Berner Oberland: Swiss Half Fare & STS Holder 2nd Class Pass

Getting around Switzerland just got simpler — and more affordable — with the Berner Oberland Pass for Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Half Fare Card holders. If you’re planning a trip to the scenic Bernese Oberland, this pass offers a flexible way to explore the region’s stunning lakes, soaring mountain peaks, and charming villages without worrying about individual tickets at every turn.

We’ve taken a close look at this pass, and it’s clear it’s designed for travelers who love to move at their own pace, hop on and off transport easily, and want some savings on attractions along the way. Two things we especially appreciate: the unlimited travel option within Bernese Oberland and the significant discounts at around 40 attractions. The only thing to keep in mind is that while the pass covers most transport, some mountain excursions and certain routes might require an additional supplement.

This pass is a solid choice for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of buying individual tickets all the time. If you’re someone who plans to hit multiple mountain peaks, lakes, and villages, or simply loves the idea of spontaneous detours, the Berner Oberland Pass could really elevate your trip.

Key Points

• Unlimited travel on train, bus, boat, and mountain railway in the Bernese Oberland region.
• Includes over 25 cable cars and boat rides on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
• Flexible validity from 3 to 10 days, perfect for varied trip lengths.
• Offers discounts of 10% to 100% on about 40 attractions and activities.
• Can be paired with Swiss Half Fare Card for maximum savings on certain excursions.
• No fixed starting point — you can begin your journey from any town or village in Bernese Oberland.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Pass and Its Value

The Berner Oberland Pass essentially acts as your all-in-one transportation ticket in the region, giving you the freedom to hop on trains, buses, boats, and mountain railways without juggling multiple tickets. This is especially helpful in a region like Bernese Oberland where you often switch between different modes of transport to reach scenic spots like Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, or mountain peaks like Harder Kulm and Brienzer Rothorn.

The pass is valid for 3 to 10 days, so whether you’re on a quick weekend getaway or a longer exploration, you can choose the duration that best suits your itinerary. The flexibility of starting and ending your trip without fixed schedules means you can adapt your plans as you go, which is a big plus for spontaneous travelers.

How It Works in Practice

Once you purchase the pass, you’ll receive a digital ticket via email within 72 hours. You’ll need to show this at your transport points — just scan your QR code from your phone, or print it out if you prefer. It’s straightforward, and most reviews mention how easy it is to use.

The pass covers second class travel, which is perfectly comfortable for most travelers. Bear in mind that some mountain excursions may require an extra supplement—like certain routes to Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn. However, discounts on these excursions can be significant if you pair the pass with a Swiss Half Fare Card.

Transport Options & Highlights

Train, Bus, and Boat Travel: The core of this pass is the ability to travel seamlessly across the Bernese Oberland. Imagine starting your day in Interlaken, taking a scenic train to Lauterbrunnen, then hopping on a cable car up to Schilthorn for panoramic views. The boat rides across Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are included, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the region’s waters and views without paying extra.

Mountain Railways and Cable Cars: The pass includes access to over 25 mountain cable cars and railways. That means you can ascend to Harder Kulm for a picture-perfect panorama, or ride to Brienzer Rothorn for a less crowded mountain experience. Some routes might have a supplement, but the discounts across the board often compensate for this.

Additional Attractions: Thanks to the 10-100% discounts at about 40 attractions or activities, you can explore places like castles, museums, or scenic viewpoints without breaking the bank. Travelers have raved that this pass made their trip much easier, letting them focus on enjoying the views rather than calculations and ticket lines.

The Real-World Experience

Many reviews highlight how convenient and cost-effective the pass is. Jason, one reviewer, mentions, “Was able to hop on & off most modes of transport in the region without additional cost.” This kind of freedom is precisely what makes the pass attractive. It simplifies your planning — no more standing in line for tickets or worrying about whether you bought the right one.

Another user, Ryan, notes, “It gets you pretty much everywhere,” emphasizing how the pass covers most main routes, especially if you’re planning to explore the Jungfrau region thoroughly. It’s particularly helpful for those who want to maximize their time, avoiding the hassle of buying individual tickets at each stop.

Some travelers also mention the savings when combining the pass with a Swiss Half Fare Card, which gives discounts on the more expensive excursions like Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn. This pairing can really boost the overall value, especially if you’re planning to visit those iconic peaks.

More Great Tours Nearby

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Starting Your Journey

The beauty of this pass is that it doesn’t lock you into a fixed starting point. You could begin in Interlaken, taking advantage of its central location, or start from smaller villages like Saanen or Brig. The flexibility makes it appealing whether you’re arriving directly from major cities or staying in a cozy mountain village.

Exploring Bern and Surroundings

Your first stops could include Bern, with its charming old town and UNESCO World Heritage status. Traveling from Bern to the Oberland is simple with the pass, and from there, the adventure begins.

Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

Most travelers love the boat rides on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. These are included in the pass and offer some of the most serene, scenic moments of your trip. It’s a relaxing way to see the region’s lush landscapes and mountain backdrops while enjoying a comfortable cruise.

Mountain Excursions

The mountain cable cars and railways are where the pass really shines. You can ride up to Harder Kulm for a spectacular view of Interlaken and the surrounding peaks, or ascend to Brienzer Rothorn for a less crowded, panoramic experience. Some routes, like to Jungfraujoch, require an extra fee, but the discounts available still make it worthwhile.

Visiting Attractions and Towns

With discounts on about 40 attractions, you might explore castles, museums, or charming villages. The reviews mention how the pass made it easy to access these sites without fussing over separate tickets, saving both time and money.

Price & Value Analysis

While the pass isn’t super cheap upfront, many travelers feel the value exceeds the cost if they plan to do multiple excursions. The reviews consistently praise how much easier and more economical it is to travel without individual ticket worries. For instance, Robyn states, “It made hopping on transportation much easier than buying a ticket at every station,” which means less time standing in queues and more time enjoying the scenery.

Pairing the pass with a Swiss Half Fare Card can maximize savings, especially on excursions to Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn, which are famous but pricey. Several reviewers recommend this combo, noting it offers the best bang for your buck.

Practical Tips

• Book early: The earliest issue date for the Swiss All-in-One Travel Pass is 180 days prior, so plan ahead if you want to secure the best prices.
• Bring your passport or ID: You’ll need it to validate your pass.
• Plan your days wisely: While unlimited travel is tempting, remember some excursions may require supplements or have partial routes.
• Use your phone: The digital ticket with QR code is straightforward, but consider saving it in your mobile wallet for quicker access.
• Children and dogs: Kids aged 6-15 need a CHF30 child pass, and dogs travel free with a CHF30 supplement.

Who Should Consider This Pass

This pass is perfect for travelers who are planning to explore extensively within Bernese Oberland, especially those who love flexibility and spontaneous adventures. If you intend to visit multiple lakes, mountain peaks, and attractions, the savings and convenience are well worth it.

It’s also ideal for those who want to avoid the hassle of buying tickets at each stop, giving you more time to enjoy the stunning scenery. If your trip includes iconic destinations like Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn, pairing this pass with a Swiss Half Fare Card can make the experience more affordable.

Final Thoughts

The Berner Oberland Pass offers a combination of ease, flexibility, and savings that can significantly enhance your Swiss adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer eager to see the highlights of the Bernese Oberland, this pass makes it simple to enjoy the region’s beauty without constant planning or ticketing worries.

While some excursions might require additional payments, the discounts and extensive coverage often make the overall experience feel like a good deal. The positive reviews from previous travelers underscore how much this pass can streamline your trip and help you focus on the memorable moments.

If you love spontaneous exploring, scenic rides, and want to get the most out of your time in Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, the Berner Oberland Pass is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Can I start my trip from any city or village within Bernese Oberland?
Yes, the pass has no fixed starting point, so you can begin your journey from any town or village in the region.

What do I need to show at transport points?
You’ll receive a digital ticket with a QR code via email—simply scan that on your phone or print it out.

Are mountain excursions included in the pass?
Most are included, but some routes might require an extra supplement. Check specific routes like Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn for details.

How long does it take to receive my official ticket?
You should receive the digital ticket within 72 hours after purchase.

Is this pass suitable for families?
It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, but children aged 6-15 need a CHF30 child pass. Dogs travel free with a CHF30 supplement.

Can I combine this pass with other discounts?
Yes, pairing it with a Swiss Half Fare Card can maximize savings on certain excursions and attraction tickets.

In all, the Berner Oberland Pass is a well-rounded choice for anyone wanting to explore Switzerland’s iconic landscapes with flexibility and confidence. Whether you’re after panoramic mountain views, lakeside cruises, or charming villages, this pass can help make your Swiss adventure smoother and more affordable.

You can check availability for your dates here: