Trains from Montreux to Bern

Journey from Montreux to Bern on a train is an amazing experience, taking only around an hour. The steep valley and snow-capped Alps make this trip picturesque and it's a great way to take in the spectacular Swiss landscape. The trip covers a distance of around 54km and you will pass through the main cities of Gruyeres, Bulle, and Fribourg.

Departing from Montreux, the most iconic item you will see is the glorious Lake Geneva in all its splendor. As the train traverses the countryside, you'll also pass by some other stunning towns, including Chateau-d'Oex, Saanen and Gstaad.

The journey ends at the main station in Bern, where you will be greeted by the turquoise Aare River and the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Be sure to check out the gothic Zytglogge Tower and the beautiful Bear Pit, the symbol of the city, located just off the station.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular traveler, this journey is sure to be a memorable experience. So sit back, relax and enjoy the ride as you take in the incredible scenery of Switzerland.

Montreux, Switzerland is an idyllic lake town in the Swiss Alps, renowned for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant cultural life. Whether you want to relax or explore, a visit to Montreux promises an unforgettable experience. Here's a list of must-visit historical and architectural sites when you travel to Montreux: 

Château de Chillon: Located on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by majestic mountains, the Château de Chillon is a stunning medieval castle. Originally built in the 12th century, it was a residence of the counts of Savoy for centuries. It features a museum, a chapel, a fortress, and a courtyard with beautiful flowers and trees. Open daily 9:30am to 6pm and entrance fees for adults are CHF 14. Pro tip: visit the courtyard at night to experience the castle lit up by floodlights. 

Hôtel de Ville: Stroll through the old town of Montreux and admire the majestic 19th century town hall. The Hôtel de Ville is an architectural masterpiece with neo-classical designs and wrought iron balconies. It's located in the center of town, close to the Riviera-Promenade, and open for visitors Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm. Entrance is free. 

Église Saint-François de Sales: Located in the upper part of the old town, this 18th century Baroque church is a sight to behold. Its imposing size, majestic façade, and interior adorned with gold-leafed decorations and frescoes will take your breath away. It is open daily and at no cost. 

Ferris Wheel: Take a romantic ride up to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of Lake Geneva. The Ferris wheel is open daily 9am to midnight, with tickets costing CHF 8. Stop by the kiosk near the Riviera-Promenade for tickets and to experience the ride. 

Montreux Jazz Festival: If you visit in the summer, don't miss the jazz festival, a two-week long event full of great music performances. Held in July-August, entry tickets cost CHF 45 for a day pass. Pro tip: Make sure to reserve tickets in advance. 

Christmas Market: If you visit during the winter, be sure to explore the city's Christmas Market. It's a magical place with delicious treats, decorations, and holiday-themed activities. It's open from the end of November to the beginning of January and entry is free. 

Les Pléiades: Don't miss out on the delicious food in Montreux. Les Pléiades is a small café in the old town, serving traditional Swiss dishes like Raclette and Fondue. Open daily 11am to 11pm, with a menu of traditional food and affordable prices. 

From stunning lakeside views to captivating historical sites, Montreux has something for every traveler. There's no wrong way to experience this amazing Swiss city — just make sure to bring your camera and a good appetite!

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, combines stunning nature, interesting history, and sophisticated city life. It has something for everyone, be it culture, music, theater, gastronomy, or shopping. Here's a list of some of the must-visit historical and architectural sites and what to eat for anyone planning a trip to Bern.

The Zytglogge: this iconic tower was built in the 13th century and served as a clock tower, guard tower, and even a prison. Its turreted facade and intricate dial are striking and can be seen from many spots in the city. Location: Kornhausplatz; Hours: 10 am to 5 pm; Entrance fees: CHF 6; Insider tip: The clock tower features a dramatic puppet show four times a day, from Tuesday to Sunday.

The Federal Palace: This palace has been the seat of the Swiss government since 1848. Its impressive neo-Renaissance building is a must-see for any visitor. Located at the Bundesplatz, it offers a tour of some of its interior. Hours: 9 am to 5 pm; Entrance fees: free; Insider tip: Make sure to head to the unicameral parliament room that has been left unchanged since the 19th century.

The Munster Cathedral, or Cathedral of St. Vincent, is one of the most important religious buildings in Bern. It dates back to the 12th century and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Location: Münsterplatz; Hours: 10 am to 5 pm; Entrance fees: free; Insider tip: Climb the tower to enjoy a stunning view of the city and the Alps.

The Bear Pits: a visit to Bern isn't complete without a stop at these historic bear pits. Originally built in the 16th century, it is currently home to two bears. Location: Nydeggbrücke; Hours: 6 am to 10 pm; Entrance fees: free.

Old Town: This historic neighborhood has been preserved almost intact since the Middle Ages. It's a great place to shop and also offers a variety of restaurants and cafes. Hours: all day (various opening times for restaurants and shops).

The Einstein Museum: this museum is dedicated to Albert Einstein and his time in Bern, where he developed the Theory of Relativity. Location: Kramgasse 49; Hours: 10 am to 5 pm; Entrance fees: CHF 10.

The Gurten: the Gurten is a large hill outside of the city and offers breathtaking views of the Alps. It's a great place for a picnic or to take a leisurely walk. Location: 30 minutes from Bern's city center by bus or tram; Hours: all day; Entrance fees: free.

In addition to these must-visit sites, don't forget to enjoy some of Bern’s finest cuisine. Typical dishes to try include rosti, fondue, zürcher geschnetzeltes, bratwurst, and Swiss chocolates.

No trip to Bern is complete without visiting the many sites the city has to offer – both historical and architectural – as well as indulging in some of its delicious local cuisine. Whether you're in the city for a day or a week, there is something for everyone to enjoy and discover. Bon voyage!