predominant language in Spiez, but many speak English.
Is Spiez Switzerland worth visiting?
Spiez is a wonderful day trip to take from Interlaken, Bern, Basel and Zürich and worth the short bus or train ride to see the beautiful castle!
Is it better to stay in Interlaken or Spiez?
You can’t go wrong with Interlaken or Spiez since they are so close to Bern, Basel and Zurich. My choice would be Interlaken because of the variety of activities and restaurants in walking distance.