The lovely 800 year old small town of Murten/Morat is the main city of the Fribourg lake district and is situated directly on the language border. Most Murten residents speak two languages. Thanks to its wonderful setting on the shore of Lake Murten, it is a perfect vacation spot, too. The great historical significance of the town comes alive when viewing its town wall, extraordinary towers, and wonderful castle; a true treasure. The intimacy of Murten's picturesque city center, arcades and romantic views will take you to a time long gone-by. The old town is directly adjacent to the train station. Be sure to walk down to the harbour and not to miss neither the walls, nor the central square.

Approx. time needed for the visit

2 to 3 h

Time from
ZRH airport

2 h by train

Time from
GVA airport
2 h by train

Stein am Rhein is a magnificent little medieval town right on river Rhine. Visit its famous town square surrounded by historic buildings famous for their painted facades. Have a drink or a meal in one of the many restaurants downtown or on the water edge. You’ll need one hour for the visit.

While you’re there, it’s worthwhile to have a look at Diessenhofen, another medieval town located 8 km downriver (max. 2 h). You can cross the bridge and walk along the left river bank. There is a footpath well signalled on yellow arrows. On your way there is a splendid half-timbered restaurant building from 1386 in Schüpfe. If you’re too tired, you can also ride a train (there are 2 trains every hour). From Diessenhofen you may return by train either via Schaffhausen (another beautiful old town) or Stein am Rhein.

To get there from Zurich airport, you can either take an Intercity train to Winterthur and change there to an S29 train or take an Intercity to Frauenfeld and change to the postal bus. Duration of the journey: 1 h. There are 2 travel opportunities every hour.

Approx. time needed for the visit

60 min.

Time from
ZRH airport

60 min. by train (+ bus)

Time from
GVA airport
—

This is another one for the lovers of movie-set-like medieval towns. If you have some spare time at Zurich airport we recommend you to visit the unspoiled spot of Regensberg. Located on top of a hill, this fortified medieval town is among the protected national heritage of Switzerland.

You need 3 hours for a visit. Just take a taxi from the airport (about 20 minutes drive). If you want to get it cheaper, here’s how to proceed: Take bus 510 at Zurich airport in direction Stadel bei Niederglatt. Get off at Rümlang train station. There, take the S-Bahn S5 towards Niederweningen. Get off at Dielsdorf station. From there, bus 593 takes you on top of the hill.

The bus and trains run every hour at the same minute. You can buy your round-trip ticket on the first bus. The place is easy to visit. There are good restaurants up there; you enjoy a gorgeous view and if you want, you can take a walk in the beautiful grove uphill. If you are very short of time, you can take the bus downhill 30 minutes after arrival.

Approx. time needed for the visit

45 min.

Time from
ZRH airport

40 min. by bus

Time from
GVA airport
—

Do you already know the old town of Berne? How about visiting Thun? Located on the river Aare outlet of Lake Thun, this small and charming old town will please you. It's only 20 min. by train from Berne. There are 4 trains per hour.

From the station, walk straight towards river Aare and see the old covered bridge and the picturesque old town center. If you've got time, walk 10 min. on the left side of river Aare (the one the station is located) upriver until you reach the edge of the lake at Schadau castle. Visit the interior of the magnificent 19th century building and have a coffee or meal. Stroll a moment in the pleasant park. There is also a nice old chapel at the street corner.

With a little more time, you can also visit the medieval castle located on the right side of the river, close to downtown. And if you want to make it a one day excursion, take a ship towards Interlaken (or a bus leaving from main station if you are in a hurry) towards Interlaken and visit the legendary Beatus Caves on the right side of Lake Thun. Lake Thun is one of the most picturesque Lakes of Switzerland, linking the hilly part near Thun with the high Alps near Interlaken (the set includes Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau).

Approx. time needed

1 to 4 hours

Time from
ZRH airport

2 hrs.

Time from
GVA airport
2 hrs. 25 min.