Day Trip to Murten: A Medieval Swiss Gem by the Lake
If you’re craving a peaceful escape from the city and want to dive into authentic Swiss charm, Murten is a perfect day trip destination. Nestled on the shores of Lake Murten, this quaint medieval town feels like stepping back in time—with its ancient walls, cobblestone streets, and stunning lakeside views. For me, Murten was one of those unexpected treasures that just quietly steals your heart.
Getting There
From Geneva, getting to Murten is easy and scenic—about 1.5 to 2 hours by train with one or two simple changes in Bern or Lausanne. The train station is just a short walk from the Old Town, so no stress with complicated transfers or taxis. It’s one of those Swiss trips that feels effortless and totally doable as a spontaneous day away.
The Vibe
Walking into Murten’s Old Town is like entering a beautifully preserved storybook village. The colorful houses, covered arcades, and narrow streets invite slow wandering. You can hear the gentle lapping of the lake nearby and see swans gliding peacefully, which instantly makes you feel relaxed. It’s not touristy or loud — just real, calm Swiss charm.
What to Do
Walk the medieval city walls: This was my favorite! The walls are incredibly well preserved and walking along them gave me breathtaking views of the rooftops, lake, and surrounding hills. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and full of history.
Stroll under the arcades: The main street, Hauptgasse, is lined with charming boutiques, cafés, and local artisan shops. Perfect for a coffee break or a little souvenir hunting.
Visit Murten Castle: The 13th-century castle is small but packed with stories, especially about the famous Battle of Murten in 1476. The courtyard is lovely and the museum inside gives great insight into local history.
Relax by the lake: I loved sitting on the promenade watching the sunset reflect on the water. In summer, you can swim or rent a boat to enjoy the lake from a different perspective.
Where to Eat
For a true taste of Murten, I highly recommend grabbing a slice of Nidelkuchen, a rich, creamy local cake, from one of the bakeries—ideal for a lakeside picnic. For something heartier, Restaurant Ringmauer inside the old walls serves comforting Swiss classics like cheese fondue and fresh charcuterie. And if you want something light, Bistrottino offers simple, fresh Italian-style dishes right under the arcades.
Swiss Travel Tips
Aim to arrive mid-morning to enjoy the full day and avoid the late afternoon crowd.
If it’s warm, don’t hesitate to dip your toes (or more!) in the lake—it’s refreshing and clean.
Renting a bike is a great way to explore the lake surroundings, especially if you want to visit nearby vineyards or the hill of Mont Vully.
Murten is bilingual (German and French), so a simple “bonjour” or “grüezi” will always be appreciated by locals.
Final Thoughts
Murten surprised me with its laid-back charm and authentic Swiss atmosphere. It’s not the flashiest town, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need—a place where time slows down, the air is fresh, and the scenery feels like a painting. If you want a day trip that combines history, nature, and a bit of lakeside magic, Murten should definitely be on your list.
I’ll be back for another quiet afternoon by the lake, maybe with a slice of Nidelkuchen in hand.
— Diana
