Bern on a Budget: A 5-Day Adventure

Experience Swiss charm without breaking the bank in Bern.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into Hotel Waldhorn, a charming budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Bern's Old Town
  • Take a stroll through the historic cobblestone streets and marvel at the Gothic architecture
  • Visit the Zytglogge clock tower, which has been ringing since the 13th century
  • Stop by the famous bear pit at the BärenPark, where you can see Bern's beloved bears up close
  • Head to Kornhauskeller for dinner, a restaurant housed in a stunning 18th-century granary building
Day 2

Nature and Culture

  • Take a train to the nearby town of Thun and walk along the glittering Lake Thun
  • Visit the Thun Castle, where you can learn about the history of the region and take in panoramic views of the lake
  • Head back to Bern and stop by the Bundeshaus (Swiss Parliament Building), a symbol of Switzerland's democratic traditions
  • Have dinner at Zähringer Keller, a traditional Swiss restaurant serving up hearty dishes and local wines
Day 3

Museums and Markets

  • Spend the morning at the Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum dedicated to the works of the famous Swiss artist
  • Visit the Bern Historical Museum, which showcases the history of the city and surrounding regions
  • Explore the bustling Munsterplatz market and pick up some locally-made souvenirs
  • Head to the Biercafé au Trappiste for dinner, a cozy spot with a wide selection of Belgian beers and tasty pub grub
Day 4

Day trip to Interlaken

  • Take a train to the picturesque town of Interlaken, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps
  • Hike through the beautiful Lauterbrunnen Valley and marvel at the stunning waterfalls
  • Take a boat tour of the pristine Lake Brienz and soak in the mountain views
  • Have dinner at the cozy Hüsi Bierhaus, which serves up tasty Swiss and German dishes alongside a wide selection of beers
Day 5

Farewell to Bern

  • Spend your last day in Bern wandering through its charming neighborhoods and taking in the sights
  • Relax at the Rosengarten, a beautiful park with stunning panoramic views of the city
  • Have a final meal at the trendy and affordable Tibits, a vegetarian and vegan café that serves up delicious plant-based dishes
  • Say farewell to Bern and plan your next Swiss adventure!

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

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A family trip to Bern, Switzerland promises a delightful experience with its scenic beauty and family-friendly attractions. Explore the historical Old Town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its well-preserved medieval architecture. Engage in interactive educational experiences at the Einstein Museum or the Bern Historical Museum, and enjoy leisurely walks along the Aare River to make unforgettable memories in this charming Swiss capital.

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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.