Zurich: Lungern, Brienz, Thun, Blausee, & Oeschinen Day Trip

Traveling through Switzerland’s lakes and mountain vistas is a dream for many, and this full-day private tour from Zurich offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful spots in the Bernese Oberland region. Whether you’re after picture-perfect landscapes, peaceful spots away from the crowds, or just want a taste of Swiss nature’s best, this trip is designed to deliver.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the variety of lakes visited—from the emerald charm of Lake Lungern to the deep blue of Oeschinen—and the personalized nature of a private group, which makes the day feel more relaxed and tailored. A potential downside? The full schedule means quite a lot of driving, so if you’re tight on time or prefer a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed at certain stops. Still, if you love natural scenery and don’t mind a busy day, this tour suits travelers eager to pack in multiple highlights.

This trip is particularly well-suited for those who want a comprehensive Swiss lakes experience without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s also a good option if you’re traveling from Zurich or Lucerne and want a guide to navigate the scenery and share insights along the way.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of some of Switzerland’s best lakes
• Private, guided experience that offers flexibility and comfort
• Visit a variety of lakes with distinct colors and atmospheres
• Includes top photos stops and sightseeing opportunities
• Full-day itinerary with a comfortable transport setup
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and exploring at a relaxed pace

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

This private day trip from Zurich offers a well-balanced mix of scenic lakes, charming villages, and mountain views, all within a manageable 8.5 hours. The experience is centered around exploring the natural wonders of the Bernese Oberland, with plenty of stops for photos, short walks, and soaking in the view.

The tour begins with an easy pickup from Zurich or Lucerne, depending on your location, and then a comfortable van whisks you through the Swiss countryside. The convenience of private transportation means you won’t be stuck on a crowded bus, and the driver-guide will handle navigation, allowing you to sit back and take in the scenery.

The Lakes and Stops in Detail

Lake Lungern

The journey kicks off with a visit to Lake Lungern, known for its vibrant green hue. Surrounded by lush hills and traditional Swiss villages, it’s a perfect spot for a quick photo or a gentle walk. Travelers mention that it’s a “picture-perfect Swiss postcard,” which is exactly how it feels standing by the water with the mountains in the distance.

Lake Brienz

Next up is Lake Brienz, famous for its bright turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. We loved the way the color of this lake seems almost unreal—something that makes your camera work hard. The stop here lasts around 45 minutes, enough to snap photos and maybe enjoy a short stroll along the shore.

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Lake Thun

Following Brienz, the tour moves to Lake Thun, a grander body of water dotted with castles, small towns, and sweeping views of the Bernese Alps. It’s one of those lakes that invites you to daydream, with spots that look perfect for a picnic or a lazy afternoon. The guide often shares interesting tidbits about the castles and towns, enriching the experience.

Blausee

One of the real highlights is Blausee, a tiny but magical lake set in a peaceful forest. Its crystal-clear, deep blue waters give off a fairytale vibe that many travelers find enchanting. The stop is about an hour and a half, giving plenty of time to explore the surrounding forested area or just sit by the water and enjoy the tranquility.

Lake Oeschinen

The final main stop is Lake Oeschinen, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s known for its deep blue color and towering peaks that frame it perfectly. The reviews mention that the scenery here is “pure Swiss nature,” with some describing it as the ultimate photo spot on the trip. This stop lasts around 1.5 hours, giving enough time for photos and a closer look at the alpine environment.

Transport and Comfort

Travelers consistently highlight the comfort of the transportation—quite important when spending a full day on the road. The van is spacious, and the guide keeps the group engaged with interesting commentary. Because it’s a private tour, the stops can be somewhat flexible if you want more or less time at certain spots.

Duration and Pacing

While the day is packed, the pacing is generally well-managed. You’re moving roughly every hour or so, with longer breaks at Blausee and Oeschinen. This structure helps prevent fatigue, but do keep in mind that the schedule is quite full if you prefer a more leisurely visit to each lake.

Cost and Value

At $566 per person, this tour might seem steep, but it includes comfortable transport, a knowledgeable guide, and all the scenic stops. For travelers who want to maximize their Swiss lakes experience without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or navigating public transport, it can be a good value. Plus, the private aspect means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

What We Liked the Most

The variety of lakes is a standout—each has its own character and beauty, making the day feel diverse and dynamic. Also, the expert guidance enriches the experience, with the guide sharing interesting facts and helping with photography tips—crucial for capturing those postcard-worthy views. The flexibility of a private tour is another big plus, tailoring the day to your interests and pace.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the full schedule—if you prefer to linger longer at each location or dislike lots of driving, this might feel rushed. Plus, since some stops are quite short, you won’t get deep into exploring, just a quick glance and a few photos. Weather can also influence the experience; if it’s cloudy or rainy, some lakes might not look as striking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want a compact, scenic overview of Swiss lakes. It’s especially good if you’re traveling from Zurich or Lucerne and prefer the ease of private transport and guided commentary. If your goal is to see the most beautiful lakes without planning each stop yourself, this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour lasts about 8.5 hours, covering multiple lakes and scenic stops with some time for photos and sightseeing.

Can I choose where to be dropped off?
The tour provides drop-offs at Zurich or Lucerne, making it convenient depending on your travel plans.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to grab something quick during the day.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops are mostly outdoor and relaxed, so it could work for families with older children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Do I need to bring a camera?
Definitely. The lakes and mountain views are incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera or phone for capturing the scenery.

Is this a group tour or private?
This is a private tour, which means you’ll have personalized attention and a flexible itinerary.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a way to see several of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes in one day without the hassle of planning, this private tour ticks many boxes. The stops are carefully selected to showcase the best of Bernese Oberland’s water and mountain scenery, and the guide’s insights add value to the experience. While it’s a full schedule and involves quite a bit of driving, the comfort and personal touch of a private guide make it worthwhile.

This trip is especially good if you want a snapshot of Swiss lake landscapes, perfect for photography and peaceful moments alike. Keep in mind weather conditions and your own pace preferences—if you’re okay with a busy day and want to maximize scenery in a short time, this one’s a winner.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, want to check off some bucket list views, or simply love lakes and mountains, this tour offers a well-rounded peek at Switzerland’s natural beauty—without the need to figure out how to get from place to place yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: