2 Days of Adventure: Budget Travels to Bern

Discover the beauty of Bern without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Bern, Switzerland on a limited budget can be an enjoyable and affordable experience. Famous for its beautiful old town, Bern offers plenty of free attractions like the historic Clock Tower, the Rose Garden, and the Bear Pit. Staying in budget accommodation and eating at local markets can save you money while still experiencing the city's rich culture and history.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Check-in at the Hotel Savoy Bern, a cozy budget hotel centrally located.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Zytglogge, a 13th-century clock tower with an impressive astronomical clock.
  • Stroll through the charming cobblestoned streets of the Old Town and soak in the medieval atmosphere.
  • Visit the Bern Minster, a stunning Gothic church that offers breathtaking views of the city.
  • Grab lunch at Kornhauskeller, a historic cellar-turned-restaurant that serves up delicious Swiss cuisine.
  • Continue exploring the Old Town, ending the day at Bundesplatz, the city's main square and a popular gathering spot for locals.
Day 2

Embracing Nature

  • Fuel up with breakfast at Tibits, a vegetarian restaurant with a wide range of options.
  • Take a tram to the Bear Park, where you can watch Bern's famous brown bears playing in their natural habitat.
  • From there, hike up to the Rosengarten, a hilltop park that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Alps.
  • Stop for a picnic lunch at the park, then make your way to the nearby Paul Klee Center, a museum dedicated to the artist's work.
  • Head back to the city center and stop for coffee and a sweet treat at Conditorei Schober, a charming bakery and cafe.
  • End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Aare River, taking in the stunning scenery and fresh air.
  • With its perfect combination of history, nature, and Swiss charm, Bern is a must-visit destination for any traveler on a budget.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Bern on a Budget: A 5-Day Adventure

Explore the charming city of Bern, Switzerland on a budget-friendly trip. Admire the medieval architecture of the old town, stroll along the Aare River and experience the famous local cheese and chocolate. Take advantage of affordable public transport and free outdoor attractions, such as the Gurten Mountain viewpoint and the Rose Garden.

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.

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.

Discovering Bern's Charm: A 2-Day Adventure

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.