With a population of around 45,000, Neuchâtel is the third-largest city in French-speaking Switzerland, after Geneva and Lausanne. It’s a beautiful university town, and its star attraction is Lake Neuchâtel—the largest lake entirely within Switzerland. The calm waters and scenic promenade are perfect for a relaxing walk or just sitting by the shore, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
As you wander through the medieval streets of Neuchâtel’s Old Town, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The historic architecture tells stories of centuries past, from the stunning churches to the impressive 12th-century castle. Every corner seems to have its own charm, and the city’s rich history is on full display.
Despite its size, Neuchâtel has this wonderfully vibrant, almost Mediterranean feel to it. The lively Saturday market, the artsy vibe, the cozy cafes and little shops in the Old Town—it all adds up to make the city feel really special. And with its stunning lakeside setting, it’s easy to see why. Even though it’s just a two-hour train ride from Zurich, it feels like a completely different world.
I’ve been to Neuchâtel many times, and each visit reminds me why I love it so much. There’s something magical about sitting at a lakeside café, watching boats float by with the Jura mountains reflecting in the water. Walking through the cobblestone streets never gets old, and there’s always something new to stumble upon—a hidden restaurant, a fresh piece of street art, or a quiet corner I hadn’t noticed before. Life in Neuchâtel moves at a slower pace, but the richness of its culture and charm keeps me coming back.
What surprises me most is that, despite all its beauty and history, Neuchâtel often flies under the radar for many tourists. That’s why I’m excited to share the top 11 things to do in Neuchatel. From hidden gems to the city’s must-see spots, this blog will give you everything you need to make your trip unforgettable. Come along with me as we discover the magic of Neuchâtel!
1. Immersing Yourself in the Captivating Old Town of Neuchâtel
Nestled on the shores of the stunning Lake Neuchâtel, the city’s Old Town is a true gem, captivating visitors with its magical medieval atmosphere. Constructed of warm, yellow sandstone, the maze of narrow cobblestone streets invites you to step back in time and explore the wealth of historical attractions that line the charming alleyways.
One spot you can’t miss is the Hôtel Du Peyrou. This elegant villa, built in 1770, sits in the middle of its own gorgeous gardens and now houses a fantastic restaurant. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal in a setting that oozes timeless sophistication—I always feel like I’m stepping into a different era when I dine there.
Another favorite of mine is Place des Halles, a picture-perfect square surrounded by beautiful Louis XIV-style buildings. The Maison des Halles, with its 16th-century shutters and turrets, is an absolute feast for the eyes, and the Hôtel de Ville, designed by Louis XVI’s architect, adds even more grandeur to the scene.
As you wander the charming streets, you’ll discover an abundance of delightful street cafes, quaint boutiques, and 18th-century mansions. And let’s not forget the fountains—there are over 140 of them, some dating back to the 16th century. They add this magical touch to the town, inviting you to slow down, sit for a while, and just soak in the timeless beauty of Neuchâtel’s Old Town.
Look around the Collegiate Church and Castle
The real crown jewel of Neuchâtel’s Old Town has to be the castle and the Collegiate Church. Perched on a rocky ridge overlooking the town, the castle, with its white facades, pointy-roofed turrets, and scenic walkway, feels like something straight out of a fairy tale. Even though it dates back to the late 10th century, it’s still very much in use today as the headquarters of the cantonal government.
Just next door is the Collegiate Church, which was built around the 12th century. When you approach it, the first thing you’ll notice is the huge rose window above the entrance, and on the other end, there are these beautiful Norman-style apses. Inside, the church has this incredible sense of history, especially when you see the Cenotaph of the Counts of Neuchâtel on the north wall of the choir.
This monument was created way back in 1372, and what’s fascinating is that it’s the only one of its kind to have survived north of the Alps. It’s surrounded by stunning 15th-century arches and gables, and the life-sized statues of knights and ladies from Neuchâtel’s past really bring the history to life.
One of my favorite things to do here is to take in the breathtaking view from the esplanade—it’s the perfect spot to soak in the city and the lake below. Best of all, visiting the castle grounds and the Collegiate Church is free, and they’re open year-round. If you want to step inside the castle itself, you’ll need to book a guided tour, which is available from April to September and costs just CHF 5 per person. Definitely worth it if you’re interested in history or just love exploring hidden corners of old buildings!
Discovering the Vibrant Rue des Chavannes: A Constantly Evolving Artistic Canvas
In the heart of Neuchâtel’s captivating Old Town, you’ll find a truly unique and enchanting alleyway – the Rue des Chavannes. This colorful pedestrian street is a true feast for the senses, as it is transformed with a brand-new artistic theme every two to three years, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for both locals and visitors like me.
Currently (as of November 2023), the Rue des Chavannes is graced by a stunning fresco created by renowned Neuchâtel artist, Antonio Coï. This vibrant mural depicts the serene Puglian Sea reaching up to the sky, with square houses seemingly sailing across the azure waters. The attention to detail and the vivid, almost lifelike quality of the artwork make it a true highlight for anyone exploring the charming Old Town.
4. Passerelle de l’Utopie: Soaring Over Lake Neuchâtel
One of my personal highlights when visiting Neuchâtel is the Utopie observation deck, which you can easily reach by strolling along the beautiful lakeside promenade. The Passerelle de l’Utopie, a striking footbridge that rests on a single central support, juts out over the water, almost like a diving board. This imposing structure offers you a unique vantage point to admire the stunning vistas of Lake Neuchâtel and the surrounding cityscape.
If you have the chance, try to visit at sunset. The golden light reflecting off the water is just magical, making the whole scene feel almost otherworldly. This captivating observation deck is the sole surviving piece of an art installation that once graced the lake’s shores, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. As you approach the bridge, you’ll be greeted by a pair of elegant 19th-century statues, further enhancing the sense of timeless elegance that permeates this enchanting location.
Cruising the Serene Waters of Lake Neuchâtel
Beyond the Passerelle de l’Utopie, Lake Neuchâtel stretches out in all its glory—38 km long and 8 km wide, offering endless possibilities for adventure. What I love most about the lake is how easy it is to explore the charming towns along its shores. The Lake Neuchâtel and Morat Navigation Company (LNM) has been running cruises since 1872, so hopping on a boat and setting off on the water feels like a time-honored tradition here.
One cruise I highly recommend is the “Three Lakes Cruise,” which takes you through the beautiful, interconnected lakes of Neuchâtel, Biel, and Murten. The cruises run from April to the end of October, so you can experience the changing landscapes through different seasons—it’s such a magical way to see the region.
On a recent visit, I had the pleasure of taking a cruise to the medieval village of Estavayer-le-Lac, which is home to a stunning 12th-century Savoy castle, a Gothic abbey church, and charming cobblestone streets. This picturesque town is also renowned as a water sports paradise, offering opportunities for sailing, surfing, and even water-skiing, with a unique water-ski lift that allows the whole family, including children who can swim, to enjoy the thrill of gliding across the lake.
6. Museum of Art and History Neuchâtel
Right by the harbor in Neuchâtel, you’ll come across the MAHN, the Museum of Art and History, housed in a building that feels like a grand Renaissance palace. It first opened its doors in 1885, and while the exterior has that classic, timeless look, inside you’ll find a modern and diverse collection spread over more than 20 rooms.
One of the museum’s absolute gems is the automaton, created back in 1774 by watchmaker Pierre Jaquet-Droz. It’s incredible to see these three mechanical figures—a writer, a draftsman, and a musician—still working perfectly after all these years. Watching them in action is like witnessing a piece of history come to life. If you can, I highly recommend timing your visit to catch one of the public demonstrations. If not, they’re on display behind glass, with an English slideshow explaining their fascinating story. It’s definitely one of those must-see things that makes MAHN so special.
7. Ascending to the Panoramic Vistas of Chaumont
One of my favorite things about Neuchâtel is how quickly you can escape the city and find yourself surrounded by the beauty of mountains and pine trees. In just ten minutes, you can swap the urban environment for the stunning views from Chaumont, a local mountain that feels like a hidden gem. The ride up is part of the fun, especially when you reach the top and get those breathtaking views of the three lakes—Neuchâtel, Biel/Bienne, and Murten/Morat. For the best vantage point, make sure to head up to the panoramic tower at the summit, sitting 1,200 meters above sea level. It’s like standing in an eagle’s nest, with an incredible panorama that stretches out as far as the eye can see. Trust me, it’s one of those moments that makes you stop and just take it all in.
Getting to Chaumont is easy—just hop on bus 7 from Neuchâtel to La Coudre, then catch the funicular that zips you up the mountain. Once you’re there, it’s not just about the views. There’s a small activity park for the kids to burn off some energy, and if you’re feeling hungry, there’s a lovely restaurant at the top where you can enjoy a meal with a view.
When you’re ready to head back down, you can either take the funicular again or, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, hike the 4-kilometer “Path of Time” trail. It’s a beautiful, scenic walk that lets you really soak in the peaceful mountain landscape before you return to the city. It’s a perfect way to spend a day and recharge.
8. Botanical Garden, Dürrenmatt Center and Path of Time
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot with stunning views, the Botanic Garden is the perfect place to explore. Whether you’re a nature lover or just want to relax, it’s a great escape. The best part? It’s completely free to enter, though if you’re up for learning a bit more, they do offer guided tours for a small fee. The garden is full of variety—there are meadows, orchards, vineyards, a creek, and even a pond.
Not far from the garden, you’ll find the Dürrenmatt Center designed by the renowned architect Mario Botta. The museum is actually built around the former home of Swiss writer Friedrich Dürrenmatt. Inside, you can see his manuscripts, paintings, and sketches—it’s like stepping into the mind of one of Switzerland’s most famous authors.
From there, you can head to the Path of Time, which is just a few steps away from the Botanical Garden. This unique trail is marked with wooden sculptures, and each meter represents a million years of history. It’s a fascinating way to take a “walk through time,” starting from the big bang and leading all the way to the earliest humans. It’s a lovely mix of nature and history that’s definitely worth checking out.
9. Laténium
If you’re a history buff (or just curious), the Laténium is a must-visit. It’s Switzerland’s largest archaeological museum, showcasing over 50,000 years of local history. One of my favorite parts is the archaeological park, where you can get a real feel for what life was like during the La Tène period.
They’ve even recreated ancient lake-dwellings right in the middle of this gorgeous 3-hectare lakeside park. The best part? The park is free to visit, open every day of the year, and you can just stroll in. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy the lakeside scenery, and there’s even a “prehistoric playground” for the kids, so you can relax while they have fun.
If you want to dive deeper into the history, I definitely recommend checking out the museum itself. Inside, you’ll find everything from prehistoric artifacts to pieces from the Renaissance. The exhibits are really well done, with modern displays that make it all come to life. Tickets are reasonably priced too—CHF 12 for adults, and only CHF 4 for students and seniors. Plus, kids under 16 get in for free, which is a nice bonus.
If you’re visiting between spring and October, you can even catch a free boat ride from Neuchâtel to the Laténium—it’s such a lovely way to get there! Or, if you prefer, just hop on bus 101 from town and get off right at the Laténium stop.
10. Relaxing at the Jeunes-Rives Beach
Neuchâtel may be far from the sea, but you can still have a beach day right in the city! Just a short walk from the center, Jeunes-Rives beach offers the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy the beauty of Lake Neuchâtel. The pebble beach is great for sunbathing, picnicking, or taking a refreshing dip in the clear lake waters.
The area is super convenient, with all the facilities you might need—there are toilets, showers, and even a restaurant if you fancy grabbing a bite to eat. And if you’re feeling a bit more energetic, there’s a beach volleyball court where you can join in for a friendly game or just watch the action while you relax by the water. It’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely day, whether you’re soaking up the sun or staying active!
11. Exploring the Dramatic Areuse Gorge
Just outside the city, Neuchâtel’s natural beauty keeps on surprising. One of my favorite spots to explore is the Areuse Gorge, an 11-kilometer stretch where the gentle Areuse River turns into a powerful force, cutting its way through a dramatic landscape. It’s one of those places where nature really puts on a show.
There’s a gorgeous trail that runs alongside the river, and it’s an absolute must if you love hiking or just being outdoors. You’ll follow the river as it transforms from a peaceful stream into a roaring torrent, crossing stone bridges and walking along narrow paths that hug steep rock walls. The highlight for me is always the Saut de Brot stone bridge—it feels like something out of a fairy tale, and the view from there is nothing short of magical.
If you’re feeling hungry after the hike, the Hôtel de la Truite restaurant in Champ-du-Moulin is a great spot to stop. They serve fresh trout that they raise themselves, and it’s absolutely delicious. Or, if you’d rather bring your own food, there are plenty of perfect picnic spots along the gorge where you can sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Seamless Connectivity: How To Reach The Captivating City Of Neuchâtel
Neuchâtel is a city that is easily accessible, making it a convenient destination for travelers from various parts of Switzerland and beyond. Whether you’re arriving from Geneva, Zurich, or Bern, the city is well-connected by a reliable and efficient train network.
From Geneva, you can reach Neuchâtel in just 1 hour and 20 minutes, with trains running on an hourly schedule. Traveling from Zurich, the journey time is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, also with hourly train connections. For those coming from Bern, the trip is even shorter, with trains running twice hourly and taking just 35 minutes to reach Neuchâtel.
Upon arrival, you’ll find that the city’s main train station is conveniently located above the town center, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding area. To reach the lakefront town center, focused around the vibrant Place Pury, it’s just a 10-minute walk or a short hop on the local bus.
For those who prefer a more seamless connection, the Fun’ambule underground funicular offers a direct link from the train station down to the university, situated approximately 400 meters east of Place Pury on Avenue du Premier-Mars. This efficient transportation system ensures a smooth and hassle-free arrival, allowing you to quickly immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of Neuchâtel.
The city’s well-developed transportation infrastructure, combined with its strategic location and frequent train connections, make Neuchâtel an easily accessible destination for travelers from across Switzerland and beyond. Whether you’re arriving from a nearby city or embarking on a longer journey, reaching this captivating Swiss city is a breeze, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant lakeside ambiance.
How to get around in Neuchâtel
Visitors who book at least one night in a hotel, holiday apartment, group accommodation, or campsite in the canton of Neuchâtel will receive the Neuchâtel Tourist Card upon check-in. This card offers numerous benefits, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay.
With the Neuchâtel Tourist Card, you can enjoy:
- Free travel on all public transport: This includes trains, funiculars, and buses throughout the canton of Neuchâtel, making it easy to explore the region without any transportation costs.
- Free admission to 28 museums: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Neuchâtel with complimentary access to 28 museums, providing a diverse array of exhibits and attractions.
- Cruises on Lake Neuchâtel and Lac des Brenets: Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Neuchâtel, touring both the south and north banks, or experience the serene beauty of Lac des Brenets.
- One day’s free bike hire: Explore Neuchâtel or Le Locle on two wheels with a full day’s free bike rental, perfect for discovering the area’s picturesque landscapes and charming streets.
- A ride on the Buttes-La Robella chairlift: Take in the breathtaking views with a complimentary ride on the Buttes-La Robella chairlift, offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains.
The Neuchâtel Tourist Card adds immense value to your stay, allowing you to fully experience the region’s attractions and natural beauty with ease and at no extra cost.
Where to Stay in Neuchâtel
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Neuchâtel, visitors are spoiled for choice, with a range of exceptional hotels and bed & breakfasts that cater to every traveler’s needs.
Hotel Beau Rivage: A Five-Star Lakefront Palace
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury and pampering, the Hotel Beau Rivage stands out as a true gem. This five-star lakefront palace boasts superbly appointed rooms and suites, all designed in a contemporary style and offering breathtaking views of Lake Neuchâtel and the majestic Alps beyond. Guests can indulge in the hotel’s spa, where they can enjoy soothing massages and private hammam experiences, ensuring a truly indulgent stay.
Hotel Palafitte: Floating Pavilions on the Lake
The Hotel Palafitte offers a truly unique accommodation experience, with individual luxury pavilions built directly on the waters of Lake Neuchâtel. Half of these pavilions are constructed on piles, providing guests with direct access to the lake and unparalleled views. Each spacious 223 ft² pavilion is equipped with a spa bath, Nespresso coffee machine, air conditioning, and free internet access, creating a serene and sophisticated retreat. Guests can also savor refined Swiss and local cuisine at the elegant on-site restaurant, La Table de Palafitte.
Hotel Beaulac Best Western: Lakeside Comfort and Convenience
For those seeking a more traditional hotel experience with a prime location, the Hotel Beaulac Best Western is an excellent choice. This comfortable, business-style hotel enjoys a prime spot by the central harbor, offering first-rate lakeside views. The spacious rooms are well-appointed, and guests can indulge in the on-site sushi restaurant and bar, which boasts a waterfront terrace.
B&B Louis-Favre 21: Charming Boutique Accommodations
Travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized experience can opt for the B&B Louis-Favre 21, an excellent bed and breakfast located near the train station. This charming property offers eight rooms and a two-bedroom apartment, all tastefully decorated in a contemporary style with cheerful pops of color. The breakfast area transforms into a communal space during the day, where guests can enjoy free coffee and relax while watching television.
Conclusion: Immerse Yourself in the Captivating Allure of Neuchâtel
To conclude, I can say Neuchâtel is a place that effortlessly blends natural beauty with rich culture and a lively lakeside vibe. Whether it’s strolling through the Old Town with its enchanting castle, soaking in the views from the Passerelle de l’Utopie, or enjoying a peaceful day at Jeunes-Rives beach, there’s something here for everyone. And if you’re into hiking, Chaumont mountain offers stunning panoramas you won’t want to miss!
Thanks to its excellent train connections, Neuchâtel is just a short, scenic ride from major Swiss cities, making it super easy to dive right into its welcoming charm.
So, whether you’re after a laid-back escape, an adventure, or a deeper cultural experience, Neuchâtel is ready to greet you with its unique Swiss-French character. I have no doubt you’ll leave with memories that stay with you long after you’ve left.
