FC Thun, founded in 1898, might not be the flashiest name in Swiss football, but their story is one of resilience, smart management, and community roots. Nestled in a town of fewer than 45,000 people, Thun have defied the odds by holding their own in the Swiss Super League and even tasting European nights.
Their crowning achievement came in the 2005-06 UEFA Champions League, when they shocked Europe by making it all the way to the group stage, defeating Dynamo Kyiv and Malmö FF en route. They held their own against the likes of Arsenal and Ajax, playing their “home” European ties in Bern’s Stade de Suisse due to stadium requirements. For a town more associated with tourism than top-flight football, it was a defining era.
The club continues to embody “Alpen-Fussball” — industrious, no-frills, and built on tactical discipline. While they now bounce between the Swiss top and second tier, FC Thun remains beloved locally, particularly for their youth development and engagement with fans. They’re Switzerland’s answer to clubs like Freiburg or St. Pauli — a strong sense of identity, close ties to the region, and a proud defiance of the elite status quo.
Stockhorn Arena (also referred to locally as “Arena Thun”) opened in 2011 and seats around 10,000. It’s a compact, modern venue with views of the Bernese Alps on a clear day — one of the most picturesque stadiums in Europe.
🏟️ How to Get to Stockhorn Arena
Location: Stockhorn Arena, Weststrasse 12, 3604 Thun
Distance from station: ~2 km (20–30 min walk)
🚉 From Thun Train Station
Shuttle buses run from Mönchstrasse (adjacent to the train station) directly to the stadium on matchday. Bus Line 3 (Arena Thun) or Line 2 (Zentrum Oberland) both stop near the stadium. Expect clear signage and volunteer assistance in English and German.
🚶 On Foot
A scenic 25–30 minute walk through town and along the river. If the weather’s good, take this option—you’ll pass through Thun’s charming neighborhoods and parks.
🚗 By Car
Exit A6 at Thun Süd. Park at Waffenplatz Thun (CHF 20, limited spaces). Free shuttle service runs from this lot. On matchdays, expect restricted access near the stadium—plan accordingly.
🎟️ How to Buy Match Tickets
UEFA match tickets are available at:
🔗 uefa.com/womenseuro/ticketing
All match tickets include free second-class public transport across Switzerland from midnight to 5 a.m. the following day.
⚽ About FC Thun & the Stadium
FC Thun plays in the Swiss Challenge League (second tier)…well, they did! They earned promotion last season! So if you do visit FC Thun you’ll be watching top tier Swiss football!
If you want to visit a Swiss league game here, then check out the official FC Thun ticket site.
The Stockhorn Arena holds about 10,000 and was built in 2011. It’s known for its tight, intimate atmosphere and mountain backdrop. Expect friendly locals, clean facilities, and efficient crowd flow even on busy days.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Friendly Bars & Hangouts in Thun
While Thun is quieter than big cities like Zurich or Bern, it’s safe, progressive, and welcoming.
Recommended Spots:
Café Bar Mokka. A Thun institution. LGBTQ-friendly, with regular concerts, open-mic nights, and a funky, inclusive crowd. Great for solo travelers too.
📍 Allmendstrasse 14, 3600 Thun Wirtschaft zum Löwen
A local tavern with great wine and a relaxed vibe. No explicit LGBTQ label, but very accepting and safe, often frequented by mixed groups.
📍 Rathausplatz 2 Kulturzentrum Alte Oele
A creative arts space known for LGBTQ-inclusive events, live music, and poetry slams. Check their program before visiting.
📍 Obere Hauptgasse 4
🍔 Best burger in Thun
Anyone who wants meat between bread buns should consider Ribs Steakhouse. However, carnivorous menu may present more issues with a wide array of exceptional looking meat options.
🌱 Vegan Food in Thun
If meat isn’t your thing then, head just south of the city to ÖpfuKurve, an all natural food store with an attached bistro which has rave reviews for its vegan offerings.
🍺 Best Craft Beer in Thun
Brauerei Thun AG: A destination for craft beer enthusiasts!
📍 Kyburgstrasse 9, 3600 Thun, Switzerland
🏞️ Top 3 Things to Do in Thun (If You’re Here for More Than Football)
1. Thun Castle & Old Town
Wander up the 12th-century Kirchtreppe and step into a fairytale. Four towers, a knight’s hall, and panoramic Alpine views.
2. River Surfing & Swimming in the Aare
In summer, the Aare becomes a wild playground. Locals float down with inflatable donuts—or actually surf at the locks near Mühleplatz.
3. Schadau Park & Castle
Lakeside gardens, vintage trees, and an actual pink castle. Ideal for picnic lovers, Instagrammers, and anyone needing a breather.
💡 Insider Tips
Water is free and drinkable from fountains across town.
PanoramaCard: If you’re staying overnight, you get this free travel pass for the Thun region.
Shops close early (usually by 7pm), so stock up in advance if needed.
The Finland vs. Iceland Clash – UEFA Women’s EURO 2025
A Battle of the North Under Alpine Skies. The upcoming UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 group stage match between Finland and Iceland, scheduled for Thun, is expected to draw a passionate and colorful crowd. These two Nordic sides are known not only for their technical growth in the women’s game but also for their loyal, vocal traveling support.
Expect a strong presence of Iceland’s iconic “Viking clap,” Finnish chants and banners, and a family-friendly, spirited atmosphere that reflects the growing stature of women’s football across Europe.
Finland: Tactically disciplined, strong in transition. The team has grown under coach Marko Saloranta and boasts one of Europe’s best shot-stoppers.
Iceland: Ferocious midfield, sky-blue wall of fans, and always a threat from set-pieces. With their strong women’s football culture, Iceland will bring energy on and off the pitch.
Key themes surrounding this match include:
Nordic Rivalry: Both nations see this as a winnable tie — crucial for progression in a tough group. Tactical Contrasts: Iceland often rely on physicality and a solid spine, while Finland emphasize fluidity and midfield control.
Growing Support for Women’s Football: This match in Thun is part of UEFA’s broader push to take elite women’s matches into scenic, mid-sized cities and away from generic mega-stadiums.
Fan Tip: Both Icelandic and Finnish fans have reputations for friendliness and inclusivity. Expect a mix of chants, beers, and camaraderie outside the ground and in the bars of Thun the night before.
“Header photo” by Rectilinium is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
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