Posted by Most tourists from German-speaking countries travel to the Bernese Oberland by car or train. Especially visitors from southern Germany, Austria or Switzerland itself often choose these options. For travelers from northern or eastern Germany, from Vienna or from overseas, flying to Switzerland can be a practical alternative.
The Bernese Oberland does not have its own large international airport. Instead, several nearby airports offer good connections and convenient onward travel by train or rental car.
Nearest airports for the Bernese Oberland
Bern Belp Airport
Bern Belp Airport is the closest airport to the Bernese Oberland. It is located about 45 minutes to one hour from
Interlaken, the central town of the region.
The airport mainly serves domestic flights and a limited number of international connections. Due to its small size, flight options are restricted, but transfer times are short and uncomplicated.
Zurich Airport
Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland and the most important arrival point for international visitors. It is located around 1.5 to 2 hours from Interlaken.
Zurich Airport offers a wide range of international flights and excellent rail connections. Trains run frequently and make Zurich the most popular airport for visitors heading to the Bernese Oberland.
Geneva Airport
Geneva Airport is located about 2 to 2.5 hours from the Bernese Oberland. It is another major international airport with many European and intercontinental connections.
Geneva can be a good option for travelers arriving from western Europe or overseas. However, due to the longer transfer time, Bern and Zurich are usually more convenient.
EuroAirport Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg
EuroAirport Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg serves Switzerland, France and Germany at the same time. It is located roughly 2 to 2.5 hours from Interlaken.
The airport offers many international connections and is a good alternative, especially for travelers from southern Germany or eastern France. From the airport, the Bernese Oberland can be reached by train or rental car.
Onward travel from the airport
From all major airports, travelers can continue their journey by train or rental car. Switzerland’s railway system is well organized, reliable and easy to use, even for first-time visitors.
Train connections usually run via Bern or Zurich and provide access to the most important towns and resorts in the Bernese Oberland. Scenic mountain railways are an essential part of transport in the region.
More information about mountain trains can be found here:
Railways in the Bernese Oberland.
Arrival by car
Traveling by car offers flexibility, especially for visitors staying in holiday apartments or exploring remote valleys. From Germany and Austria, the Bernese Oberland can be reached via well-developed motorways and mountain roads.
However, travelers should consider higher fuel prices, tolls, tunnel fees and parking costs. Free parking is rare, especially in popular tourist towns.
Which airport should you choose?
For most travelers, Zurich Airport is the best overall choice due to its large number of international flights and excellent train connections. Bern Belp Airport is ideal if a suitable flight is available, as it offers the shortest transfer time.
Geneva and EuroAirport Basel are good alternatives if flight prices or schedules are more favorable.
For an overview of attractions in the region, see also:
Sights in the Bernese Oberland.
🎟️ Jungfraujoch Tickets – Book Early & Secure Your Spot
The Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is one of Switzerland’s most popular attractions.
Tickets often sell out quickly, especially in high season.
Booking online in advance is the safest and easiest option.
🚆 Train & cable car tickets (round trip)
Direct access to the Jungfraujoch – no planning stress.
👨🏫 Guided tours from Interlaken
Often only slightly more expensive than tickets alone – with expert guide included.