Things To Do
in La Chaux-de-Fonds

Regular open-air markets sell seasonal produce, cheeses, breads and charcuterie—perfect for tasting local specialties and buying picnic supplies (check municipal listings for market days).

Occasional food stalls and pop-ups offering pastries, regional snacks and take-away café items—good for quick bites while exploring the town.

French is the main language—use a polite greeting (Bonjour) when entering shops and say Merci when leaving. Basic French phrases are appreciated even if staff speak English.

Punctuality is valued for appointments and tours; trains and public transport run precisely to schedule, so arrive a few minutes early.

Respect quiet hours in residential areas (often late evenings and Sundays); keep noise low in shared accommodation and near homes.

Swiss towns are tidy and recycling is taken seriously—follow local waste-sorting rules, avoid littering and behave considerately in nature areas.

Service charges are commonly included in restaurant bills in Switzerland; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not required. For taxis, rounding up or adding a small tip is normal; leave small change for hotel porters and housekeeping.

Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro) and contactless payments are widely accepted; carry some Swiss francs (CHF) for small purchases, mountain huts, markets or remote vendors. ATMs are readily available; notify your bank about travel to avoid card blocks.

Mild to warm days (but cooler than lowland cities) with sunny stretches perfect for hiking, cycling and lakeside trips; long daylight hours and many outdoor events. Pack light layers, sunscreen and a rain jacket for occasional storms.

Crisp air, brilliant fall colors in the Jura and quieter trails—ideal for photography and wine/cheese tastings. Temperatures drop quickly; bring warm layers and waterproofs.

Cold, often snowy conditions that suit cross-country skiing and winter walks; the town takes on a picturesque, wintry character but some rural roads or higher trails may be icy. Wear insulated footwear, a warm coat and snow-friendly gear.

Melting snow leads to lush green growth, flowering orchards and reopening of seasonal attractions; unpredictable weather calls for layers and flexible plans.

Closest regional international airport (around 80–100 km); good for domestic and limited international flights. Reachable by train or car with a transfer—check schedules for connections.

Major international airport serving the Upper Rhine region (~120–150 km); trains connect Basel with La Chaux-de-Fonds via Biel or Neuchâtel with good frequency.

International airport with many global connections (~140–160 km); direct trains to Neuchâtel and onward connections to La Chaux-de-Fonds make it accessible within a few hours.

Switzerland’s largest airport (~130–160 km depending on route); excellent rail links across the country, with train changes at major hubs to reach La Chaux-de-Fonds.

The majority of residents are French-speaking Swiss with deep roots in the watchmaking and artisan trades.

A significant portion of the population is connected to the watch industry, precision engineering and technical schools, giving the town a skilled artisanal character.

Like much of Switzerland, there are immigrant communities (notably Portuguese and Italian among others) who contribute to the town’s cultural diversity.

Technical schools and watchmaking apprentices bring younger residents and a flow of students to the town.

Ice hockey is popular in the region; La Chaux-de-Fonds has a strong tradition and local clubs with matches that draw enthusiastic crowds.

Cross-country skiing and downhill options in nearby Jura slopes are popular in winter, along with snowshoeing and winter hiking.

Local football clubs are active at amateur and youth levels and form a key part of community sporting life.

Road cycling and mountain biking are common in summer on Jura roads and forest tracks.

Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and restaurants (salads, cheese-based dishes, vegetable mains). Ask for meat-free versions of classics; larger towns nearby may have more extensive vegetarian/vegan menus.

Vegan choices are increasing but somewhat limited in traditional establishments; look for dedicated cafés or request vegetable-forward plates and salads. Carry snacks if you have strict needs.

Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but cross-contamination is possible in bakeries and traditional kitchens—notify staff and check labels at markets.

Staff generally understand common allergies; French-language allergy cards or translations help when communicating dietary restrictions.