Top Things to Do in Fribourg Switzerland: Your Day Trip

This Swiss city is full of surprises, just the way we like it. Set between the French- and German-speaking parts of the country, Fribourg mixes medieval magic with modern flair. Expect soaring Gothic cathedrals, riverside cafés, and more fondue than your heart (and stomach) can handle. The cobbled streets are made for wandering, the art scene punches well above its weight, and the wine, especially from the nearby Three Lakes Region wineries, is the kind you’ll want to bring home. Planning a day trip from Bern? Building your perfect Swiss itinerary? Fribourg’s got the goods. So grab your camera, your appetite, and your curiosity, this guide will take you straight to the best spots without wasting a second.

What are the best things to do in Fribourg Switzerland?

Climb to the top of St. Nicholas Cathedral Tower

You can’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. It towers over Fribourg like a stone guardian of the old town. Step inside for a dose of dramatic Gothic architecture and some of the most beautiful stained-glass windows in Switzerland. Feeling bold? Tackle the 365-step climb to the top of the 74-meter tower. Your reward: epic views of the rooftops, the Sarine River, and the surrounding Alps. Legs a little shaky after the climb? That’s just proof you earned the selfie.

Wander across the Poya Bridge

The Poya Bridge might just be the coolest way to cross into Fribourg. It’s Switzerland’s longest cable-stayed bridge, sure, but more importantly, it’s where you’ll get one of the best views in town. As you walk or cycle across, look one way for sweeping alpine horizons, and the other for the old town’s towers and tiled rooftops. It’s a stunning mix of sleek engineering and medieval charm that totally deserves a spot in your camera roll.

Explore the charm of the old town

Wander your way into Fribourg’s Old Town and you’ll feel like you’ve slipped into another century, just without the heavy armor or lack of espresso. This place oozes character, from the winding cobblestone streets to the weathered facades that have seen more than a few centuries come and go. Stroll across old stone bridges, follow the curve of the Saane River, and keep an eye out for cozy cafés and tucked-away shops that beg you to slow down and stay a while.

Descend the funicular

The Poya Bridge isn’t just for getting from A to B, it’s a front-row seat to one of the best views in Fribourg. As Switzerland’s longest cable-stayed bridge, it delivers big on both engineering and Instagram potential. Snap a shot of the old town’s medieval rooftops from this sleek, modern perch, and enjoy the oddly satisfying clash of centuries: steel cables meet Gothic spires, and somehow it all just works.

The best things to do around Fribourg Switzerland?

Sip and taste the local wine of Switzerland

Switzerland might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of wine, but once you’ve had your first sip, you’ll wonder why. From crisp whites grown along the steep terraces of Lavaux to light and fruity reds from the Three Lakes Region wineries, Swiss wine is all about quality over quantity. Many of these wines never leave the country, making your tasting experience here truly special. Whether you’re clinking glasses in a lakeside vineyard or discovering a local cellar hidden in a historic town, sipping Swiss wine is a delicious way to explore the country, one glass at a time.

Explore the charm of Gruyères

Just 40 minutes from Fribourg by train, Gruyères is your go-to spot for peak Swiss vibes. Yes, it’s the birthplace of that cheese, and you can see it made fresh at the La Maison du Gruyère. After your cheese fix, head up to the medieval castle for panoramic views and a walk through centuries of local history. The town itself? Compact, walkable, and packed with cozy restaurants. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Cailler chocolate factory in nearby Broc is the perfect excuse to keep the food tour going.

Visit the bilingual beauty of Murten

Only 30 minutes from Fribourg, Murten is one of those towns that’s small but packed with personality. Think peaceful lakeside walks, colorful old-town streets, and a city wall you can actually walk on (with killer views to match). You’ll hear both French and German here, it’s where Switzerland’s cultures blend as easily as the local wine. Grab a scoop of ice cream, rent a pedal boat, or just chill by the water with a view that looks like it was made for postcards. No fuss, no crowds, just a perfect day out.

Wander through the Bern old town

Only 30 minutes by train, Bern is your easy-access ticket to one of Switzerland’s most beautiful old towns. From the moment you step into the city, expect cobbled lanes, a towering Gothic cathedral, and arcades that make shopping a weatherproof sport. Climb the cathedral tower if you’re up for a leg workout with a reward, views over Bern’s rooftops and the winding Aare River. Snap a pic at the famous Zytglogge (clock tower), wander the historic streets, and soak up the city’s laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect upgrade to your Fribourg itinerary without straying too far.

Dive into one of the best Swiss cities, and discover the best things to do in Bern Switzerland!

Good to Know before visiting Fribourg, Switzerland