Bern: Day Trips and Tours from Zürich

The picturesque city of Bern is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also the capital city of Switzerland.

With its well preserved medieval architecture and many historical landmarks and places of interest, Bern is a cultural gem that is well worth a visit.

Plan your day trip to Bern from Zürich and visit an intriguing city that embodies the spirit of Switzerland.

Here's all you need to know about Bern, one of the most exciting day trips from Zürich.

How to get to Bern from Zürich?

The Swiss capital of Bern is located southwest of Zürich on a narrow bend of the Aare River.

From Zürich to Bern by car

Outside of peak traffic times, the 122 kilometer car journey to Bern from Zürich takes around 1.45 minutes along the A1.

From Zürich to Bern by public transport

A train service runs between Zürich and Bern. A one-way trip takes around an hour and covers nearly 120 kilometers. There are also direct bus trips between Bern and Zürich that take approximately 1.5 hours.

Guided tour to Bern from Zürich

Guided tours are the best ways to visit Bern. With so much to do, a knowledgeable guide will make sure that your day’s itinerary is well planned and runs smoothly.

Full day tours last around ten hours and private transfers roughly two hours each way.

What is the typical itinerary?

After departing Zürich, travel through the Entlebuch Biosphere Reserve and stop for a biscuit experience at Kambly Erlebnis. In Bern you will have time to explore the Old Town and visit other inspiring attractions and landmarks.

There is time for lunch before leaving Bern and traveling through the green pastures of Emmentaler Schaukäserei. Sample the region’s delicious cheeses before continuing back to Zürich.

What kinds of tours are available?

You can visit Bern from Zürich on a small-group tour, or you can book a private return transfer and then spend the day exploring on your own. Here is what to expect on day trips to Bern:

Small-group guided day trips to Bern from Zürich

Small-group day tours typically begin at Zürich’s Sihlquai bus station. The tour travels through the captivating Entlebuch Valley Biosphere Reserve.

After a visit to the Kambly Experience to observe the making of these delectable Swiss treats you will travel to Bern.

Some tours include a guided walking tour through the historical Old Town and some of the city’s iconic landmarks before some leisure time to shop or enjoy lunch.

After leaving Bern, the tour heads to Emmentaler to sample this famous cheese. The tour concludes back in Zürich in the early evening.

Private transfers from Zürich to Bern

On this private tour to Bern, a professional driver will collect you from your Zürich hotel or agreed upon pickup destination. At the end of your day trip, a return transfer from Bern will transport you back to Zürich.

How much does a day trip to Bern from Zürich cost?

Day trips to Bern from Zürich in a small-group guided cost from €220 per adult. Children under 12 typically pay half price, while infants under 2 years of age are free of charge.

Private transfers from Zürich to Bern cost between €450 and €600, depending on the operator and number of passengers.

What will you see and do?

Bern is a historical city filled with many attractions and interesting sights. Most day trips from Zürich include stops at the nearby biscuit and cheese producers.

Bern Old Town is a medieval district and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many famous landmarks including the Clock Tower and the Rathausplatz.

Bern is also filled with elaborate fountains, the Gothic Cathedral of Bern with its Berner Münster tower with spectacular views over the Aare River.

The Rose Garden with its Einstein bench, the Einstein Museum and Einstein House are also popular attractions.

When is the best time to visit Bern?

Late spring and the early summer months promise some of the best weather in Bern. During the summer vacation months of July and August it can get quite crowded though.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Advise your guide if you have dairy or nut allergies.
• Carry a reusable water bottle.
• Book a free walking tour if your trip to Bern is unguided.