11 days in Bern & Zermatt Itinerary

The capital and political center of Switzerland, Bern sits on a peninsula formed by the U-shaped River Aare.

Venture out of the city with trips to Interlaken (Harderkulm & Parasailing & Paragliding), Lucerne (Rigi, Lake Lucerne, &more) and Mt Pilatus (in Kriens). There's much more to do: wander the streets of UNESCO-Altstadt von Bern, hunt for treasures at Federal Building (Bundeshaus), take in the spiritual surroundings of The Cathedral of Bern, and admire the sheer force of Staubbach Waterfall.

To find reviews, where to stay, and tourist information, read our Bern route planning tool.

If you are flying in from United States, the closest major aiports are Zürich Airport, Bern Belp Airport and EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport. Expect a daytime high around 75°F in June, and nighttime lows around 53°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 19th (Mon) early enough to catch the train to Zermatt.

Best known as home the Matterhorn mountain, Zermatt serves as a chic ski resort town of the Swiss Alps.

On the 19th (Mon), take in panoramic vistas at Gornergrat, then go for a walk through Hinterdorfstrasse, and then hop aboard Scenic Railroads. Here are some ideas for day two: enjoy breathtaking views from Sunnegga, take in the awesome beauty at The Matterhorn, don't miss a visit to Walk of Climb, then stroll the grounds of Mountaineers' Cemetery, and finally don't miss a visit to Matterhorn Museum - Zermatlantis.

To find other places to visit, more things to do, and tourist information, read our Zermatt journey planning app.

Getting from Bern to Zermatt by train takes about 3 hours. Other options: drive.