I'd been meaning to visit Bern's neighbor Solothurn for months now, and I'm so glad I finally did. The architecture is so charming, and it's a tiny city that’s great to walk around (it was freezing when I went, so I bet it's beyond fantastic on a nice spring day).
The French Catholic ambassadors occupied the town for some 250 years, and it shows in the style of the buildings. The city still has a couple of towers and a city gate dating from 1508. One highlight is the Zytglogge (clock tower), the town's oldest building, the lower part being from the 12th century and the upper from 1467. The St. Ursen Kathedrale is one of the first things to catch your eye. The typical late baroque cathedral was built between 1762 and 1773, and it towers over the main Hauptgasse. To the north of the city you'll find the impressive Kunstmuseum (art museum) with free entry, but donations welcomed. The museum is fairly small. Notable artists here include Ferdinand Hodler, Albert Anker, and Cuno Amiet. There are also a few Matisse and Degas pieces.
${QuickSuggestions} ${BestWay} On foot! It's a small city, and like I said, it has a great Old Town to wander around. The Old Town is mainly pedestrian-only, and the winding cobblestone streets and Platzes are really charming.