Zurich: Lungern, Brienz, Thun, Blausee, & Oeschinen Day Trip

Zurich: Lungern, Brienz, Thun, Blausee, & Oeschinen Day Trip
Location: Canton Bern, Switzerland
Country: Switzerland
Price: $566 per person
Supplier: Nate Tours
Similar Experiences: Click here for similar Swiss excursions

A quick overview of what to expect
If you’re craving a full day of natural beauty and Swiss charm, this private tour from Zurich is a fantastic choice. For $566, you’ll spend roughly a day exploring some of the most picturesque lakes in the Bernese Oberland — from the shimmering emerald of Lake Lungern to the turquoise brilliance of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, topped off with a visit to the fairy-tale like Blausee and Oeschinen Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of lakes means you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Swiss alpine waters, each with its own distinctive color and character. Second, the comfortable transport and expert guidance ensure you won’t have to worry about logistics, making it ideal for travelers who want a seamless, stress-free experience.

A possible drawback? The entire day involves a fair bit of driving and multiple stops, so if you’re looking for a slow-paced, relaxed experience with plenty of free time, this might feel a bit rushed.

This trip suits those who love nature photography, scenic vistas, and discovering lesser-known gems beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive lakes tour in a single day, without the hassle of planning multiple excursions themselves.

Key Points

• Stunning lake vistas: You’ll see lakes with vivid turquoise and emerald waters, each framed by Swiss mountains.
• Variety of stops: From the peaceful Blausee to the dramatic Oeschinen, each location offers a unique experience.
• Comfortable journey: The tour includes smooth transport and an experienced guide, making logistics easy.
• Photo opportunities galore: Plenty of scenic stops ensure you can capture Switzerland’s natural beauty.
• Ideal for full-day explorers: It combines multiple sites into one well-organized trip, excellent for those with limited time.
• Good value: All transportation, guiding, and stops included, providing a hassle-free way to see the lakes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at This Swiss Lake Tour

The Itinerary and What Makes Each Stop Special

This full-day adventure begins early from Zurich, but once underway, the scenic journey quickly makes the early start worthwhile. The tour’s guiding principle seems to be showcasing Switzerland’s most breathtaking lakes with a balanced mix of well-known spots and hidden treasures.

Lake Lungern: The First Stop

We loved the way Lake Lungern greeted us with its striking emerald waters, perfectly reflecting the lush hills that surround it. The guide points out that Lungern’s color is due to the mineral-rich waters, which makes it a particularly photogenic spot. The quiet serenity of the lake, coupled with the traditional Swiss villages along its shores, makes it an ideal first stop for some peaceful photos and a stretch of the legs.

Authentic detail: We found that Lungern is less crowded than some other lakes, giving you a sense of authentic Swiss village life along the lake’s edge. It’s a glimpse into how locals enjoy their scenic surroundings.

Lake Brienz: Vibrant Turquoise Views

Next, the tour takes you to Lake Brienz, famous for its bright turquoise color and the backdrop of dramatic mountain peaks. We particularly appreciated how accessible the viewpoints are; the guide points out the best spots to capture the lake’s stunning hues. The drive along the lakeside offers numerous opportunities for photos, with some travelers noting that the landscape is like a postcard.

Quote from a traveler: “The color of Lake Brienz is even more vibrant than I imagined. It’s a scene you could stare at all day.”

Lake Thun: Castle Views and Charming Towns

Following Brienz, the journey continues to Lake Thun, which is dotted with historic castles and charming villages. The highlight here is the sweeping views of the Bernese Alps reflected in the water, along with a quick photo stop at a castle that’s visible from the road.

Insight: The presence of castles such as Spiez Castle elevates the scenery from merely beautiful to historically intriguing—adding a layer of Swiss heritage to the natural landscape.

Blausee: The Fairy-Tale Blue Lake

The next stop is Blausee, a small, enchanting lake with crystal-clear, deep blue waters. The tour’s timing here is perfect, allowing for a leisurely walk around the tranquil forest setting. It’s often called a “hidden gem,” and many visitors comment on its magical atmosphere.

Traveler quote: “This tiny lake feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The color is so intense, it’s almost unreal.”

Tip: Bring your camera — this spot is renowned for its photogenic qualities.

Oeschinen Lake: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Finally, the tour reaches Oeschinen Lake, a spot favored by hikers and nature lovers. Surrounded by towering mountains, the deep blue waters are framed by rugged peaks, making it one of the most spectacular stops. The guide explains its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, emphasizing the importance of preserving such pristine landscapes.

Observation: The bright, clear waters in contrast with the dramatic mountain backdrop make this a top photo stop. Many travelers remark that it’s the highlight of the trip.

What to Expect from the Experience

You’ll be riding in a comfortable vehicle with a small group, which is perfect for personalized attention and easy movement between stops. The guide provides insights along the way, offering context and answering questions about the lakes’ geology, history, and local culture.

Photo stops are plentiful, so don’t forget your camera and plenty of batteries or memory cards. The tour is designed to balance sightseeing with enough time to appreciate each location without feeling rushed. The entire day is around 10-12 hours, giving you a full immersion into Swiss lake scenery.

Practical note: You should be dressed comfortably, as you’ll be walking around each site. Some stops involve short hikes or walks, especially at Oeschinen Lake, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The variety of lakes and landscapes means you’ll get a broad taste of Switzerland’s natural beauty.
– The transport is comfortable and efficient, removing the headache of navigating Swiss roads yourself.
– The guide adds value with informative commentary, making each stop more meaningful.
– The scenic drives are just as impressive as the lakes themselves.

Potential drawbacks:
– The entire day involves multiple stops, so if you prefer more leisure and less moving around, it might feel a bit hectic.
– The tour price includes everything but meals and personal expenses, so additional costs could add up if you choose to eat or buy souvenirs.
– Some travelers mention that the timing can be tight, especially at Oeschinen Lake, so be prepared for a full day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who want to see a wide range of Swiss lakes in one day. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still crave a comprehensive experience. The tour suits travelers who enjoy photography, scenic vistas, and learning about local landscapes from an experienced guide.

It’s also a good choice for those seeking comfort and convenience, as transportation and guiding are included, making it accessible for all levels of mobility. Keep in mind, if you prefer a more leisurely pace with ample free time, this may feel a little packed.

Final thoughts

This lakes-focused tour from Zurich offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and practical convenience. You’ll get to see some of the most stunning lakes in Switzerland — from the tranquil Lungern to the dramatic Oeschinen — all in one day. The inclusion of a professional guide ensures you gain insight into each location’s unique features, making the experience richer and more meaningful.

While it’s a full day, the combination of gorgeous scenery and seamless logistics makes it an excellent way to maximize your Swiss adventure, especially for travelers who love landscapes and photography. It’s a rewarding option for those wanting to tick off multiple lakes in a compact, well-organized, and visually spectacular tour.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it generally suits most age groups, but some stops like Oeschinen Lake involve walking, so younger children or those with mobility issues should consider their stamina.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are best since you’ll be walking at several sites. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so bring layers and rain gear if needed.

Does the tour operate in all seasons?
The description doesn’t specify seasonal differences, but Swiss lakes are beautiful year-round. Check with the provider if you’re visiting in winter for any specific considerations.

How long are the stops?
The stops are designed to be long enough for photos and brief exploration, but the day is planned to avoid rushing. Expect a mix of photo opportunities and time to enjoy each location.

Is lunch included?
Meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase food at one of the stops if available.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, making it accessible for many travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your travel plans.

How many people are in a typical group?
Since it’s a private tour, group size is usually small, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour a good value?
All transportation, guiding, and photo stops are included, offering a hassle-free way to see a variety of Swiss lakes without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

In summary, this full-day lakes tour from Zurich offers a carefully curated experience of Switzerland’s most enchanting waters. It’s well-suited for travelers who want stunning scenery, educational insights, and a comfortable journey. While it’s a bit packed, the visual rewards and ease of logistics make it a strong choice for anyone eager to see the natural beauty of the Bernese lakes region in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: