Berne the Capital and Cheese paradise Emmental (Private Tour)

Explore Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and taste Swiss cheese at Emmental on this private 9-hour Zurich day trip, including round-trip hotel transfers and personalized guide.

This private 9-hour tour from Zurich offers a convenient way to explore Switzerland’s de-facto capital, Bern, and its renowned cheese region, Emmental. Priced at $735.34 per person, it provides personalized attention from a private guide, round-trip transfer from your Zurich hotel, and visits to iconic sights and a traditional cheese dairy. With an average booking lead time of 145 days, this tour suits travelers seeking a well-organized, immersive experience with minimal hassle.

The tour’s highlights include a two-hour walk through Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, coupled with a visit to a Swiss farm where cheese is made, providing insight into Switzerland’s famous milk and cheese products. While the pace is comfortably paced, the tour is best suited for those interested in cultural history, scenic landscapes, and culinary delights. A reliable choice for a full day of sightseeing, this tour balances structured exploration with personalized service.

  • Private guided tour with round-trip hotel transfer from Zurich
  • Two hours exploring Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town
  • Visit to Emmental show dairy to see cheese production firsthand
  • Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
  • Suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and good accessibility
  • A well-paced, full-day experience ideal for those wanting an overview of Swiss culture and cuisine

The tour begins with an exploration of Bern’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This two-hour walk leads through the city’s charming streets, featuring medieval architecture, lively plazas, and notable landmarks. The Old Town is known for its red-roofed buildings, clock towers, and fountains, creating a picture-perfect scene that showcases Bern’s timeless beauty. Because the visit is guided, expect insightful stories about the city’s history and heritage, making it more than just a walk.

While the admission to Bern’s Old Town is free, the guided tour ensures you see the most significant sights efficiently, making the most of your time. The walking pace is comfortable, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions. The tour gives a clear sense of why Bern remains an important Swiss cultural hub, without the need for additional tickets or entry fees.

One of the main conveniences of this private tour is the included round-trip transfer from your Zurich accommodation. The service ensures a smooth start and finish, avoiding the hassle of public transportation or driving. The pickup timing is flexible within the operating hours of 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, making it adaptable to your schedule.

This door-to-door service benefits travelers who prefer a comfortable, stress-free experience. With a dedicated driver and private guide, the journey between Zurich and Bern, then to Emmental, becomes a seamless part of the day. The transfer arrangement is especially helpful for those unfamiliar with Swiss transport options or traveling with luggage.

Bern’s Old Town is the highlight of the visit, offering a glimpse into Switzerland’s political and cultural heart. The two-hour walking tour covers key sights, such as the Zytglogge clock tower, the Federal Palace, and the Bärenpark. The guide shares engaging details about Bern’s medieval origins and modern significance, enriching the experience beyond sightseeing.

The UNESCO listing ensures that visitors see a well-preserved historic district, with cobbled streets, arcades, and fountains. While there’s no admission fee, the guided commentary makes the walk more meaningful, helping visitors understand the city’s unique features. The walk is suitable for most fitness levels, with plenty of stops for photos or questions.

After Bern, the tour continues to the Emmental show dairy, a typical Swiss farm where cheese is crafted. This two-hour visit offers a real-life look at the cheese-making process, highlighting the production of Switzerland’s famous Emmental cheese. The visit includes an admission ticket, allowing guests to see the traditional methods used and learn the secrets behind Swiss milk and cheese.

The dairy visit is both educational and tasty, often concluding with a chance to sample fresh cheese and dairy products. The farm setting provides a rustic, authentic experience that showcases Switzerland’s agricultural heritage. Visitors get a close-up view of cheese production, making it a memorable part of the tour.

This private tour operates seven days a week, with opening hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The confirmation is immediate upon booking, and the experience is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. The tour is designed for groups of all sizes, but it remains private for your group only.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if plans change. The tour requires good weather for the outdoor parts, such as walking and visiting the dairy. In case of poor weather, alternative arrangements or a full refund are available.

The personalized attention from a private guide is a major advantage, allowing for a tailored experience that emphasizes your interests. The combination of cultural sightseeing in Bern and a culinary visit to the cheese farm offers a well-rounded view of Swiss traditions. The round-trip hotel transfer adds convenience, especially in a busy city like Zurich.

While the tour is priced at $735.34 per person, many find the value in avoiding logistical hassles and gaining insider insights. The 9-hour duration balances ample sightseeing with relaxed pacing, making it suitable for a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

This private Zurich day tour provides a comprehensive look at Bern’s historic charm and Emmental’s cheese-making traditions. Its personalized guide, convenient transfers, and carefully curated stops make it a reliable choice for those wanting an immersive experience without the stress of planning.

Ideal for history buffs, food lovers, and anyone eager to see a quintessential Swiss city and countryside, the tour offers a mix of cultural insights and tasty discoveries. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, while the overall organization ensures that you can enjoy the day comfortably.

While it’s a full-day experience, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking and the possibility of variable weather. This tour strikes a good balance of sightseeing, education, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile way to deepen your understanding of Swiss heritage.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible and comfortable.

What is included in the price?
The round-trip transfer from Zurich, guided walking tour of Bern, and admission to the cheese dairy are included in the price. Meals and additional entrance fees are not.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is lunch included during the tour?
No, the tour does not include a meal, but there may be opportunities for lunch during free time or at local eateries.

How long is the drive from Zurich to Bern?
The transfer is part of the overall 9-hour tour, with the drive comfortably managed as part of the itinerary.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and good weather conditions is recommended.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What makes this tour different from other Zurich day trips?
The private format, personalized guide, and combined cultural and culinary stops set this tour apart from more generic group excursions.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
It generally is, but those with specific mobility needs should verify accessibility details beforehand.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking ideally occurs 145 days or more in advance to secure a spot, as the tour is popular.

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Berne the Capital and Cheese paradise Emmental (Private Tour)



4.5

(7 reviews)

“Berne is a beautiful city as is the countryside around the cheese town. The guide was very knowledgeable and made the walking tour and ride very in…”

— Lane A, Aug 2024