Interlaken: Lake Thun Castles Tour with Entry Tickets

Thinking of exploring one of Switzerland’s most picturesque regions? This Lake Thun Castles Tour from Interlaken might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from recent travelers who have—highlighting what makes it special, what to expect, and who will love it most.

What immediately stands out are the stunning lakeside vistas, the charming castles with centuries of stories, and the expert storytelling that brings each location to life. The convenience of private transport, combined with the flexibility of free photo stops and coffee breaks, makes it a well-rounded day.

One consideration is the price point of $245 per person, which is reasonable given the inclusions like castle entries and guided insights. Still, it’s worth comparing with other local options or self-guided visits if you’re on a tight budget.

This tour naturally appeals to travelers who love history, scenic views, and cultural storytelling—perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day immersed in Swiss charm. If you want an easy, well-organized way to see multiple castles without the hassle of planning, this tour could be a great fit.

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Key Points

Beautiful lakeside scenery sets the backdrop for the entire day
Expert storytelling enriches the experience at each castle
Visit three iconic castles: Oberhofen, Thun, and Spiez
Includes entry to one castle and a medieval museum
Private minibus transport offers comfort and flexibility
Last-minute bookings are welcomed, with flexible cancellation

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Lake Thun Castles Tour

This tour, offered by Tourvana Adventures, invites you to explore the scenic charm and historical allure of Lake Thun’s most notable castles—Oberhofen, Thun, and Spiez. Departing from hotels within a 10 km radius of Interlaken, the journey is smooth, private, and designed for maximum comfort. The cost of $245 per person reflects a comprehensive experience, including guided storytelling, entry tickets, and ample free time for photos and casual exploration.

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The Journey Begins: Private Transport Along Lake Thun

The day kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel, moving by private minibus along the lakeside. This mode of transport is a real plus—no fuss, no waiting, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views of shimmering waters, lush hills, and charming villages. The journey itself sets the tone, offering a peaceful, scenic introduction to what lies ahead.

Oberhofen Castle: A Fairytale Scene

Your first stop is Oberhofen Castle, renowned for its romantic gardens and a distinctive lakeside tower. The castle’s setting is straight out of a storybook, with lush greenery spilling down to the water’s edge. Travelers rave about the stunning views and the chance to stroll through beautiful gardens—a perfect spot for photographs.

The included storytelling here brings to life tales of the noble families who once called the castle home, making the visit more than just sightseeing. One reviewer shared that the guide encouraged them to soak in the beauty and take plenty of pictures, which enhanced the experience.

Thun Castle: Medieval Charm with Panoramic Views

Next, you’ll visit Thun Castle, which offers sweeping vistas over the old town of Thun and Lake Thun. The castle itself is an impressive medieval structure, with towers and ramparts that tell stories of Swiss history. Inside, a medieval museum awaits, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that bring the past vividly to life.

Guests often mention the knowledgeable guides who explain the significance of the castle’s architecture and history. The view from the top is a highlight—imagine gazing over a tapestry of rooftops, lake, and distant mountains.

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Spiez Castle: Tranquil and Picturesque

Your final castle stop is Spiez Castle, surrounded by vineyards and offering a serene lakeside setting. This castle is a favorite among visitors for its peaceful atmosphere and the Romanesque chapel that adds a touch of medieval spirituality.

The guide’s storytelling continues here, emphasizing the castle’s role as a noble residence and its impressive architecture. The vines and vineyards nearby make for lovely photos and a taste of authentic Swiss countryside.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the key strengths of this experience is the balance of guided storytelling and free exploration. You’re encouraged to take your time, snap photos, and absorb the atmosphere at each site. This approach caters well to those who love learning about history but also enjoy individual time to enjoy the scenery.

Having the option to pick which castle you’d like to explore with free entry adds flexibility. The inclusion of a medieval museum enriches the cultural experience, giving you tangible artifacts and stories behind the stones.

The Personal Touch: One Reviewer’s Experience

A recent guest, Esther, shared that the guide was warm, accommodating, and extremely knowledgeable, which made the day memorable. She also appreciated being encouraged to take pictures and soak up the scenery, rather than feeling rushed. The fact that the tour was booked last-minute—just nine hours before—highlighted its flexibility and the welcoming nature of the operator.

The Transport and Group Size

The use of a private minibus was noted as a major plus—travelling in comfort and avoiding the crowds often associated with larger group tours. The small group size allows for personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and get tailored suggestions.

Value for Money

At $245 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, especially considering the castle entries, storytelling, and private transport. While not a budget option, it provides a hassle-free way to see multiple sites with expert guidance, saving you time and effort.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup: The day starts with a hotel pickup if you’re within 10 km of Interlaken—convenient and with scenic views along Lake Thun.

Oberhofen Castle: Expect a relaxed visit, with time allocated for wandering the gardens, admiring the lakeside tower, and listening to captivating stories about the castle’s noble past.

Travel to Thun: The drive itself is scenic, with the water and mountains framing your window. This short journey prepares you for the medieval marvel that is Thun Castle.

Thun Castle & Museum: At Thun, explore the towers, ramparts, and the museum exhibits. The panoramic views from the castle walls are often described as breathtaking, making it a highlight.

Lunch or Coffee Break: While not included, free time is provided for a quick coffee or snack, allowing you to relax before heading to Spiez.

Spiez Castle: The final stop offers a more tranquil, countryside atmosphere. The castle grounds, vineyards, and lakeside views create the perfect ending.

Return to Interlaken: After exploring Spiez Castle, you’ll be transported back to your hotel, often around early afternoon. This allows for the rest of the day to continue exploring or relaxing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, scenery lovers, and those seeking a hassle-free way to explore Lake Thun’s highlights. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value guidance and storytelling but also want some free time to explore on their own.

If you’re worried about language barriers, note that the tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors. The small group size and private transport make it a comfortable choice for couples, families, or small groups.

The Sum Up

This Lake Thun Castles Tour from Interlaken offers a nicely balanced day of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and relaxed exploration. For around $245, you get guided storytelling, castle entries, and comfortable transport, making it a valuable way to experience this part of Switzerland without the hassle of self-driving or complex planning.

The personalized approach, as highlighted by reviews praising the knowledgeable and warm guides, helps make each stop more meaningful. The stops at Oberhofen, Thun, and Spiez castles showcase different facets of Swiss castle architecture and lakeside charm, perfect for memorable photos and stories to take home.

If you love authentic sights, a bit of history, and scenic views, this tour will surely meet expectations—and possibly surpass them with its friendly guides and beautiful settings.

FAQ

How long is the tour? The tour typically lasts around half a day, with departures in the morning and returning by early afternoon, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sites.

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, you’ll travel in a private minibus, which offers a smooth, comfortable ride with scenic views along Lake Thun.

Can I choose which castle to enter? The tour includes entry to one castle of your choice and access to a medieval museum, allowing some flexibility in your visit.

Is this suitable for last-minute booking? Absolutely. The tour is open to last-minute reservations, and travelers like Esther appreciated how easy it was to book on short notice.

Are there free photo stops? Yes, there are designated times for photos, and guides encourage you to take your time to capture the stunning scenery.

What about food? Food and drinks are not included in the tour, but there are opportunities during free time to purchase coffee or snacks.

Is this tour suitable for families? While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make it family-friendly, especially for those interested in castles and lakeside views.

This Lake Thun castles tour blends scenic beauty, history, and expert guidance into a memorable Swiss adventure. Whether you’re a history lover or simply seeking stunning photos and peaceful lakeside moments, it offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to enjoy one of Switzerland’s most captivating regions.