areas surrounding Bern

I had to look at a map to see where things were because my trips to Switzerland were long in the past. I remember enjoying the walled town of Murten, the lake-side town of Thun and the hilly town of Fribourg. I also have a vague but positive recollection of Solothurn. All are quite close to Bern.

Since I haven't been to any of those places for 25 years, I have no clue where they fall on the non-touristy/touristy continuum.

When I'm in Bern I get out into the neighbouring areas but I also find plenty to do actually within the city itself.

The Gurten keeps me going for a good several hours. Funicular too. When I was up there in April there was snow (none down in the town). Good information and a couple of pictures at https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/experiences/gurten-views-over-berne-and-the-alps/

The opposite direction, the Rose Garden is easy to get to by either walking or electric bus or tram. Great views, very good rose garden, Einstein bench.

Elevator down to the riverside side of the bear enclosure, or view from above.

Walk around the river side under the cathedral and government buildings - funicular or elevator.

All these things are included in the free transport pass given to you by your hotel when staying in Bern.

Obvious: Berner Oberland / Jungfrau region
If you have already been on a "12 day swiss trip", that was almost certainly included.

½ day is difficult, it needs to be very close.

• Bern itself is worth one of your 2 days.
• Luzern (unless already visited)
• Thun, possibly a lake boat trip
• Gruyères - little old town with cheese making.
• Murten, small walled town. Close enough to do in ½ day.
• Fribourg/Freiburg (Swiss Freiburg, NOT the German one, Freiburg im Breisgau, that's too far)

If you have a full day: Basel.

I would agree with others who have suggested Murten which is a small walled town and can be enjoyed in half a day; it’s a convenient train trip.

Thun is also near Bern with some interesting architecture including a street with two level construction using elevated sidewalks and two castles. There are nice cafes along the Aare river which flows out of the lake. There is a nice trail along the lake with stunning views of the Alps.

https://www.swissvistas.com/thun-travel-guide.html

All the best,

Raymond

Thank you all. Great ideas. I like the idea of Morten, gruyere and basil. Thank you !!

Morten, gruyere and basil

1 out of 3 for spelling ☺ Murten, Gruyères, Basel
I will let you off the è in Gruyères, probably don't have it on your keyboard. "Basil" is a herb.

Enjoy your trip.