Located in west-central Switzerland south of Bern, the town of Thun lies along the banks of the river Aar, which flows out of nearby Lake Thun. Known as a popular tourist destination, as well as an international hub for precision instrument engineering, Thun is also important to the Swiss publishing industry. The region has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age and is home to many historic sites, including the town castle, which dates back to the 12th century and is now a museum that is dedicated to local history. Also of note, the Rathaus, or town hall, dates back to the 16th century, and the Panzermuseum Thun is dedicated to World War II history.

Many visitors opt to reserve a rental car while visiting Thun, in order to more easily explore the surrounding region. Of particular note, Lake Thun affords stunning views of the nearby Bernese Alps, while Schadau Castle lies on the south bank of the Aar River and is a Swiss Heritage Site of National Significance.