Olten – a town with charm

For more than 700 years, the old wooden bridge has connected the two banks of the Aare. Over the centuries, the bridge has been damaged or even torn away completely several times by fire, flooding and ice drifts. Bridge builder Blasius Baltenschwiler constructed an emergency bridge after the French invasion, which was replaced by the current bridge in 1803. The old wooden bridge consists of wooden joists and is built in an impressive, traditional style. It offers a picturesque view of the Aare and the surrounding landscape.

The 42-metre-high tower, also known as the “bell tower”, towers above the medieval heart of the old town. It was built in 1521 by Konrad Gibelin of Solothurn as the bell tower for the town’s former church. Over the years, the tower has been restored and renovated several times to preserve its historic character. The tower is of cultural significance to the residents of Olten – it symbolises the town’s history and identity.

St. Martin church with its two dark, pointed towers is a symbol of the town. Its construction dates back to the 15th century, though the church has experienced several renovations and expansions over the course of time. The church not only serves the church community itself, but also offers space for events and meetings, church groups and concerts. It is an important meeting point for the community and represents a significant cultural heritage site. The church combines various architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque.

Experience the Swiss Writers' Trail with over 70 listening stations where 24 authors, including Alex Capus, Franz Hohler, Pedro Lenz and slam poets such as Kilian Ziegler, Patti Basler and Lisa Christ, inspire you in short 2- to 4-minute stories in German and French. Use your own QR code-enabled smartphone to listen to them for free. Also enjoy the historic old town of Olten, ideal for lunch and shopping, and you may even be lucky enough to meet one of the authors in person.

More information about the Swiss Writers' Trail

Explore a varied circular hike from Olten to Säli-Schlössli with a view of Aarburg, returning along the Aare River. The tour offers a beautiful panorama, the Mühletäli Wildlife Park, the Alt-Wartburg ruins, and several barbecue spots – perfect for families and children.

For more information on the Säli-Schlössli Olten circular hike

Archaeological Museum of the Canton of Solothurn

The Archaeological Museum is one of the most important in Switzerland and is home to an extensive collection of artefacts from various eras. The museum presents diverse legacies from 80,000 years of history and conveys a vibrant image of past times.

For more information on the Archaeological Museum of the Canton of Solothurn

Historical Museum

The Historical Museum in Olten not only documents the history of the town, but also the development of neighbouring communities. One of the museum’s focal points is the history of transport, as significant trading routes have long since met and crossed here. The museum’s collections and exhibitions also feature the modern history of technology.

For more information on the Historical Museum of Olten

Museum of Nature

In the Museum of Nature in Olten, you can experience biology and geology up close. The museum offers insights into the past with an impressive collection of fossils and finds from the Ice Age, while it also presents the diverse animals to be found in the region in their different habitats.

For more information on the Natural History Museum of Olten

An attraction for art lovers

The Art Museum in Olten was opened in 1905 and offers a collection of the works of artist Martin Disteli as well as modern art exhibitions. The focus is mainly on the works of Martin Disteli, a political artist and caricaturist who was born in Olten. The museum is a vibrant place for the discovery of historical and contemporary art and a meeting point for art lovers.

For more information on the Art Museum of Olten

The IPFO House of Photography on Kirchgasse is a venue for internationally renowned photography exhibitions, which aim to inspire and excite people from near and far.

Further information about the House of Photography 

Some of the world’s best photographers, visual storytellers and photo editors get together in Olten every two years to present their work to a wide audience. The festival includes seminars, exhibitions, workshops and portfolio reviews.

For more information on the International Photo Festival Olten

The Olten Book Festival offers a variety of events and activities. There are readings, music, and films by various authors, and visitors have the opportunity to engage directly with them.

For more information on the Olten Book Festival

Olten becomes the cabaret capital of Switzerland for one week.

Further information on the Olten Cabaret Days

Oltner Chilbi is the third largest of its kind in Switzerland and a popular festival that takes place annually at the beginning of August. There is a multitude of attractions and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. There are also numerous stalls and stands selling food, drinks and sweets.