Zurich to Bern and Thun: Private day trip

Founded by the Duke of Zähringer in 1191, Bern was made a free imperial city by the Holy Roman Emperor, Frederick II following the duke’s death. While the city flourished, a major blaze in 1405 destroyed many of the original wooden buildings. These were gradually replaced by half-timbered houses the characteristic sandstone buildings that still grace the Old Town today. Within the UNESCO Heritage Site, visitors can wander the 6 kilometers of arcades, shopping, or just soaking in the local architecture. Among the many fountains and historic towers is unique, visitors can find an elevated Rose Garden, which sits above the Bear Park, home to the city’s heraldic beast. Bern’s 15th-century Gothic cathedral is the tallest in Switzerland and for those undeterred by heights, a viewing platform in its 101-meter tower offers the best views of the old town.

First settled around 2,500 BC, the Thun of today dates back to the 12th century. The Gothic castle dominating the town was constructed by the Dukes of Zähringen between 1180 and 1190. While its exterior exudes medieval power, the interior museum is all about medieval pomp. Here, visitors can marvel at the splendidly restored Knights Hall from the 12th century, or visit the historical museum, which exhibits artifacts from prehistory, medieval objects, as well as weapons and uniforms from the 18th and 19th century. In the medieval town center, visitors can enjoy the historic architecture built up to the banks of the Aare River, and visit the old wooden bridge, which sometimes has surfers riding its runoff, the town church with its tower dating back to about 1330, and the 16th century town hall.