BEST DAY TRIPS FROM BERN, SWITZERLAND
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a gorgeous city in itself. With its cobblestone streets, picturesque bridges, and medieval architecture, it’s easy to see why Bern has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. But I also think, Bern also makes for an excellent base for day trips – thanks to its ideal location in Switzerland.
From Bern, it’s easy to explore some of the best scenic spots in Europe. Today, I share the best day trips from Bern.
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FAQs: BEST DAY TRIPS FROM BERN
Here are some quick tips – so you can enjoy the best day tours from Bern to the fullest.
How to Get Around
Whether you plan to use public transportation or get around by car, here are some quick tips to make the trips go smoothly.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
If you get around by public transport, then I suggest getting the Swiss Travel Pass which is a great option if you are looking to travel around Switzerland. It allows you to travel on any public transportation in the country, which includes trains, buses, boats, and even some cable cars. I often get one myself (even though I normally also have my car with me).
- Fast and efficient transportation: The Swiss Travel Pass provides access to a comprehensive network of public transport options, including trains, buses, boats, and some cable cars. You can easily get from one destination to another without having to worry about renting a car or finding parking.
- Cost savings: The Swiss Travel Pass offers discounts on some of Switzerland’s top attractions, such as the Jungfraujoch, and the Schilthorn Mountain.
- Convenience: With just one pass that covers all of Switzerland’s public transport options, you don’t have to worry about carrying around different tickets or passes for each journey.
- Flexibility: You can purchase a pass that covers travel for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days. This makes it easy to customize your itinerary and explore different regions of Switzerland.
- CHECK OUT PRICES FOR A SWISS TRAVEL PASS here or read my detailed review on the Pass here.
GET AROUND BY CAR
Getting around Switzerland by car is also a great way to discover the country. There are a few things to keep in mind though:
- The roads and streets are overall in good condition which makes driving in Switzerland overall very safe and an amazing experience.
- Parking in cities – including Bern – for more than 2-3 hours might be tricky and expensive. However, many tourist attractions – especially outside the town center – offer free parking.
- Check out my posts on tips for road tripping Switzerland and driving in Switzerland.
FIND YOUR BEST RENTAL CARS HERE
LIST OF MOST AMAZING BREMEN DAY TOURS
So, without further ado – find out about the best places to visit near Bern!
Gruyeres
This medieval town, located 65 km (38 miles) from Bern, is best well-known for the Gruyeres Castle, and some of the weirdest museums that you can imagine.
However, Gruyeres is best known for its cheese, a key ingredient in Swiss fondue. The best way to experience it is by taking one of the many cheese-making tours available here. My ability to smell is, unfortunately, very good and I am not fond of the smell of cheese, so walking through the streets of Gruyere reminded me constantly of the cheese-making factories close by.
Exploring the historic Gruyeres Castle is another must-see, which dates back to 1270 and is surrounded by stunning vineyards.
The castle is one of my favorite Swiss castles and I enjoyed strolling through the garden.
Other popular activities include visiting the HR Giger Museum (you will not believe what you see here, I am still traumatized) and the Tibet Museum, which offers an interesting insight into Tibetan culture.
Check out more Guyeres travel tips.
TOURS:
➡️ From Bern Small Group – Gruyères Castle, Cheese, and Chocolate Tasting
Lake Thun
Located only 22 km (13 miles) from Bern, Lake Thun is one of Switzerland’s best lakes for a day trip.
Lake Thun is best known for its stunning mountain views, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages. One of the best places to visit here is the St. Beatus Caves, where you can explore a network of natural caves filled with magnificent stalagmites and stalactite formations. I love the caves, especially on a hot day, it offers me a good way to cool down while sightseeing.
Another popular spot on the shores of Lake Thin is the village of Spiez, which offers stunning views of the lake and several shops and restaurants. Whenever I am in Spiez, I feel like visiting the French Riviera – and I love it.
But Lake Thun also offers a variety of water sports, such as swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddling (SUP) on the lake.
Additionally, you can take a boat trip to explore some of the best attractions along the shoreline. This is one of my all-time favorite things to do.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train ride + boat cruise are included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Lucerne
Located 110 km (68 miles) from Bern by car is Lucerne – a medieval city, popular amongst cultural lovers as well as outdoor enthusiasts.
Lucerne is best known for its iconic wooden bridge, Chapel Bridge, which dates back to 1333. This bridge spans the River Reuss and is one of the best places to take photos in Switzerland. I love it, especially in the warmer months, when many flower pots are making it even prettier.
But there is more: from museums such as the Swiss Museum of Transport to the Lion Monument, a moving tribute to Swiss mercenaries who died during the French Revolution in the Old Town, cultural fans love Lucerne, too.
Lucerne has a lot of attractions but I think, one day is enough to see the main sights. In the afternoon, I recommend getting up Mount Rigi, to enjoy stunning views of Lake Lucerne. Lake Zug, and the surrounding mountains. And on sunny days, you might also witness a fantastic sunset.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train ride + boat cruise + Mount Rigi excursion are included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Zermatt & Matterhorn Mountain
Located 130 km (79 miles) from Bern. Explore the Alpine village or take a cable car up to the mountain summit and enjoy spectacular views of the Swiss Alps.
Zermatt is best known for its iconic Matterhorn Mountain, which towers over the village.
Explore the quaint cobblestone streets lined with traditional chalets, and restaurants, or learn about history at the Matterhorn Museum.
There are several amazing mountain excursions in Zermatt. However, when you do a day trip from Bern, you might not be able to squeeze in more than one mountain trip, so which one you take is up to you. Here are my two top recommendations for a day in Zermatt.
For an unparalleled perspective of the Matterhorn, Gornergrat is a tough contender to surpass. Ascend aboard a cogwheel train to the summit of Gornergrat, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the majestic Matterhorn. You can do some hikes in the area or, if you do like steep downhill hikes – even get back to Zermatt (which is quite time-consuming, to be honest).
Another popular attraction is the Klein Matterhorn Mountain (also known as Matterhorn Glacier Paradise) for some incredible views of the Swiss Alps.
The panoramic vista spans across the vast glaciers of the Alps in Switzerland, France, and Italy. At the summit, you have a Cinema Lounge and Europe’s loftiest viewing platform, alongside the Glacier Palace adorned with ice sculptures and an ice chute.
While I have spent many days in Zermatt, one day is good enough to experience some of the best sights.
TOURS/TICKETS:
Montreux
Located 91 km (57 miles) from Bern and best known for its jazz festival, Montreux is a great place to explore the best of Swiss culture.
The annual Montreux Jazz Festival brings together some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.
This quaint alpine village also offers plenty of other attractions to explore.
One of my favorite places is Chateau de Chillon, a stunning medieval castle located on Lake Geneva. I love strolling the castle’s grounds and learning about its history. But most of all, I enjoy strolling back to the town center. The 3-kilometer-long walk along the promenade – with views of the lake and the Alps – is just phenomenal.
Montreux offers plenty of shops and restaurants, as well as excellent hiking trails along Lake Geneva’s banks.
You can also include a boat trip around the lake or a visit to one of many vineyards in the area.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train ride + boat cruise + Chateau de Chillon are included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Schilthorn Mountain
Located 70 km (43 miles) from Bern, Schilthorn Mountain (at almost 3.000 meters above sea level) is one of the best mountain excursions in all of Switzerland.
Schilthorn Mountain is best known for its stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and as the location for the iconic Piz Gloria restaurant from the James Bond movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”.
Enjoy 360-degree views of over 200 snow-capped peaks in the Swiss, Austrian, and Italian Alps, have a meal at Piz Gloria restaurant as well as explore the interactive museum detailing James Bond’s visit there.
Additionally, Schilthorn offers plenty of activities for all levels including hiking, skiing (in the winter), and other Alpine sports.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ Guided Tour: Schilthorn (James Bond Location) Small Group Tour from Bern
Interlaken & Harder Kulm
Located 60 km (37 miles) from Bern, Interlaken is best known for its stunning views of the surrounding Alps and nearby lakes.
Interlaken offers plenty to explore including Höhenmatte Park, a beautiful green space perfect for picnics or leisurely strolls.
Nearby Harder Kulm is another popular spot for spectacular views of the area as well as a range of outdoor activities. It is a local mountain peak located in Interlaken. At the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps and the two stunning lakes (Lake Brienz and Lake Thun).
Interlaken is my favorite area in the world – there is just an abundance of activities such as hiking, paragliding, and biking trails. Check out my Interlaken post to find out what to do.
TOURS/TICKETS:
Lauterbrunnen Valley
Located 67 km (42 miles) from Bern and best known for its spectacular mountain views, Lauterbrunnen Valley is a great place to explore the best of Swiss nature.
Lauterbrunnen Valley is home to spectacular mountain views, stunning waterfalls, and lush green meadows.
Home to the iconic Staubbach Waterfall, as well as 72 other beautiful cascades, Lauterbrunnen is a nature-lovers paradise, where you can explore the area’s many walking paths for breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding peaks.
Visit the nearby Trümmelbach Falls – in the summer months – for an unforgettable experience.
Also, Lauterbrunnen offers plenty of activities such as paragliding, mountain biking, canyoning, and rock climbing – you can also combine it with a trip up Mürren and Schilthorn Mountain for panoramic views of the Alps!
I always love to spend a day in Lauterbrunnen – it is just a perfect place to explore in a day, which also makes is one of the best day trips from Bern.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train to Lauterbrunnen is included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Lake Brienz & Giessbach Falls
Located 80 km (50 miles) from Bern and best known for its cascading waterfalls, Giessbach Falls is a great place to explore the beauty of Switzerland.
Lake Brienz & Giessbach Falls is a picturesque spot that offers stunning views of the lake and nearby mountains, as well as access to one of Switzerland’s most beautiful waterfalls.
In the summer, I enjoy a boat tour up to the base of Giessbach Falls. Here, you can even get out there and do a short uphill hike to walk behind the waterfalls. These spectacular waterfalls cascade down 500 meters, creating a stunning mist enveloping the lake.
Adventurers can try their hand at paddleboarding, sailing, swimming, or kayaking on Lake Brienz – and a boat cruise on Lake Brienz is a great activity to just sit back, and enjoy those views! However, the water is extremely cold – thus, I have not been brave enough to actually jump into the water.
With its breathtaking scenery and activities to suit all levels, Lake Brienz & Giessbach Falls is one of the best day trips from Bern.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train to Interlaken and the Lake Brienz boat cruise are included in the Swiss Travel Pass,
Schaffhausen & Rhine Falls
Located 170 km (105 miles) from Bern and best known for its spectacular Rhine Falls, Schaffhausen is a great place for a day trip.
Schaffhausen is home to many colorful oriel bay windows and beautiful cobblestone streets that lead you into old-world Europe. The city’s most iconic landmark is Munot Castle which overlooks the city and provides a great panorama.
Schaffhausen is one of my favorite towns in Switzerland because it has enough stunning buildings, yet is small so perfect to explore in a few hours.
Also, it is a great place to visit for lovely views of vineyards.
The star attraction in Schaffhausen is the Rhine Falls, one of Europe’s largest waterfalls, located along the Rhine River.
Take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the powerful cascade of water. With its stunning scenery and activities to suit all levels, Schaffhausen is one of the best day trips from Bern.
Schaffhausen and the Rhein Falls are some of my top recommendations for a Bern day trip.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train to the Rhine Falls is included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Zurich & Lake Zurich
Zurich, located 123 km (76 miles) from Bern, is also a great day trip destination. Zurich is best known for its cobbled streets, vibrant culture, and world-class museums.
Explore its many attractions including the famous Bahnhofstrasse shopping area, the Lindenhof Park that overlooks Lake Zurich, and the Grossmünster church with its twin towers which is one of the most iconic landmarks in Switzerland.
I highly recommend strolling along the promenade of Lake Zurich or taking part in any one of the city’s many festivals and events.
With its stunning lake views, cultural attractions, and activities to suit all levels, Zurich is one of the best day trips from Bern.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train to Zurich and the Lake Zurich boat cruise are included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Grindelwald & Grindelwald First
Grindelwald and Grindelwald First, located 75 km (47 miles) from Bern, is a great day trip destination for adventure seekers looking to explore breathtaking Swiss Alpine scenery.
Grindelwald is a gorgeous little village nestled in the Swiss Alps – Grindelwald First Mountain offers stunning Alpine scenery, breathtaking views of Eiger Mountain, and easy hikes.
At the top of Grindelwald First Mountain hike up the mountain to Bachalpsee Lake. This easy 1-hour hike takes you along winding cobblestone paths with stunning mountain views.
Grindelwald First is also known as the Top of Adventure – where you can take the Flyer or Glider and soar at lightning speeds over 80 km/h. Or hop onto a mountain cart or Trottibike and thunder across cobbled tracks down.
Grindelwald is also one of my favorite places to visit in the winter or at any time of the year.
With its stunning scenery and activities to suit all levels, Grindelwald and Grindelwald First are one of the best day trips from Bern.
TOURS/TICKETS:
Schynige Platte
Schynige Platte, located about 75 km (46 miles) from Bern, is best known for its stunning Alpine scenery and breathtaking views of Eiger Mountain.
This day trip destination offers plenty of activities, including hiking through the lush meadows and pastures of Schynige Platte, visiting the beehive-like mountain hotels, or simply taking a leisurely stroll and admiring the breathtaking views.
Hop on the Schynige Platte railway which takes riders on a journey along winding mountain paths, through an Alpine wonderland.
Along the way, soak up fantastic views of Jungfrau Mountain, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz.
I enjoyed some of the best panoramas from Schynige Platte – so, I do consider Schynige Platte one of the best day trips from Bern.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train to Wilderswil is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, 50% discount on the funicular
14. Biel and Lake Biel
Biel, located just 40 km (24 miles) from Bern, is one of the best day trips from Bern.
Biel is home to a stunning lake, Lake Biel, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Take a boat tour around the lake to take in stunning views of its banks and islands, or take a stroll along the promenade.
Explore Biel’s historic Town Hall and Museum of Art & History for a glimpse into the city’s past, or visit the Omega Museum.
But most of all, I love the easy hike along the vineyards – and that Biel is a rather hidden gem, not too crowded with other tourists.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train and boat cruise included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Neuchâtel and Lake Neuchâtel
Located just 52 km (32 miles) from Bern, Neuchâtel, and Lake Neuchâtel are the perfect destination for a day trip.
Known as the ‘Pearl of Swiss Lakes’, Lake Neuchâtel is the largest lake that lies completely in Switzerland and offers stunning views of its banks and islands.
Popular activities at the lake include swimming and sailing. Explore the lively city center of Neuchâtel, home to a variety of attractions including the Museum of Art & History, the UNESCO-listed castle, and plenty of charming cafes and restaurants.
You can also enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking and cycling in the surrounding forests and countryside.
Neuchâtel and Lake Neuchâtel are excellent choices for a Bern day tour.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train and boat cruise are included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Thun
Thun is located just 29 km (18 miles) from Bern, making it ideal for a day trip. This charming city is home to a stunning lake, Lake Thun, which offers lovely views.
Explore Thun’s lively city center with its quaint shops, vibrant cafes, and restaurants.
Other attractions include the impressive Thun Castle, parks, and gardens, or take a boat tour around the lake for an unforgettable experience.
With its stunning lake views, vibrant city center, and plenty of activities to suit all levels, Thun is one of the best and easiest day trips from Bern.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train and boat cruise and Thun Castle entrance are included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Murten and Lake Murten
Murten, located just 46 km (29 miles) from Bern, is the perfect destination for a day trip.
Surrounded by three lakes – Lake Murten, Lake Biel, and Lake Neuchatel – this charming city offers plenty of activities to enjoy. Popular activities include swimming at one of the stunning beaches surrounding Lake Murten, sailing, and cycling.
The highlight is Murten’s historic city center with its impressive churches, quaint shops, and vibrant cafes. It surely is one of the most beautiful Swiss towns.
Other attractions include the Museum of Art & History or take a boat tour around Lake Murten.
I have seen my fair share of gorgeous towns in Switzerland – Murten stood out. It is extraordinarily beautiful.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train and boat cruise are included in the Swiss Travel Pass
Lake Oeschinen and Lake Blauseee
Lake Oeschinen, located just 64 km (40 miles) from Bern in Kandersteg, is the perfect destination for a day trip.
This stunning lake, nestled in the Swiss Alps and surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, offers plenty of activities. Popular activities include swimming, and hiking around the lake’s banks. Lake Oeschinen is an excellent choice for a Bern day tour. Here is more about this Swiss gem.
Quite close to Lake Oeschinen is the famous Lake Blausee – you can combine these two lakes – Lake Oeschinen and Blausee – if you visit during the long summer months. It is the perfect destination for a day trip. This stunning lake offers breathtaking views of its crystal-clear waters and lush forests surrounding its banks.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, 50% discount on the cable car
Lausanne
Lausanne, located just 100 km (62 miles) from Bern, is the perfect destination if you are looking for a city day trip from Bern.
This vibrant city is home to plenty of attractions, including the iconic Lausanne Cathedral, lively cafes and restaurants in the historical Old Town, as well as an array of museums and art galleries.
But you can also enjoy outdoor activities such as sailing and swimming in the nearby Lake Geneva. With its stunning lake views, lively city center, and plenty of activities to choose from, Lausanne is an excellent choice for a Bern day trip.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, as is the Olympic Museum
Glacier 3000
Glacier 3000, located 130 km (81 miles) from Bern, is the perfect destination for a day trip.
This stunning glacier offers breathtaking views of its snow-capped peaks and valleys below. Adventure seekers can explore the area on foot or by bike or take a thrilling ride on the Peak Walk suspension bridge across two mountains.
Other activities include skiing and snowboarding on the glacier’s slopes in the winter months, as well as sledding, dog sledding, and paragliding. With its stunning mountain views, thrilling activities, and plenty of attractions to choose from, Glacier 3000 is an excellent choice for a Bern day tour.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train /bus ride is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, 50% discount on the cable car ride up
➡️ Get your ticket for Glacier 3000 here (either pick with/without a Swiss Travel Pass)
Niesen Mountain
Niesen Mountain, located just 44 km (27 miles) from Bern, is the perfect place to visit on a day tour from Bern.
This stunning mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys below. Take advantage of activities such as hiking to the summit or taking a cable car ride up the mountain. Other activities include skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and ice climbing in the winter months.
TOURS/TICKETS:
➡️ The train ride is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, 50% discount on the cable car ride
TIPS: WHERE TO STAY IN BERN FOR DAY TRIPS
If you plan to use Bern as your base and go on one of these fantastic day trips, especially by public transport or guided tours, the best is to stay central. With close proximity to the Bern train station, it makes it much easier to get out and explore the places near Bern.
WHERE TO STAY IN BERN:
If you can, book your hotel in the old town. From there, you can get to all (or most) attractions in Bern within minutes.
Luxury – Bellevue Palace – Bellevue Palace is a 5-star hotel and centrally located – the perfect choice for those who like to indulge in luxury. ➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY AT BELLEVUE PALACE HERE.
Mid-Range – Goldener Schlüssel – I stayed at the 3-star hotel Goldener Schlüssel for 1 night, located in the city center/old town. Though my hotel room was pretty small though, with no direct (and free) parking options and the breakfast was simple, the location was perfect and made up for it. ➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY AT GOLDENER SCHLÜSSEL HIER.
Budget – Bern Youth Hostel – Bern Youth Hostel is located in the city center and it offers affordable dorm beds but also private rooms with private bathrooms. ➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY AT BERN YOUTH HOSTEL HERE.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON PLACES TO VISIT NEAR BERN
Bern itself is a beauty but it is full of amazing day trip destinations. I love making Bern the base when I am in Switzerland and exploring the gorgeous surroundings.
With its stunning scenery and activities to suit all levels, Bern is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience some of Switzerland’s best day trips.
I hope this article has inspired you to explore some of the best day trips from Bern. Whether it’s a relaxing boat tour or an adventurous hiking trip, there is something for everyone near Bern.
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