Best Aare Day Trips & Things to Do

Flowing through the heart of Switzerland, the Aare River winds from the icy Aargletschers through the serene Lauterbrunnen Valley to the historic old town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Popular for summer tubing near Interlaken, kayaking by Thun, and pristine swimming just below the Aare Gorge, its turquoise waters offer both adventure and tranquility. Lined with well-preserved medieval bridges and baroque architecture in Bern, the river shapes the region’s rhythm, blending natural beauty with cultural depth. Sustainably harnessed for hydroelectric power, the Aare remains one of Europe’s cleanest rivers, inviting travelers to experience Switzerland’s alpine essence in its most authentic form.