Thun, Switzerland
Thun, Switzerland
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Thun, Switzerland. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Thun?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Thun, they said:
"Thun is a small city located in the Swiss canton of Bern, known for its picturesque landscapes and historic charm. Before moving to Thun, expats should know that the official language is German, specifically the Swiss German dialect. However, English is widely spoken, especially in business settings. The cost of living in Thun, like most of Switzerland, is high. This includes rent, groceries, dining out, and public transportation. Thun has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around the city and travel to other parts of Switzerland. The city is known for its high quality of life, with excellent healthcare and education systems. However, these services can be expensive, especially for non-residents. Switzerland has a mandatory health insurance policy, so expats will need to ensure they have adequate coverage. Thun has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Expats from warmer climates may need to invest in appropriate clothing. Swiss people value punctuality and efficiency, so it's important to be on time for appointments and meetings. Thun is a safe city with a low crime rate, but it's still important to take standard precautions, especially at night or when alone. The city offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking in the summer to skiing in the winter, thanks to its proximity to the Swiss Alps. Swiss cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a strong emphasis on dairy products and meat. Thun has a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine. Switzerland has strict recycling and waste disposal rules, so expats will need to familiarize themselves with these to avoid fines. Finally, it's important to note that Swiss people value their privacy and personal space, so it's important to respect this when interacting with locals," remarked one expat living in Thun, Switzerland.
How do I find a place to live in Thun?
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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