Chocolate and liquor fun in Bern with tasting

A Tasty Way to Explore Bern: Chocolate and Liquor Fun with Tasting

If you’re visiting Bern and have a sweet tooth or an interest in local spirits, this chocolate and liquor tasting tour offers a delightful way to experience the city. Starting at the Kaefigturm on Bear’s Square, you’ll stroll through Bern’s iconic Old Town, soaking in historic sights and local stories. Then, you’ll venture into the Matte district, Bern’s oldest neighborhood, where a visit to the historic Matte Brennerei distillery awaits. For about 2.5 hours, this tour combines guided sightseeing, cultural insights, and plenty of indulgence.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll get to enjoy Swiss chocolates from renowned brands like Toblerone and Lindt, paired with regional spirits like schnapps and liqueurs. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring Bern’s colorful chocolate history to life, making the tasting feel more meaningful than just sampling sweets. A possible consideration is that this tour is on the active side—expect walking and some uphill sections—so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour suits those who love authentic local flavors, are interested in Bern’s history and culture, and want a relaxed, tasty outing that combines sightseeing with a little boozy fun. It’s perfect for adults seeking a unique, immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Bernese chocolate from major Swiss brands, paired with regional spirits
• Guided walking tour covering historic Old Town and Matte district
• Insightful commentary on Bern’s colorful chocolate history and local traditions
• Relaxed tasting sessions with a variety of chocolates, schnapps, and liqueurs
• Expert guides with local roots, sharing insider tips and stories
• Flexible scheduling with availability during the day, weather-protected venues

An In-Depth Look at the Bern Chocolate and Liquor Tour

Starting Point: The Historic Käfigturm

Your adventure begins at the Käfigturm (Prison Tower) on Bärenplatz. This central location is easy to find, and it sets the tone for a tour that’s as much about Bern’s history as it is about its sweets. Your guide, Felix, dressed in red, will greet you and set expectations for the journey ahead. From here, you’ll head into Bern’s famous Old Town, with famous sights like the Federal Palace and the Clock Tower just a short walk away.

Exploring Bern’s Old Town

As you walk through the winding streets, your guide will point out colorful facades, medieval arcades, and historic landmarks. The first tasting stop often takes place around Bärenplatz, where you get to sample some of Switzerland’s best chocolates, including Toblerone, Ovaltine, and Lindt. These brands represent Bern’s contribution to the global chocolate scene, making their tasting more than just a treat — it’s a taste of Swiss innovation.

Your guide’s commentary weaves in stories about Bern’s chocolate industry and how it became part of the city’s identity. One reviewer mentioned how Felix’s immense knowledge of chocolate history added depth to the experience, making the tasting meaningful beyond just eating sweets. The tour balances sightseeing with tasting, so expect about 30 minutes in the Old Town, with time to savor the flavors and absorb the historic atmosphere.

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The Münsterplatz and Beyond

Next, you’ll stroll towards Münsterplatz, a lively square dominated by the Bern Minster. Along the way, you’ll learn about Bern’s urban development, the significance of the Aare River, and how Bern’s medieval architecture has stood the test of time. The guided walk provides a relaxed pace, with opportunities to snap photos or ask questions.

Into the Matte District

The tour then takes you into the Mattequartier, Bern’s oldest neighborhood. This part of town has a distinct charm, with narrow alleys and old buildings. Here, you’ll enjoy more tastings of regional chocolate and maybe some seasonal surprises, giving a taste of Bern’s culinary evolution.

The Distillery Experience at Matte Brennerei

The highlight for many is the visit to the Matte Brennerei, an historic distillery nestled right next to the spot where chocolate was first melted in Bern around 1879. Today, it’s a hub for local spirits, including schnapps and liqueurs. Your guide will explain how Bern’s liquor traditions are intertwined with the city’s culture.

This part of the tour involves sampling a variety of spirits paired with chocolates, which makes for a fun, interactive experience. The fact that the distillery is right next to a historic location adds a sense of continuity—you’re tasting Bern’s spirit both figuratively and literally.

The Secret Stop and Final Tastings

The tour culminates in a secret spot, where you’ll enjoy a welcome refreshment, regional delicacies, and more spirits or cocktails. This hour-long segment is a relaxed social finale, perfect for chatting with your guide and fellow travelers. It’s also the chance to sample seasonal foods and perhaps pick up some recommendations for the rest of your stay.

End at the Matte Brennerei / Event Space

The tour wraps up back at the Matte Brennerei, where you can continue exploring or head on independently. The value here is in the rundown of Bern’s chocolate and spirits scene, the personalized stories from your guide, and the delicious tastings.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At around 2.5 hours, this tour packs in a well-paced blend of history, culture, and food, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to experience Bern authentically and enjoyably. The inclusion of major Swiss chocolate brands and a local distillery gives a true taste of Swiss craftsmanship. The fact that you get guided commentary from a local insider adds richness to the experience, turning simple tastings into educational moments.

While it’s priced reasonably considering the quality and variety of tastings, keep in mind that it’s primarily aimed at adults (minimum age 18), and the walking means comfortable shoes are recommended. The weather is not an issue since most tastings are indoors or in protected areas, which makes this activity flexible year-round.

The reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Felix, who makes the experience engaging and informative. One reviewer noted that “Felix not only has an immense knowledge of the history of chocolate, he also carried two thermos flasks with him the whole time to treat us to warm drinks,” which shows how attentive and personable the guides are.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy food, history, and local stories. It’s ideal for those with a sweet tooth or an interest in spirits, and for travelers who want a relaxed, interactive walk that combines learning and indulgence. It also appeals to small groups or couples looking for an intimate taste of Bern beyond standard sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching activity during your day in Bern.

What is included in the price?
You’ll enjoy tastings of Swiss chocolates, liqueurs, schnapps, plus seasonal food surprises. The tour also provides insights into Bern’s chocolate and liquor history.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 18 years, as the experience involves tasting spirits and alcohol.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing. The tour involves walking through historic streets, some of which may be cobbled.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility to adapt your travel schedule.

Does the guide speak English?
Yes, guides are available in English, German, and French.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Käfigturm on Bärenplatz and finishes back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day.

Final Thoughts

This chocolate and liquor tasting tour in Bern offers an authentic taste of Swiss culture, wrapped in a lively walk through the city’s historic core. The combination of guided storytelling, high-quality tastings, and scenic routes makes it a standout option for travelers eager for a delicious and educational experience.

You’ll love the way the guides bring Bern’s chocolate-making traditions to life, and the chance to sample some of Switzerland’s best chocolates paired with regional spirits. The insider tips and local insights add value, turning a simple tasting into a memorable cultural journey.

While it’s best suited for adults craving a relaxed, flavorful outing, those who appreciate history, local craftsmanship, and good company will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s an ideal way to experience Bern for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a generous dose of tasty fun.

In summary, this tour blends the city’s historic charm with sweet and spirited delights in a way that’s engaging, authentic, and well worth the price. Perfect for those who love learning about local traditions while indulging in some of Switzerland’s finest chocolates and spirits.

You can check availability for your dates here: