Bern Airport (often called Belp) is small, calm, and close to the city—an ideal setup for a smooth arrival. The goal is simple: reach Bern Hauptbahnhof (Bern HB), then walk or hop on a tram using your hotel’s Bern Ticket (when included with your stay).
Best default route: Bus 160 → Belp Bahnhof → train to Bern HB.
Fastest for Most Travelers
Bus 160 to Belp station, then train to Bern HB.
Easiest With Lots of Bags
Taxi or pre-booked transfer straight to your hotel.
Best After Check-In
Drop bags, then start with an Old Town loop under the arcades.
Step-by-Step: Bus 160 + Train
1) Exit arrivals and follow signs for the bus
Bern Airport is compact, so the walk to the bus stop is short and obvious. If the weather is wintery (very possible in February and March), this is still a comfortable connection—no long outdoor hikes.
2) Take Bus 160 to Belp Bahnhof
Bus 160 links the airport with Belp Bahnhof, the local rail station. From there, the train brings you straight into central Bern. If the timing is awkward, wait indoors at the station rather than outside at the airport stop.
3) Train from Belp Bahnhof to Bern HB
The train ride is short and lands you at Bern’s main station, perfectly placed for a first walk into the Old Town. If you have time before check-in, use station lockers and luggage storage so the day stays light and easy.
4) From Bern HB: walk, tram, or quick taxi
Bern’s center is built for strolling. If you want your first “wow” moment quickly, head for the arcades and follow them toward the Old Town core. For a ready-made route, use the self-guided Old Town walk.
Late Arrival: What to Do
Bern Airport is peaceful, but late arrivals can mean fewer connections. The good news: the city is close. If the bus-to-train connection feels tight, a taxi becomes the most relaxing choice.
- • Have your hotel address ready (and the name of the neighborhood, if possible).
- • Prioritize check-in, then do a short night walk under the arcades.
- • Save the “big Bern” day for tomorrow: use the one-day itinerary as your backbone.
Arrival Tips That Make Bern Feel Easy
- • Keep a “first hour” plan: bags → check-in → quick Old Town loop → dinner.
- • Use Bern HB as your anchor: it’s the most useful navigation point in the city.
- • Plan a Sunday check: if you arrive on a Sunday, read what’s open.
- • Winter pacing: shorter daylight? Use the winter guide for the most weather-proof flow.
Next reads
Keep exploring Bern with guides that pair well with this one.
Accuracy note
Hours, tickets, and seasonal access can change. We link to primary sources where it helps and keep guides updated—but always verify time-sensitive details before you go.