Emmental, Switzerland Travel Guide

Discover Emmental, Switzerland: A charming region of rolling hills, traditional Swiss farmhouses, and world-famous cheese, perfect for nature lovers and culinary enthusiasts.

Emmental, located in the heart of Switzerland, is a picturesque region known for its rolling hills, lush meadows, and charming villages. As you journey through Emmental, you'll be greeted by breathtaking landscapes dotted with traditional Swiss farmhouses and grazing cattle. The region is named after the Emme River, which meanders through the verdant valleys, adding to the scenic beauty of the area. Emmental is also renowned for its cheese, which has gained international fame for its distinctive holes and rich flavor. Visiting a local dairy farm to see the cheese-making process and tasting the freshly produced Emmental cheese is a must-do experience. The region celebrates its culinary heritage with various festivals and events, where you can savor other local delicacies and immerse yourself in Swiss culture. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Emmental, from hiking and cycling through the idyllic countryside to exploring the numerous nature trails. The area is also home to several historic sites, including the charming town of Burgdorf with its medieval castle and the tranquil monastery of Trub. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Emmental offers a serene escape with a touch of authentic Swiss charm.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Emmental.

Visit during the summer or early autumn to experience the best weather and enjoy outdoor activities.
Plan a visit to a local dairy farm to see the cheese-making process and taste fresh Emmental cheese.
Explore the medieval town of Burgdorf and its historic castle for a glimpse into the region's history.
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and cycling to fully enjoy the scenic nature trails.
Check the local event calendar for cheese festivals and cultural events to enhance your visit.

Top City Travel Guides in Emmental

The cities of Emmental, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Bern

Thun

Destinations in Emmental

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Gornergrat

Explore Emmental: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Emmental

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Nature and Animal Park Goldau

Explore Nature and Animal Park Goldau, a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary in Switzerland blending education, conservation, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

4.6

Wildnispark Zürich Langenberg

Explore the Wildnispark Zürich Langenberg, where Swiss wildlife thrives in a stunning natural setting, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

4.6

Kleine Schanze

Experience the charm of Kleine Schanze, a serene park in Bern, Switzerland, perfect for relaxation, family fun, and stunning city views.

4.5

Emmentaler Schaukäserei

Explore the rich heritage of Swiss cheese-making at Emmentaler Schaukäserei, an interactive experience for the whole family.

4.5

Best landmarks in Emmental

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Chillon Castle

Explore Chillon Castle, a breathtaking medieval fortress on Lake Geneva's shores, offering rich history and stunning views for every traveler.

4.7

UNESCO - Bern Old Town

Experience the enchanting medieval charm of Bern's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with history, culture, and local flavors.

4.8

Emmentaler Schaukäserei

Explore the art of Swiss cheese-making at Emmentaler Schaukäserei, a delightful attraction offering tours, tastings, and a gourmet restaurant experience.

4.5

Zytglogge

Discover the enchanting Zytglogge in Bern, a historical clock tower showcasing medieval architecture and captivating animated displays.

4.6

Best restaurants in Emmental

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Emmentaler Schaukäserei

Experience traditional Swiss cheese-making at Emmentaler Schaukäserei—an unforgettable journey through taste and culture.

4.5

Restaurant Gabelspitz Schallenberg

Experience authentic Swiss cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at Restaurant Gabelspitz Schallenberg in Emmental.

4.6

Fritzenfluh

Discover authentic Swiss flavors in a charming setting at Fritzenfluh - where tradition meets breathtaking views.

4.5

Sternen

Discover the best of Swiss cuisine at Sternen in Zollbrück – a culinary gem where tradition meets flavor.

4.6

Best bars in Emmental

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Hotel Hirschen

Experience authentic Swiss dining and warm hospitality at Hotel Hirschen, a perfect retreat for tourists in Langnau im Emmental.

4.5

Restaurant & Bar B5

Experience the flavors of Switzerland at Restaurant & Bar B5, where culinary excellence meets a vibrant bar atmosphere in Burgdorf.

4.3

Wolke 7 - Restaurant & Take Away

Experience Swiss hospitality at Wolke 7, a top-rated restaurant in Langnau im Emmental, offering delicious meals and convenient take-away options.

4.9

Bädli

Experience the essence of Swiss culture with authentic cuisine at Bädli in Langnau im Emmental, a must-visit for food lovers.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Emmental

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Roots Bar l Cafe l Lounge

Discover the inviting Roots Bar l Cafe l Lounge in Langnau im Emmental - a perfect spot for drinks, dining, and local culture.

4.5

Gaskessel Bern

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Gaskessel Bern, a unique live music venue in a historic gas storage facility, perfect for music lovers and night owls.

4.5

Karma Club & Shisha Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bern at Karma Club & Shisha Lounge, a perfect blend of dance, music, and relaxation.

2.9

Circle Club Bern

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bern at Circle Club, a premier nightclub offering an unforgettable experience with electrifying music and an energetic atmosphere.

3.5

Best shops in Emmental

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Wankdorf Shopping Mall

Explore the vibrant Wankdorf Shopping Mall in Bern, your ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.

4.2

Emmentaler Schaukäserei

Experience the rich traditions of Swiss cheese-making at Emmentaler Schaukäserei, a charming attraction for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

4.5

Outlets Murgenthal

Discover unbeatable deals on top brands at Outlets Murgenthal, Switzerland's premier shopping destination for fashion lovers.

4.0

LANDI Region Langnau AG

Explore LANDI Region Langnau AG - A local market offering Swiss wines, gardening supplies, and delicious snacks in the heart of Zollbrück.

4.5

Explore Emmental on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Emmental, mapped for you.

Emmental Essentials

Emmental is located in the canton of Bern in Switzerland. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport, approximately 140 kilometers away. From Zurich, you can take a direct train to Bern, which takes about an hour. From Bern, regional trains and buses can take you to various towns and villages in Emmental. The journey from Bern to Emmental takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on your destination.
Public transportation in Emmental is efficient and well-connected. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and regional bus services offer frequent and reliable connections. Renting a car is also an option, providing flexibility to explore the countryside at your own pace. Biking is popular in Emmental, with numerous well-marked cycling routes. Taxis are available but can be expensive.
The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout Emmental, and currency exchange services can be found in major towns and cities.
Emmental is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but standard precautions should still be taken. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Emmental. However, always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which covers police, fire, and medical services. The local police stations and medical facilities are well-equipped to handle emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in towns for minor health issues, and many pharmacists speak English.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and avoid making loud noises. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful. Swiss public transport runs on time, and eating or drinking on public transport is generally frowned upon. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüezi' (hello) or 'Grüezi mitenand' (hello everyone). Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like Emmental cheese and Rösti. Don't rush through meals; dining is a leisurely experience.
To experience Emmental like a local, visit the weekly farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting a traditional cheese dairy to see how Emmental cheese is made. For a unique experience, consider hiking the Emmental Cheese Route, which offers scenic views and stops at local dairy farms.

When is the best time to visit Emmental?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Emmental

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Emmental. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGrüezi
  [Gree-tsee]
- GoodbyeAdieu
  [A-dyoo]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNei
  [Nay]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [Bitt-eh]
- Thank youDanke
  [Dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [Ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie gaht's?
  [Vee gaht's?]
- Fine. And you?Guet. Und dir?
  [Gwet. Oond deere?]
- Do you speak English?Sprichsch du Englisch?
  [Spreek-sh doo English?]
- I don't understandIch versteh nüt
  [Ich fer-shtay nüt]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möcht die Karte sehe, bitte
  [Ich muht deeh Kahr-teh seh-eh, bitt-eh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [Ich ess-eh kine Flysh]
- Cheers!Zum Wohl!
  [Tsoom Vohl!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möcht zahle, bitte
  [Ich muht zah-leh, bitt-eh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [Heel-feh!]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [Gay veg!]
- Call the Police!Ruf d'Polizei!
  [Roof dee Pol-ee-tz-eye!]
- Call a doctor!Ruf en Dokter!
  [Roof en Dock-ter!]
- I'm lostIch bin verlore
  [Ich been fer-lo-reh]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [Ich been krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möcht ... kaufe
  [Ich muht ... cow-feh]
- I'm just lookingIch lueg nur
  [Ich loo-g noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [Vee feel kostet es?]
- That's too expensiveDas isch z'teuer
  [Das isch ts-tuy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Chasch de Preis senke?
  [Khash deh Pryce sen-keh?]
- What time is it?Wie spät isch es?
  [Vee shpaet isch es?]
- It's one o'clockEs isch ein Uhr
  [Es isch ine Oor]
- Half past (10)Halb elf
  [Halb elf]
- MorningMorge
  [Mor-ge]
- AfternoonNachmitag
  [Nach-mi-tahg]
- EveningAbend
  [Ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [Geh-stern]
- TodayHüt
  [Hoot]
- TomorrowMorn
  [Morn]
- 1Eins
  [Ine]
- 2Zwei
  [Tsvy]
- 3Drei
  [Dry]
- 4Vier
  [Veer]
- 5Fünf
  [Finf]
- 6Sächs
  [Zex]
- 7Sibe
  [See-beh]
- 8Acht
  [Ocht]
- 9Nüün
  [Nün]
- 10Zehn
  [Tseen]
- Where's a/the...?Wo isch ...?
  [Vo isch ...?]
- What's the address?Was isch d'Adresse?
  [Vas isch dee Ah-dress-eh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Chasch mir zeige (uf de Map)?
  [Khash mir tzi-ge (oof de Map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wänn chunnt de nöchste (Bus)?
  [Venn khunnt de ner-shtay (Bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)E Billett (nach ...)
  [E Bill-ett (nahch ...)]

History of Emmental

Emmental, a picturesque region in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, derives its name from the Emme River that winds through its lush, rolling landscapes. The name 'Emmental' first appeared in historical records in the 13th century. The area's rich, fertile soil and favorable climate have made it a prime location for agriculture and dairy farming, essential to its development over the centuries.
During the Middle Ages, Emmental was largely dominated by feudal lords who controlled the land and its resources. Castles and fortifications were erected throughout the region, many of which remain today as historical landmarks. The local population primarily consisted of serfs and peasants who worked the land, producing crops and tending to livestock.
Emmental is world-renowned for its cheese, Emmentaler, which dates back to the 13th century. The cheese-making traditions were perfected over generations, with local farmers using the region's high-quality milk to produce the distinctive cheese. By the 19th century, Emmentaler had become one of Switzerland's primary exports, solidifying Emmental's reputation on the global stage.
In modern times, the Emmentaler Cheese Route has become a popular tourist attraction. This scenic route takes visitors through the heart of the Emmental region, showcasing traditional cheesemaking processes. Along the way, visitors can stop at local dairies, sample various cheeses, and learn about the cultural significance of Emmentaler cheese in Swiss heritage.
One of the most significant historical events in Emmental was the Peasant War of 1653. Discontent among the rural population over oppressive taxes and feudal obligations led to a widespread uprising. The conflict saw local peasants clashing with troops loyal to the authorities of Bern. Though ultimately quelled, the rebellion highlighted the growing tensions between the rural populace and the governing elite.
The architecture of Emmental is characterized by its traditional Swiss farmhouses, known as 'Bernese houses.' These structures feature wide eaves, wooden facades, and intricately carved details. Many of these historic homes have been preserved and are still in use today, offering a glimpse into the region's architectural heritage.
The region of Emmental played a role in the broader context of Swiss independence. In the late Middle Ages and early modern period, Emmental's inhabitants supported the Swiss Confederacy's efforts to maintain autonomy from external powers such as the Habsburgs. The region's strategic location and agricultural wealth contributed to the confederacy's sustenance and resilience.
The 19th century brought significant changes to Emmental with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. While the region remained predominantly agricultural, new technologies and transportation methods, such as the railway, began to influence local life. These advancements facilitated easier export of Emmental products, particularly cheese, bolstering the local economy.
Emmental is rich in cultural traditions, many of which revolve around its agricultural lifestyle. Annual events such as the Emmental Cheese Festival celebrate the region's cheese-making heritage. Traditional folk music and dances are also integral to these festivals, reflecting Emmental's deep-rooted customs and community spirit.
The idyllic landscapes and pastoral life of Emmental have inspired numerous artists and writers over the centuries. The region has been depicted in various literary works and paintings, capturing its serene beauty and cultural richness. These artistic representations have helped to cement Emmental's image as a quintessential Swiss countryside.