Free travel on the funicular with the Swiss Travel Pass!

The Gurten, Bern’s beloved local mountain, is a perfect escape from the city, offering panoramic views, scenic trails, and family-friendly activities just minutes from the city center. Standing at 858 meters, the Gurten provides stunning vistas over Bern’s Old Town, the Aare River, and on clear days, even the distant Alps.

Reaching the summit is easy with the Gurten funicular, which departs from Wabern, just a short tram ride from Bern’s main station. If you prefer a more active approach, a hiking trail leads up the mountain, taking about 45 minutes to an hour through forested paths and meadows.

At the top, you can explore walking and hiking trails, enjoy a meal at the Gurten restaurant, or simply relax on the open green spaces. A popular attraction is the observation tower, which offers an even higher vantage point for breathtaking 360-degree views. For families, the Gurtenpark features a miniature railway, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a great destination for kids.

In winter, Gurten transforms into a small sledding area, providing a fun outdoor activity right on Bern’s doorstep. In summer, it’s a fantastic spot for barbecues, open-air concerts, and festivals, including the well-known Gurtenfestival, which attracts music lovers from all over Switzerland.

Seraina's Tip: Skip the funicular and hike up for a rewarding climb, then take the funicular back down to save your knees. If you visit in the evening, catch the sunset from the observation tower for a spectacular view over Bern as the city lights begin to glow.