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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Solothurn.
Solothurn, a quaint Swiss town nestled between rolling hills and winding rivers, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.
From wandering through picturesque cobblestone streets to immersing yourself in centuries-old architecture, Solothurn offers a captivating blend of past and present.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Solothurn:
1. St Ursen Cathedral
St Ursen Cathedral is a beautiful Baroque-style cathedral located in Solothurn, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The cathedral features stunning frescoes, intricate carvings, and impressive stained glass windows. Visitors can also admire the beautiful organ, which has over 4,500 pipes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take in the breathtaking view of Solothurn and the surrounding mountains from the cathedral tower. Additionally, the chapel of St.
Josef, located within the cathedral, is a particularly tranquil and awe-inspiring spot to visit.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting St Ursen Cathedral during one of the many concerts or cultural events that take place there throughout the year.
Don’t forget to explore the charming surrounding Old Town area of Solothurn as well. Parking can be difficult in the area, so it’s best to arrive by public transportation if possible.
2. Solothurn Old Town
Solothurn Old Town is a beautiful historic district in the city of Solothurn, Switzerland. With its unique baroque architecture and charming cobblestone streets, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the Old Town and admire the well-preserved buildings and fountains. Visit the St.
Ursen Cathedral, a stunning example of baroque architecture, or explore the numerous museums and galleries in the area. Don’t miss the Reformed Church, which boasts impressive frescoes and stained glass windows.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the clock tower at the center of the Old Town, which features a unique astronomical clock that displays the phases of the moon and the position of the stars.
Also, be sure to stop by the Marketplatz, a bustling square that hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: For the best views of Solothurn Old Town, climb the stairs to the top of the clock tower or take a walk along the city walls.
If you’re traveling to Solothurn by train, the Old Town is just a short walk from the train station.
Finally, be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as the Solothurner torte, a delicious almond cake that is a specialty of the region.
3. Waldegg Castle
Waldegg Castle is a historical castle located in the canton of Solothurn in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle to explore its rich history and impressive architecture. The castle features lavishly furnished rooms, beautiful gardens, and a museum showcasing the history of the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive collection of over 700 dolls and toys on display in the museum. These include antique dolls, dollhouses, and teddy bears, providing a fascinating insight into the culture and playtime of yesteryear.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved in exploring the castle and its grounds.
Visitors should also allocate enough time to fully enjoy the museum and its fascinating collection of toys.
Additionally, the castle hosts special events throughout the year, such as concerts and exhibitions, so check the schedule before planning your visit.
4. Landhaus
A historic building located in Solothurn, Switzerland that has been converted into a hotel and restaurant.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing stay in one of Landhaus’ beautifully decorated rooms, dine in the renowned restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine with a contemporary twist, and explore the charming town of Solothurn with its baroque architecture and picturesque Old Town.
Don’t miss: Trying the “Landhaus” dish, a signature dish featuring regional ingredients and flavors.
Insider travel tips: Book a table in advance at the restaurant as it can get busy, and make sure to take a stroll along the Aare river, which runs through the town, for stunning views.
5. Baseltor
The Baseltor is a historic gate that marks the entrance to the Old Town of Solothurn in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive architecture of the gate, which dates back to the 15th century. From the top of the tower, there are breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the two statues on either side of the gate. These are ‘Wild Man’ and ‘Wild Woman’, who are said to have protected the city from evil spirits.
Insider travel tips: If you visit on a Saturday, make sure to check out the weekly market in the town square, just a short walk from the Baseltor.
Also, if you’re interested in history, there are several museums in Solothurn that are worth visiting, including the Museum Altes Zeughaus and the Kunstmuseum.
6. Altes Zeughaus
Altes Zeughaus is a historic building in Solothurn, Switzerland, that houses a museum showcasing the region’s military history.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire a large collection of weapons, flags, uniforms, and armor dating back to the 15th century. The museum also has a special exhibition area for temporary shows.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the displays highlighting the role of Swiss mercenaries in various European conflicts throughout history. The armory room with its vast collection of swords, guns, and cannons is also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Audio guides are available in English and French.
7. Jesuit Church
The Jesuit Church is a stunning baroque church located in Solothurn, Switzerland, known for its lavish decoration and impressive architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the ornate ceiling frescoes and intricate stuccowork that decorate the interior of the church. The high altar, organ, and pulpit are also notable features of the interior.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a closer look at the ceiling frescoes, which depict scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. The gold leaf accents and intricate details are truly breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: It is possible to take a guided tour of the church, which provides a deeper understanding of the history and artistry behind this remarkable landmark.
The church is best visited in the morning or early afternoon, as the sunlight streaming through the windows illuminates the interior.
8. Museum Altes Zeughaus
Museum Altes Zeughaus is a historical museum located in the town of Solothurn, Switzerland. It is housed in an old armoury building that dates back to the 16th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection of weapons, armor, and military paraphernalia spanning several centuries.
Exhibits showcase the development of arms and armour over time, with an emphasis on the cultural and technological context of each period.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the museum’s impressive range of crossbows and early firearms, as well as its collection of medieval armour.
The collection is particularly strong in 17th and 18th-century weaponry, with many examples of rifles and pistols from this period.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in the heart of Solothurn’s charming Old Town, making it an easy stop on a walking tour of the area.
Audio guides are available in English and other languages, providing a comprehensive overview of the exhibits.
9. Solothurner Kunsthaus
The Solothurner Kunsthaus is an art museum located in the city of Solothurn, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of contemporary and modern art, with a focus on Swiss artists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of rotating exhibitions as well as the permanent collection.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive collection of works by Urs Lüthi, a Swiss performance and conceptual artist. The museum also has a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden that is definitely worth exploring.
Insider travel tips: – Consider taking a guided tour of the museum to learn more about the exhibitions and the history of the building.
10. Verena Gorge
A scenic natural attraction in Solothurn, Switzerland, famous for its deep ravine and cascading waterfalls.
What to see or do: Enjoy a beautiful and moderate hiking trail through the narrow gorge and immerse yourself in the stunning natural scenery. Take in the breathtaking views of the Verena waterfall, which plunges over 100 meters into the gorge.
Don’t miss: Exploring the nearby Verena Gorge Monastery, a historic site perched on a hill overlooking the gorge.
Insider travel tips: Wear appropriate shoes for hiking and bring a camera to capture the incredible views. Access to the gorge is free, but there is a small fee to visit the monastery.
The best time to visit is during the spring and summer when the waterfall is at its most impressive.
11. Solothurn Market Square
Solothurn Market Square, also known as the Hauptgasse, is the bustling heart of Solothurn, Switzerland’s Baroque gem.
What to see or do: Start your visit at this large, open-air plaza which is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
Take a leisurely stroll along the centuries-old cobblestone streets, browse through local crafts and souvenirs at the market stalls or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and outdoor terraces.
Don’t miss: Make sure to admire the beautiful fountains and the stunning St. Ursen Cathedral with its twin towers rising high above the square.
The Rathaus, or town hall, built in the 16th century, is also a must-see attraction with its ornate facade and clock tower.
Insider travel tips: – Visit on a Tuesday or Saturday when the weekly markets are held.
12. Puppenhaus Museum
A museum displaying a collection of antique dollhouses and miniature rooms in Solothurn, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the large collection of exquisite and detailed miniature replicas of houses, rooms, and furniture from various eras. Admire the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail in each piece.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the “Villa Saporiti” which is a grand miniature mansion with 30 rooms and over 1,500 miniature pieces of furniture.
Insider travel tips: Guided tours are available for groups, so be sure to contact the museum in advance if you’re interested. There is a small gift shop on the premises where you can purchase miniature items and souvenirs.
Plan to spend about an hour or two to fully appreciate the museum’s unique collection.
13. Naturmuseum Solothurn
The Naturmuseum Solothurn is a natural history museum located in the city of Solothurn, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and displays showcasing the region’s flora, fauna, geology, and biodiversity. Discover underground water systems, Alpine landscapes, and the natural habitats of local wildlife.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and the life-size models of local animals. Another highlight is the exhibit dedicated to Swiss geologist Albert Heim.
Insider travel tips: – Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the Naturmuseum Solothurn and the Kunstmuseum Solothurn to save money on admission fees.
14. Wasseramt District
Wasseramt is a district in the canton of Solothurn, Switzerland. It comprises of 15 municipalities and is known for its idyllic countryside and picturesque towns.
What to see or do: – Visit the charming town of Zuchwil, known for its historic castle and beautiful natural surroundings.
Don’t miss: – The annual Solothurn Film Festival, which showcases a selection of international and Swiss films and attracts film enthusiasts from all over the world.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the opportunity to go swimming in the Aare River.
15. St Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church is a magnificent Baroque-style church located in the heart of Solothurn, Switzerland.
What to see or do: – Admire the beautiful baroque architecture with its stunning frescoes, stucco work, and elaborate ceiling paintings.
Don’t miss: – The breathtaking views of Solothurn and the surrounding mountains from the church’s tower.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the summer months to attend one of the many concerts and cultural events that take place in the church and surrounding area.