Thun

Urban Riverfront

Population: 44k

Cost of Living: High

Train Access: Yes (Bern-Thun line)

Bus Access: Yes (STI Bus, PostAuto)

Weather: Thun experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, including warm summers and cold, snowy winters.

Thun is a picturesque city located in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, known for its historic charm and stunning natural surroundings. The city is situated at the lower end of Lake Thun and is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland region. Thun's old town is characterized by its cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and the impressive Thun Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and offers panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and lake. The city's cultural life is vibrant, with several museums, including the Thun Panorama and the Swiss Gastronomy Museum at Schadau Castle. The Aare River flows through the city, adding to its scenic beauty and providing opportunities for water-based activities. Thun also serves as a transportation hub, with excellent rail and road connections to other Swiss cities and tourist destinations. The city's lakeside promenade is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering leisurely walks with views of sailboats and the distant snow-capped peaks. Thun's market square is a bustling area where visitors can enjoy local produce and crafts. The city's proximity to the mountains makes it a favorite starting point for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, ski, or explore the Alpine landscapes.

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Visa & Residency

Difficulty Obtaining: average

Popular Expat Visa/s: B Permit, L Permit

Popular Nomad Visa/s: There is no specific digital nomad visa for Switzerland, but digital nomads may use the standard residency permits such as the L Permit for short stays or the B Permit for longer stays. The L Permit allows them to live in Switzerland for up to one year, while the B Permit can be valid for longer per

Obtaining a residency in Switzerland involves a structured process that can vary depending on the applicant's nationality, reasons for immigration, and the canton in which they intend to reside. The most common types of residency permits are the L Permit (short-term residence permit) and the B Permit (initial or temporary residence permit). The L Permit is suitable for expatriates planning to stay in Switzerland for up to one year. It is often granted to those with a fixed-term employment contract. The B Permit is for those intending to stay longer than a year and is usually tied to an indefinite employment contract or family reunification. Both permits require a valid employment contract or proof of financial means to support oneself. The process typically starts with securing a job or demonstrating the financial means to live in Switzerland. The employer or the individual must then apply to the cantonal migration office for the appropriate permit. This involves submitting various documents, including a valid passport, proof of address, employment contract, and sometimes a health insurance policy and a clean criminal record. For non-EU/EFTA nationals, the process can be more challenging due to stricter regulations and quotas. They must often secure a job with a Swiss employer who can prove that the position could not be filled by a local or EU/EFTA citizen. Once the application is submitted, the cantonal authorities review it, which can take several weeks or months. If approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, allowing them to live and work in Switzerland. The permit also dictates the holder's rights regarding travel, change of employment, and family reunification. The difficulty of the process can vary. EU/EFTA citizens generally find it easier due to bilateral agreements that facilitate the movement of people, while non-EU/EFTA citizens may face a more complex process. It is essential to understand the specific requirements of the canton where one plans to reside, as regulations can differ across the country.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Thun is high, as it is in many Swiss cities, due to factors such as housing, goods and services, and transportation costs.

Weather

Thun experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, including warm summers and cold, snowy winters.

Healthcare in Thun

Thun is home to the Spital STS AG Thun, which is a regional hospital offering a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. The hospital is known for its quality healthcare and is easily accessible to the residents of Thun and surrounding areas.

Restaurants in Thun

Thun offers a diverse culinary scene with restaurants such as the elegant Schloss Schadau, which serves gourmet cuisine in a historic castle setting. For mid-range dining, Ristorante Beau Rivage da Domenico provides Italian specialties with a view of the Aare river. Casual eateries like Café Mokka offer a relaxed atmosphere with simple, delicious fare and live music events. Additionally, visitors can enjoy international dishes at the reasonably priced Lotus Thai, known for its authentic Thai cuisine.