Trip
Two days in Neuchâtel
Stroll through lively streets, soak up the sun by the lake or sip a colourful cocktail on a shaded terrace — Neuchâtel welcomes you with a laid-back, Italian-style holiday atmosphere.
Blending cultural highlights with strolls by the lake and up on the hills above the town — and punctuated with delicious gourmet moments — this itinerary is perfect for a romantic weekend or a few days away with friends.
To ease into the gentle atmosphere of this thousand-year-old city, begin your stay with a visit to the historic centre of Neuchâtel. Then cycle along the lakeshore to Hauterive to discover this remarkable lakeside archaeological site.
Let yourself be charmed by the cobbled streets of Neuchâtel’s old town and its architectural treasures. Follow Rue du Château to visit the Collégiale de Neuchâtel and walk along the ramparts for lovely views over the city.
As you wander along Rue des Moulins, you might come across the discreet Antica Gelateria Fiorentina, reputed to be Switzerland’s best ice cream maker.
Rent a bike from Neuchâtel harbour and follow the flat lakeside cycle path to Hauterive. The ride takes around twenty minutes.
The team at Le Silex welcomes you to its charming restaurant overlooking the harbour of Hauterive. The seasonal menu highlights local lake fish and fresh regional ingredients.
At Laténium park and museum of archaeology, discover the fascinating history of this site, once a Palaeolithic hunters’ camp.
Enjoy a gentle summer evening with a glass of Œil-de-Perdrix and a good meal on one of the terraces at Place du Marché or by the harbour in Neuchâtel.
On the second day of your stay in Neuchâtel, head up to the Vallon de l’Ermitage on the hills above the city. Later, set sail on a gourmet cruise across the lake aboard a historic steamboat.
Start the day with a visit to the Centre Dürrenmatt Neuchâtel, dedicated to the work of Friedrich Dürrenmatt, who lived in Neuchâtel. The exhibition was redesigned in 2021 to mark the 100th anniversary of the writer and artist. Enjoy a coffee on the terrace and take in the panoramic views.
Continue your relaxed morning with a stroll through the beautiful Neuchâtel Botanical Garden, located just nearby. Wander along its paths and discover medicinal plants, exotic flowers and the surprising wildlife around the pond.
Step aboard a boat operated by LNM for a gourmet cruise. Sail across the clear waters of Lake Neuchâtel and enjoy unique views of the Jura mountain range.
Head up to the rooftop of Hotel Beaulac to sip a delicious house cocktail while admiring breathtaking views over the city, the lake and the Alps.
Accomodation
The city of Neuchâtel offers beautiful lakeside hotels as well as charming guesthouses. Book your accommodation here at attractive rates.
Guest card
The Neuchâtel Tourist Card (NTC) is a free host card issued automatically to every person staying for at least one night in a hotel or parahotel establishment in the canton of Neuchâtel.
