From Zurich/Lucerne: Berne Capital and Countryside Day-Trip

Planning a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne that captures both Switzerland’s picturesque landscapes and its charming cities? This small-group tour to Bern, Switzerland’s capital, offers an authentic taste of Swiss rural life combined with a walk through the UNESCO-listed Old Town. It’s a busy day, but one that packs in more than enough highlights to justify the price of $280 per person.

What makes this tour really stand out are three things: the scenic drives through Emmental and Entlebuch Valleys, the guided walk of Bern’s historic Old Town, and the cheese and biscuit tastings that allow you to sample Swiss delicacies in their natural settings. That said, a potential drawback for some travelers is the full itinerary, which means long hours on the road and in busy sites.

This trip is perfect for those who love a good mix of nature, culture, and food — especially if you’re short on time but eager for an immersive Swiss experience. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to see a lot in one day without the hassle of planning each step themselves.

Key Points

• Scenic drives highlight Switzerland’s beautiful countryside, especially the Emmental and Entlebuch Valleys.
• Small group size (limited to 15) allows for a more personalized experience.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and take care of logistics.
• Authentic tastes of Swiss biscuits and Emmental cheese make the experience memorable.
• Bern’s Old Town offers a walk through cobbled streets, historic architecture, and views of the River Aare.
• Goodie bag of local products helps extend the experience even after the trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Swiss Day in Bern and Surroundings

This tour delivers a well-rounded Swiss experience—combining outdoor scenery, historic charm, and culinary delights—within a comfortable 9.5 to 10.5 hours. From the moment you step into the air-conditioned minibus, you’re transported into a landscape filled with rolling hills, farmhouses, and alpine vistas.

The Scenic Drive Through Peninsulas of Nature

The journey begins with a drive through Entlebuch Valley, Switzerland’s first UNESCO Biosphere reserve. The landscape here is captivating—moors, forests, and mountains stretching into the distance. You’re likely to find yourself snapping photos of the lush scenery and farmsteads dotting the hillsides.

Next, the route takes you through Emmental Valley, famous for its iconic red-roofed farmhouses and, of course, its cheese. Reviewers have consistently praised the scenery, with one noting, “Drive via the countryside was truly breathtaking.” The views of grazing cows, green pastures, and the distant triple peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are enough to make you forget the long hours in the bus.

A Sweet Stop at Kambly Experience

Once in Trubschachen, the highlight is the Kambly Biscuit Experience. This isn’t just a factory tour; it’s a chance to indulge in as many biscuits as you like. The guide explains the history of Switzerland’s well-known biscuit brand, and you can sample a variety of flavors—some reviewers have mentioned tasting over 60 different options.

The interactive biscuit-making demonstration is surprisingly engaging, with master confectioners at work behind glass walls. You’ll learn about the craftsmanship behind the biscuits and sample different varieties, making this stop a true treat for your sweet tooth.

Walking Tour of Bern’s Old Town

Arriving in Bern, you’ll participate in a guided walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town. The guide will point out some of the main sights: the late Gothic Münster Cathedral, with its soaring spire, and the characteristic arcades lining the streets. The Zytglogge clock tower is a must-see, with its animated figurines and historic clock.

One reviewer mentions, “Our guide Franz was very accommodating and made sure we were informed of activities and delays.” The guided walk is quite informative, with many reviewers appreciating the wealth of facts about Bern’s history and architecture.

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Leisure Time and Lunch Options

You’ll have some time at leisure for lunch and shopping. Although the tour doesn’t include food, the locality offers plenty of options, and you can enjoy local cafes or pick up souvenirs in the shops. Some travelers mention that spending an hour at the cathedral’s viewing platform provides a stunning city view, though others note that it’s a bit of a climb (spiral stairs).

Emmental Cheese Farm and Cheese Tasting

In the afternoon, it’s time for a visit to an Emmental dairy farm. Here, the focus is on the cheese that has become a global symbol of Switzerland. The show dairy features an audiovisual presentation that explains cheese-making history and techniques. You’ll see the gigantic wheels of cheese in the cellar, and—best of all—you get to taste different ages of Emmental cheese, from 4 months to 30 months.

Reviewers rave about this part of the tour, with one describing it as “a fun, animatronic/multimedia tour, followed by tasting of Emmentaler aged 4, 8, 12, and 30 months,” which really highlights how the flavor evolves with age.

Panoramic View Over the Alps

Before heading back, the coach makes a quick stop for photos of the green hills of Emmental and the distant peaks of the Bernese Alps. The view of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau is a favorite among many, especially if the weather cooperates.

Return and Goodie Bag

On the way back, you’ll be handed a goodie bag filled with local Swiss products, extending the taste experience beyond the day. The reviews highlight this as a lovely, thoughtful touch, with one traveler noting, “Collected a goodie bag full of Swiss delicacies, which was a pleasant surprise.”

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is comfortably arranged in a modern, air-conditioned minibus with WiFi, keeping the journey smooth and connected. The group is limited to 15 participants, which means more interaction with the guide and less crowding—perfect for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts around 9.5 to 10.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day. It starts and ends at designated meeting points, which may vary, so checking your booking details is essential. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility to travelers unsure of final plans.

Cost and Value

At $280 per person, the price includes guided transportation, expert commentary, tastings, and a goodie bag. Considering the inclusions, especially the cheese and biscuit tastings, plus the guided walk in Bern, this is good value for a comprehensive day trip.

What to Keep in Mind

While the trip offers a lot, it’s not ideal for children under 6 or travelers in wheelchairs, given the walking involved and access limitations. Also, lunch and beverages aren’t included, so budget extra time and money for meals.

What Reviewers Say

• “Our guide Franz was very accommodating and made sure we were informed of activities and delays,” notes one traveler, highlighting the professionalism of the guiding team.
• “The drive via the countryside was breathtaking,” praises another, emphasizing the scenic value.
• Several reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the delicious food tastings as standout features.
• One reviewer shared that the small group size made the experience more personal, and the guide was “very friendly and knowledgeable.”

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day trip offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, historic charm, and culinary delights. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time in Switzerland without sacrificing authenticity. The small group atmosphere and expert guides ensure an engaging experience, while the stops at Bern’s Old Town, biscuit factory, and cheese farm make for memorable moments.

If you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature lover eager to see the Swiss countryside and sample local treats, this tour will satisfy your craving for both adventure and flavor. The price reflects the inclusions and the personalized care, making it a smart choice for those wanting a comprehensive Swiss day trip.

While it’s a long day, the variety of activities and stunning landscapes make it worthwhile. Just pack comfortable shoes, a camera, and your curiosity — you’ll come away with a richer understanding of what makes Switzerland special.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 to 10.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Where does the tour start and end?
Meeting points vary depending on your booking, but the tour begins with a pickup from Zurich or Lucerne and finishes back at the same location.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll have time to find your own meal in Bern after the guided walk.

What is included in the price?
Guided transportation, a guided walk of Bern’s Old Town, biscuit tasting at Kambly, cheese farm visit and tasting, a goodie bag of Swiss products, and a multilingual guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, and wheelchair accessibility isn’t specified, so check with the provider if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and a camera for the scenic views.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour is focused on tastings of biscuits and cheese, but specific dietary needs aren’t mentioned—best to prepare accordingly.

Is WiFi available during the trip?
Yes, the minibus is equipped with WiFi for your convenience.

This Bern day trip from Zurich or Lucerne delivers a well-rounded, authentic Swiss experience packed into one memorable day. Whether you’re into historical sights, scenic landscapes, or delicious local food, it’s a tour that balances all those elements beautifully.

You can check availability for your dates here: