Nestled along the southern banks of Lake Constance, Thurgau is a picturesque canton that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. You can explore historic castles, enjoy the region’s distinctive landscape characterized by rolling hills and apple orchards, or relax in beautiful waterfront areas.
As you plan your visit, you’ll find that this charming canton is becoming increasingly popular among travelers seeking authentic Swiss experiences. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and variety of activities, Thurgau is a paradise for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Get ready to uncover the must-sees and must-dos in this incredible region.
Discovering Thurgau: Switzerland’s Hidden Gem
Located on the southern banks of Lake Constance, Thurgau offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This picturesque canton is a haven for those seeking an authentic Swiss experience.
Why Thurgau Should Be On Your Swiss Itinerary
Thurgau is a treasure trove of experiences, attracting cyclists and families alike with its scenic landscapes. The region boasts an extensive network of well-maintained paths, ideal for exploration on foot or by bike. Visitors can enjoy the charming village settings and discover the natural gems of the region.
| Activity | Location | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Cycling | Thurgau countryside | Explore rolling hills and scenic paths |
| Hiking | Nature reserves | Discover the region‘s natural beauty |
| Relaxation | Lake Constance shores | Enjoy water activities in a serene place |
Thurgau offers a refreshing alternative to Switzerland’s more touristy destinations, making it feel like a world away from the crowds. It’s a perfect place to experience the best of Swiss heritage in a compact and accessible way.
Arenenberg Castle & Park: A Royal Experience
Step into the imperial beauty of Arenenberg Castle, where Louis Napoléon spent his formative years, shaping the course of European history. This location has an imperial beauty, with stunning views over Lower Lake Constance that Louis Napoléon himself enjoyed.
Walking in Napoleon’s Footsteps
Arenenberg Castle stands as one of the beautiful historical treasures in Thurgau, offering a fascinating glimpse into European royal history. The castle served as the childhood home of Louis Napoléon, who would later become Emperor Napoleon III of France, making it a site of significant historical importance.
- You can explore the meticulously preserved interior with its original décor, where you’ll feel transported back to the 19th century as you walk the same halls as the Bonaparte family.
- The surrounding gardens are spectacularly maintained, featuring manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and panoramic views over Lower Lake Constance.
- For those wanting to extend their royal experience, the Hotel Arenenberg nearby offers accommodations that complement the historical atmosphere of the estate.
- The castle houses the only German-language museum dedicated to Napoleonic history, where you can learn about Louis Napoléon’s journey from exiled prince to emperor.
It’s truly one beautiful experience, blending history, architecture, and natural beauty, making Arenenberg Castle a must-visit destination in Thurgau.
Ittingen Charterhouse: History, Art, and Culinary Delights
The Ittingen Charterhouse, a former monastery turned cultural hub, offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern hospitality. As you explore this remarkable complex, you’ll discover a treasure trove of art, history, and culinary delights.
A Monastery Transformed
The Ittingen Charterhouse (Kartause Ittingen) has been transformed into a vibrant cultural center, preserving its historical essence while offering modern amenities. The complex houses the Ittingen and Thurgau Art Museum, showcasing regional artwork within the ancient monastery walls.
You’ll be treated to culinary excellence at the monastery’s restaurant, where dishes are crafted from products grown on the estate, including their own wine production. The charterhouse also offers unique accommodation options in its hotel, allowing you to immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic place.
Thurgau, Switzerland: Best Things to Do for Nature Lovers
Nature enthusiasts will find Thurgau to be a paradise, with its lush green hills, flowering orchards, and serene lakeside paths. The region’s diverse landscape is perfect for outdoor adventures.
Outdoor Adventures in Switzerland’s Garden
Thurgau offers a variety of activities for nature lovers, including hiking and cycling through its picturesque countryside. With over 1,000 kilometers of hiking trails and 900 kilometers of cycling paths, you can explore the region’s beauty at your own pace.
The apple trees in Thurgau are particularly noteworthy, with the canton being famous for its apple blossoms in the spring. The landscape transforms into a sea of pink around Lake Constance, making it a magical time to visit.
In the summer, you can enjoy water activities at the longest beach on Lake Constance, which stretches for over 62 kilometers. The relatively flat terrain makes it ideal for bike tours with family and friends, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenic views and water sports.
Himmelbett Bubble Hotel: Sleep Under the Stars
Imagine drifting off to sleep under a canopy of stars in Thurgau’s Himmelbett Bubble Hotel. The Himmelbett offers one of the most unique accommodation experiences in Switzerland, with transparent domes that allow you to sleep beneath the stars while enjoying the comfort of a luxury bed. Each bubble hotel unit is strategically placed in beautiful, secluded locations throughout Thurgau—some nestled in vineyards, others in apple orchards or flower gardens.
Serene Settings for a Dreamy Stay
The concept combines the appeal of tiny house living with immersive nature experiences, creating accommodations that have minimal environmental impact while maximizing connection with the surroundings. Inside your transparent dome, you’ll find comfortable furnishings and amenities that provide a cozy contrast to the expansive night sky visible above your bed. The hotel ensures a one beautiful experience, changing with the seasons—from spring blossoms to summer stargazing to autumn harvests.
Cycling Paradise: Best Bike Tours in Thurgau
Explore Thurgau on two wheels and discover the region’s hidden gems through its numerous bike routes. Thurgau has earned its reputation as a cycling paradise with nearly 900 kilometers of well-marked bike routes.
Routes for All Levels
One popular bike tour starts in Romanshorn, taking you through picturesque orchards before returning to Romanshorn. You’ll visit Altnau, known as Thurgau’s “Apple Village,” where you can sample local products. The cycling infrastructure is exceptional, with clear signage and bike-friendly accommodations.
Altnau Apple Trail: Exploring Switzerland’s Fruit Garden
Explore the best of Thurgau’s apple heritage on the Altnau Apple Trail, a unique adventure that combines nature, education, and entertainment. The trail is a fabulous fun way to get to know the region’s top brand.
A Fruity Adventure for the Whole Family
The Altnau Apple Trail offers a delightful way to explore Thurgau’s identity as Switzerland’s fruit garden, with themed routes celebrating the region’s most famous crop. You can choose from three different circular routes of varying lengths.
- The trail is designed to be family-friendly, with puzzles, games, and activities that keep children engaged while they learn about agricultural heritage.
- As you explore Altnau, known as the apple village of Thurgau, you’ll walk through orchards containing thousands of apple trees that transform dramatically with the seasons.
- The apple trail can be experienced in multiple ways—on foot, by bicycle, with a stroller, or even in a horse-drawn carriage for a truly memorable tour experience.
Fischingen Abbey: Spiritual Heritage and Gastronomy
With its rich history dating back to the 9th century, Fischingen Abbey is one of Switzerland’s most significant religious heritage sites. The monastery complex offers visitors a chance to step back in time while exploring its beautiful baroque church, historic cloisters, and peaceful gardens.
A Taste of Monastic Life
One of the highlights of visiting Fischingen Abbey is the exceptional gastronomy at the Abbey Restaurant, where traditional recipes are given contemporary interpretations using local ingredients. You can sample the monastery’s own wine and beer productions, continuing centuries-old brewing and winemaking traditions that were central to monastic life.
The abbey offers various cultural experiences throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and guided tours that provide deeper insights into the spiritual heritage of the region. Despite its historical significance, Fischingen Abbey maintains a welcoming atmosphere, making it a place where visitors can truly relax and reflect.
Time flies by when you visit Fischingen Abbey and the Abbey Restaurant. Before you know it, your dessert bowl is scraped clean and your glass of home-brewed beer stands empty. It’s time to say goodbye and start planning your return visit to this special place that makes time for the individual.
Lake Constance Cruises: Scenic Waterways of Thurgau
Embark on a serene journey through Thurgau’s picturesque landscapes with a cruise on Lake Constance. This experience offers a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Exploring the Region by Water
Taking a cruise on Lake Constance is one of the most relaxing ways to experience Thurgau’s beautiful shoreline. You can choose from various routes, including scenic tours that connect Thurgau with neighboring regions and countries sharing Lower Lake.
- Drift past the medieval town of Stein am Rhein with its famous painted buildings and the UNESCO World Heritage island of Reichenau.
- Enjoy seasonal cruises that offer different experiences, from spring blossoms to summer swimming stops, autumn harvest views, and even winter fondue cruises.
- Savor local specialties and wines while taking in the panoramic water views of the lake and surrounding landscapes on culinary cruises.
The leisurely pace of a tour on Lake Constance allows you to truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area and understand why it has been a beloved destination for centuries.
Hagenwil Moated Castle: Medieval Charm
Step into the enchanting world of Hagenwil Moated Castle, where medieval charm meets modern celebrations. This 800-year-old moated castle is one of the few remaining in Switzerland, offering a genuine medieval experience.
Dining and Celebrating in Historic Surroundings
The castle serves as both a historical monument and a working restaurant, allowing you to dine in authentic medieval surroundings while enjoying traditional Swiss cuisine. You can choose to dine in various themed rooms, each providing a unique atmosphere.
Unique Experiences at Hagenwil Castle
- Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine in the rustic Corn Room or the elegant Knights’ Chamber.
- Sample regional wines in the cozy Wine Cellar, a setting associated with winemaking for centuries.
- Arrange for medieval banquets, historical tours, or seasonal events that bring the castle’s history to life.
Hagenwil has become a popular place for special celebrations, with its fairy-tale setting providing an unforgettable backdrop for weddings, anniversaries, and other milestone experiences. Make your special time even more memorable in this historic castle, surrounded by the charm of the past and the joy of the present.
Napoleon’s Tower: Panoramic Views of Thurgau
Climb the 200 steps to Napoleon’s Tower and be rewarded with a 360° panorama that stretches across the Thurgau countryside. This 36-meter-high tower is not just a feat of engineering but a gateway to understanding the historical significance of the region.
A Climb Worth the Effort
Napoleon’s Tower offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region, encompassing Lake Constance, the rolling countryside of Thurgau, and on clear days, the distant Alps. The tower has historical connections to Arenenberg Castle, as the original tower was built in 1829 by Louis Napoleon III.
The surrounding area features beautiful vineyards and hiking trails, making it possible to combine your tower visit with a scenic tour of the countryside. From the top, you can identify key landmarks across three countries that share Lake Constance, giving you a unique perspective on this international region.
Unique Accommodations: Where to Stay in Thurgau
Thurgau, Switzerland, is a treasure trove of unique accommodations that will make your stay unforgettable. You can choose from a wide range of options that go beyond the standard hotel experience.
Beyond the Ordinary Hotel Experience
Thurgau offers accommodations that range from luxury wellness retreats to quirky themed lodgings. The Bad Horn Hotel & Spa is a premier luxury option, where you can enjoy elegant rooms and extensive spa facilities for a complete relaxation experience.
For a truly unique experience, consider the Bubble Hotel concept, where you can sleep in a transparent dome surrounded by vineyards or orchards, with a comfortable bed beneath the stars.
Families will love the circus wagon accommodations at Wagenhausen Campsite, where converted vintage circus caravans create a magical atmosphere. You can also find tiny house rentals and historic buildings that have been thoughtfully transformed into memorable places to stay.
Many accommodations feature their own hotel spa facilities, with the Horn Hotel Spa being particularly renowned for its “Fleur de Pomme” wellness treatments that incorporate local apple products.
Conclusion: Planning Your Perfect Thurgau Adventure
From its charming castles to its serene lakeside settings, Thurgau is a region that will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more. To make the most of your visit, consider exploring during different seasons to experience the region’s changing character.
Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
Combining several of the must-sees and must-dos will give you a well-rounded experience of Thurgau’s special attractions, from its castles and monastery sites to its natural beauty. Here are a few tips to enhance your trip:
- Plan at least 3-5 days in the region to enjoy both cultural exploration and outdoor activities like a bike tour or visit to the apple trail.
- Base yourself in a charming lakeside village or central towns like Frauenfeld for easy access to Lake Constance and the region’s interior.
- Don’t miss sampling local specialties, including regional wines and fresh fish from Lake Constance.
- Consult the official Thurgau tourism website for up-to-date information on opening hours, admission prices, and special tours.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable Thurgau adventure, filled with memories of its picturesque village landscapes, historic castle, and serene monastery sites.
