Bern, Switzerland OR ???
Mar 8th, 2004, 05:15 PM
#1
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Bern, Switzerland OR ???
I need to fill a two day gap from August 26-28 between my stay in Interlaken (will be going up to Gimmelwald) and Geneva. I was thinking Bern would be a nice place to visit. I was wondering if anyone has any opinion on staying there, or would you suggest another city for a two day stay? Also I need some suggestions on accomodations in Bern, or another city which you recommend. I have a budget of about CHF 100 per night for a double room. I appreciate any suggestions!
Thanks!
~candyqueen
Thanks!
~candyqueen
Mar 8th, 2004, 06:04 PM
#2
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I spent a day in Bern a couple of years ago and my suggestion is don't! Besides a rather lazy bear and a bridge there is not much to see and/or do. Sorry to be negative without having a positive alternative suggestion, but I really regretted not spending time elsewhere.
Mar 8th, 2004, 06:12 PM
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candyqueen-
I also am not fond of Bern either. I found it dirty, with lots of bums hanging around the train station. The hotels are expensvie and rooms are tiny. 100CHF won't get you very far in Bern.
I would suggest going to Lucerne instead.
I also am not fond of Bern either. I found it dirty, with lots of bums hanging around the train station. The hotels are expensvie and rooms are tiny. 100CHF won't get you very far in Bern.
I would suggest going to Lucerne instead.
Mar 8th, 2004, 06:36 PM
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Although I liked Bern, there's not much to do and see for more than half day to one whole day. We stayed just one day and stayed overnight catching a train the next day.
What kileybug described that's about all there is to see in Bern.
I don't agree with yk totally. I don't know about bums at the train station; I guess we didn't hang around that long enough to notice any. Hotels are not that expensive; we stayed at Goldener Schlusel which is inexpensive. I didn't find that Bern was dirty at all at least not more than any other city.
What kileybug described that's about all there is to see in Bern.
I don't agree with yk totally. I don't know about bums at the train station; I guess we didn't hang around that long enough to notice any. Hotels are not that expensive; we stayed at Goldener Schlusel which is inexpensive. I didn't find that Bern was dirty at all at least not more than any other city.
Mar 8th, 2004, 06:51 PM
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I have two questions:
Why Bern?
Why Gimmelwald?
I can think of dozens of better places in Switzerland.
You must have read Rick Steves book if you picked Gimmelwald thinking it was something special.
Too bad Steves does not know what he is talking about.
Why Bern?
Why Gimmelwald?
I can think of dozens of better places in Switzerland.
You must have read Rick Steves book if you picked Gimmelwald thinking it was something special.
Too bad Steves does not know what he is talking about.
Mar 8th, 2004, 06:57 PM
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yk, I visited in 2002 so maybe things have changed a bit. Anyway, I do agree that Bern isn't a must see destination. I would have liked to have visited Lucerne instead but we didn't have enough time to go there. I've been to Lucerne a long time ago and I recall that it's much nicer than Bern-small place as well though.
Mar 8th, 2004, 10:45 PM
#9
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Bob:
Why Bern? - Well, I had heard from a few people it was a nice place to see, but obviously, there are more people who think otherwise!
Why Gimmelwald - Because I really want to go up into the mountains, and after searching on the internet and through guidebooks, I settled on Gimmelwald because it looks absolutely gorgeous! Do you think you have a better suggestion for up in the Swiss Alps? And no, I haven't even picked up a Rick Steve's book in all my planning, so you can't give him any credit for me choosing Gimmelwald, sorry!
Well I guess Bern is getting scrapped from the intinerary... So a few of you said Lucerne... Why Lucerne? What is there to see/do there? Enough to keep me entertained for two days? Where's a good place to stay?
Thanks for the advice and all the suggestions!
~candyqueen
Why Bern? - Well, I had heard from a few people it was a nice place to see, but obviously, there are more people who think otherwise!
Why Gimmelwald - Because I really want to go up into the mountains, and after searching on the internet and through guidebooks, I settled on Gimmelwald because it looks absolutely gorgeous! Do you think you have a better suggestion for up in the Swiss Alps? And no, I haven't even picked up a Rick Steve's book in all my planning, so you can't give him any credit for me choosing Gimmelwald, sorry!
Well I guess Bern is getting scrapped from the intinerary... So a few of you said Lucerne... Why Lucerne? What is there to see/do there? Enough to keep me entertained for two days? Where's a good place to stay?
Thanks for the advice and all the suggestions!
~candyqueen
Mar 9th, 2004, 12:00 AM
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Bern is not the most attractive town in the world... which is confirmed by quite some posters. But it is not that bad either.
It depends a lot on what you want to see and how you organize.
What to say about it?
- It has an interesting old town, well preserved, with a nice cathedral, and let's say with half a day of strolling potential.
- It has some interesting museums.
What else is there to see in the neigbourhood, doable by train? Murten (or Morat in French), medieval little town, on a hilltop next to the Murtensee, half a day strolling potential.
Fribourg, the old city center, half a day strolling potential.
Gruyeres, with the castle.
Hotel in Bern.
Finally you could stay in Bern or in Fribourg. Both cities are major stops on the train route to Geneva. Fribourg is generally cheaper than Bern, which may help with your budget.
Travel.
Fribourg is centrally located between Bern (20 min by train), Morat (20 min train) and Gruyères (bus, 1 hour).
Other suggestion.
Why not go directly to the Geneva lake, Montreux for example... but it may be a bit difficlt to respect your budget.
It depends a lot on what you want to see and how you organize.
What to say about it?
- It has an interesting old town, well preserved, with a nice cathedral, and let's say with half a day of strolling potential.
- It has some interesting museums.
What else is there to see in the neigbourhood, doable by train? Murten (or Morat in French), medieval little town, on a hilltop next to the Murtensee, half a day strolling potential.
Fribourg, the old city center, half a day strolling potential.
Gruyeres, with the castle.
Hotel in Bern.
Finally you could stay in Bern or in Fribourg. Both cities are major stops on the train route to Geneva. Fribourg is generally cheaper than Bern, which may help with your budget.
Travel.
Fribourg is centrally located between Bern (20 min by train), Morat (20 min train) and Gruyères (bus, 1 hour).
Other suggestion.
Why not go directly to the Geneva lake, Montreux for example... but it may be a bit difficlt to respect your budget.
Mar 9th, 2004, 12:15 AM
#11
I stayed in Bern the first two times I visited Switzerland (before I knew better). I would pick a base city and take day trips, so Bern seemed like a good choice at the time. I have no desire to ever go back to Bern, although I've passed through many times via train. It's just not that interesting to me.
I've since learned where I like to stay in Switzerland. Neither Interlaken or Gimmelwald would be my choice though. Sure, Gimmelwald is gorgeous, but so is the entire Berner Oberland. Gimmelwald is tiny, I mean tiny, and there's not much to do other than relax and soak up the scenery. If that's what you're into, you might very well like the place.
For me Gimmelwald is a nice place to pass through while walking or sledding down from Murren, but that's about it.
Because you'll already be in the area, you might want to consider spending those two days in Murren (perhaps instead of Gimmelwald), Wengen, Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald. All are villages with great scenery and plenty to do.
Other nice places to visit are Zermatt (more awesome scenery), Engelberg (yet more scenery - only one hour by train from Luzern) and Luzern.
Kandersteg is also worth a look. I've not stayed there yet, but I think about it every time I go by on the train.
Have fun.
I've since learned where I like to stay in Switzerland. Neither Interlaken or Gimmelwald would be my choice though. Sure, Gimmelwald is gorgeous, but so is the entire Berner Oberland. Gimmelwald is tiny, I mean tiny, and there's not much to do other than relax and soak up the scenery. If that's what you're into, you might very well like the place.
For me Gimmelwald is a nice place to pass through while walking or sledding down from Murren, but that's about it.
Because you'll already be in the area, you might want to consider spending those two days in Murren (perhaps instead of Gimmelwald), Wengen, Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald. All are villages with great scenery and plenty to do.
Other nice places to visit are Zermatt (more awesome scenery), Engelberg (yet more scenery - only one hour by train from Luzern) and Luzern.
Kandersteg is also worth a look. I've not stayed there yet, but I think about it every time I go by on the train.
Have fun.
Mar 9th, 2004, 12:34 AM
#12
Here are some hotels that might be in your price range:
Murren: Chalet Fontana, Hotel Edelweiss, Eiger Guesthouse
Wengen: Hotel Baren, Hotel Edelweiss, Bernerhof
Lauterbrunnen: Hotel Jungfrau, Hotel Staubbach
I have no first hand experience with these hotels - just passing them along as possibilities.
Murren: Chalet Fontana, Hotel Edelweiss, Eiger Guesthouse
Wengen: Hotel Baren, Hotel Edelweiss, Bernerhof
Lauterbrunnen: Hotel Jungfrau, Hotel Staubbach
I have no first hand experience with these hotels - just passing them along as possibilities.
Mar 9th, 2004, 04:50 AM
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Luzern is great: Scenery (lake and mountains), shopping, things to see and do, good german/swiss food, convenient. Do a search on Luzern on this website and you'll get lots of positive comments and ideas. Enjoy!
Mar 9th, 2004, 06:48 AM
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Well, I was not intending to step on anyone's foot about Gimmelwald and Bern.
I was perhaps too quick in my post.
The views from Gimmelwald are fine and you will indeed get quite a good view of the main ridge of the Berner Oberland from there. I just never found anything there of a destination quality.
Rick Steves did tout the place in preference to others, and I have yet to figure out why, except he found a cheap place to sleep. As a result I think people are misled, so my gripe is with him rather than others.
I can easily see getting off of the Luftseilbahn at the Gimmelwald stop enroute to Mürren (you change cars there anyhow) and having a look around. I am sure you can find a place to eat lunch and enjoy the views.
Then, continue up the hill to Mürren either on foot or by re-boarding the Luftseilbahn.
Mürren is of course one of the premier resort villages in the valley. For higher spectacular views, take the tram from Mürren to Allmendhubel, from which trails go even higher.
I think Melnq8 described the Bern situation perfectly. Bern is ok, but one visit there for about 4 hours satisfied my curiosity on a very wet day. It is the nation's capital and, for that reason, many people go there.
In terms of spectacular, all encompassing views, I strongly recommend the crest of the Männlichen and the trail from First to the Faulhorn. And, if you are up to it, walk the trail from Mürren toward the Sefinenfurka (pass). I don't think I recommend trying to struggle up that thing unless you are dedicated or you are on your way to the Kiental or even the Oeschinensee near Kandersteg, which is usually an overnighter.
One final question here. Some people confuse Grindelwald with Gimmelwald because of the slight similarity of the names.
Grindelwald is the largest village in the Berner Oberland area accessed by train from Interlaken Ost. It has many houses, hotels, and a long main street full of all kinds of shops.
I was perhaps too quick in my post.
The views from Gimmelwald are fine and you will indeed get quite a good view of the main ridge of the Berner Oberland from there. I just never found anything there of a destination quality.
Rick Steves did tout the place in preference to others, and I have yet to figure out why, except he found a cheap place to sleep. As a result I think people are misled, so my gripe is with him rather than others.
I can easily see getting off of the Luftseilbahn at the Gimmelwald stop enroute to Mürren (you change cars there anyhow) and having a look around. I am sure you can find a place to eat lunch and enjoy the views.
Then, continue up the hill to Mürren either on foot or by re-boarding the Luftseilbahn.
Mürren is of course one of the premier resort villages in the valley. For higher spectacular views, take the tram from Mürren to Allmendhubel, from which trails go even higher.
I think Melnq8 described the Bern situation perfectly. Bern is ok, but one visit there for about 4 hours satisfied my curiosity on a very wet day. It is the nation's capital and, for that reason, many people go there.
In terms of spectacular, all encompassing views, I strongly recommend the crest of the Männlichen and the trail from First to the Faulhorn. And, if you are up to it, walk the trail from Mürren toward the Sefinenfurka (pass). I don't think I recommend trying to struggle up that thing unless you are dedicated or you are on your way to the Kiental or even the Oeschinensee near Kandersteg, which is usually an overnighter.
One final question here. Some people confuse Grindelwald with Gimmelwald because of the slight similarity of the names.
Grindelwald is the largest village in the Berner Oberland area accessed by train from Interlaken Ost. It has many houses, hotels, and a long main street full of all kinds of shops.
Mar 9th, 2004, 10:00 AM
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In defence of Bern: I visited Bern in 2001 and stayed 5 nights, spent two full days in the city, one day trip to Grindelwald/Kleine Scheidegg, one day trip to the Lakes of Biel/Neuchatel/Murten. I lOVED Bern and did not get bored at all. But I must admit I am a fan of art, architecture and history, so it depends on your interests ...
Here are some main sights: The Gothic cathedral is stunning with originally preserved medieval stained glass windows, the beautiful sculptured portal (final judgement) and great views from its tower. The figure play at the clock tower (Zytgloggeturm) is fun. In general I liked to stroll through the perfectly preserved old town with Baroque and classical style facades, endless arcades with interesting shops, good cafes and restaurants. The many beautiful fountains with figures add to the pleasure. Not to miss is a guided (free) tour of the Swiss Parliament building. Excellent for recreation are the roses garden (with cafe and view of the old town), the enchanting garden "Elfenau" by the Aare river and the Gurten Mountain, accessible by funicular with views of the city and Alps. I also liked the house where Albert Einstein lived, now home of a small museum. Very interesting is the Historical museum with some treasures of the Burgundy battles and other works of art from medieval times. For art lovers - the Kunstmuseum houses the largest collection of Paul Klee paintings.
Nightlife was surprisingly good. Lots of open air cafes and restaurants; bars, small theatres and clubs in the old town.
For accommodation I can recommend the Pension Marthahaus www.marthahaus.ch
Anyway, I don't think Lucerne is a good option since it is opposite direction to Geneva. You might consider a place on Lake Geneva. Montreux-Vevey is a very beautiful region, but expensive. If you pick that area, in any case take the train from Interlaken to Montreux via Spiez - Gstaad. It is the scenic "Golden Pass Panoramic Express".
Here are some main sights: The Gothic cathedral is stunning with originally preserved medieval stained glass windows, the beautiful sculptured portal (final judgement) and great views from its tower. The figure play at the clock tower (Zytgloggeturm) is fun. In general I liked to stroll through the perfectly preserved old town with Baroque and classical style facades, endless arcades with interesting shops, good cafes and restaurants. The many beautiful fountains with figures add to the pleasure. Not to miss is a guided (free) tour of the Swiss Parliament building. Excellent for recreation are the roses garden (with cafe and view of the old town), the enchanting garden "Elfenau" by the Aare river and the Gurten Mountain, accessible by funicular with views of the city and Alps. I also liked the house where Albert Einstein lived, now home of a small museum. Very interesting is the Historical museum with some treasures of the Burgundy battles and other works of art from medieval times. For art lovers - the Kunstmuseum houses the largest collection of Paul Klee paintings.
Nightlife was surprisingly good. Lots of open air cafes and restaurants; bars, small theatres and clubs in the old town.
For accommodation I can recommend the Pension Marthahaus www.marthahaus.ch
Anyway, I don't think Lucerne is a good option since it is opposite direction to Geneva. You might consider a place on Lake Geneva. Montreux-Vevey is a very beautiful region, but expensive. If you pick that area, in any case take the train from Interlaken to Montreux via Spiez - Gstaad. It is the scenic "Golden Pass Panoramic Express".
Mar 9th, 2004, 07:15 PM
#17
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Well, now that I have had conflicting reviews, I'm not sure what to do. I mean, it's only two days, so if I hate the city, I'll be gone before I know it. I think I'll have to look into the many cities recommended to me, and make my decision from that. If anyone has any other suggestions, keep 'em coming! 
Mar 9th, 2004, 09:13 PM
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Well, I think I may choose to stay in Luzern.. It's not too far from where I would like to be, and there seems to be some positive comments on the town itself.
Now all I need to find is decent accommodations for about CHF 100-120 per night for a double room (August 26-28). Any suggestions?
Thanks for all the advice!
~candyqueen
Now all I need to find is decent accommodations for about CHF 100-120 per night for a double room (August 26-28). Any suggestions?
Thanks for all the advice!
~candyqueen
Mar 9th, 2004, 11:27 PM
#19
Candyqueen -
Here's a good site that might help you locate a hotel in Luzern:
www.luzern-hotels.ch
Your budget will probably limit you to ** properties.
You might want to check out this one as well:
Hotel Alpha - central, quiet, 10 minute walk to train station, 5 minute walk to old town - 120-130 CHF per night for a double room with ensuite.
www.hotelalpha.ch
Here's a good site that might help you locate a hotel in Luzern:
www.luzern-hotels.ch
Your budget will probably limit you to ** properties.
You might want to check out this one as well:
Hotel Alpha - central, quiet, 10 minute walk to train station, 5 minute walk to old town - 120-130 CHF per night for a double room with ensuite.
www.hotelalpha.ch
Mar 10th, 2004, 05:23 AM
#20
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Finding hotels in Luzern in your price range is not easy, especially if you wish to be in/near the Altstadt. A few options are:
1. Hotel Roesli--125chf/nt without breakfast (http://www.roesli.ch/)
2. Hotel Alpha, -- 120chf/nt with breakfast. On PilatusStrasse--10 minute walk from train station, 5 from Altstadt. Has been recommended in Frommers travel books(http://www.hotelalpha.ch/e_default.asp
3. Hotel Lowengraben--95chf/nt including breakfast. This is the former jail/prison that has been refurbished and looks interesting. In the
Altstadt, but quite a hike from the train station (http://www.loewengraben.ch/)
5. Tourist Hotel--great view, simple accommodations ranging from dorm room to private rooms with or without facilities ranging from 98-160 chf/nt with breakfast. Frommers recommendation (http://www.touristhotel.ch/English/English_index.htm)
1. Hotel Roesli--125chf/nt without breakfast (http://www.roesli.ch/)
2. Hotel Alpha, -- 120chf/nt with breakfast. On PilatusStrasse--10 minute walk from train station, 5 from Altstadt. Has been recommended in Frommers travel books(http://www.hotelalpha.ch/e_default.asp
3. Hotel Lowengraben--95chf/nt including breakfast. This is the former jail/prison that has been refurbished and looks interesting. In the
Altstadt, but quite a hike from the train station (http://www.loewengraben.ch/)
5. Tourist Hotel--great view, simple accommodations ranging from dorm room to private rooms with or without facilities ranging from 98-160 chf/nt with breakfast. Frommers recommendation (http://www.touristhotel.ch/English/English_index.htm)
