Solothurn is at its best in spring and early summer — the Aare meadows are green, the cathedral steps fill with people in the evening light, and the Verena Gorge walk is at its most pleasant. The city has a resident-focused character that means it never feels overwhelmed by tourists regardless of season.
The Solothurner Filmtage — the Swiss Film Days — take place in late January and transform the city into the centre of Swiss cinema for a week, with screenings throughout the old town. It is one of the most significant events in the Swiss cultural calendar and worth timing a visit around if you have any interest in European film. Outside that week, Solothurn is quietly civilised year-round.