This medieval town on Lake Murten has preserved its 13th-century ramparts and wooden gates. Visitors can walk along the fortress walls and see French-speaking Switzerland's oldest Germanic arcades.
Walk along the medieval walls of Murten, a small town on Lake Murten's southern shore. You can climb the 12th-century towers, shop under covered arcades, or swim at Salavaux beach. In January, watch 3D light projections transform the old town's buildings during the Light Festival, or take a short trip to taste local Chasselas wines at Mont Vully's family-run vineyards.
Medieval Wall Walk Route
You can walk the entire ring wall - the only one in Switzerland open to the public. Start at Berntor gate and follow the 2-kilometer path around the old town. Look down at baroque houses with red-tiled roofs on one side and Lake Murten on the other. Stop at the original defensive towers from the 12th century, where information panels explain their military function.
Swimming and Water Sports at Lake Murten
By early June, the lake reaches 20°C. Head to Salavaux beach, which stretches 3 kilometers along the shore, making it Europe's longest natural freshwater sandy beach. At Muntelier beach, you'll find a 3-meter diving platform and children's play area. Rent stand-up paddleboards for CHF 25 per hour or sign up for sailing lessons. Take boat tours through the canals to Lakes Neuchâtel and Biel, lasting 1.5 to 3 hours.
Mont Vully Wine Routes
Local winemakers cultivate 150 hectares of vineyards on Mont Vully's south-facing slopes, making it Switzerland's smallest major wine region. Walk the 3-kilometer Viticultural Trail to learn about wine production through information panels, and stop at family cellars to taste Chasselas whites that complement local lake fish dishes.
January Light Festival Events
For two weeks each January, 3D mapping transforms the school building near Berntor gate after sunset. Walk through the main alley to see light installations illuminating the medieval facades and German Church. Follow the "Secret Circuit" to discover interactive rooms throughout the old town. About 90,000 people visit the festival each year.
Train Connections from Murten
Travel from either of Murten's two stations to Bern (30 minutes), Lausanne (1 hour), or Fribourg. Trains run regularly on the Fribourg–Ins and Palézieux–Lyss lines. You can walk to most sights within 10 minutes from the main station.
Bilingual Town Life
In Murten, 73% of residents speak German and 14% speak French. You'll hear both languages while shopping and dining along the main street, where medieval arcades shelter cafés and local shops. Most shopkeepers and restaurant staff speak both languages.
Roman Ruins at Avenches
Cycle 8 kilometers on a flat route through farmland to reach Avenches, the former capital of Roman Helvetia. Visit the 2nd-century amphitheater, which now hosts concerts and events. The Roman Museum displays original artifacts, including the gold-leafed Marcus Aurelius bust. Regular buses connect Murten to Avenches every 30 minutes.
