The Ultimate Family Adventure: 4 Days in Bern

Discover the charm of Bern and create lifelong memories for the whole family.

19 July 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Bern's Historic Old Town:

  • Start the day with a hearty Swiss breakfast at Café Fédéral, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.
  • Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, admiring the medieval architecture and picturesque fountains.
  • Discover the charm of the Clock Tower (Zytglogge) with its intricate astronomical clock, marveling at its whimsical figures.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River, enjoying the stunning views of the city and the Bernese Alps in the distance.
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the Kramgasse, Bern's famous shopping street, where quaint boutiques and artisanal stores await.
  • Savor a traditional Swiss dinner at Altes Tramdepot, a rustic brewery with panoramic views, and toast to the perfect start of your Bern adventure.
Day 2

Bern's Cultural Gems:

  • Begin your day at the Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum dedicated to the works of the renowned Swiss artist. Allow his vibrant compositions to inspire your creative side.
  • Visit the Bern Historical Museum, where you'll delve into the city's fascinating past through exhibitions spanning from prehistoric times to the present.
  • Climb to the top of Rosengarten, a beautiful rose garden with gorgeous vistas, for a picnic lunch amid fragrant blossoms and breathtaking panoramas.
  • Embark on a unique experience at the Bear Park, where you can observe Bern's beloved symbol, the brown bears, in a natural habitat setting.
  • Enjoy an evening performance at the Bern Theatre, immersing yourself in the vibrant local arts scene.
  • Treat yourself to a sweet treat, Bern's signature Toblerone chocolate, and let its rich flavors melt on your tongue.
Day 3

Nature Escapades:

  • Venture out of the city to the Gurten, Bern's local mountain. Hop on the funicular and revel in the stunning views from the summit.
  • Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking up the sunshine at the Marzili, Bern's beautiful public swimming area by the river.
  • Discover the magical Rose Garden (Rosengarten), where fragrant blooms and manicured lawns create a serene oasis amidst the city.
  • Go on a boat cruise along the River Aare, lazily drifting past charming villages and lush green landscapes.
  • Unleash your inner hiker and explore the trails of the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by majestic peaks and crystal-clear alpine lakes.
  • Indulge in a cheese fondue at Kornhauskeller, an enchanting underground restaurant where history and Swiss cuisine intertwine.
Day 4

Hidden Gems and Farewell:

  • Begin your day at the Museum of Communication, where interactive exhibits transport you through the evolution of communication technologies.
  • Visit the colorful Bear Parade, a quirky tradition where people dress up as bears and roam the streets, spreading cheer and laughter.
  • Explore the Einstein Museum, located in the physicist's former residence. Discover his revolutionary theories and embrace your inner genius.
  • Delight in a culinary exploration at the Bern Farmer's Market, where local vendors showcase their fresh produce, cheeses, and traditional specialties.
  • Bid Bern farewell with a sunset cable car ride up the Gurten, savoring breathtaking views one last time before departing with cherished memories.

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.

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