Embark on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant streets of London to the picturesque landscapes of Bern, Switzerland. Whether you seek cultural immersion, architectural marvels, or breathtaking natural beauty, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know for a seamless and enriching experience.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the grandeur of the Federal Palace, the seat of the Swiss government, and explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. Don’t miss the Einstein Museum, where you can delve into the life and work of the legendary physicist.

Lose yourself in the allure of London, a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends history and modernity. Gaze upon the iconic Houses of Parliament, the symbol of British democracy, and explore the historic Tower of London, a fortress that has witnessed countless tales of intrigue and drama. Amble through the bustling streets of Oxford Street, a shopper’s paradise, or immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at the National Gallery or the British Museum.

Getting from London to Bern

### Train:

– The Eurostar high-speed rail service connects London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord in under 2 hours. From Paris, take the TGV Lyria train to Bern, a journey that takes approximately 3 hours.
– The direct train from London Waterloo to Geneva takes around 8 hours, with a change in Paris. From Geneva, a connecting train to Bern takes approximately 1 hour.

### Flight:

– Swiss International Air Lines offers direct flights from London Heathrow to Bern Airport. The flight time is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
– Other airlines, such as British Airways and easyJet, offer flights from London to Zurich or Geneva, with connecting flights to Bern.

### Bus:

– Eurolines offers a direct bus service from London Victoria Coach Station to Bern, with a journey time of approximately 15 hours.
– FlixBus also operates buses from London Victoria Coach Station to Bern, with a journey time of around 14 hours.

Accommodation

### In London:

– The Ritz London: A luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of Mayfair, renowned for its exceptional service and elegant accommodations.
– The Savoy Hotel: Another iconic 5-star hotel on the Strand, offering stunning views of the River Thames and Trafalgar Square.
– Premier Inn London County Hall: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the Houses of Parliament.

### In Bern:

– Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa: A 5-star hotel with a prime location in the Old Town, offering luxurious rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.
– Hotel Bellevue Palace Bern: A historic 5-star hotel on the banks of the River Aare, boasting elegant accommodations and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
– Hotel Bern: A 4-star hotel with a contemporary design and a convenient location near the train station and the Old Town.

Things to Do

### In London:

– Visit the Tower of London: Explore the fortress’s rich history, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about its role in British history.
– Take a ride on the London Eye: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from this iconic observation wheel.
– Visit the British Museum: Discover the wonders of world history and culture at this renowned museum.

### In Bern:

– Explore the Old Town: Wander through the charming streets, admire the medieval architecture, and visit the Zytglogge, the city’s iconic clock tower.
– Visit the Federal Palace: Admire the grandeur of the Swiss government building and learn about its significance.
– Visit the Einstein Museum: Delve into the life and work of the legendary physicist and gain insights into his groundbreaking theories.

Food and Drink

### In London:

– Experience afternoon tea at The Ritz London: Indulge in a traditional British afternoon tea in a luxurious setting.
– Visit Borough Market: Explore one of London’s oldest and most vibrant food markets, offering a wide variety of cuisines and delicacies.
– Dine at Dishoom: Savor authentic Indian cuisine in a chic and lively atmosphere.

### In Bern:

– Try the local dish, “Bernese Platte”: Enjoy a hearty meal of boiled beef, pork, and pickled vegetables, accompanied by a mustard sauce.
– Visit the Kornhauskeller: Dine in a historic cellar restaurant, renowned for its traditional Swiss cuisine and extensive wine list.
– Visit the L’Ours restaurant: Indulge in modern European cuisine created with locally sourced ingredients.

Budget

The cost of your trip from London to Bern will vary depending on your travel preferences and the time of year you visit. Here is an estimated budget for a 3-day trip:

### In London:

– Accommodation: £100-£250 per night
– Food and drink: £50-£100 per day
– Transportation: £20-£50 per day
– Attractions: £50-£100 per day

### In Bern:

– Accommodation: CHF100-CHF250 per night
– Food and drink: CHF50-CHF100 per day
– Transportation: CHF20-CHF50 per day
– Attractions: CHF50-CHF100 per day

Tips

– Book your flights and accommodations in advance, especially if traveling during peak season.
– Consider purchasing a London Pass or Bern City Pass for discounted admission to attractions.
– Learn a few basic Swiss German phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
– Be prepared for rain, especially in the spring and fall.
– Take advantage of the excellent public transportation systems in both London and Bern.