Discovering Bern's Charm: A 2-Day Adventure

Discover the timeless elegance of Bern, Switzerland.

17 June 2023

A trip to Bern, Switzerland as a tourist offers a chance to explore the historic old town, enjoy the picturesque scenery and indulge in cheese and chocolate. The city's medieval center named as a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases the Gothic architecture, the go-to spots are Bern's iconic bear park and the rose garden which offers panoramic views of the city. Lastly, shopping enthusiasts can head souvenirs and explore Switzerland's famous watchmaking industry.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Vibrant Old Town

  • Hotel: Stay at the historic Hotel Schweizerhof Bern, located in the heart of the city.
  • Wander around the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobbled streets, ornate fountains, and colorful buildings.
  • Visit the Zytglogge clock tower, a medieval landmark with moving puppets that put on a show every hour.
  • Browse the shops and cafes on the Kramgasse, the oldest and most picturesque street in Bern.
  • Explore the Bernisches Historisches Museum, a comprehensive museum with exhibits on Swiss history and culture.
  • Enjoy a traditional Swiss meal at Restaurant Harmonie, known for its fondue and raclette dishes.
Day 2

Art, Nature, and Chocolate

  • Admire the impressive art collection at the Zentrum Paul Klee museum, dedicated to the famous Swiss-German artist.
  • Take a funicular up to the Rosengarten, a lovely hilltop park with stunning views of Bern and the surrounding Alps.
  • Learn about the history of Swiss chocolate and sample some delicious treats at the Chocolate Factory Tour & Shop.
  • Visit the BEA Animal Park, a free zoo with over 220 animals from around the world, including bears, monkeys, and exotic birds.
  • Relax with a drink at Les Amis, a chic rooftop bar with panoramic views of Bern.
  • Two days in Bern may not seem like much time, but you'll be amazed at how much you can see and experience. With its beautiful architecture, rich history and culture, and breathtaking scenery, Bern is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bern by plane is to fly into Bern Airport. From the airport, you can take the Bernmobil Bus No. 160 to the city center.

Car

The best way to get to Bern by car is to take the A1 motorway. The journey from Zurich takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. There are also several parking options in Bern's city center.

Train

The best way to get to Bern by train is to take a direct train from Zurich to Bern. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and arrives at Bern Central Station.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Bern, you can take a boat ride on the Aare River from neighboring towns such as Thun or Interlaken and enjoy the scenic journey to Bern's Old Town.

Bus

The best way to get to Bern by bus is to take the Flixbus from major cities in Europe to Bern Bus Station. The station is located in the city center and is easily accessible by foot or public transportation.

Destination

Bern

Nestled between towering mountains and rolling hills lies the picturesque city of Bern, one of the few places where you can enjoy chocolate, cheese, and cowbells all in one day.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Romantic Bliss in Bern: A 4-Day Guide

Experience the perfect romantic getaway in Bern, Switzerland, where you can admire the breathtaking views of the city's historic Old Town and the shimmering River Aare. Take a romantic stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the famous Bern Rose Garden, and enjoy an intimate dinner in one of the charming restaurants in the city. Indulge in the city's famous chocolates, take a leisurely boat ride on the river, and soak up the serene vibes of this picturesque Swiss city with your significant other.

The Ultimate Family Adventure: 4 Days in Bern

A family trip to Bern, Switzerland offers a delightful blend of history, nature, and cultural experiences. Take a stroll through the medieval old town to marvel at the impressive architecture and scenic views of the Aare River. The Bern Historical Museum with its interactive exhibits and the Bear Park, home to Bern's beloved mascot, provide engaging activities for children of all ages.

Budget Bliss: The Ultimate 3-Day Guide to Bern

Exploring Bern on a tight budget is still possible with numerous free activities such as visiting the historic Old Town, strolling through the Rosengarten park and admiring the street art in Matte district. Budget-friendly accommodation options include hostels and Airbnb rentals, and affordable meals can be found at local eateries and markets like the famous Berner Gourmet Market.

Bern on a Budget: Adventures & Culture in 4 Days

A trip to Bern, Switzerland on a limited budget can still be a wonderful experience. There are many free museums, such as the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Communication, as well as affordable activities like hiking in the nearby mountains and swimming in the Aare River. Staying in an affordable hostel and cooking meals at the hostel or using local markets can help stretch your budget even further.