Bern Switzerland Temple Wedding Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Planning a sealing at the Bern Switzerland Temple? First of all—congratulations! Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places in the world to begin your marriage. Between the peaceful temple grounds, charming Swiss villages, and breathtaking mountain views, it's easy to see why so many couples choose Bern for their destination temple wedding!
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you go—from travel logistics to wedding day tips—so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying one of the most meaningful days of your life.
Bridal couple in the mountains with a bouquet and grey suit travel LDS wedding Switzerland Bern
Where Is the Bern Switzerland Temple?
The Bern Switzerland Temple is actually located in Zollikofen, a quiet village just outside the city of Bern. Although many people refer to it as the "Bern Temple," you'll be traveling to Zollikofen on your wedding day. The temple sits on peaceful, tree-lined grounds with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
How Do You Get There?
Most international travelers fly into Zurich Airport, which has frequent direct train connections to Bern. Switzerland's rail system is known for being reliable and easy to navigate, making it a great option if you don't want to rent a car. Once you arrive in Bern, local public transportation can take you the rest of the way to Zollikofen.
Bride Tip: If you're arriving from the U.S., try to get to Switzerland at least one or two days before your sealing. Giving yourselves time to adjust to the time difference can make your wedding day feel much more relaxed.
Whenever I travel, especially internationally for weddings, it is so so vital to have the extra buffer time so you don’t feel rushed!
Should You Rent a Car?
For many couples, no.
If you're staying in Bern and only visiting nearby attractions, Switzerland's trains and public transportation are excellent. However, if you're planning to explore the Alps, visit small mountain villages, or take bridal portraits in more remote locations after your sealing, renting a car can provide extra flexibility.
When Is the Best Time of Year?
Every season offers something different. Spring and Summer are often the best times for weddings.
Spring (April–May)
Blooming flowers
Mild temperatures
Fewer crowds
Summer (June–August)
Long daylight hours
Lush green landscapes
Great weather for outdoor portraits
Fall (September–October)
Colorful trees
Crisp mountain air
Beautiful golden light
Winter (November–March)
Snow-covered scenery
Cozy atmosphere
Shorter daylight hours
No matter when you visit, I'd recommend bringing layers. Swiss weather can change quickly, especially if you're traveling into the mountains after your sealing.
Where Should You Stay?
You have two great options.
Stay near the temple
Perfect if you want a quiet wedding morning and a short drive to your sealing so the wedding more is more calm and in the middle of switzerlands beauty.
Stay in Bern
Ideal if you want to enjoy restaurants, the historic Old Town, cafés, and a romantic atmosphere after your wedding day.
If you're turning your sealing into a honeymoon, many couples spend two or three nights in Bern before heading into the Alps.
What Should You Pack?
Besides the obvious wedding attire, don't forget:
Passports
Temple recommends
Temple clothing (while clothing rental is available, members are encouraged to bring their own)
Comfortable walking shoes
A light jacket
Umbrella
Portable charger
Travel adapter for Swiss outlets
Small emergency kit (fashion tape, safety pins, stain remover)
A Sample Wedding Day Timeline
Here's a relaxed timeline many destination couples enjoy:
7:30 AM – Hair and makeup
9:30 AM – Get dressed
10:15 AM – Travel to the temple
11:00 AM – Sealing
12:00 PM – Family congratulations
12:30 PM – Family photos
1:15 PM – Couple portraits at the temple
6:00 PM – Reception & Ring Ceremony in Bern
One of the biggest advantages of a destination wedding is that there's often less pressure to rush through the day.
Should You Take Photos Somewhere Besides the Temple?
Absolutely—if your schedule allows.
While the temple grounds are beautiful, Switzerland offers incredible variety within a relatively short drive. Many couples choose to add an adventure portrait session before or after their sealing, giving them photos with alpine lakes, mountain peaks, or charming Swiss villages.
Planning an extra hour or two for these portraits can make your gallery feel even more personal and uniquely "Swiss."
Frequently Asked Questions
Can family members who aren't members of the Church attend the sealing?
Only members of the Church who hold a current temple recommend may attend the sealing ordinance. Many couples choose to include family members who cannot attend by planning a ring ceremony or celebration afterward.
Is English spoken?
Yes. While Switzerland has several official languages, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, and temple workers can often assist patrons in multiple languages.
Can we buy temple clothing there?
Yes. The Bern Switzerland Temple has a distribution center on site, and clothing rental is also available.
How many days should we stay?
I'd recommend at least 4–7 days if your schedule allows. This gives you time to recover from travel, enjoy your sealing, explore Switzerland, and avoid feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts
Getting sealed in the Bern Switzerland Temple is more than choosing a beautiful destination—it's choosing to begin your marriage in one of the most peaceful places in Europe. With thoughtful planning, your wedding day can be both meaningful and wonderfully unhurried.
If you're dreaming of preserving those moments with timeless, natural photographs, I'd love to help document your day. My goal is to help you feel fully present so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time celebrating the beginning of your marriage.
Sources
For accuracy, this guide references information from:
