Things To Do
in Ostermundigen
Ostermundigen is a charming Swiss municipality just east of Bern, blending quiet residential streets with easy access to the city’s cultural treasures. Nestled on the plateau above the Aare valley, it offers scenic views, leafy neighborhoods, and a gateway to the Bernese Oberland. The town is well-connected by public transit, making day trips to Bern’s Old Town and the surrounding mountains effortless.
Visitors will find a welcoming, orderly Swiss atmosphere with a focus on outdoor living and family-friendly activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Zurich Airport and take a train to Ostermundigen, soaking in the Swiss landscapes along the way. Settle into your accommodation and freshen up before heading out to explore the local area. Grab brunch at a nearby café, enjoying traditional Swiss pastries and coffee.
Stroll through the quaint streets of Ostermundigen, discovering charming shops and local art galleries. Visit the beautiful church of St. James, taking a moment to appreciate its stunning architecture. Indulge in lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Swiss cheese and rösti.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk in the nearby park, allowing the serenity of nature to wash over you. For dinner, enjoy a cozy meal at a traditional Swiss eatery, where you can experience fondue with locals. Wrap up your first evening by unwinding at your accommodation or exploring the nightlife in Zurich, just a short train ride away.
Take a short train ride to Zurich and start your day by exploring the picturesque Old Town, with its narrow medieval streets and historic buildings. Visit the famous Grossmünster church and climb its tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and local cheese.
Spend the afternoon visiting the Swiss National Museum to learn about the history and culture of Switzerland. Afterwards, take a stroll along Lake Zurich, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps grabbing a light lunch at a lakeside café. Don't miss the chance to go shopping on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most famous shopping streets.
For dinner, choose a restaurant along the lakeshore, where you can enjoy Swiss specialities while watching the sunset. After your meal, take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich to experience the city from the water. Finish the night with a drink at a local bar, experiencing Zurich's vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $4-6 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly per person) | $60-120 |
| 🚆1-day public transit pass | $10-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-240 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Bern’s cultural attractions
- High quality of life and clean environment
- Excellent public transportation
- Safe, family-friendly town
- Scenic access to mountains and nature
- Higher costs typical of Switzerland
- Smaller nightlife scene in Ostermundigen
- Quiet rather than buzzy urban atmosphere
- Weather can be chilly in shoulder seasons
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Ostermundigen
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular vantage point overlooking Bern’s Old Town and the Aare river, ideal for golden hour photography.
Piers and bridges along the river offer reflections and movement shots, especially at sunrise.
Cobbled streets and traditional Swiss façades provide charming street photography opportunities.
Panoramic views of Bern and the Alps; a short trip from Ostermundigen via funicular or hike.
Food in Ostermundigen
Ostermundigen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy, golden fried potatoes often topped with a fried egg or served with bacon and onions.
Must-Try!
Beef sirloin with onions and gravy; can be found in traditional Swiss restaurants.
A hearty platter of meats, sauerkraut, beans, and potatoes—great for sharing.
Classic melted cheese dishes perfect for cooler evenings.
A refreshing oats-and-fruit breakfast staple named after its Swiss creator.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily and weekend markets offering cheeses, breads, produce, and regional snacks; great for a quick bite.
Seasonal stalls offering sausages, raclette sandwiches, pretzels, and sweet pastries near popular squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and reservations; Swiss value time and reliability.
Offer a handshake; address by title and surname unless invited to use first names.
Respect orderly queues and personal space; avoid loud conversations in public transit.
Keep public spaces clean; dispose of trash properly and recycle where possible.
Safety
Tipping in Ostermundigen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving a 5-10% tip for good service is common but not required.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is still handy for small markets and some rural spots; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with fresh blossoms; good for city walks and parks; rain showers are common.
Warm days and comfortable evenings; great for outdoor markets, lakes, and hill hikes; bring sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures with fall colors; ideal for scenic drives and photography walks.
Cold, with chances of snow; cozy indoor dining and nearby ski options in the Alps; dress warmly.
Ostermundigen at Night
Hiking in Ostermundigen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking route to Gurten Summit with forested trails and panoramic views over Bern.
More challenging hikes with scenic alpine landscapes within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Ostermundigen by plane.
Small international airport near Bern with connections to Europe and domestic flights; good for short trips.
Switzerland’s largest international hub; a rail link from Bern makes travel convenient.
Another major hub; longer train ride but many international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Ostermundigen; several schools and parks around the town.
A mix of Swiss and expat residents, especially near Bern with access to multilingual services.
Proximity to Bern’s universities and offices attracts students and professionals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport at amateur and professional levels across towns and clubs.
Nearby Alps offer winter sports opportunities within a couple of hours.
Extensive networks in Gürbetal and surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ostermundigen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Swiss restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for fondue vegetariana or mushroom dishes; ask for egg or cheese-based options.
Request plant-based dishes; many restaurants can adapt dishes, especially with salads and vegetables; be mindful of cheese in Swiss recipes.
Swiss kitchens can accommodate; ask for gluten-free bread or pastas; carry a card in German explaining restrictions.