Gruyères Castle, Cheese & Chocolate Small Group | From Bern

Bern , Switzerland

Gruyères Castle, Cheese & Chocolate Small Group | From Bern

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About this experience

A true treat for the senses, this cheese and chocolate escapade lifts the curtain on the backstage world of cheese and chocolate production in Switzerland. Our adventure begins in the medieval village of Gruyères, famed for the nutty, semi-hard cheese which shares its name. Discover ramshackle 15th-century homes, meandering cobblestone alleys, and one of Switzerland’s crowning glory: the magnificent Castle of Gruyères. Treat your tastebuds to a local dairy, where highly-skilled cheesemakers will teach us how to make Gruyères. Sample the iconic cheese fresh from the wheel, and discover the rich history behind the recipe. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to the legendary Cailler Factory, the birthplace of Swiss chocolate. Discover why Cailler chocolate is considered the creamiest in Europe, and watch chocolatiers practicing their art.

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Gruyères Castle, Cheese & Chocolate Small Group | From Bern

What's included

Château de Gruyères Visit

Cailler Factory Visit & Chocolate Tasting

La Maison Gruyères Cheesemaking Factory Visit

Standard Railway Pass

Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Your guide and driver will meet you at the Bern meeting point and will then whisk you away to our first discovery.

Next we head to "La Maison du Gruyère”, a traditional dairy where master cheesemakers will reveal the process behind authentic Gruyère AOP cheese. Watch as fresh milk is transformed into delicious Gruyere, using huge copper cauldrons and giant curd presses.
Learn how the region produces around 48 wheels a day, all of which undergo rigorous inspection by Gruyere AOP before they are allowed to be sold with the official label.
After the demonstration it's time to indulge your taste buds. Learn to recognize and appreciate the full bodied, nutty flavor of authentic Gruyere as you sample the cheese straight from the wheel.

A short scenic drive will bring us to the delightful town of Gruyere, the birthplace of the iconic sweet and salty cheese which shares its name. Nestled within the picturesque Fribourg canton, this medieval town is bursting with rustic charm. Explore the maze of cobblestone pathways, glimpsing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside as you make your way to the hilltop Castle of Gruyères.
This stunning fortress dates back to the 13th century, and was once home to the notorious Counts of Gruyères. Now visitors can explore the castle's sordid history, and wander through treasure lined museum rooms and ancient ruins.
After the tour we will enjoy a quick lunch stop - but don’t fill up too much!

Stomachs full of cheese, we will make our way to our final stop: the Cailler Chocolate Factory.
This legendary cocoa wonderland was created by the grandfather of Swiss chocolate, François-Louis Cailler, whose secret ingredients remain in use today.
His iconic chocolate is famous for its rich, creamy flavor, achieved by using condensed milk rather than the standard milk powder used in most other brands.
Master chocolatiers will show you how to craft your own unique box of truffles, using foolproof ganache techniques. Take your chocolates home, or eat them on the coach!

After a full day of food and adventure, it's time to head back to Bern. Your guide and driver will ensure you have a comfortable journey back to Bern.

What's not included

Raclette or fondue lunch in Gruyères

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you in the main hall by the benches, in front of the main timetable, in Bern's main train station.

About Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene. With its charming arcades, picturesque fountains, and stunning views of the Alps, Bern offers a unique blend of history, nature, and modern Swiss life.

Top Attractions

Old Town of Bern

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring medieval architecture, arcades, and charming streets.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore

Bear Park (BärenPark)

A park along the Aare River where Bern's famous bears live in a natural habitat.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Bern Cathedral (Münster)

A stunning Gothic cathedral with a tower offering panoramic views of the city.

Architecture 1-2 hours CHF 7 for tower climb

Swiss Parliament Building (Bundeshaus)

The seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly, featuring impressive architecture and guided tours.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (guided tours may require booking)

Einstein Museum

A museum dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern, showcasing his life and work.

Museum 1-2 hours CHF 12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rösti

A crispy potato pancake, often served as a side dish or main course with various toppings.

Dish Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a pot over a portable stove, dipped with bread.

Dish Contains dairy, gluten (bread)

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served with Rösti.

Dish Contains dairy, meat

Bernese Platte

A hearty meat platter featuring various cuts of pork, sausages, and other accompaniments.

Dish Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Popular Activities

Paragliding in Interlaken Hiking in the Alps Skiing in the nearby ski resorts Boat trips on the Aare River Visiting the Rosengarten Enjoying a spa day Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to January

Summer offers pleasant weather and outdoor activities, while winter brings festive markets and skiing opportunities. Both seasons see higher tourist volumes.

15-25°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter) 59-77°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Bern is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, always be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Bern Airport • 7 km from city center
Zurich Airport • 120 km from city center

By train

Bern Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Bern Bahnhof

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and frequent service with easy-to-use ticket system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Bern, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Altstadt) Länggasse Bümpliz

Day trips

Thun

30 km from Bern • Half day to full day

A charming medieval town with a beautiful castle, scenic lake, and historic old town.

Interlaken

45 km from Bern • Full day to overnight

A popular adventure sports hub nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by the Alps.

Gruyères

60 km from Bern • Half day to full day

A picturesque medieval town known for its cheese, chocolate, and the famous HR Giger Museum.

Festivals

Berner Buskers Festival • June Christmas Markets • December Gurtenfestival • July

Pro tips

Use the Bernmobil app for real-time public transport information
Visit the Clock Tower for a unique experience and panoramic views
Explore the city's hidden courtyards and passages for a glimpse into its medieval past
Try local specialties like Rösti and fondue at traditional restaurants
Take a boat trip on the Aare River for stunning views of the city