Thunerseespiele in Switzerland
The open-air musicals of Thunerseespiele take place between July 12 and August 26 at Lake Thun in Switzerland.
Whether you love music, treasure the theater, or go weak in the knees for iconic Alpine views, the open-air musicals of Thunerseespiele in Switzerland should be on your radar. Previous productions include “Les Misérables,” “Titanic,” “Miss Saigon,” “Romeo & Juliet,” along with many other classic and modern productions.
One could argue the productions are supporting players, however, and that the true stars of the show are the breathtaking peaks of the Alpine mountains. As you sit in the audience, your eyes feast upon one of the most famous mountain panoramas in Switzerland, with the majestic peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau propped up proudly in the background.
Nestled at the shoreline of Lake Thun (Thunersee), the event actually produces a temporary stage over the water, adding to the seamless blend of art and nature.
The Thunerseespiele open-air musical spectacles in Switzerland will take place almost every evening between July 12 and August 26. Each show will last about 2.5 hours, including an intermission. Check out the schedule before you decide to go. (Note: You’ll probably need to Google Translate their official site!) We advise wearing warm, waterproof clothing and closed shoes. Ticket prices range from CHF 47 to CHF 187.
How did Thunerseespiele originate?
The concept Thunerseespiele in Switzerland was inspired by the desire to combine the stunning natural surroundings of Lake Thun with captivating theatrical productions. Since 2003 the town has been putting on musicals ranging from “Cats” to “Dällebach Kari”.
What else happens at Thunerseespiele?
Every year over 80,000 people attend Thunerseespiele in Switzerland, so of course you’ll have plenty food and drink option when you arrive. Please note that while a reservation is required for proper dining, there is a self-serve restaurant in the musical garden sporting themed food. (We are afraid to ask what that meant when they did a production of “Cats”…)
Eager theater enthusiasts can even opt for a pre-show backstage tour to learn more about the production and take a sneak peek behind the curtains.
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What can I do at Lake Thun?
Since you’ll probably only see one showing at Thunerseespiele, you’ll have plenty of time to indulge in other activities while at Lake Thun. Start by embarking on a lake boat cruise, gliding across the crystal-clear waters while soaking in stunning vistas of the Swiss Alps. For the more active folks, hiking the trails surrounding the lake allow you to literally step into the landscape you’ve been admiring from afar.
History buffs will be delighted by Thun Castle, a medieval wonder that houses fascinating exhibits, combining the allure of the past with a touch of modernity.
And for our slow travelers, one can enjoy the simple life and wind down at one of many charming lakeside cafés, where you can relax, sip your favorite beverage, and take in the awe-inspiring scenery.
Or plan a day trip and drive about an hour away to the picturesque Swiss village of Lungern. The postcard-perfect village nestled along the Lake Lungern is slow travel nirvana. It will definitely make the short list next time we put together an article on the best slow travel regions in Europe.
How do I get to Lake Thun?
We recommend taking the train from Bern, the nearest large city. The average ticket costs about $23. When you arrive, take bus line 1 towards Deltapark/Spiez and get off at the Strandbad stop. To find the entrance, simply follow the signs.
If you’re considering renting a car, the location is only about a half hour from Bern. Parking is available right in front of the entrance. Additionally, shuttle buses are provided for the return journey to Thun train station after the performance.
Where should I stay?
Switzerland offers breathtaking landscapes with magnificent views at every turn. On one side, you have the majestic Alpes, and on the other, the postcard-perfect Lake Thun. You can find decent apartments around Lake Thun. According to Airbnb, you can expect the cost of an apartment to be around $140 per night, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of this remarkable destination.
Below is a choice little villa with a lake view. (Check out how blue that water is! 😭)
Thunerseespiele
Ticket: Evening Premium CHF 187, Morning Premium CHF 87 (incl. seat cushion and program booklet). Regular price from CHF 47
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Tom Bonneau
The founder of Goodtime Monty, Tom called Cape Cod and then Los Angeles home before the yearn to wander took hold. He traveled the world for a spell before meeting his beautiful wife in Istanbul. He now is a resident Cracovian who spreads the gospel of Krakow and slow travel to all who will listen.
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