Private Zurich Day Trip: Bern & Emmental Cheese Tour

Thinking about exploring more of Switzerland beyond Zurich or Lucerne? This private day trip to Bern and Emmental might just be the perfect choice. It offers a blend of urban charm, scenic countryside, and a taste of authentic Swiss cheese-making—ideal if you’re craving a mix of cultural sights and natural beauty.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the exploration of Bern’s historic old town, with its winding cobblestone streets and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower—something you’ll want to see with your own eyes. Second, the visit to the Emmental Show Dairy, where you can watch cheese being made in the traditional way and sample some genuine Emmental cheese. On the flip side, the duration—about 8 hours—is quite packed, which might feel rushed if you’re a slow explorer or want extra time at each stop.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a personalized touch—since it’s a private tour, it can be tailored to your pace and interests. Whether you’re a couple, a small family, or a group of friends, if you love combining city sights with scenic countryside and good food, this trip could be a real highlight. But if you’re mainly after a relaxed, leisure-focused day, you might find it on the brisk side.

Key Points

• Customizable Private Tour: Tailored to your preferences, with flexible stops and timing.
• Cultural & Scenic Combo: Explore Bern’s historic old town and enjoy views of the Alps.
• Authentic Cheese Experience: Watch traditional cheese-making and taste Emmental cheese.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking scenes from city vantage points and Alpine scenery.
• Convenient Drop-offs: End your day comfortably back in Lucerne or Zurich.
• Value for Personal Attention: Private group size means more personalized interaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Flexibility

Your day begins conveniently, with pickup options that depend on your chosen location—either from Zurich or Lucerne, making it easy to start your Swiss adventure without extra fuss. Since this is a private tour, the pickup and drop-off are tailored to your schedule, which is a real plus if you’re trying to maximize your time or have specific plans.

Bern: The Historic Heart of Switzerland

Once in Bern, we loved how the city’s charm hits you immediately. The old town is compact but packed with character—think medieval buildings, cozy alleys, and the famous Zytglogge clock tower. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a highlight, and you’ll get a chance to marvel at its intricate mechanism and historic significance.

From what travelers say, Bern’s streets are not only beautiful but also offer breathtaking views of the Alps. You’ll find vantage points that showcase the city’s blend of history and natural beauty. Many visitors note that Bern’s architecture and relaxed vibe make it a wonderful place to stroll without feeling rushed.

Emmental Show Dairy: The Cheesy Heart of the Day

The real treat here is the Emmental Show Dairy. Watching cheese-maker artisans craft cheese the traditional way is both educational and fun. You’ll see the process, which highlights Swiss craftsmanship and heritage. Many reviews emphasize how authentic and engaging this experience is—some say it’s “a peek into Swiss culture that’s both informative and tasty.”

Of course, the tasting is a highlight. Expect to sample authentic Emmental cheese, which has that characteristic nutty flavor and holes that you’ve probably seen in movies. The setting is picturesque, with rolling green fields and traditional Swiss buildings, giving you a genuine rural feel.

Travelers often mention that the cheese tasting “completely exceeded expectations,” and it’s a wonderful opportunity to get a sense of the country’s culinary traditions. Keep in mind, visiting the dairy means you’re in the countryside, so be prepared for some scenic driving and rural scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Breathtaking Mountain Views & Waterfalls

While the main tour doesn’t specifically include a cable car ride or Jungfraujoch station visit, the itinerary does mention that you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps from various vantage points in Bern and around Lauterbrunnen Valley. If you’re a fan of mountain scenery, this trip delivers striking vistas that make all the driving worthwhile.

In Lauterbrunnen Valley, you’ll see cascading waterfalls—some of the most iconic in Switzerland. Though these aren’t always part of the core itinerary, the mention of waterfalls suggests some scenic stops that let you really appreciate Switzerland’s natural majesty.

The Journey and Timing

The entire trip lasts about 8 hours, which means it’s quite a full day. The itinerary balances city exploration, countryside visits, and scenic stops. Many travelers have said that the day moves quickly but feels well-paced, thanks to the private nature of the tour, which allows for flexibility.

While the tour is designed to be tailored, the typical flow involves exploring Bern first, then heading out to Emmental for cheese-making, and finally returning via scenic routes with views of the Alps and waterfalls. The private group setting means fewer crowds and more interaction, making the experience feel more personal.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Cost, and Group Size

Being a private tour, transportation is comfortable and exclusive. The provider, JS Slachta Limousine Service, scores a perfect 5, suggesting reliable, high-quality service. Because it’s private, you won’t have to worry about large bus groups or sharing your experience with strangers, which many travelers appreciate.

Pricing isn’t explicitly mentioned, but considering it’s a private experience with personalized service and flexible options, it’s likely a premium choice. Still, the value comes from the convenience, comfort, and tailored experience you get—especially if you’re traveling in a small group or as a couple.

The tour’s duration of 8 hours makes it a full but manageable day. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, especially for Bern’s cobblestone streets, and be ready for some rural scenery and outdoor stops that might involve walking.

What You Might Not Love

One potential downside is the tight schedule. If you love lingering in places or exploring at a slow pace, this tour could feel a bit rushed. It’s packed with highlights, which is great for seeing a lot, but if you prefer to take your time, you might find yourself wishing for more time at each stop.

Another consideration is the cost—private tours tend to be pricier than group excursions. If budget is a concern, compare this with similar experiences to see if the personalized touch justifies the price for you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private day trip is excellent for travelers who value customization and comfort. It’s perfect if you want a well-rounded day that includes city sights, scenic views, and a taste of Swiss culture without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

It’s also suited for those who love photography, as there are plenty of opportunities for stunning shots—from Bern’s historic streets to Alpine vistas and waterfalls. If you’re traveling with a partner or small family that appreciates a personalized experience, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly due to its pace and outdoor elements, it’s not specifically marketed as a children’s activity. If your kids enjoy scenic drives, cheese tasting, and city walks, they’ll likely have a good time. Just keep in mind it’s a full day, so younger children might need some breaks.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, the provider can tailor the experience to your preferences, making it a flexible option if you have specific sites or interests in mind.

What language is the tour guide in?
The tour is offered in English and German, so you can choose your preferred language when booking.

How long is the drive between stops?
While specific times aren’t detailed, you can expect some scenic driving that covers a fair distance between Bern, Emmental, and possibly other viewpoints in the Lauterbrunnen area.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since Bern’s old town involves walking on cobblestone streets and the cheese dairy visit may include some outdoor walking, it’s best to check directly with the provider if you have mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket for outdoor scenic stops. The tour likely provides an explanation of the cheese-making process and tastings.

Does this tour include meals?
No, meals aren’t included, but you’ll likely have opportunities to buy snacks or lunch during the day.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if your plans change.

Can I book last minute?
Availability depends on the season and demand, but since it’s a private tour, it’s worth checking availability as early as possible.

Final Thoughts

This private Zurich day trip to Bern and Emmental cheese is a fantastic way to experience a slice of Switzerland’s culture, scenery, and culinary traditions—all in one well-organized, tailored experience. You’ll enjoy Bern’s historic charm and sweeping Alpine views, combined with the authentic delight of watching cheese being made in the countryside.

It’s a perfect pick for travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free day that balances urban exploration with outdoor beauty. The combination of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and delicious cheese tasting makes this tour stand out, especially if you’re a fan of genuine local experiences.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates flexibility, stunning scenery, and a touch of Swiss tradition, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just be ready for a filled day, comfortable shoes, and a camera—because you’ll want to capture those unforgettable Swiss views.

Remember: While this tour offers a lot, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a quick pace. For a more leisurely experience, consider how much time you like to spend at each stop. But if you love covering a lot of ground with expert guidance, this could be just the right fit.

You can check availability for your dates here: