Did you know that Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland hides two stunning lakes with completely different personalities? While Lake Thun flaunts medieval castles and vivid blue waters, Lake Brienz captivates with its ethereal turquoise-green hue and dramatic waterfalls. Both are regularly ranked among the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland – and for good reason.
These twin lakes, separated by the charming town of Interlaken, offer some of Europe’s most scenic boat cruises that showcase the best of the Bernese Oberland. Whether you’re dreaming of photographing fairy-tale castles or chasing waterfalls, choosing between the Alpine gems of Lake Thun or Brienz might seem tricky – but we’re here to help you pick the perfect lake adventure.
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Lake Thun vs Lake Brienz: Quick Comparison
Short on time? Here’s the lightning round.
| Lake Thun | Lake Brienz | |
|---|---|---|
| Water color | Deep blue | Turquoise-green |
| Length | 17.5 km | 14 km |
| Cruise length | ~2 hrs 10 min | ~1 hr 30 min |
| Boat season | Year-round | Closed in winter |
| Known for | Castles, old towns, history | Waterfalls, forests, woodcarving |
| Best for | Culture lovers, families, longer days out | Photographers, hikers, quiet nature lovers |
Still torn? Lake Thun wins if you want castles and a fuller day of sightseeing. Lake Brienz wins if you’re chasing turquoise water and a slower pace. Read on for the full breakdown.
The Twin Gems of Bernese Oberland
Tucked away in Switzerland’s breathtaking Lake Thun and Brienz region, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz offer visitors some of the most beautiful water experiences in the Alps. Lake Thun stretches 17.5 kilometers, while Lake Brienz extends 14 kilometers, each presenting its own distinct character and charm.
Lake Thun: The Blue Beauty
Lake Thun stretches between the towns of Thun and Interlaken, showing off its rich blue waters against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains stand tall in the distance, creating picture-perfect views from every angle.
You’ll find more than just pretty views here. The shoreline features historic castles like Oberhofen, with its fairy-tale towers reaching right into the water. Towns around the lake keep things interesting with their medieval architecture and local culture. The mysterious St. Beatus Caves beckon with their stunning entrance.
The full Lake Thun cruise takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes, with stops at picturesque villages like Spiez.
Lake Brienz: The Turquoise Wonder
Just east of Interlaken, Lake Brienz catches everyone’s eye with its striking turquoise waters and more natural setting. Steep, forested hills drop right into the lake, making it feel like you’re in a hidden mountain paradise.
That turquoise-green color isn’t a filter – it comes from finely ground “glacial flour,” rock particles carried into the lake by meltwater from the surrounding peaks, which scatter light and give Brienz its almost tropical hue. Lake Thun sits downstream and receives much less of this sediment, which is part of why its water stays a deeper, clearer blue by comparison.
This lake has its own set of attractions. The charming village of Brienz, famous for its woodcarving tradition, sits at the eastern end.
The shorter 1-hour-30-minute cruise takes you past forested hills and the picturesque village of Iseltwald. The magical Giessbach Falls tumble down the mountainside right into the lake, with a grand historic hotel perched above.
Lake Thun Cruise vs Lake Brienz Cruise: How They Compare
| Lake Thun Cruise | Lake Brienz Cruise | |
|---|---|---|
| Full round-trip | ~2 hrs 10 min | ~1 hr 30 min |
| Historic paddle steamer | Blümlisalp (built 1906) | Lötschberg (built 1914) |
| Steamer runs | Roughly May–October | Roughly late May–September |
| Regular boat service | Year-round | Pauses for winter |
| Key stops | Spiez, Oberhofen, Hilterfingen, Thun | Iseltwald, Giessbach Falls, Brienz |
| Dining onboard | Yes, most scheduled cruises | Yes, most scheduled cruises |
Both lakes welcome visitors year-round for sightseeing, but Lake Brienz’s boat schedule shuts down over winter while Lake Thun’s doesn’t. If you’re visiting outside April–early December, Lake Thun is your only cruise option.
During summer, history buffs can ride the classic paddle steamers on either lake and watch the steam engines in action. Several boats offer snacks and meals on board.
If you just want a full relaxing day, you don’t have to choose between the two – you can do a boat cruise on both lakes in one day as long as you don’t try to fit in other major activities. Start with Lake Thun in the morning to see the castles, or a shortened cruise with a visit to St. Beatus Caves, then head to Lake Brienz for afternoon shots of the turquoise waters.
To cruise both lakes in one day, get your Lake Thun & Brienz cruise tour Day Pass here, or your Swiss half fare card day pass here.
If you have more time, I highly recommend including both lakes in your plans, but on different days, so that you can get on and off to explore one or two more stops, like St. Beatus Caves and museum. Here’s how I’d do that in this Bernese Oberland itinerary for 5 days.
Thun to Brienz: Trains, Passes, and Getting Between the Lakes
Regular trains connect Thun, Interlaken, and Brienz roughly every 30 minutes, so getting between the lakes is painless. The trip from Interlaken to Brienz alone takes under 20 minutes; budget around an hour if you’re heading all the way from Thun to Brienz with a change in Interlaken.
From Zurich, hop on a direct train to Interlaken (around 2 hours). Bern offers even quicker access – as little as 55 minutes by rail. If you’re starting from Zurich Airport, take the train to Bern and change there for Interlaken. Interlaken makes a very convenient base thanks to its central location and transport links. If it’s not for you, see if any of these other bases in Bernese Oberland fit better.
Pro tip: Buy a Swiss Travel Pass before your trip if you plan to travel to more regions of the country. It covers boats, buses and trains on both lakes, saving you money and hassle. The Berner Oberland Pass is worth a look too if you’re staying local, as it covers free travel on both lake boats, most regional trains and buses, and mountain excursions like the Brienz Rothorn Railway. The Jungfrau Travel Pass covers the train to Brienz, but you’ll need a separate ticket for the train to Thun.
If you don’t have a pass, buying individual tickets can work out cheaper for a short visit. Regular trains and buses also run along both lake shores, stopping at key towns like Brienz and Thun – handy if you want to mix boat, bus, and train legs, taking one way by boat and the other by rail. They can help get you to places quicker if you want to fit in some activities too. Check here for the latest costs and to book tickets online.
Prefer to drive? A rental car gives you the most flexibility for reaching farther-afield spots like the Niesen, Lake Blausee, Reichenbach Falls, and the Aare Gorge without waiting on connections. Just budget for a Swiss motorway vignette (CHF 40, valid through the following January) if your rental doesn’t already include one – most do. Parking is easy in Thun and Interlaken but tight in smaller lakeside villages like Iseltwald and Oberhofen, so a car suits a farther-afield day better than a lakeside-hopping one.
Certain activities, like a visit to St. Beatus Caves or a gondola ride up the Niederhorn, offer combined tickets with a cruise – often cheaper than buying separately. Check here for current offers.
Best Times to Visit Each Lake
Lake Thun shows its true colors in bright sunshine, when its blue waters sparkle against the mountain backdrop. But if you hit rainy weather, head to Lake Brienz – its turquoise waters look fantastic even on cloudy days. Both lakes welcome visitors from April through October with regular boat services.
Heads up on seasonality: a few of the best nearby attractions only run part of the year. The Aare Gorge is open roughly April through November, and the Brienz Rothorn steam railway runs early June through late October, with seat reservations strongly recommended in peak season. Lake Brienz’s turquoise color actually holds up well into October, when shoulder-season light and fall color on the hillsides make for some of the best photos of the year.
If you’re visiting in summer, book an early morning cruise with breakfast to catch the lakes at their calmest, with fewer crowds and better lighting for photos and mountain reflections in the water. For Lake Brienz, late afternoon light creates stunning photo opportunities of the colored waters against the wooden village houses.
Pro tip: If you want a lunch cruise, book and request a window table ahead of time – the best seats fill up fast during peak season.
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures for lakeside walks. Just remember – mountain weather can change quickly, so pack layers no matter when you visit.
Summer visitors should consider booking first-class tickets for better views and open-air seating. The Berner Oberland Pass is also offered in a first class version. You’ll get prime photo spots of the mountains and shoreline.
Best Things to Do Around Lake Thun
- Thun’s Old Town and Castle: Step back in time at the 12th-century Thun Castle and explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
- St. Beatus Caves and Beatus Caves Museum: Discover amazing rock formations and learn about the caves’ history at the museum.
- Niesen Summit Funicular: Ride the funicular to the top of Mount Niesen for breathtaking 360° views of the Alps and Lake Thun.
- Picturesque Castles: Visit the charming castles around the lake, including Oberhofen Castle, Spiez Castle, and Hünegg Castle.
- Panoramic Circular Trail: Hike around Lake Thun for stunning mountain views and picturesque lakeside villages.
- Niederhorn Cable Car: Take a cable car ride from Beatenberg village to Niederhorn for scenic views and outdoor activities.
- Lake Blausee: Experience the magical blue water of Lake Blausee and explore the surrounding nature park.
- Charming Lakeside Villages: Visit Spiez, Oberhofen, and Hilterfingen to experience their unique charm and attractions.
- Water Sports Activities: Enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing on Lake Thun.
- Lakeside Beaches and Lidos: Relax at the public beaches and swimming spots along Lake Thun’s shoreline.
Best Things to Do Around Lake Brienz
- Brienz Village and Woodcarving Workshop: Explore the charming village of Brienz, known for its traditional woodcarving, and visit the Swiss Wood Carving Museum to learn about the craft. This is where you can buy authentic carved souvenirs to take home.
- Brienz Rothorn Railway: Ride the historic steam train from Brienz village to the peak of Brienzer Rothorn for stunning views of Lake Brienz and the mountain chain. It only runs roughly June through October, and seat reservations are strongly recommended in peak season.
- Giessbach Falls and Grand Hotel Giessbach: Discover the magnificent Giessbach Falls and take Europe’s oldest funicular railway to the historic Grandhotel Giessbach.
- Iseltwald Village: Visit the picturesque village of Iseltwald on Lake Brienz’s south shore, known for its traditional Swiss charm and peaceful waterfront setting.
- Iseltwald-Giessbach Trail: Hike along the scenic lakeshore trail for breathtaking views of Lake Brienz’s turquoise waters and the Swiss Alps.
- Ballenberg Open Air Museum: Step back in time at the Ballenberg Open Air Museum near Brienz, showcasing traditional Swiss life with over 100 original buildings and demonstrations of ancient crafts. Get your tickets here.
- Reichenbach Falls: Follow in Sherlock Holmes’ footsteps at Reichenbach Falls near Meiringen, famous for the fictional detective’s final showdown with Professor Moriarty.
- Aare Gorge: Explore the impressive Aare Gorge near Meiringen, where walkways and bridges allow you to get close to the rushing water and towering rock walls.
Comparing Lake Experiences
You can get both nature and history when exploring the shores of both lakes and beyond, but each lake has its strengths.
For History Lovers
Lake Thun shines for anyone interested in Swiss history. The medieval Thun Castle offers guided tours through 800 years of local stories. The old town of Thun adds extra charm with its raised sidewalks and ancient architecture dating back to the 12th century when it was a key trading post.
Oberhofen Castle, with its lakeside tower and museum, shows how nobility lived. Take the morning cruise to hit both castles, plus the old town of Thun, in one day.
If you want more than history here, there’s St. Beatus Caves to explore.
For Nature Enthusiasts
Lake Brienz wins for natural beauty. The turquoise waters and forest-covered hills create perfect hiking conditions. Walk the shoreline path to Giessbach Falls, or take quiet forest trails near Iseltwald.
The early boats offer the best wildlife spotting chances but the rest of the day gives you deeper colors. Keep watch for marmots on rocky slopes and chamois grazing near the shoreline. Bird lovers appreciate the grey herons and kingfishers that hunt along the banks.
In spring, wildflowers carpet the meadows around both lakes.
A little farther away from Lake Brienz, near the town of Meiringen, you can enjoy Reichenbach Falls and the spectacular Aare Gorge. For a mix of history, include a short exploration of Ballenberg Open Air Museum, a short bus ride away from Brienz.
For Cultural Activities
Each lake brings something different to the table. Around Lake Thun, visit local markets in Thun’s old town or catch traditional music shows in summer. At Lake Brienz, stop by woodcarving workshops in Brienz village where you can watch artisans at work along Brunngasse, one of Switzerland’s prettiest streets. Both areas offer great photo spots, but Lake Brienz’s light makes those turquoise waters pop.
For families, Lake Brienz’s water playground in Brienz and shorter boat rides work better with kids. Lake Thun’s castles catch children’s interest with their towers and gardens.
Serious photographers might want Lake Thun’s longer cruises for more shooting time.
For Photography Opportunities
Both lakes offer stunning photo spots with their own unique character. Lake Brienz’s turquoise waters shine best in photos during early morning or late afternoon light. The wooden houses along Brunngasse street make perfect foregrounds against the colored water. At Giessbach Falls, catch the morning sun for rainbow effects in the mist.
Lake Thun’s castles look their best during “golden hour” – the hour after sunrise or before sunset. Position yourself at Spiez harbor for shots of boats with snow-capped peaks behind them.
Visit during spring, when snow still caps the mountains but the lakes are just warming up for the season – the contrast makes for striking photos.
For Swimming and Water Activities
Both lakes are swimmable in summer, but they feel very different in the water. Lake Thun warms up faster and holds its heat longer, so it’s the better bet for a proper swim. Public lidos at Thun, Spiez, and Hilterfingen have grassy lawns, diving platforms, and changing rooms.
Lake Brienz is fed largely by glacial meltwater, so even in August it stays noticeably colder; locals still swim it, especially near Iseltwald and the lido in Brienz village, but it’s more of a bracing dip than a lazy float. If you’re traveling with kids who want to spend an afternoon in the water rather than just admiring it from shore, Lake Thun is the easier choice.
Pricing and Value for Money
Lake cruises in Switzerland don’t come cheap, but both lakes offer good bang for your buck. Single tickets on Lake Brienz are a bit cheaper than that of Lake Thun’s. First-class upgrades cost extra but give you better views and cushier seats. Kids 6-16 pay half price, and under 6s ride free.
Want to save cash? Buy round-trip tickets instead of singles for a short visit. For longer stays, a travel pass usually pays for itself fast – see the ‘Getting Around’ section above for how the Swiss Travel Pass, Berner Oberland Pass, and Jungfrau Pass compare.
Final Verdict: Lake Thun or Lake Brienz?
Lake Brienz wins over nature lovers and photographers with its peaceful setting. The quiet shores and crystal-clear waters make it ideal for anyone seeking an immersion into nature. Solo travelers and couples often pick Brienz for its smaller crowds and chance to really take in the Alpine scenery.
Lake Thun fits active tourists who want variety. Its bigger towns, castles, and mix of activities keep history buffs and culture seekers busy. Families with kids tend to prefer Thun for its shorter boat stops and more entertainment options.
If you like taking your time and going with the flow, pick Lake Brienz. For a packed day of sightseeing and activities, Lake Thun delivers more options per stop. If you want half a day of lakeside sights and the other half farther afield, pick Lake Brienz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lake Thun or Lake Brienz better?
Neither lake is objectively “better”. It depends on what you’re after. Lake Thun packs in more castles, towns, and things to do per hour, which makes it the pick for families and first-time visitors with limited time. Lake Brienz is quieter and more scenic, better suited to photographers, hikers, and anyone craving a slower pace.
Is Interlaken on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz?
Neither, technically – that’s the point. Interlaken sits on the flat stretch of land between the two lakes (its name literally means “between lakes”), which is exactly why it makes such a convenient home base for visiting both.
How big is Lake Thun compared to Lake Brienz?
Lake Thun is the larger of the two, stretching about 17.5 kilometers long compared to Lake Brienz’s roughly 14 kilometers. Thun is also slightly deeper overall.
Why is Lake Brienz turquoise while Lake Thun is blue?
It comes down to glacial flour – fine rock particles that meltwater carries down from nearby glaciers into Lake Brienz. Those particles scatter sunlight and give the water its striking turquoise-green color. Lake Thun gets less of this sediment, so it stays a deeper, clearer blue.
Can you swim in Lake Thun and Lake Brienz?
Yes to both, but Lake Thun is the more comfortable option – it warms up more in summer and has several proper lidos. Lake Brienz stays colder year-round thanks to glacial meltwater, so it’s more of a bracing dip than a lazy float.
What are the German names for Lake Thun and Lake Brienz?
Locally, you’ll see them written as Thunersee and Brienzersee – worth knowing if you’re reading Swiss timetables, signage, or boat schedules during your trip.
Can you visit both lakes in one day?
Yes, a boat cruise on both lakes in a single day is doable if you keep other activities light. Start with Lake Thun in the morning for the castles, then head to Lake Brienz in the afternoon for the turquoise water and Giessbach Falls.
