Things To Do
in Olten
Olten is a compact Swiss town on the Aare River, renowned for its efficient rail connections and approachable size. Its historic center features narrow lanes, a lively market square, and riverside promenades that link to the wider Solothurn region. As a regional transport hub, Olten serves as a convenient base for exploring the Jura foothills, Basel, and Solothurn from a single base.
With a calm, orderly Swiss atmosphere and easy access to outdoor and cultural experiences, Olten blends everyday life with gateway adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Olten and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying Swiss pastries and coffee. Take a stroll through the quaint streets, soaking in the charm of the historic buildings.
Visit the Olten Museum to learn about the town's history and culture. Afterward, take a scenic walk along the banks of the Aare River, where you can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Stop for lunch at a riverside restaurant, savoring traditional Swiss cuisine.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local breweries for a taste of craft beer brewed in the region. You can enjoy some live music or simply relax with locals, sharing stories and anecdotes. Conclude your day with a calm walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Catch an early train to Lucerne, a picturesque city nestled between mountains and a lake. Visit the Chapel Bridge, one of Switzerland's most iconic landmarks, and take pictures of its stunning wooden structure. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh local bread and cheese at a café by the lake.
Explore the Swiss Transport Museum, which showcases the evolution of transportation in Switzerland, and enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, indulging in local specialties while enjoying views of the surrounding peaks. After lunch, take a funicular ride up to Mount Pilatus for breathtaking panoramic views.
Return to Olten and freshen up before dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant in Olten where you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal made with seasonal ingredients. Spend the evening wandering around the old town, appreciating the beautifully lit streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆1-day public transport pass | $12-16 |
| 🍝Three-course meal for two | $60-100 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $5-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Efficient rail connections and easy day trips
- Safe, clean, and welcoming town atmosphere
- Accessible nature within short train or bike rides
- Compact, walkable city center
- Nightlife is more low-key than in larger cities
- Prices in line with Swiss standards (not cheap)
- Some attractions require short transit trips to nearby towns
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much is this?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Olten
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise or golden-hour shots along the river with reflections of trees and bridges; wide perspectives for landscape and street photography.
Colorful façades and activity-rich corners ideal for architectural and people photography.
Historic town hall façade and surrounding square provide classic Swiss-town character shots.
Editorial-style shots of the river, bridge lines, and passerby movement on the waterfront.
Food in Olten
Olten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy hashed potatoes that appear on many Swiss menus, often served as a hearty breakfast or side dish with eggs or cheese.
Must-Try!
Swiss alpine macaroni with potatoes, cream and cheese; a comforting, traditional option that appears in many bistro menus.
Pot of melted cheese for dipping bread; especially popular in cooler months and at traditional Swiss eateries.
A Swiss classic of oats, fruit, nuts, and yogurt; commonly enjoyed for breakfast or a light lunch.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls with regional cheeses, breads, fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods in the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality is valued in both business and social settings; arrive on time for meetings or events.
A friendly handshake is typical; greet with 'Grüezi' in German-speaking areas.
Public spaces are generally peaceful; avoid loud conversations on public transit and in shops.
Safety
Tipping in Olten
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are typically included or optional; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common but not mandatory.
Cash (CHF) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; pack a light jacket for cool mornings and breezy afternoons.
Warm and sunny; carry sun protection and stay hydrated; riverside strolls are particularly pleasant.
Autumn colors along the riverbanks and in nearby parks; layering is key as temps cool in the evenings.
Cold but often sunny; plan for indoor activities and warm meals; occasional snowfall adds a scenic backdrop.
Olten at Night
Hiking in Olten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular summit hike reachable by a short train plus a cable-car or hike; offers panoramic views of the Solothurn region.
Gentle to moderate forest trails near Olten with scenic countryside and quiet lanes.
Airports
How to reach Olten by plane.
Major international gateway about 1.5–2 hours by train; frequent connections to Olten.
Basel area airport with good rail connections to Olten via Basel SBB and onward trains.
Smaller regional airport within roughly 1.5 hours by rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, professionals, and retirees; primarily German-speaking with a cosmopolitan feel due to commuters.
Many residents travel to Basel, Bern, or Solothurn for work, supporting a diverse daily population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at amateur and youth levels; local clubs host matches and community events.
Common outdoor activities in the surrounding Jura foothills and river corridors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Olten.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer meat-free mains, cheese-focused dishes, and vegetarian salads; ask for non-meat preparations or dairy-free options where available.
Vegan choices are increasingly available; look for vegetable mains, soups, and salads; staff can suggest dairy-free alternatives.
Gluten-free bread and pasta options are common; inform staff of gluten intolerance to avoid cross-contamination.