Things to see in Neuchâtel: 8 locations for the perfect trip

Surrounded by mountains and permeated by crystal clear waters, the canton of Neuchâtel has a pleasant nature that is perfect for walking, swimming and winter sports. These favourable conditions make the region ideal for a dynamic holiday. From the town of Neuchâtel to the Creux-du-Van nature reserve, you can discover exceptional natural sites, learn more about the history of the region and collect new memories. If you don't know what to do in the canton of Neuchâtel, you'll find the answers in our selection!

1. Stroll through the historic centre of Neuchâtel

The capital of the canton of Neuchâtel has the charm of a thousand-year-old city, here you can explore the town, its architecture and monuments by wandering the streets or taking guided tours. Although the city is dynamic, it seems frozen in time. You will have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the 18th century facades on the Place des Halles, the amazing 11th century Dyesse Tower with its red clock and the state of the 10th century castle.

Neuchâtel is an active cultural centre with a wide range of museums. You can start your visit with the Museum of Natural History. Then visit the Museum of Art and History, the Ethnographic Museum and finally the Dürrenmatt Centre. Some of these activities are free on presentation of the Neuchâtel Tourist Card, a pass that gives you access to the transport network and activities in exchange for an overnight stay in the canton. It is an indispensable tool for visiting the canton of Neuchâtel without spending a fortune.

2. Chateau of Neuchâtel

A visit to the canton of Neuchâtel also involves learning about the history of the territory, which dates back hundreds of centuries. One of the highlights of the past is the impressive Neuchâtel Castle from the late 10th century. It is built on a hill overlooking the town and can be accessed by climbing the stairs opposite the Fontaine du Griffon. Although the castle is now home to the cantonal government, in good weather you can visit its interior. Otherwise, you have year-round access to the adjacent collegiate church and its organ, as well as the cloister. In addition, the nearby esplanade offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city's rooftops, the lake and the Alps.

3. Lake Neuchâtel

Famous for its turquoise waters surrounded by mountains, the lake is a must-see in the canton of Neuchâtel. The manicured shores are ideal for a gourmet holiday, a pleasant stroll or even a romantic date. The Osterwald promenade, built in 1991 in honour of the 700th anniversary of Confederation, offers one of the most beautiful views of the lake and the town. Continuing along the lake, you'll come to the marina and its pretty houses. Here you can book your cruise tickets and learn about other water sports.

We assure you that sailing on the waters of the lake will be an unforgettable experience. You can also try your hand at windsurfing, water skiing, kayaking and many other sports. As for cruises, a river trip on a steamboat is a charming way to get away from grey everyday life.

4. The International Watchmaking Museum in La Chaux-de-Fonds

Founded in 1902, the Musée international d'horlogerie (MIH) contains the world's largest collection devoted entirely to the measurement of time. Cleverly located in the cradle of Swiss watchmaking, the museum protects and conveys this fascinating heritage. Located in the Museum Park, it offers a fascinating exhibition covering more than two thousand square metres and spanning a vast period from the 16th century to the present day. Take a tour and discover the technical, artistic and cultural achievements of Swiss and international watchmaking.

5. Absinthe Museum in Motier

Opened in 2014, almost ten years after the legalisation of absinthe, this centre tells the story of this alcohol born in Val de Traver, the region around Motier. The exhibition of the House of Absinthe reveals the secrets of making this ‘green fairy’ and explains the impact of its production on the local economy. The museum seems alive, it will involve you in the process of visiting by inviting you to symbolically vote whether to ban absinthe or not, listening beforehand to the arguments of the beginning of the last century. What's more, there's a confessional on the museum grounds where you'll be invited to tell your absinthe-related stories. It's a great moment of discovery, especially if you end the tour with a tasting.

6. Skiing on the slopes of the canton

Among the activities to do in the canton of Neuchâtel is, of course, skiing. The region has plenty of cross-country skiing trails as well as ski and snowboard slopes, so there is something for everyone. Located an average of forty minutes from the cantonal capital, these places are easily accessible by both public transport and car. The most popular places in the canton are La Brevin, Les Brulees, La Robella, Bro Plamboz and the 10 kilometres of pistes from Le Pacquier to Cre du Puy.

7. Moulins souterrains cave in the Col de Roche

In the Le Locle valley, in Col de Roche, you can descend into a cave more than twenty metres deep to discover the history of an underground hydraulic system unique in Europe that once powered millstones. A visit to this natural cave will allow you to explore galleries and remains of installations from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. The permanent exhibition will conclude the tour with an account of the history of the place and a few explanations about agriculture, flour milling, hydropower, etc.

8. Creux-du-Van Nature Reserve

This majestic rocky cliff offers one of the grandest panoramas in Switzerland. More than 150 metres high and horseshoe-shaped, its cliffs are a must-see in the canton of Neuchâtel. Walking along their slopes, you can observe a variety of flora and exceptional fauna (ibexes, chamois, lynxes, marmots, etc.). You can hike in the Cré du Van and although it requires stamina, the effort will be quickly rewarded with a magnificent 360° panorama of the plateau lakes, the Alps, the Jura valleys in France.

Conclusion

The Canton of Neuchâtel is an amazing combination of natural beauty, rich history and cultural heritage. Each place here keeps its unique secrets and is ready to give you an unforgettable experience. Neuchâtel is not just a holiday destination, it is a place where memories are made that stay with you forever. Once here, you will want to return to experience the magic of this amazing corner of Switzerland.