Trains from Zurich to Bern

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable train journey from Zurich to Bern? This picturesque route will take you through the heart of Switzerland, showcasing stunning landscapes, charming towns, and the country's rich culture. Get ready for a captivating experience that will leave you in awe.

The journey from Zurich to Bern is relatively short, with a duration of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The main stations for this route are Zurich Hauptbahnhof and Bern Hauptbahnhof, easily accessible and well-equipped to serve passengers. As you leave Zurich, the train sweeps through the Swiss countryside, offering glimpses of lush green meadows, rolling hills, and snow-capped mountains.

During your journey, you'll pass by several notable cities and towns. A standout is Lucerne, a charming city known for its picturesque lake and iconic wooden chapel bridge. Another noteworthy stop is Thun, a scenic town situated on the banks of the Aare River, famous for its medieval old town and imposing castle. Each stop along the way allows for a quick glimpse into the unique character and beauty of these Swiss destinations.

As you approach Bern, prepare to be enchanted by this vibrant capital city. Bern is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its iconic clock tower, charming arcades, and majestic Bern Cathedral. The city also offers an array of museums, including the Zytglogge Museum and the Bern Historical Museum, providing insights into Swiss history and culture.

The most iconic item you'll find at the departure point in Zurich is the famous Swiss precision and efficiency. Zurich Hauptbahnhof epitomizes these Swiss qualities, offering a well-organized and clean infrastructure, making your journey comfortable and seamless. Upon arrival in Bern, you'll be greeted by the grandeur of Bern Hauptbahnhof, a stunning railway station that perfectly complements the city's historical charm.

In conclusion, traveling by train from Zurich to Bern is not only convenient but also an enchanting experience. The picturesque Swiss countryside, the charming towns along the way, and the captivating city of Bern make this journey a must-do for any traveler. So sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Switzerland on this unforgettable train adventure.

Zurich, the beautiful capital city of Switzerland, is a paradise for anyone looking to explore a stunning mix of historical and architectural sites. From its sparkling lakes and its scenic hills to its cobbled streets and old bridges, Zurich offers a wide range of attractions for tourists of all tastes and budgets. Here are seven of the most popular must-visit sites in Zurich. 

The Old Town (Altstadt): Dating back to the 12th century, this medieval old city offers a wealth of colorful old houses, winding lanes, bustling squares, and picturesque gothic churches. Take an afternoon to explore this area and marvel in its beauty. Its narrow streets are full of shops, galleries, and restaurants, providing the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Grossmünster: Located in the heart of Zurich, Grossmünster is an iconic Romanesque-style church dating back to the 11th century. With its impressive twin towers, it is considered the symbol of the city. Entrance is free, and it is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.

Uetliberg: With its striking summit of 871m, Uetliberg offers one of the most breathtaking views of Zurich. The mountain can be accessed by train or cable car, and it is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the views of the city. There are several trails of different difficulty levels, making Uetliberg the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

Fraumünster: Located next to the Grossmünster, Fraumünster is a beautiful gothic church dating from the 14th century. Visitors can admire its intricate stained glass windows, designed by renowned painter, Augusto Giacometti. Its entrance is free, and it is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Zurich Zoo: The Zurich Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is home to over 400 species of animals, from exotic birds to playful monkeys. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm, and admission fees start at CHF13 for adults and CHF7 for children.

Lindenhof: Located within the Old Town, the Lindenhof offers some of the best views of the city and its stunning lake. It is a great spot for admiring the sunset, and it is also a popular place for jogging and relaxing. Entrance is free, and it is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Rathaus (Town Hall): Built in 1694, the Rathaus is an impressive baroque building located in the main square of the city. It is a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture. Entrance is free, and it is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

When visiting Zurich, don’t forget to try some of its delicious local specialties such as Rosti, fondue, or apple-pie. With its beautiful scenery and rich cultural and historical attractions, Zurich is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

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!