Discover the Best of Bern in 5 Days

Experience the historic charm of Bern, Switzerland's captivating capital city.

17 June 2023

As a tourist visiting Bern, Switzerland, you can explore the historic Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy views of the River Aare. You can also visit famous attractions in the city, such as the Bern Cathedral, the Swiss Alpine Museum, and the Zentrum Paul Klee Museum. Additionally, you can sample local Swiss cuisine and enjoy some of the best Swiss chocolate at various cafes and restaurants.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Bern

  • Check into Hotel Schweizerhof a beautiful hotel located in central Bern
  • Grab lunch at Rösterei Kaffee, the coolest coffee shop in town
  • Take a scenic walk around the city and visit Parliament Square, Clock Tower, and Berner Münster
  • Indulge in Swiss cheese fondue at Kornhauskeller, a historic restaurant
Day 2

Explore Old Town

  • Start the day with a morning coffee and croissant at Einstein Cafe
  • Explore the charming Old Town and its markets, shops, and fountains
  • Visit the Zytglogge (Clock Tower); every hour, the mechanical figures come alive, a sight not to be missed!
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at the famous Rose Garden, soaking in the stunning views of the city
  • Visit the Bern Historical Museum and Kunsthaus Bern, both housing impressive art and history exhibitions
Day 3

Discover Swiss Culture

  • Take a train to Emmental, the birthplace of Emmental cheese
  • Visit a dairy farm and watch the cheese-making process in action
  • Enjoy samples of freshly made cheese and try the local beverage, Rivella
  • Visit the Kambly biscuit factory for a sweet treat
  • Head back to Bern and dine at Restaurant Ruben's, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine
Day 4

Experience the Outdoors

  • Start the day with a trip to Gurten, Bern's very own mountain
  • Take the funicular railway to the top and enjoy the stunning views of the city and mountains
  • Have a picnic lunch and hike around the area
  • Visit the BearPark and get up close to Bern's beloved symbols of the city
  • Dine at Hüsy, a rustic Swiss chalet in the countryside, specializing in hearty Swiss dishes
Day 5

Relax and Unwind

  • Sleep in and begin the day with a relaxing spa treatment at Hotel Bellevue Palace
  • Take a walk around the Aare River and enjoy the city's green spaces
  • Visit the BEA Expo, a fantastic exhibition showcasing Swiss agriculture, culture, and science
  • End the day with dinner at Jack's Brasserie, located within Hotel Schweizerhof, and try their signature dish Wiener Schnitzel.
  • Enjoy your time in Bern and don't forget to explore every corner of the beautiful city!

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.

More travel plans

Bern: Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

A trip to Bern, Switzerland on a limited budget is possible, but requires careful planning. Accommodation options include hostels or budget hotels, and food can be found at markets and local eateries. There are also many free and low-cost activities, such as exploring the historic Old Town, visiting museums, and hiking in nearby nature reserves.

Bern Bliss: Family-Friendly Fun On a Budget!

A family-friendly trip to Bern, Switzerland offers an enchanting mix of history, nature, and culture. Explore the charming old town with its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and the famous Zytglogge clock tower. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Aare River, or visit the popular Bear Park where you can observe these gentle creatures up close. With its breathtaking scenery, kid-friendly attractions, and warm Swiss hospitality, Bern is the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

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.

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.