Switzerland is renowned for its Alps, lakes, and valleys, but its cities are also worth exploring. In this article, we’ll focus on Neuchâtel, home to the Hôtel Beaulac. We have plenty of tips to share about this charming city! Neuchâtel is one of those Swiss cities that combines a lake, mountains, and an urban centre, all while boasting a long history.
Founded in the 12th century, the city offers a palpable historical experience, and the friendliness of its residents creates a holiday-like atmosphere. Wandering through its streets allows you to delve into the past and enjoy the charm of this city located on the shores of Switzerland’s largest lake. Here are our travel tips for a stay in Neuchâtel and the Swiss Jura. Enjoy your reading!
Looking for a hotel for your trip to the Swiss Jura?
Hôtel Beaulac Neuchâtel offers a range of rooms that combine comfort and luxury, allowing you to enjoy the charm of the lakeside with high-end service. You can blend adventure and relaxation with ease!
Stroll along lake Neuchâtel
A walk along the lake’s shore is a must when visiting Neuchâtel. The highlight of this stroll is not only the lake itself but also the giant bench among the other benches, creating a fun optical illusion!
If you continue a bit further along the promenade, you’ll reach the Utopia Footbridge. This footbridge resembles a balance, with one side anchored to the ground and the other floating freely, hence its name. Standing on this floating platform above the crystal-clear water of Lake Neuchâtel is quite a unique sensation!
The old town of Neuchâtel
This thousand-year-old city is built from yellow limestone, giving it a bright and colourful appearance even on gloomy days. The heart of the old town features the collegiate church and the castle. The numerous small streets are entirely pedestrianised, making Neuchâtel’s centre the largest pedestrian zone in Switzerland by area!
Additionally, you can try the “Chenapans” trail. It’s a fun way to discover Neuchâtel. Participants form teams and solve various puzzles at each stage of the trail. The stops are very artistic, designed by Neuchâtel artists Creche and Villon.
Don’t forget to pass through Rue des Chavannes! This colourful street, with its small shops and artistic pavement, is redesigned every year by a different artist. Currently, a “goose game” decorates the pavement of this creative alley in the heart of Neuchâtel’s old town.
Feeling refreshed after your walk? Then head to Neuchâtel’s smallest bar. One bar, one stool, that’s it. At just about 1 square metre, this bar is located right by the water near the port. It’s worth a visit, though finding a spot might be tricky!
Panoramic view of Neuchâtel
For an unbeatable view of the entire city and Lake Neuchâtel, head to our rooftop at Hôtel Beaulac. Located on the top floor of the hotel, our panoramic bar WAVES offers fresh air and stunning views. Enjoy a glass of local wine with a breathtaking view of the city and the lake. Our rooftop bar is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe!
Find all the information about our rooftop WAVES here.
You can also visit the Café de la Collégiale, a welcoming café located next to Neuchâtel Castle. A walk around the castle grounds is well worth it. It’s a journey back in time, not just because of the castle courtyard and the majestic church, but also due to the iron dogs that seem to guard the entrance. Nearby, you might see generations playing pétanque on a specially designed court.
Feeling peckish (or even very hungry)? Don’t miss out on a meal at Brasserie Le Cardinal. Located in the heart of the old town, this brasserie, with its unique Art Nouveau decor, creates a special ambiance. The menu features numerous regional specialities.
Absinthe tasting and local market
No visit to our beloved region would be complete without tasting one of our local specialities: absinthe! This iconic drink is a must when visiting Neuchâtel. Invented in the 18th century in Val-de-Travers, absinthe quickly became popular in Paris in the 19th century. Favoured by famous artists, it also inspired many poets who celebrated it in their works. Absinthe became a legend before being banned in Switzerland in 1910 due to its alleged madness-inducing properties. However, clandestine production continued even during the prohibition, which was lifted in 2005. We promise you won’t go mad. Remember, though, alcohol should always be consumed in moderation.
For the local market, head to Place des Halles in the heart of the old town. The market takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Next to the market, you’ll find “La Maison du Fromage”, a small shop offering local cheeses. A must-visit for cheese lovers, the selection of regional specialities is sure to delight.
Swiss watchmaking
About a 30-minute drive from Neuchâtel is La Chaux-de-Fonds, the watchmaking capital of Switzerland. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, particularly because of its unique grid layout designed to meet the needs of the watchmaking industry. It’s no surprise that it’s still called the watchmaking city today. Watchmaking was once a supplementary income for farmers, but it quickly became a major industry.
For another panoramic view, head to the Espacité Tower. On the top floor, you can walk around the tower and enjoy a 360-degree view of the watchmaking city. At the base of the tower is the tourist office, which offers guided tours and distributes brochures and information.
Additionally, take the opportunity to admire the monumental fountain. Since 1888, the monumental fountain has marked the city centre. It was the first decorative monument in La Chaux-de-Fonds, commemorating the city’s running water supply.
Key takeaways
Neuchâtel and the Swiss Jura region offer a multitude of activities and places to discover. A stroll along the lake, a visit to the old town, or an absinthe tasting: Neuchâtel and its surroundings offer a range of attractive activities for both those seeking relaxation and the more adventurous. And there’s more! Check out our other blog articles for more information on walks and hikes in the area.
Staying in Neuchâtel? Hôtel Beaulac, ideally located by the lake, allows you to make the most of your stay by combining comfort, luxury, and natural beauty. Book your stay now at Hôtel Beaulac.
Enjoy your stay and see you soon!
