6-Day Switzerland Itinerary: Exploring The Canton of Bern
This post might have affiliate links. This means we could earn a small commission if you make a qualifying purchase. No additional cost to you. More info: Disclosure
As a wanderer, Switzerland has a special place in my heart. This small country, as a travel destination, has everything that I can ask for. From Switzerland’s rustic alpine villages to its charming wander-worthy cities, my beauty-seeking mind tells me that I can live all my life in this country. And to vividly show you why I’m so obsessed with this country, here’s my 6-day Switzerland itinerary. It’s an itinerary focused in the Canton of Bern—the place in Switzerland that, in my opinion, will make you love this country as well!
You could ask, ‘Isn’t it more exciting to explore various regions of Switzerland?’ Indeed, I won’t deny that! Yet, the awe-inspiring attractions and beautiful scenery found within the Canton of Bern are more than sufficient to offer you an unforgettable time in the country. What’s really great is that you don’t need to travel all over Switzerland to truly experience it. Based on everything that I’ve discovered, just by visiting Bern and the Bernese Oberland (Thun and Interlaken), you’ll capture the heart of what it means to visit this beautiful country.
So, this is the plan for your 6-day Switzerland trip: Spend 2 days in Bern and 4 days in the Bernese Oberland. The first half of the trip is about cultural and historical immersion. The second half is your getaway to the Swiss Alps. The time-transporting arcaded streets of Bern, the magical view of the mountains from Thun Castle, and Lauterbrunnen’s heaven-on-earth scenery are just a few experiences you wouldn’t want to miss!
Good to know
A 4-day Switzerland trip is already sufficient to get a taste of what this country is about as a travel destination. That’s a 1-day visit in Bern, a day trip to Thun or an excursion in Lake Thun from Bern, and a 2-day stay in Lucerne. Oberhofen Castle and Mount Pilatus are included. If you want adventure and experience rustic alpine beauty, a 4-day trip to the Jungfrau Region is recommended. The beautiful places near Interlaken are included there.
Summary of this 6-day Switzerland Itinerary
Outline
-
Day 1 — Bern Kirchenfeld “Museum District”
- Morning: Arrival in Switzerland
- Afternoon: Bern Historical Museum (all year)
- Night: Dinner beside Aare River
-
Day 2 — Old City of Bern
- Whole Day: Old City of Bern
- Night: Rose Garden
-
Day 3 — Gateway to the Bernese Oberland
- Morning and Lunch: Oberhofen Castle
- Afternoon: Thun Old Town and Thun Castle
- Night: Schadau Castle
-
Day 4 — Harder Kulm and Lauterbrunnen Valley
- Morning: Lauterbrunnen
- Lunch: Wengen
- Afternoon: Mürren and Gimmelwald
- Night: Harder Kulm
-
Day 5 — Grindelwald and Männlichen
- Morning: Grindelwald First
- Lunch: Bachalpsee
- Afternoon: Männlichen
- Night: Grindelwald Village
-
Day 6 — Lake Brienz Iseltwald
- Morning: Iseltwald
- Lunch: Steam boat in Lake Brienz
- Afternoon: Bye bye Switzerland
Visual summary of this itinerary
Where to stay in Switzerland for this 6-day trip
One advantage of spending time in Bern and the Bernese Oberland during your 6-day trip to Switzerland is that you can have one base and explore the entire region from there. For example, if you choose Bern as your home base, even the farthest destination, Grindelwald, is no more than 2 hours away.
While you could base yourself in Bern for your entire six-day Swiss adventure, though, it may not be the most cost-effective or efficient option. Instead, consider splitting your time between two home bases: Bern and Interlaken. Both cities offer easy access to all the destinations on your itinerary.
Since you’ll be spending 5 nights in Switzerland, you must have a 3-night accommodation in Bern and 2 nights in Interlaken. Here’s where you can find nice places to stay in Bern and the best hotel deals in Interlaken. You can use SBB.ch (linked in the resources section of this post) to see the fare and travel time between destinations.
When to visit Switzerland for a trip focused in Central Switzerland?
Maximize your Swiss journey by planning your visit during the balmy or summer season, from mid-April through mid-November. You’ll enjoy dry, pleasant weather and unrestricted access to funicular railways, cable cars, and museums, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in all the wonders Switzerland has to offer. Plus, you’ll have the unique opportunity to discover stunning mountaintop locations that are only reachable during this time of year.
Important: Keep in mind that this six-day Swiss itinerary is designed for travel during the warmer months when landmarks, museums, and other attractions are fully accessible. If you’re planning a winter trip, you may need to make some adjustments to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the fun.
Below are the destinations included in this 6-day Switzerland itinerary that may not be available during non-summer months when you visit Switzerland:
-
Oberhofen Castle
- The castle museum of Oberhofen Castle is open only from mid-May to October.
- The garden of Oberhofen Castle is accessible only from 1st April to mid-December.
- Thun Castle – Open only from February to October. Limited opening hours from November to January — open only on Sundays from 1 to 4 pm.
- Harder Kulm — Open only from April to November.
- Bachalpsee — It’s a high-elevation lake that freezes during winter.
- Männlichen (Hiking — Summer; Skiing — Winter)
- Lake Brienz (No lake cruise)
If any of the activities are unavailable during the time you visit Switzerland, remember that you have many alternatives. For instance, the beautiful places near Interlaken, the unmissable activities around Interlaken, and the amazing tourist attractions in Lake Thun. Depending on your budget and desire for adventure, you might not want to miss Tandem Paragliding, Lake Brienz Winter Kayak, Scenic Jet Boat Ride (also in Lake Brienz) or a day trip to Jungfraujoch. The last one, Jungfraujoch, is one of the ultimate destinations in the Jungfrau Region.
Tips for visiting Switzerland
Tip no. 1 — Bring these! Don’t forget to bring the things listed below:
- A pair of hiking shoes. On Day 5, there will be two short hikes (Bachalpsee–First and Männlichen—Kleine Scheidegg). Although these hikes are beginner-friendly and the paths are gravel-paved, I still suggest wearing comfortable hiking shoes for the best experience.
- Warm clothing. On the second part of your 6-day trip to Switzerland, you’ll be visiting high-altitude destinations that typically have lower temperatures. It’s best to bring warm clothing, even in summer, for a cozy sightseeing experience in the Bernese Alps.
- A refillable drinking water bottle. Food and water can be expensive in Switzerland. However, in cities like Bern (and almost everywhere in Switzerland), potable water is free! Bring a refillable bottle to save money on buying bottled water from stores.
You might also want to have an unlimited 4G connection during your Switzerland trip. It’ll come in handy for checking the weather, planning your route on public transportation, and finding your way with Google Maps and other travel apps.
Tip no. 2 — Jungfrau Travel Pass — You may notice that the destinations from Day 4 to Day 6 are all within the Jungfrau Region. Since you’ll be spending 3 days in this area, it’s a good idea to get a Jungfrau Travel Pass. This special pass gives you unlimited access to public transportation (cable cars, trains, and boats) in the Jungfrau Region and can help you save money.
Investing in a 3-day Jungfrau Travel Pass for 190 CHF can save you money in the long run. For instance, in this itinerary, you’ll save approximately 28.3 CHF on transportation costs in the Jungfrau Region compared to paying 218.3 CHF without a pass. It’s a smart choice for savvy travelers!
Below is the break down:
- 64 CHF — Grindelwald First Cable Car
- 64 CHF — Grindelwald-Männlichen
- 34 CHF — Harder Kulm
- 7.6 CHF — Interlaken-Lauterbrunnen (return)
- 11.2 CHF — Interlaken-Grindelwald (return)
- 6.8 CHF — Lauterbrunnen-Wengen (return)
- 22.4 CHF — Lauterbrunnen-Mürren (return)
- 8.3 CHF — Interlaken-Iseltwald (boat)
Learn more about Jungfrau Travel Pass here.
Tip no. 3 — Weather: Visiting Grindelwald and Männlichen is the most weather-dependent part of the itinerary. These destinations are in the mountains and offer some of the most beautiful scenery in Switzerland. You’ll enjoy your time there more if you visit on a clear day with blue skies.
To ensure a worthwhile day in Grindelwald, keep an eye on the weather forecast. If the forecast for Day 4 is fantastic, consider swapping your visit to Harder Kulm and Lauterbrunnen Valley with Grindelwald and Männlichen.
Before heading to Grindelwald, take a peek at the live mountain views (see the link in the resources). If the stunning scenery at Bachalpsee and Männlichen is hidden by clouds, it may not be worth the trip. Use the live view to help you decide if it’s a good day to visit these breathtaking viewpoints.
Tip no. 4 — Use Public Transportation: Although traveling by car in Switzerland can be convenient, I wouldn’t recommend it because most of the destinations on this itinerary don’t require a car to reach. Most importantly, the public transportation system in Switzerland is among the best in the world. It’s an unmissable experience, especially for travelers coming from developing countries (like me).
Tip no. 5 — Arrival in Switzerland: There are several ways to get to Switzerland. You can drive, fly, or take one of the European long-distance high-speed trains that connect other European cities with Swiss cities. If you’re flying in, Zurich is a good choice for your arrival point. From Zurich, you can take a single 1-hour train ride directly from the airport to Bern, the first destination on this itinerary.
Alternatively, you can also fly to Basel or Geneva. From Basel, there’s a 1-hour direct train ride to Bern. From Geneva, it’s a 2-hour train journey with a transfer to Lausanne.
Day 1 — Bern, Kirchenfeld District
Summary
- Arrive in Switzerland early in the morning to maximize your first day.
- Reach Bern by late morning and find your hotel.
- Relax in a cafe or have lunch in a restaurant before visiting the city’s tourist attractions in the afternoon.
- Visit Kirchenfeld, one of the districts of Bern, south of the Old City.
- Explore the “Museum District of Bern” which houses several museums.
- Spend 3 to 4 hours at the Bern Historical Museum.
- Have dinner at the Swiss Restaurant Terrasse, located in Dalmaziquai.
- Experience the nightlife at Bern Grand Casino (optional).
Full details: 1st Day in Switzerland
We start your 6-day journey in Bern because it’s here that you can get a lasting, beautiful impression of Switzerland. Bern is one of the most gorgeous Swiss cities, and its Old City, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can explain why. Beautifully planned and preserved, the Old City of Bern, dating back to the 12th century, is absolutely a must-see place. Its gorgeous architectural attractions, notable landmarks, charming streets, and picture-perfect views will amazingly introduce Switzerland to you.
Bern is worth exploring, but it’s not only about sightseeing. As the capital of Switzerland, Bern also houses fascinating museums that provide insights not only into the history of Bern and Switzerland but also into many parts of the world.
To maximize your first day in Switzerland, I suggest arriving in Switzerland early in the morning. This way, you can reach Bern by late morning and still have enough time to find your hotel and relax in a cafe or have savored lunch in a restaurant before visiting the city’s tourist attractions in the afternoon.
Arriving in Bern by train, any traveler would be instantly enticed to wander because the train station lies literally a few steps from Bern’s Old City. Like, the street directly east of Bern Bahnhof is Spitalgasse which is one of the main central streets of the Old City.
However, I don’t recommend exploring the Old City of Bern yet during your Day 1 in Switzerland. Because you need an entire day to fully explore the Old City of Bern in a relaxing, more enjoyable, and “all-beautiful-things” discovered way. Instead, for Day 1, Kirchenfeld is your destination in Bern.
Kirchenfeld is one of the districts of Bern, south of the Old City. The Old City and Kirchenfeld are separated by the turquoise Aare River and are connected by a scenic bridge called Kirchenfeldbrücke. Getting to Kirchenfeld is very simple if you’re currently in Bern Bahnhof or in the Old City of Bern. It’s a walking distance, but if you don’t like walking, you can hop on bus #19 or trams #7 and #8 and then alight in Helvetiaplatz.
People call Kirchenfeld the “Museum District of Bern” because it’s home to several museums which are literally a few steps away from each other. Here are the museums and galleries which await you in Kirchenfeld:
- Bern Historical Museum
- Einstein Museum
- Bern Natural History Museum
- Museum of Communication
- Museo Svizzero del Tiro
- Alpine Museum of Switzerland
- Kunsthalle Bern
The official websites of these museums are linked at the resources section of this post. Please check them to learn more.
Among the museums in Kirchenfeld, the best two museums are the Bern Historical Museum and the Museum of Communication. They’re the two museums I always recommend whenever my friends ask me which museum they shouldn’t miss when they visit Bern. I also recommend them for travelers staying in Bern for 2 days.
But between the two, Bern Historical Museum is the one I recommend most. It’s the museum inside a castle-like building in Kirchenfeld, holding more than half a million artifacts from everywhere about history, archaeology, and ethnography. Of course, you can also discover a plethora of things about Bern and Switzerland at the Bern Historical Museum. From Bern’s Golden Age to the luxurious lives of late medieval princes and the splendor of Bern’s silver treasury, this museum is jam-packed with fascinating discoveries.
What makes the Bern Historical Museum more interesting? An entire floor is dedicated to Einstein (Einstein Museum). Visiting it, you’ll learn so much about the life of the genius that changed the world and the theories he developed.
Overall, It can take 3 to 4 hours to fully see every part of the Bern Historical Museum. If you start at 1 in the afternoon, you can see the museum entirely until its closing time at 5 pm.
After visiting the Bern Historical Museum, it must be time for dinner. I recommend you try dining in the Swiss Restaurant Terrasse, located in Dalmaziquai (riverside path along the banks of the Aare River) below Kirchenfeldbrücke. It’s a restaurant in Kirchenfeld with a view of the Old City of Bern from the banks of the Aare River. If available, take the table at the far corner of the restaurant. It’s the premier spot with 180-degree views of the Aare River.
To get to Terrasse Swiss Restaurant, proceed to the back of the Alpine Museum of Switzerland. There, you can find a path called Feldeggweg which ends at the banks of River Aare. You should see a bridge (Dalmazibrücke) at the end of Feldeggweg. Turn right to Dalmaziquai and continue walking until you reach Terrasse restaurant.
If you aren’t tired yet after a whole day of traveling and exploring museums, you might like to get an idea of how nightlife happens in Bern.
For 10 CHF, you can enter Bern Grand Casino and see a different picture of the city. Important: please see the resources section of this post for General Terms and conditions before going inside the casino. I don’t recommend gambling, though! Instead, just wander instead through its impressive chandelier-lit hall, glamorous foyer, and games room. Bern Grand Casino also has a Bar and Restaurant (Crazy Daisy Kitchen Bar) where you can buy food and drink for a complete nightlife experience in the city.
Where’s Bern Grand Casino? It’s the gigantic elegant building at the end of Kirchenfeldbrücke at the side of Bern Old City. You should be able to spot it along your way to Terrasse Swiss Restaurant.
So, that’s it! Your first day in Switzerland is done. I hope you’ll enjoy it. Now, let’s proceed to Day 2!
Day 2 — Old City of Bern
Summary
- Spend an entire day exploring the Old City of Bern. Visit Bern’s beautiful landmarks, charming fountains, and picture-perfect spots and viewpoints.
- Prioritize the highlights of Old Town Bern (detailed info: Half a day Bern itinerary):
- Witness the breathtaking interiors and eye-catching exteriors of Bundeshaus. Join a tour if available.
- Wander along Kramgasse and visit Zytglogge to see its spectacle that happens every full hour. Join a tour for an insightful visit.
- Go to Münsterplatz and marvel at the exteriors and interiors of Bern Cathedral. Climb its tower for a breathtaking view.
- End the day at Rose Garden for panoramic views of Bern Old City. The garden has a restaurant where you can watch sunset as you eat dinner.
Here’s a handy tip: There’s a customizable guided tour available in the Old City of Bern. The guide shares insider tips, info about local events, and interesting facts about Bern.
Full details: 2nd Day in Switzerland
Despite being one of Europe’s smallest capital cities, Bern has no shortage of beautiful sights to see. In the Old City alone, you’ll find unique landmarks, picture-perfect views, and charming details that can keep you engaged for an entire day in this wonderful city.
Depending on your interests, you can spend a day in Bern exploring the Old City’s beautiful landmarks or seeking out the best views of the city. For a unique experience, try hunting for the cutest fountains — Bern is known as the city of fountains, with over 100 public fountains to discover.
See? There are already more than 25 places and things to see in the Old City of Bern alone. However, if there is something you should not miss, they’re Bundeshaus, Bern Cathedral, and Zytglogge.
Zytglogge is Bern’s most iconic landmark — a beautiful medieval clock tower located at the end of Kramgasse, the Old City’s most picturesque street. Of the three must-see attractions I mentioned, Zytglogge is particularly spectacular for its hourly Bellwork display, colorful frieze, astronomical clock, and exterior paintings.
Another must-see landmark in Bern is Bundeshaus or the Parliament Building. This imposing structure in the Old City is rich with symbolism representing Swiss democracy. Inside, you’ll find the first original map of Switzerland, an exact copy of the country’s original federal constitution from 1848, and various artworks depicting Switzerland’s values and history. For an even more insightful visit, consider joining a tour of Bundeshaus.
During your visit to Kirchenfeld on the first day of your Switzerland trip, you’ll notice two structures dominating Bern’s skyline. Bundeshaus is the first; another is Bern Cathedral, which is another place to visit.
100 meters high, this church dating back to 1421, is the tallest building in Bern and the tallest church in Switzerland. It’s a must-visit landmark for its “a feast-for-the-eyes” portal and the stunning views of the Old City you can see from the top of its spire. Although it suffered from iconoclasm during the protestant reformation, Bern Cathedral stays as an oasis of peace in the city and still has religious artworks you can marvel at during your visit.
If you want to know an efficient way how you can explore the Old City of Bern, below is the list of tourist attractions to follow. It starts at Bern Bahnhof and ends in Rose Garden, where you can watch the sunset and have dinner with an overlooking view of the Old City of Bern.
- Bundeshaus
- Käfigturm
- Marktgasse
- Kornhausplatz
- Zytglogge
- Kramgasse
- Einstein’ House
- Rathaus
- Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
- Bern Cathedral
- Bear Park and Bear Pit
- Rose Garden
The second day of your Switzerland Trip ends in a scenic park on a hilltop with a sweeping view of the Old City. It’s one of my favorite parts of a visit to Bern (which you’ll also love, for sure!) and is only the beginning of more breathtaking views on your Switzerland trip.
If you take time to explore Bundeshaus and Bundesterrasse, the small park behind Bundeshaus, you’d have an idea of the spectacular scenery that awaits you in the next four days. Aside from being a park, Bundesterrasse is a vantage point above Aare River, which offers a view that reaches as far as the Bernese Oberland during a clear sunny day.
Day 3 — Gateway to the Bernese Oberland
Summary:
- Morning — Start the day trip to Bernese Oberland from Bern. Visit Oberhofen Castle, explore its park and castle museum.
- Lunch — Dine at the Oberhofen Castle’s restaurant or in Thun.
- Afternoon — Take a leisurely stroll through Old Town Thun to visit its picturesque spots (I’ve got a map of Thun right here). Then, make your way to Thun Castle and ascend its tower to behold the enchanting views of Lake Thun.
- Late Afternoon to Evening — Head to Schadau Park, admire Thun Panorama and Schadau Castle. Consider dinner at the castle or a picnic in the park.
Feel free to take a look at either my one-day itinerary for Thun or my one-day itinerary for Lake Thun. They’re excellent alternatives to this plan.
Full details: 3rd Day in Switzerland
In Switzerland, the further south you go, the more breathtaking the scenery becomes. 60 Percent of Switzerland is mountains, and they’re mostly in the country’s southern half. This explains why there is so much beautiful natural scenery in Switzerland!
The rest of the country to the north? It is relatively flat and hilly. But it’s where the great Swiss cities like Bern are found.
However, worthwhile destinations in Switzerland aren’t only its big cities and the Swiss Alps. Did you know that the places in between the Swiss Alps and Central Plateau (pre-Alps) are the most magical destinations? On your 3rd day in Switzerland, you’ll see why!
In summary, your third day in Switzerland is a day trip to Thun — the Gateway to the Bernese Oberland. And as its name suggests, you can already expect beautiful alpine scenery from it. Bernese Oberland is the highest part of the Canton of Bern, home to 3000- to 4000-meter tall mountains (Bernese Alps), heaven-on-earth valleys, turquoise lake, and quaint alpine villages. In short, it’s the canton’s most stunning region!
On the third day of your Switzerland trip, you won’t be heading to the mountains just yet, however. Instead, you’ll be visiting places with breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps, such as Oberhofen Castle and Thun.
We start the day in Oberhofen Castle. It is one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland, unique for its water tower that stands through the surface of Lake Thun. Photographers visiting Oberhofen Castle will be instantly inspired to take photos once they see its water tower with the snowy mountains of the Bernese Oberland in the backdrop.
Aside from its picture-perfect appearance, I recommend visiting this 13th-century castle because it’s a worthwhile destination for the beautiful discoveries you can find in the castle’s museum. The Turkish-style Oriental Smoking Room, medieval artifacts & decorations, and the castle garden with exotic trees from all over the world are only some of the notable things you can find in Oberhofen Castle.
I recommend arriving at Oberhofen Castle as early as possible to beat the crowds and enjoy the peacefulness of the castle park. During the visiting season, the park opens at 9:00 am, and the castle museum at 11:00 am.
Getting to Oberhofen Castle from Thun is a 2-leg journey: (1) A 30-minute train ride from Bern to Thun. (2) 25-minute boat line #119 or 15-minute bus #21 from Thun to Oberhofen. For a better experience, I suggest taking the ferry to Oberhofen Castle, which departs Thun around 9:30 am.
Oberhofen Castle has its own restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious lunch with a view of the lake. If you prefer to explore other options, there are plenty of restaurants nearby. For even more choices, head back to Thun, where you’ll find everything from fast food to fine dining.
Nevertheless, Thun is the next destination after Oberhofen Castle. It’s in this lovely city that you’ll spend the entire afternoon of your 3rd day in Switzerland. I recommend visiting Thun because a trip to the Bernese Oberland isn’t complete without a visit to Thun. This charming city is home to two castles with magical views of the surrounding scenery. It’s a must-see for travelers looking for an unforgettable experience that combines city and nature.
From Oberhofen Castle, you can simply take the same bus (#21) back to Thun.
There are two parts of Thun you would like to visit: Thun Old Town and Schadau Park. They’ll both give you magical experiences, but you should visit Thun Old Town first because of Thun Castle, which is usually open until 5:00 pm only.
If you take the bus to Thun from Oberhofen Castle, you can already drop by Thun Old Town (Bälliz). It’s the last stop before the central transport station of the city. Bälliz is an island along the Aare River, a shopping district in Thun Old Town. And from Bälliz, you can start a walking tour in Thun Old Town to see Thun’s picturesque spots and other tourist attractions in Thun.
Among the tourist attractions in Thun Old Town, it’s the Thun Castle which you must not miss visiting. Thun Castle is more than just a beautiful building. Inside, you’ll find a museum that offers fascinating insights into the history of the region. And from the windows of the castle’s tower, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Bernese Oberland.
If you think you can finish visiting Thun Old Town and Thun Castle around 4 in the afternoon, immediately come to Schadau Park. It’s the most beautiful park in Thun, where you can find Thun Panorama — the oldest surviving panorama painting in the world. You can get to Schadau Park (Thun, Scherzligen/Schadau bus stop) within 2o minutes from Thun Old Town (Thun, Marktgasse bus stop) by catching bus #1.
Aside from Thun Panorama, another fantastic reason why you should visit Schadau Park is Schadau Castle — Thun’s more elaborate castle. This stunning gothic architectural masterpiece features Anglo-Gallic and Renaissance elements that are sure to impress. Although you can’t tour the interior of Schadau Castle (unless you’re staying in the castle for the night), you can still enter by having dinner in its restaurant. (Schadau Castle today functions as a hotel and a restaurant)
The last time I checked, Schadau Castle offers a candlelight dinner which can be an opportunity for a memorable travel date in Switzerland. You can learn more about Schadau Castle and its restaurant from its official website, linked in the resources section of this post.
If you are on a budget, you can simply have a picnic in the park at the lawned part of Schadau Park between Lake Thun and Schadau Castle. It’s the spot in Thun that offers an unparalleled view of Lake Thun and the snowy peaks of Bernese Oberland — a view that can look so nice during the sunset.
Schadau Castle isn’t the only place to enjoy a delicious dinner in Thun. The restaurants in Bälliz, particularly those in Waisenhausplatz, offer great food and stunning views of the city.
Day 4 — Harder Kulm and Lauterbrunnen Valley
Summary:
- Kick off your day in the Jungfrau Region with a train ride from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen.
- Admire the heaven-on-earth scenery from different viewpoints in Lauterbrunnen.
- Ride the train from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen to admire the best views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
- Proceed to Mürren and enjoy its various attractions, all located within the village and easily accessible.
- From Mürren, take the cable car down to Gimmelwald for an authentic and rustic Swiss Countryside experience.
- Conclude the day with panoramic views of the Jungfrau Region from Harder Kulm, the region’s second most breathtaking viewpoint.
Full details: Day 4 in Switzerland
The attractions you’ll visit on the 3rd day of your Switzerland trip will acquaint you with the beauty of the Swiss Alps. They will not only leave you in awe but also make you feel very excited for your 4th day in this beautiful country. Excitement? Yes! Because the scenic sights you’ll see on Day 3 are just a small taste of the spectacular scenery that awaits you on Day 4.
On the fourth day, the most exciting part of your Switzerland trip begins. You’ll leave Bern and head to the Jungfrau Region in the Bernese Oberland, home to some of Switzerland’s top attractions.
So, where exactly is the Jungfrau Region? In a nutshell, the Jungfrau Region is an area that encompasses the three famous mountains of the Bernese Oberland: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It’s one of Switzerland’s top destinations, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences and impressive infrastructure that makes it easy for travelers to explore some of the country’s most stunning sights.
I love the Jungfrau Region because it has everything a traveler (a wanderer like me) could want: rustic countryside villages that feel like heaven on earth, scenic hikes, and picturesque lakes. It’s truly a must-see destination. There are a lot more, and you’ll discover them during the second part of your Switzerland trip (Day 4 to Day 6).
So… We kick off your journey to the Jungfrau Region with a train ride to Interlaken from Bern. I recommend leaving Bern early in the morning, around 7 am, so you can arrive in Interlaken by 8. This will give you plenty of time to drop off your luggage at your hotel and rest before heading to your first destination of the day: Lauterbrunnen.
Lauterbrunnen is the perfect first stop on your Day 4 itinerary. Not only is it just a 20-minute train ride from Interlaken, but it’s also a great place to get your first taste of the stunning beauty of the Jungfrau Region. I suggest getting to Lauterbrunnen around 9 to be able to visit every destination on the fourth day of your Switzerland trip.
Tip. If your hotel is far from the train station, you can still go straight to Lauterbrunnen and skip the hotel to store your luggage. Interlaken OST and WEST have lockers you can rent where you can store your luggage in the meantime that you’re exploring Lauterbrunnen. Please check the resources section of this post for more information.
So, what is Lauterbrunnen? Lauterbrunnen is an alpine village and a trough-shaped valley, considered by many as the place closest to heaven on earth. With the Lauterbrunnen Valley’s unique form with waterfalls jumping down on both sides, it’s easy to understand why! Not to mention the rustic Lauterbrunnen village that perfectly matches the valley it is located in.
There are 72 waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen Valley, and one of them lies just beside the village. What’s the name of that waterfall? It is Staubbach Falls. This 300-meter-plus-tall waterfall is the natural landmark of Lauterbrunnen. Without it, the village wouldn’t look so stunning and uniquely photogenic as it is.
During your visit to Lauterbrunnen, don’t just snap a few photos of Staubbach Falls and move on. Take the time to wander through the village and soak up the different views of the valley. Trust me, it’s well worth it!
After Lauterbrunnen, let’s head to Wengen. This village, located northeast of Lauterbrunnen and overlooking the valley, is just a 12-minute funicular train ride away. As you might have thought, Wengen is the village with the most breathtaking view of Lauterbrunnen — another must-see scenery whenever visiting the Jungfrau Region. It’s the reason why I think you must see Wengen. You can go to the Reformed Church of Wengen (Evangelisch Reformierte Kirche Wengen) for the best view.
Another reason why I included Wengen in this itinerary is that Wengen is the largest village in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. There are more restaurants and shops here that you can choose from for your lunch. If you’re on a budget, you can pick up some food at the local COOP supermarket and have a picnic by the Reformed Church. The church has benches facing the Lauterbrunnen Valley, so you can enjoy your meal while taking in the stunning scenery.
After Wengen, you travel to Mürren. It’s the most elevated village in the Canton of Bern, located west and above the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Getting to Mürren takes a few steps, but it must be worth it for the unique and tranquil scenery awaiting you at this portion of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. From Wengen, you can follow the steps below:
- Ride the funicular train back to Lauterbrunnen.
- Hop on the cable car to Grütschalp.
- Get a train ride to Mürren.
Alternatively, you can take the Wengen to Mürren via Stechelberg. It’s preferable if you want to see the rustic scenery along the length of Lauterbrunnen Valley’s floor. Here are the steps:
- Ride the funicular train back to Lauterbrunnen.
- Catch bus #141 to Stechelberg.
- Hop on the cable car to Mürren (passing Gimmelwald).
However, the last time I checked, Schilthornbahn (Stechelberg — Gimmelwald — Mürren — Birg — Piz Gloria Cable Car) wasn’t included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass. You might like to have the Grütschalp route to save a few dollars if you possess a Jungfrau Travel Pass.
Situated west of the Jungfrau Massif, visitors see a unique view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau from Mürren. You also get a spectacular craggy face of Schwarzmönch here! Imagine that view with the quaint chalets everywhere in the village. It’s a scene that you wouldn’t like to miss.
Mürren’s charming village is just the start of the beautiful things and experiences that you can have in visiting this village. There are four destinations that you can easily reach from Mürren. They are:
- Allmendhubel
- Birg
- Schilthorn
- Gimmelwald
Each place has stunning views — a panoramic view of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The only difference is the kind of experience that you can have at each destination.
If you are looking for a family-friendly place to hang out, go to Allmendhubel. It’s a plateau above Mürren, linked to the village with a 5-minute funicular train. Here you can find a playground, restaurant, and hiking trails that are all nice and scenic.
Do you like some thrill? Take the Schilthornbahn (cable car) to Birg. In this tourist attraction, exhilarating sightseeing activity awaits — you’ll be walking through a steel walkway featuring a mesh tunnel and tightrope path.
Or, maybe you are looking for a fancy once-in-a-lifetime restaurant experience? Try Piz Gloria. It’s the rotating restaurant on top of Schilthorn, which was the filming location of a James Bond Movie, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
For me, Gimmelwald is the quaintest village in the Jungfrau Region and the best place to go if you’re looking for an authentic experience of the Swiss countryside. It’s Lauterbrunnen Valley’s remotest and smallest village, and those simply tell why. Wandering in Gimmelwald, it’s mostly quaint chalets, cheese storehouses, barns, and animals grazing the meadows you’ll see.
Gimmelwald may seem like a quiet and introspective destination only, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. During your visit, you’ll discover hidden gems like an honesty shop and other charming little surprises that make Gimmelwald a unique and memorable place to visit.
To get to Gimmelwald from Mürren, you can either hike the trails or take a cable car down to Stechelberg. Gimmelwald is the station before the valley station in Stechelberg. You could stay in Mürren or Gimmelwald until nightfall to enjoy the dramatic mountain views. However, I recommend returning to Interlaken and heading to Harder Kulm before sunset for a more unforgettable experience.
Harder Kulm is a mountain above Interlaken that offers some of the best views of the Jungfrau Region. From the viewing deck, you can see a sweeping panorama that includes Lake Thun, Interlaken, Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, and Lake Brienz. The scenery from Harder Kulm is not to be missed, especially at sunset. If you’re lucky, you might even witness the magical Alpen glow on the snowy peak of Jungfrau.
What makes Harder Kulm even better is its restaurant, where you can watch the sunset while enjoying a delicious meal.
Getting to Harder Kulm is easy once you’re in Interlaken. It’s just a 10-minute funicular train ride from the town center. The Harderbahn funicular valley station is within walking distance of Interlaken OST. Take note that Harder Kulm funicular is only operational during the non-winter season, from mid-April to November.
Isn’t day 4 of your Switzerland trip exciting? Well, the fun continues until Day 6! But remember to have a complete rest at the night of Day 4 because there’ll be more action and adventure on Day 5. It’s time for hikes!
Day 5 — Grindelwald and Männlichen
Summary:
- Train ride to Grindelwald from Interlaken then ride the Cable Car to First
- Go to First Cliff Walk and start hike to Bachalpsee. Relax, take pictures, and go on a picnic in Bachalpsee
- Hike back to First and ride the cable Car down to Grindelwald
- Eat lunch before starting the afternoon part: cable car ride to Männlichen
- Start the Royal Walk and explore Männlichen and then hike the Panorama Trail
- Finally, ride the train Kleine Scheidegg to Grindelwald Grund and return to Interlaken via train.
Full details: how to spend one day in Grindelwald on a budget
Brief Explanation: Day 5 in Switzerland
No trip to Switzerland is complete without a hike. It’s a wholesome experience that’s good for the mind, body, and soul. And with the stunning scenery of the Jungfrau Region, it’s easy to see why hiking is a must-do activity in Switzerland.
There are countless scenic trails to choose from, but if you’re already in the Jungfrau Region, I highly recommend the hikes around Grindelwald. These trails are easy to reach from Interlaken and offer some of the most picturesque views in the region.
The hiking trails in Grindelwald offer more than just stunning views. They also take you to some of the best destinations in the Jungfrau Region, like Bachalpsee, Grindelwald-First, and Männlichen.
- Bachalpsee is one of the most photogenic high-altitude alpine lakes in Switzerland.
- Grindelwald-First is a free-to-access viewpoint with a breathtaking panorama of Grindelwald, from Wetterhorn to Eiger’s north face.
- Männlichen is a mountain with a summit that offers a 360-degree view of the Jungfrau Region.
So, which hiking trails will you hike in Grindelwald for Day 5 of your Switzerland trip? There are two. In the morning, it’s the roundtrip hike from Bachalpsee to Grindelwald-First. For the afternoon, it’s the Panorama Trail from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg.
Day 6 — Lake Brienz and Iseltwald
Summary:
Spend the remaining time of the day before your flight/departure from Switzerland in Lake Brienz. There are plenty of things to do in Lake Brienz, but I suggest the visiting beautiful villages and natural landmarks of Lake Brienz. Put Iseltwald, the most picturesque village in Lake Brienz, on top priority!
Full details: 6th Day in Switzerland
After all that hiking through the stunning scenery of Grindelwald, why not take it easy on your last day in Switzerland? There are plenty of relaxing destinations near Interlaken that are perfect for winding down before you head off on your next adventure. One place that’s definitely worth checking out is Lake Brienz.
Located just east of Interlaken, this beautiful lake is the perfect spot to end your Swiss trip on a high note. I recommend visiting Lake Brienz for the following reasons.
- Lake Brienz is a spectacular lake with unreal bright turquoise color. If the weather looks great, Lake Brienz turns into a giant mirror that is so compelling to photograph.
- This lake is very accessible from Interlaken. The attractions are only a boat/bus/train ride away from Interlaken OST.
- The beautiful places around Lake Brienz offer more than just a relaxing view. Nostalgic experiences and cultural discovery await you in Lake Brienz.
I’ve found seven must-see destinations in Lake Brienz, and one of them – Iseltwald – is an absolute standout. Not only is Iseltwald the closest to Interlaken, but it’s also incredibly picturesque. You won’t want to miss it during your stay in the Jungfrau Region/Interlaken.
Thanks to its location on the southern shore of Lake Brienz and its gorgeous landmark, Seeburg Castle, Iseltwald never fails to impress its visitors. As travelers wander along the village’s shoreline, they can’t help but marvel at the beauty and take numerous photos.
On a clear day, the view of Seeburg Castle reflected in the waters of Lake Brienz, with the rugged mountains in the background, is nothing short of breathtaking. It’s no wonder that this stunning scene has caught the eye of movie and television producers. Most importantly, Iseltwald has chill and relaxing activities that match our goal for day 6. Here are some of them:
- Rent a kayak and drift on the lake, exploring the Iseltwald along the shores of Lake Brienz.
- Stroll in the village and take photos of Seeburg Castle which looks so magical with its reflection on the surface of Lake Brienz.
- Chill and relax at the restaurants and shops surrounding the bay of Iseltwald facing Seeburg Castle.
- Go to the filming location of the Korean Drama “Crash Landing on You” and take a selfie or photo souvenir.
While you can visit Iseltwald whenever you like, I highly recommend heading there early in the morning if you’re leaving Switzerland later that day. At the same time, it’s worth getting up early to see the stunning view of Lake Brienz at its most peaceful and picturesque. The tranquil early morning scenery is the perfect way to round off your trip and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
There are two ways you can reach Iseltwald from Interlaken (Interlaken OST station): by bus and by ferry. However, the ferries do not depart early in the morning. So, to get to Iseltwald, you must take a bus ride (#103). The buses depart Interlaken OST every hour.
Once you’ve finished exploring Iseltwald, why not treat yourself to a special lunch experience? Hop aboard the Lötschberg – Lake Brienz’s very own steamboat — and enjoy a delicious lunch meal as you cruise across the lake. With its nostalgic charm and stunning views, dining on the Lötschberg is like stepping back in time to the elegant era of the Belle Epoque. It’s an experience you won’t forget. You can learn more about Lötschberg from the resources section in this post.
After your lunch, it’s time to go back to your hotel, pick up your luggage, and head back to the airport to return home or for another journey somewhere…
Where To Next After Bern and Bernese Oberland?
Six days are not enough in Switzerland… so, are you extending your trip? Yes? Well, that’s fantastic!
By including Bern and the Bernese Oberland in your Switzerland itinerary, you’ll find yourself at the heart of the country by the end of your trip. And deciding where to go next is easy – there are exciting destinations in every direction! One of the closest tourist attractions to Bern and the Bernese Oberland is Lucerne. It’s just an hour-long train ride from Bern and a direct two-hour train journey from Interlaken.
Like Bern, Lucerne is another one of Switzerland’s stunning cities. Its charming historic center is dotted with landmarks that transport you back in time. And its picturesque location on the shores of Lake Lucerne offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and discovery. Like, you gotta see Lucerne’s beautiful landmarks and unique experiences/attractions! It’s an amazing destination.
You could spend a few hours in Lucerne on a walking tour of the old town, a full day visiting the city’s highlights and nearby attractions, or even two full days if you include a trip to Mount Pilatus. If you’re planning to explore other places in central Switzerland, making Lucerne your home base for three days would be a great idea.
Your Resources for this 6-Day Switzerland Itinerary
Okay! That concludes our Switzerland itinerary. Below, you’ll find some links that will be useful in further planning your trip to Switzerland.
- Bern Historical Museum (visiting information)
- Bern Natural History Museum
- Museum of Communication
- Museo Svizzero del Tiro
- Alpine Museum of Switzerland
- Kunsthalle Bern
- Bern Grand Casino (General Terms and Condition)
- Schadau Castle
- Jungfrau Travel Pass
- Jungfrau Region live view
- SBB.ch
- SBB Travel Center luggage storage
- Lake Thun and Lake Brienz ferry timetable
- Lötschberg Cruise Ship
Hey, did you like my 6-Day Switzerland itinerary? If so, I have a favor to ask. Please use my partner’s hotel search and booking platform when looking for your accommodation throughout your trip: 3 days in Bern and 2 days in Interlaken. It’s my favorite tool and I love it for the amazing accommodation deals it offers. The lowest rates, free cancellation, and membership points are just three of the perks! I think you’ll like it. The links are affiliate links, though. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please, it’s a great help to me and WanderInEurope in maintaining this blog and writing more content which might also help you in the future. Thank you for your support!
If you’re considering more destinations in the Alps, keep Innsbruck and Salzburg on your list. I can guide you on how to spend 1 day, 2 day, or even 3 days in Salzburg. Alternatively, if you’re interested in Innsbruck, I can show you how to make the most of 1 day or 2 days there.
Links open in a new tab.
