Martahaus, Bern

Advantages: lovely historic city
Disadvantages: may be limiting if you want a big city scene

...Earlier this year, we were searching for somewhere new to go for our annual 2 week holiday. In previous years we have mostly stayed in Dorset (UK) and France, and I have travelled a lot elsewhere in Europe. My son goes to football practice every Saturday and one of the other Dads suggested Switzerland. Immediately I could think of many reasons not to go there - its too upmarket, too expensive and surely its not going to be as hot as say the Mediterranean or the Costas? However I got a guide book and it seemed Switzerland had got a lot to offer - the Alps obviously, cycling and walking countryside, loads of Lakes (where the weather looked promising), culture, shops, historic cities and loads of scenic railway routes which would appeal to my son. We booked a self-catering chalet about 10 miles from Bern, and decided to take the car... Read review

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Advantages: Good value, compact,safe and lots of places of interest
Disadvantages: Might not suit someone wanting exciting night-life

...Bern must be one of the best kept secrets in Europe when it comes to selecting a destination for a city break. Transferring from Zurich Airport was simplicity itself, as the airport station has a direct,express service to Bern which takes about 75 mins.Even with an 8 month old baby and buggy, the journey was stress-free, as our luggage was delivered directly to our hotel from the airport and vice-versa on the return journey. Our package on a 6 night stay with Kuoni was tremendous value, considering we were staying in one of the city's 5 Star Hotels, The Schweizerhoff, which is within easy walking distance of Bern's subterranean railway station. Bern is clean, safe and easy to get around. If you buy a travel pass, this covers transport on bus, tram , train and even steamer, if you wish to travel further afield. Contrary... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Good value, compact,safe and lots of places of interest
Disadvantages: Might not suit someone wanting exciting night-life

...Bern must be one of the best kept secrets in Europe when it comes to selecting a destination for a city break. Transferring from Zurich Airport was simplicity itself, as the airport station has a direct,express service to Bern which takes about 75 mins.Even with an 8 month old baby and buggy, the journey was stress-free, as our luggage was delivered directly to our hotel from the airport and vice-versa on the return journey. Our package on a 6 night stay with Kuoni was tremendous value, considering we were staying in one of the city's 5 Star Hotels, The Schweizerhoff, which is within easy walking distance of Bern's subterranean railway station. Bern is clean, safe and easy to get around. If you buy a travel pass, this covers transport on bus, tram , train and even steamer, if you wish to travel further afield. Contrary... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful