7 of the Best Small Towns for a Day Trip from Bern

You can see Bern’s Old Town, listed by UNESCO, its arcaded city center and wonderful river landscapes. However, if you wish to explore more of the country’s out-of-the-way places, you could always spend a day away from Bern to explore some smaller towns. Regardless of whether you like peaceful lakes, medieval scenery or the Alps, these towns provide the perfect break, and they are all close to Prague.

When you use a private transfer from Bern, getting to these spots is simple and comfortable. These are seven great small towns that you can see in only one day.

1. Murten (Morat) – A Medieval Lakeside Treasure

Distance from Bern: Approximately 30 minutes by car

The town of Murten still shows its medieval past and is located by Lake Murten. With its ramparts from the past, lovely streets and walkways by the lake, it becomes a calm and culturally interesting destination.

Highlights include:

• The well-preserved city walls
• Historic Old Town and arcades
• Lakefront dining and boat tours

By hiring a private Bern chauffeur service, you can travel comfortably and finish your itinerary more easily.

2. Thun – The Gateway to the Bernese Alps

Distance from Bern: About 30 minutes by car

Thun is an active town just below Lake Thun. Doing well the mix of tradition and natural surroundings, it has a castle, lake cruise tours and many restaurants.

What to see:

• Thun Castle with panoramic views
• Historic Old Town and covered bridges
• Schadau Park and the lakefront promenade

A private transfer from Bern to Thun will allow you to relax and enjoy as much time exploring as you like.

3. Gruyères – Cheese, Castles, and Charm

Distance from Bern: Around 1 hour 15 minutes by car

Gruyères is an idyllic place that people know for its cheese and a castle that looks like it’s from a fairy tale. Those who enjoy both food and history will find the place wonderful for its rich Swiss traditions.

Don’t miss:

• Gruyères Castle and Gardens
• La Maison du Gruyère cheese factory
• HR Giger Museum

Relax on the way to Gruyères from Bern and explore each stop how you wish.

4. Solothurn – The Baroque Capital of Switzerland

Distance from Bern: About 45 minutes by car

Baroque buildings and riverside beauty are two of Solothurn’s main features. You can combine history, art and nature in one enjoyable walk around the town.

Top attractions:

• St. Ursen Cathedral and historic clock towers
• Aare River walks and boat rides
• Kunstmuseum and old city gates

Thanks to a Bern airport transfer, getting to Solothurn’s cultural sites is made much easier.

5. Lauterbrunnen – The Valley of Waterfalls

Distance from Bern: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car

Lauterbrunnen is an amazing valley nestled beside tall cliffs and surrounded by waterfalls. There are many trails for hiking and stunning alpine views for people who love nature.

Must-see spots:

• Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls
• Easy hikes or cable car rides to Mürren and Wengen
• Scenic picnic areas with iconic Swiss backdrops

If you take a private transfer when traveling from Bern to Lauterbrunnen, you will reach your destination in comfort.

6. Fribourg – Culture, Cuisine, and Cliffside Views

Distance from Bern: 30–40 minutes by car

Fribourg is notable for mixing traditions of the past with an exciting cultural scene. Because it is located between French and German-speaking regions, it blends their ways of life.

Things to do:

• Walk through the picturesque Old Town
• Visit Fribourg Cathedral and take the historic funicular.
• Discover local art and gastronomy.

Going by Bern Limousine service when traveling to Fribourg ensures you see the beautiful sights and have the flexibility to do as you please.

7. Appenzell – Traditions and Alpine Pastures

Distance from Bern: Around 2 hours by car

Even though it is a bit further, visiting Appenzell is certainly worth it. Because of its colorful homes, cheese production and well-known Swiss-German culture, it’s one of the most interesting towns in the country.

Key experiences:

• Visit local dairies and taste Appenzeller cheese
• Explore painted buildings and artisan shops.
• Take a cable car to Ebenalp and hike to the Wildkirchli caves.

Traveling with a private transfer means you won’t have to hassle with the journey, making more time for observing the scenery.

Why Choose Private Transfers for Day Trips from Bern?

Having a private transfer means you enjoy peace of mind as well as ease. Stepping outside your door and directly to your destination is convenient. By having someone pick up at your door, you almost organize everything in advance.

• Make the most out of your visit to every place you are at.
• Take a comfortable and private journey to where you want to go.
• Make your itinerary unique to your interests.
• Have local experts as your guides, who will offer interesting tips and more information.

With private transfers from Bern, solo, family, or group travelers can have a better and faster experience on daily trips.

Conclusion: Let Bern Be Your Base for Exploration

The city of Bern gives tourists the perfect base to visit some of Switzerland’s picturesque towns. Thun offers a charming waterfront, Gruyères is well-known for its food, and Lauterbrunnen is awe-inspiring in the Alps.

Reaching these secret spots from Bern has never been as hassle-free and comfortable as private Bern transfers make it. Therefore, prepare for your holiday, pick the towns to visit and enjoy the Swiss countryside village by village.