How to Get to Bern: Flights, Airport and Transport

Getting to Bern by air

Bern does not have a major international airport. The closest large airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), located about 120 km away. From Brazil, you can fly to Zurich with connections through Frankfurt, Lisbon, Paris, or Amsterdam on airlines like LATAM, TAP, Lufthansa, and KLM. Tickets from Brazil typically range from USD 600 to USD 1,200 depending on the season.

Another option is Geneva Airport (GVA), about 160 km from Bern, which also receives many international flights. Bern does have a small regional airport, Bern Airport (BRN), but it only serves a handful of European destinations.

From Zurich Airport to Bern by train

The most convenient way to get from Zurich Airport to Bern is by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). Trains depart directly from the airport station and reach Bern Hauptbahnhof (main station) in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. A one-way ticket costs around CHF 51 (about USD 55) for a standard second-class seat.

Trains run every 30 minutes throughout the day. You can buy tickets at the SBB machines in the airport, at the counter, or online at sbb.ch.

From Geneva Airport to Bern

Direct trains from Geneva Airport to Bern take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Tickets cost around CHF 52 one-way. This is a great option if you find cheaper flights to Geneva.

Getting around Bern

Bern's Old Town (Altstadt) is compact and very walkable. Most major attractions, including the Zytglogge clock tower and the Bear Park, are within walking distance of each other.

For longer distances, the city has an excellent tram and bus network operated by Bernmobil. Key details:

• A single-ride ticket costs CHF 2.60 for short trips (up to 6 stops) or CHF 4.60 for longer rides within the city zone.
• A day pass costs CHF 13.20 and gives unlimited travel within Bern.
• If you stay at a hotel in Bern, you will receive a Bern Ticket, which gives you free public transport during your stay.
• Tickets can be purchased from machines at every stop or via the Bernmobil app.

Swiss Travel Pass

If you plan to visit multiple Swiss cities, consider the Swiss Travel Pass. It offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland, plus free entry to over 500 museums. A 4-day pass costs around CHF 244 for second class. You can purchase it at swiss-pass.ch.

Tip

Bern Hauptbahnhof is centrally located, just steps from the Old Town. When you arrive by train, you are already in the heart of the city, so there is no need for a taxi or bus to reach most hotels and sights.