Chocolate and liquor fun in Bern with tasting

If you’re visiting Bern and have a soft spot for chocolate and spirits, this tour promises a delightful exploration of the city’s tasty side. From winding medieval streets to cozy distilleries, it’s a well-rounded activity that combines culture, history, and sweet indulgence—all in just 2.5 hours.

What strikes us most about this experience are three standout features: the chance to sample top Swiss chocolates like Toblerone and Lindt, the insider insights about Bern’s chocolate heritage shared by a knowledgeable guide, and the unique opportunity to taste local spirits at the historic Matte Brennerei. Plus, the tour’s mix of outdoor sightseeing and inside tastings offers a flexible, weatherproof way to enjoy Bern’s flavors.

One thing to consider is that the tour is for adults only, due to the alcohol tastings, so it’s not suited for children or underage family members. It’s best for those who enjoy a relaxed, educational outing with a focus on local food culture, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Bernophile.

Good To Know

• Authentic Tasting Experience: Includes renowned Swiss chocolates and regional spirits.
• Cultural Insight: Guided walk through Bern’s Old Town, with insider details and historical facts.
• Distillery Visit: Explore the Matte Brennerei, one of Bern’s oldest and most storied locations.
• Flexible Schedule: 2.5-hour tour with multiple start times; check availability.
• Weatherproof: Activities include indoor and outdoor segments, suitable in any weather.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides with local roots enhance the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Bernese Chocolate and Liquor Tour

This tour offers a terrific way to discover Bern’s rich (pun intended) connection to chocolate and spirits, all wrapped up in a manageable 2.5-hour package. Whether you’re a chocoholic, a spirit enthusiast, or just curious about Bern’s culinary heritage, this guided walk delivers a mix of education, fun, and plenty of tastings.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Käfigturm on Baerenplatz, an iconic spot in Bern’s Old Town. Meeting your guide, Felix, dressed in red, is easy to spot. Felix, who has a strong Bernese background, quickly sets a friendly tone. The initial part of the tour takes you past the historic sites of Bern, setting the scene for a city full of stories and flavor.

Exploring Bern’s Old Town

The guided walk through the Old Town is a highlight. You’ll visit significant spots like Bärenplatz and Münsterplatz, where the architecture and narrow alleys tell tales of Bern’s past. The tour isn’t just about sightseeing; you’ll get plenty of food tastings along the way, which helps break up the walking and keeps your palate engaged. Expect to taste some of Switzerland’s top chocolates, including Toblerone, Ovaltine (Ovomaltine), and Lindt, which are part of the standard offering.

According to reviews, Felix’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge about Bern’s history make the walk lively. One reviewer mentioned, “Felix not only has an immense knowledge of the history of chocolate, but he also carried thermos flasks of warm drinks,” which adds a personal touch that enhances the experience.

Delving Into Bernese Chocolate Heritage

The tour emphasizes Bern’s pivotal role in chocolate history. Around 1879, melting chocolate was discovered in a building near the Matte district, which is now home to the Matte Brennerei. Your guide will share stories about how Bern became a birthplace for some of the world’s most beloved chocolates.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Matte District and Distillery Visit

Next, the tour takes you to the Mattequartier, Bern’s oldest neighborhood. Here, you’ll visit the Matte Brennerei, a historic distillery renowned for producing regional spirits. The visit includes a tasting of liqueurs and schnapps that perfectly match the chocolates sampled earlier. The guide will share insights into the distillery’s history and production process, enriching your appreciation of Bern’s spirit culture.

The distillery’s significance is amplified by its proximity to the site where melted chocolate was first identified—an intriguing connection that highlights Bern’s influence on chocolate worldwide. Expect to try several spirits, each paired with seasonal or regional chocolates, making the tasting both educational and flavorful.

The Secret Stop and Regional Flavors

One of the most acclaimed parts of the tour is a “secret stop” where, in a cozy setting, you’ll enjoy a cocktail or spirit tasting accompanied by regional food surprises. This segment lasts about an hour and offers a relaxed environment to chat with your guide and fellow travelers. Reviewers highlight the warmth and friendliness of this part, with one saying, “Felix’s stories and the warm drinks made it feel like visiting friends rather than a tour.”

Final Thoughts and End Point

The tour wraps up back at the Matte Brennerei, giving you a chance to purchase chocolates or spirits to take home. Since the activity is outdoors and indoors, it’s suitable in all weather conditions, which is a huge plus.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Duration and Schedule: Lasting about 2.5 hours with multiple start times, so you can choose one that fits your plans. Remember to check availability before booking.

Price and Value: The price includes tastings of Swiss chocolates, regional spirits, and expert-guided storytelling. Given the quality of the chocolates and spirits, and the insider knowledge you gain, it’s a solid value for food lovers and culture seekers alike.

Group Size and Guide: Small groups ensure a personalized experience, and Felix’s Bernese roots shine through in his storytelling and tips for exploring the city further.

Weather and Clothing: The tour is weatherproof, combining outdoor walking with indoor tastings, so comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing are recommended.

Age Restrictions: The tour is for adults aged 18 and over, as it involves alcohol tastings. It’s not suitable for children or underage visitors.

Why This Tour Works for You

If you love discovering local foods and spirits while exploring a city’s history, this tour hits the mark. The combination of walking through Bern’s charming streets, learning about its chocolate heritage, and sampling regional delicacies makes it a well-rounded experience.

It’s especially suitable if you enjoy guided tours led by knowledgeable locals. Felix’s stories and insider tips add depth that you won’t find in guidebooks. Plus, the inclusive nature of the tastings makes it both fun and educational, perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Bern’s sweet side.

However, if you’re traveling with children or prefer less structured activities, this might not be the best fit. The focus on adult beverages and food means it’s best suited for those seeking a relaxed, foodie-oriented outing.

Final Thoughts

This Bern chocolate and liquor tour offers a genuine taste of Swiss culture, history, and craftsmanship. With expert guides, high-quality tastings, and a pleasant walk through the city’s historic streets, it’s a memorable way to experience Bern’s culinary heritage.

Perfect for foodies, history buffs, or anyone curious about Bern’s role in the global chocolate scene, it balances education and indulgence beautifully. The fact that it’s weatherproof and includes insider tips only adds to its appeal.

If you’re after a meaningful, flavorful, and fun activity in Bern, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for adults 18 years and older because it involves alcohol tastings.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with multiple starting times available—check ahead for current options.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing are recommended, as the tour includes walking through Bern’s streets.

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

Are there indoor activities?
Yes, parts of the tour, like tastings and the distillery visit, take place indoors, making it weatherproof.

Is the guide local?
Yes, guides like Felix are Bernese locals who bring authentic stories and tips to the experience.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes tastings of Swiss chocolates, regional spirits, and seasonal food surprises, along with historical commentary.

This tour combines Bern’s historic charm with delicious treats and spirited drinks, making it a perfect way to enjoy Switzerland’s culinary traditions in just a few hours.

You can check if your dates are available here: