Brews & Views – Bern Old Town & Craft Beer Walking Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Bern and want to combine sightseeing with a true taste of local culture, the Brews & Views tour promises an authentic experience. This guided walk through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town offers an opportunity to see Bern’s most famous landmarks while sampling some of the city’s best craft beers. What makes this tour stand out is its intimate size, relaxed pace, and focus on discovering hidden gems that most visitors often miss.

We love that this experience is centered around local flavor, both in the scenic sights and the beer selection. The tour’s small group size—maximum six people—creates a cozy, informal atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection. The focus on authentic Bernese culture combined with the chance to taste a variety of beers makes it an excellent choice for those who want more than just a sightseeing walk.

One point to keep in mind is that the tour is more about enjoying the ambiance and beverages rather than a deep historical dive. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a laid-back, social experience rather than intense educational content. If you’re after a structured history lesson, you might want to supplement this tour with a more in-depth guide, but for casual explorers, this hits the spot.

Overall, Brews & Views suits those seeking a relaxed, fun way to explore Bern while sampling local craft beers and discovering its charming streets with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
• Authentic local culture through Bern’s iconic sights and hidden alleyways
• Tasty craft beers served in cozy basement bars and historic venues
• Flexible and inclusive for travelers who enjoy a casual, social outing
• Beautiful scenery including landmarks like the Zytglogge and Berner Münster
• Accessible for most travelers with a basic fitness level and comfortable shoes

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Engaging Tour Through Bern’s Historic Heart

We start at Bern Main Station, in front of the “Drinks of the World” shop, setting the tone for a relaxed exploration. From here, the tour takes us through some of Bern’s most recognizable sights with plenty of time to take photos, ask questions, or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Käfigturm and Bundesplatz come first—these are not only historic landmarks but also lively squares where Bernese life unfolds. From the Bundesplatz, you get a stunning view of the Bundeshaus (Federal Palace), where Swiss political drama plays out. The guide offers just enough context about Bern’s political landscape without turning it into a heavy lecture, making it accessible and engaging.

Next, we visit Zytglogge, Bern’s medieval clock tower. It’s not only a striking piece of architecture but also a symbol of Bern’s long-standing history. The guide shares stories behind its clockwork mechanisms, adding a layer of interest to the view. Visitors often comment on how the guide’s enthusiasm makes these landmarks come alive, making history approachable and fun.

From there, we meander through narrow backstreets and sandstone arcades, which lead to Berner Münster. Standing at Switzerland’s tallest cathedral, you’ll appreciate its grand presence and intricate details. While not part of a formal tour of the cathedral itself, the walk provides context about Bern’s medieval roots and the city’s architectural charm.

Exploring Bern’s Living Nature and Riverside Charm

The journey continues to Bärenpark, Bern’s famous bear sanctuary, where the city’s symbol is alive and well. The views here are peaceful and offer a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The guide explains the significance of the bears in Bern’s identity, making this stop both scenic and culturally meaningful.

The final part of the walk takes us into the Mattequartier, an historic riverside district. Once a hub for tanners and blacksmiths, this area oozes old-world charm. Here, you really get a sense of how Bern’s history has shaped its modern character.

Hidden Basement Bars and Craft Beer Sampling

What truly elevates this tour are the visits into Bern’s lesser-known basement bars, which exude authentic local flair. These cozy vaults, often centuries old, set the perfect scene for tasting the city’s craft beer scene. Each venue is carefully chosen to showcase a variety of styles—from smooth lagers to bold IPAs.

The beer tasting is included—three drinks in total—giving you a chance to compare flavors and find your favorite. Guides often recommend pairing your beers with light snacks or simply enjoying them in the company of fellow travelers. Reviewers have mentioned that the experience “feels like visiting friends’ cozy cellars” and that the conversations are lively and enjoyable.

The relaxed pace and intimate size foster genuine conversations, so don’t be surprised if you get some insider tips on Bern’s best cafes, restaurants, or hidden spots to explore after the tour.

Practical Details and Value

This 2.5 to 3-hour tour covers about 4 km, making it manageable for most fitness levels, especially with comfortable shoes. The small group size enhances the overall experience, allowing the guide—whose knowledge and enthusiasm shine—to tailor the attention and answer all your questions.

At $99 per person, the tour offers excellent value. It includes the guided walk and the three drinks—no hidden costs or extra charges. You just show up, enjoy, and learn about Bern through a local’s eyes. Keep in mind, food and other drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some extra cash or plan to explore additional places afterward.

The tour is available in English, French, and German, making it accessible for a range of travelers. Booking is flexible—pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours before—adding to its convenience.

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What You Won’t Get (and That’s Okay)

Since the focus is on the casual, authentic experience, it isn’t suitable for children under 16, wheelchair users, or those with gluten intolerance. This keeps the group small and engaged but might limit accessibility for some travelers.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurers who value local culture, authentic experiences, and relaxed social atmospheres. If you’re a craft beer lover or curious about Bern’s hidden corners, you’ll especially enjoy the visits to basement bars and lesser-known alleyways. It’s also perfect for those who prefer small-group tours over large, busier excursions, as it fosters better conversations and a more personalized feel.

While it doesn’t dive deeply into Bern’s history or architecture, it offers a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction to the city’s soul—blending scenic landmarks with the conviviality of local craft beers.

If you’re seeking a guided experience that’s fun, intimate, and tasty, Brews & Views ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
This tour is designed for a basic fitness level, involving about 4 km of walking. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility concerns should consider this before booking.

Are the beers included in the price?
Yes, the tour covers three drinks, served during visits to basement bars and venues along the route. No additional drinks are included.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since the tour revolves around tasting craft beers, non-drinkers might find it less suited to their preferences. You might want to explain this when booking, as the experience is centered on sampling local brews.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be walking about 4 km over about 2.5 to 3 hours. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if rain is forecast.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour is offered in English, French, and German, making it accessible to a diverse range of travelers.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Where exactly does the tour start and end?
It begins at Bern Main Station, in front of the “Drinks of the World” shop, and ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan your day.

To sum it up, the Brews & Views tour presents a fantastic way to see Bern through a local’s eyes—blending iconic sights, lesser-known alleys, and the city’s spirited craft beer scene. Its intimate size, friendly guides, and authentic venues make it a memorable addition to any Bern itinerary. Perfect for relaxed explorers, craft beer enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of Bern’s genuine character—this tour offers a fun, flavorful, and laid-back adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: