A private full-day heritage tour from Zurich for travellers interested in Swiss history: Bern's UNESCO-listed Old Town, the Zytglogge clock tower, the Federal Palace, lunch at Kornhauskeller, a falconry experience and Habsburg Castle in Aargau. Pickup is at your Zurich hotel at 08:00, in a chauffeured luxury car for two guests, a premium van for larger groups.

Parliamentary Legacy, Kings & Falcons

Private Full-Day Tour from Zurich

08:00 – Hotel Pickup in Zurich Your day begins in comfort and style as your chauffeured luxury car (a premium van for larger groups)

and host collect you from your hotel. Settle into leather seats, enjoy refreshments, and watch Zurich fade into the soft light of the Swiss countryside.

08:00–09:30 – Scenic Drive to Bern Journey across the Swiss Plateau, rolling farmland, lakes, and distant peaks, en route to the nation’s capital. Along the way, your chauffeur shares insights into Switzerland’s balance of tradition and innovation.

09:30–10:30 – Guided Stroll Through Bern’s Old Town Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where arcaded walkways, sandstone façades, and historic fountains create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Your host reveals hidden corners and local stories most visitors never hear.

10:35–11:05 – Zytglogge Clock Tower Interior Tour Climb inside Bern’s medieval timekeeper for a rare look at the centuries-old gears that still drive its intricate astronomical clock. Feel the hum of precision craftsmanship that has marked every hour for more than 600 years.

11:30–12:30 – Guided Federal Palace Tour (public tour, Tue–Sat) Step into the heart of Swiss democracy on a guided tour of the Federal Palace (public tour, Tuesday to Saturday). In its marbled halls and domed chambers, learn how this small nation became one of the most stable and respected democracies in the world. No Federal Palace tours 30 November–18 December.

12:45–14:00 – Gourmet Lunch at Kornhauskeller Descend into Bern’s vaulted masterpiece, a cathedral of dining carved in stone. Enjoy a three-course seasonal menu paired with fine Swiss wines or premium non-alcoholic selections in one of Europe’s most atmospheric restaurants.

14:00–14:40 – Drive to Private Falconry Estate Relax during a scenic countryside drive to a secluded falconry, where ancient traditions meet modern mastery.

14:40–15:25 – Private Falconry Experience Meet the falconers and their extraordinary birds of prey. With the leather glove on your arm, feel the thrill as a falcon swoops from the sky to land gently on your hand, a powerful connection to one of humanity’s oldest royal arts.

15:25–15:45 – Drive to Habsburg Castle Travel through the historic Aargau region to the hilltop stronghold that started a European dynasty.

15:45–16:30 – Private Tour of Habsburg Castle Explore the ancestral seat of the Habsburgs, the family that would go on to rule half of Europe. Wander through stone courtyards and timbered halls where medieval power first took root, surrounded by vineyards and sweeping countryside views. Habsburg Castle: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–17:00, until 1 November; then Wednesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays.

16:30–17:10 – Return to Zurich Relax on your return journey as your chauffeur drives you back to Zurich. Reflect on a day that has taken you from the halls of democracy to the wings of falcons and the cradle of kings, an unforgettable immersion in Swiss heritage.

Frequently asked questions

Can we visit the Federal Palace any day?

The guided public tour runs Tuesday to Saturday. There are no Federal Palace tours from 30 November to 18 December.

When is Habsburg Castle open?

Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–17:00, until 1 November; then Wednesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays.

What is lunch?

A three-course seasonal menu at Kornhauskeller in Bern, with wine or non-alcoholic pairings.

Who guides the visits?

Bern's Old Town walk, the Federal Palace and Habsburg Castle are guided tours, and master falconers lead the falconry. OZ is your concierge, not the guide.

What is not included?

Additional drinks beyond those specified, personal expenses and souvenirs, and optional gratuities for guides and driver.