Bern is a city that combines centuries of history with lively modern charm. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is packed with fountains, towers, and cobbled streets, making it a perfect place for engaging tours. We love exploring the Zytglogge, where you can peek inside the clock’s golden workings and watch a puppet show that’s over 500 years old. For a deeper stroll, the Bern: 90-Minute Stroll Through the Old Town offers a lively, informative walk that reveals hidden alleys and iconic landmarks. If you’re after a personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide caters to your interests and shows you Bern’s secret spots. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the Chocolate Tasting Tour, which combines Bern’s culinary delights with its beautiful scenery. No matter your style, Bern offers a rich mix of tours to deepen your visit.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of guided city tours, themed experiences, day trips, and even adventure flights. Whether you want a quick 90-minute walk through Bern’s historic streets, a private tour tailored to your interests, or a scenic helicopter flight over the Swiss Alps, there’s something here for every traveler. For more details, check out the options here, here, and here.
1. Bern: Zytglogge – Tour through the Clock Tower
At number 1, this tour takes you inside Bern’s most famous landmark, the Zytglogge. For just $24, you spend an hour exploring the 13th-century clock tower, including its intricate clockwork and a captivating puppet show. The guide explains how this UNESCO World Heritage site has kept time for over 700 years, with a special focus on the clock’s golden mechanisms. The view from the tower’s top offers a panoramic look over Bern’s rooftops and, on clear days, the Alps in the distance. Reviewers highlight the “knowledgeable guide” and “fascinating inside look at the clock’s workings,” making this a top pick for history lovers and mechanical enthusiasts alike. The tour is a quick but immersive way to connect with Bern’s medieval past. Bottom line: a must for anyone curious about historic engineering and stunning city views, perfect for an hour of cultural insight.
2. Bern: 90-Minute Stroll Through the Old Town
Number 2 on our list offers a lively introduction to Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. For $30, your guide will lead you through fountains, towers, and quaint streets, ending at the famous Clock Tower where a fascinating hourly show takes place. The highlight is the late Gothic Cathedral, featuring a stunning portal and depictions of the Last Judgment. This 1.5-hour guided walk is praised for its engaging storytelling and humor, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Reviewers appreciate the “clear explanations” and “beautiful scenery,” with many feeling they gained a genuine appreciation of Bern’s architecture and history. The tour’s balance of landmarks and local stories makes it a great value. Bottom line: a lively, well-paced way to get your bearings and see Bern’s most iconic sights.
3. Bern: The Best Walking Tour with a Local Guide
For $38, this 2-hour guided walking tour offers a detailed exploration with a local guide who shares stories and legends about Bern. It covers major sights like the Berner Münster and Bundeshaus, along with lesser-known spots such as the Bear Park. The tour includes panoramic views of the Aare River and the surrounding hills, plus a close-up look at Bern’s astronomical clock. The reviews highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and rich knowledge, with one saying, “our guide did a fantastic job explaining everything.” This tour is perfect if you want a personalized experience and love learning about local lore. It’s an excellent way for history buffs and those seeking an informative yet relaxed walk. Bottom line: a comprehensive, friendly tour that covers the city’s highlights with personal touches.
4. Bern: Chocolate Tasting Tour
Number 4 features a two-hour exploration of Bern’s chocolate scene, starting at the Käfigturm. For around $50, you’ll taste at Switzerland’s best chocolatier, sample regional chocolates, and learn about Bern’s sweet history. The tour combines a guided walk of the Old Town with visits to several chocolate shops, finishing at the Münsterplatz with a tasting of local confections. Felix, the guide, is praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge. It’s a delicious way to see Bern through its culinary lens, especially for foodies. Reviewers mention how the tour “really brought Bern’s food culture to life,” and how the chocolate tastings are plentiful and varied. Bottom line: ideal for chocolate lovers and those wanting a tasty, relaxed introduction to Bern’s culinary traditions.
5. Jungfraujoch Top of Europe and Region Private Tour from Bern
This private 8.5-hour day trip offers a seamless journey to “the Top of Europe” with organized logistics. For $1,127, your guide handles train tickets, hotel pickup, and regional tastings. Travel from Bern through Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Kleine Scheidegg, with impressive views from the Eiger Express and the Jungfraujoch train. Highlights include photo stops at Staubbach Falls and free exploration time in Interlaken. The tour is praised for its smooth organization and knowledgeable guide sharing stories about the Bernese Oberland. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free experience of the Alps. One reviewer describes it as “a day packed with stunning scenery and easy logistics.” Bottom line: a luxurious, all-in-one excursion ideal for those with a full day to explore the mountains.
6. Bern: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide (Private tour)
For $85 per person, this customizable private tour lets you choose what interests you most. The guide adapts the itinerary, covering highlights like the Bernese Minster and Bärenpark, plus hidden spots like secret fountains. Tours can last from 2 to 8 hours, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule. Reviewers say guides like Martin and Willi are “knowledgeable and engaging,” making personal connections along the way. This tour is great if you want a tailored experience or have specific interests like local parks or off-the-beaten-path locations. Bottom line: a flexible, private option perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, in-depth look at Bern.
7. Gruyères Medieval Town, Cheese Factory and Maison Cailler Tour from Bern
This full-day tour offers a Swiss culinary and medieval experience. For $420, it includes train rides, visits to the Gruyères cheese factory, and Maison Cailler chocolate factory, plus free time in the medieval Gruyères town. Highlights include tasting Gruyère cheese, exploring the castle, and sampling chocolates at the factory. Guests rave about how the day “felt like a fairy tale,” with the scenic train rides adding to the magic. It offers good value considering the length and variety, especially for those interested in Swiss food and castles. Bottom line: a tasty, scenic day perfect for food lovers and history fans alike.
8. Bern: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
At $85, this private tour is ideal if you prefer a shorter, focused experience. Guides like Hector and Willi share their local insights while showing you Bern’s main sights, including hidden fountains and parks. The tour lasts 2-3 hours and is praised for its engaging storytelling and flexibility. If you want a quick, personalized introduction to Bern’s streets and secrets, this is a good pick. Reviewers mention the guide’s “knowledgeable” and “friendly” approach. Bottom line: a compact, private tour for those who want a quick yet meaningful city overview.
9. Chocolate and Liquor Fun in Bern with Tasting
This 2.5-hour experience combines Bern’s sweet and spirited side. For about $60, you visit the Matte distillery for a liquor tasting and walk through Bern’s Old Town sampling chocolates. Felix’s enthusiasm and the variety of tastings stand out. Reviewers describe it as “educational and delicious,” perfect for foodies who want a mix of culture and confections. The tour ends with a cocktail or spirits tasting, making it a lively, flavorful experience. Bottom line: great for those wanting a fun, tasting-focused introduction to Bern’s culinary scene.
10. Exploring Bern City: Swiss Capital Private Walking Half-Day Tour
This flexible 3-4 hour private tour costs around $275 and lets you customize your route, choosing from top sights like the Rose Garden, Albert Einstein’s home, or hidden parks. Guides like Christian and Peter are praised for their friendly approach and storytelling. Ideal for visitors who want to tailor their sightseeing, it gives you control over what to see and do. Reviewers appreciate the “personalized attention” and “beautiful spots” that you won’t find in a standard tour. Bottom line: best suited for travelers with specific interests and more time to explore Bern at their own pace.
11. Bern: Mountain & Lake Helicopter Flight for 2 or 3 People
For $1,448, up to 3 people can soar above Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps for 26 minutes. The helicopter ride offers spectacular views of Lake Thun, Stockhorn Mountain, and nearby castles, with photos provided afterward. Passengers rave about the “stunning scenery” and the “professional pilot,” making this a memorable splurge. It’s perfect if you crave a thrill and want the best aerial views from a helicopter. The flight is short but packed with breathtaking sights. Bottom line: a once-in-a-lifetime experience for small groups who want to see the Alps from above.
12. Bern: Private 42-Minute Swiss Alps Helicopter Flight
This exclusive helicopter tour for groups of up to 3 costs around $2,255 for 42 minutes of flight time. You’ll get up close to iconic peaks like Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Passengers describe the experience as “utterly breathtaking,” with the professional pilot providing insightful commentary. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an extraordinary adventure and panoramic views that few get to see. Keep in mind it’s a sizable investment, but for many, the up-close mountain views and exclusive access justify the cost. Bottom line: ultimate helicopter experience for those who want the best views and privacy.
13. Gruyères, Cheese Factory & Maison Cailler Day Trip from Bern
Finally, this full-day tour combines Swiss cheese-making and chocolate tasting with a visit to the medieval Gruyères. For $316, you travel by train, visit the Cheese Factory, explore the castle, and enjoy free time in the charming town. The Maison Cailler chocolate factory adds a sweet ending. Reviewers mention that the “views were beautiful,” and the experience felt like “walking into a fairy tale.” It’s a well-rounded day for lovers of Swiss food and scenery. Bottom line: fantastic for travelers wanting a complete culinary and cultural experience in a single day.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a quick cultural fix, the Zytglogge Tour offers history and stunning views in an hour. If you love personalized experiences, the Private Walking Tours or Half-Day Private give you flexibility and insider tips. Foodies should check out the Chocolate Tasting Tour, while adventure seekers with a special budget might splurge on the Helicopter Flights or Jungfraujoch. For those interested in Swiss culinary traditions, the Cheese and Chocolate Factory Tours are unbeatable.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular Jungfraujoch trips and helicopter flights, which fill quickly during peak seasons. Think about your physical fitness—most city tours require minimal walking, but mountain excursions may demand more stamina.
Final Thoughts
Bern offers a surprising variety of tours—from quick city explorations and private custom walks to scenic mountain flights. For history buffs, the Zytglogge and Old Town tours are perfect, while food lovers will appreciate the Chocolate and Cheese & Chocolate experiences. For thrill-seekers, the helicopter rides offer unforgettable views.
No matter what kind of adventure you’re after, Bern has something to make your visit memorable. Many tours book up in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot—and enjoy every moment in this charming Swiss capital.