Even on rainy days, Neuchâtel keeps its charm. The cobblestones shine, the lake is veiled in mist, and the old town feels like a film set. If your plans for a big hike or a boat trip fall through, there’s no need to worry: the city offers plenty of ways to turn a wet day into a memorable one. Here are six ideas to make the most of Neuchâtel in the rain.
Seek shelter in the Museum of Art and History
Housed in a lakeside villa, the museum combines fine arts, archaeology and decorative arts. You’ll find Swiss paintings, Egyptian objects, fascinating automatons, and even a moving model of Neuchâtel’s harbour from the 18th century.
A cultural visit and a dry escape all in one.
👉 Just a 10-minute walk from Hotel Beaulac.
Enjoy a hot drink with a lake view
When the rain falls softly, there’s nothing better than a warm cup of tea or coffee overlooking the lake. Many tearooms and cafés line the lakeside. At the Lake Side Restaurant in Hotel Beaulac, you can sip your drink in a calm and elegant setting with panoramic windows.
👉 Perfect for a cosy break after a stroll.
Discover wine cellars and absinthe distilleries
Rainy weather is the perfect excuse to explore local flavours. Around Neuchâtel, you’ll find wine cellars and distilleries open to visitors.
In the Val-de-Travers, several absinthe distilleries offer guided tastings. Closer to town, wineries welcome guests all year round.
👉 Ask at the hotel reception for current recommendations.
Dive into history at the Laténium
Located in Hauterive, the Laténium is Switzerland’s largest archaeological museum. It tells the story of the civilisations that lived along the lake, from Prehistory to the modern era.
The exhibitions are interactive, well-designed, and suitable for all ages. A perfect way to spend an entire afternoon.
👉 Only 10 minutes by train or car from the hotel.
Relax in a spa or wellness centre
Sometimes rain is the best reason to slow down. Several wellness centres in the region offer saunas, steam baths, massages and relaxing treatments.
👉 Most are available by reservation.
Stroll under the arcades of the old town
Even in grey weather, Neuchâtel’s old town is inviting. The arcades along Rue du Seyon let you shop or wander under cover – from bookshops to design boutiques.
And if the rain gets heavier, there’s always a welcoming café just around the corner.
Neuchâtel at your own pace, rain or shine
Rain in Neuchâtel brings a different mood – calmer, quieter, almost poetic. Hotel Beaulac, set right on the lake and close to the old town, is the perfect base for exploring, with or without an umbrella.
And when you return, spacious rooms, fine dining at the Lake Side, or a cocktail at the Waves Rooftop await.
Book your stay directly at beaulac.ch or by phone at +41 32 723 11 11.
