When I first started planning our family trip to Europe, one country took priority above all others—Switzerland. Its alpine charm, turquoise lakes, and fairytale towns have long called to me, and I knew everything else on our itinerary would have to revolve around it. Thanks to strategic use of points and miles, we experienced the beauty of Brienz, Switzerland—without blowing our travel budget.

Here’s how we made it happen—and how you can too!

Flights and Transportation: Flying to Europe on Points

Our journey began in Kansas City (MCI). To maximize the value of our points, I booked a positioning flight to New York City using Southwest Rapid Rewards and our Companion Passes. This cost just 17,741 Southwest points and $22 for all four of us—a serious savings move that cut nearly 100,000 American Airlines miles off the total.

From JFK, we took a nonstop overnight flight to Rome (FCO) using American Airlines miles—approximately 120,000 miles and $25 in fees for our family of four. Thanks to my Platinum status with AA (earned through the shopping portal), we got upgraded to Economy Plus, which made the red-eye far more comfortable.

For the return, we flew from Paris to Kansas City for 104,000 AA miles and $297 in taxes—again, a solid deal for a transatlantic flight for four.

After Rome, we explored Venice by train and then headed north to Bern, Switzerland, where we rented a car at Hertz (Casinoplatz) using Chase Ultimate Rewards. Pro tip: Use the Chase Sapphire Preferred for booking rental cars to take advantage of its excellent primary insurance coverage.

Where We Stayed in Brienz

We booked an Airbnb overlooking Lake Brienz, which offered an unbeatable mix of peaceful lake views and cozy alpine vibes. I used a 25% Chase transfer bonus to Airbnb (available in 2022), which gave incredible value. While that promo has since ended, there are still many ways to use points for vacation rentals—check out my guide to Vacation Rentals on Points.

Other options in Brienz and the nearby Interlaken region:

• Hotel Brienzerburli – classic Swiss hospitality right on the lake
• Grandhotel Giessbach – a luxury option with dramatic views and its own waterfall
• Youth Hostel Brienz – budget-friendly but still scenic

Getting Around Switzerland

Switzerland’s public transportation is world-class, but we loved the flexibility of having a rental car, especially for exploring villages, castles, and hidden gems. Trains and boats are also scenic and reliable—consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats.

Things to Do Around Brienz

Switzerland is a playground for outdoor lovers and culture seekers alike. Here’s how we filled our days in and around Brienz:

1. Ride the Brienz Rothorn Bahn

Take a ride on this historic steam cogwheel train to the top of the Brienzer Rothorn. Over 100 years old, this train winds up the mountainside for jaw-dropping views of Lake Brienz and the Bernese Alps—plus grazing cows with their iconic Swiss bells.

2. Ballenberg Open-Air Museum

Explore Switzerland’s rich cultural history through 100+ authentic buildings transported from across the country. Kids can interact with animals, watch blacksmiths and weavers at work, and run through alpine farms.

3. Day Trip to Thun and Oberhofen

In Thun, we explored the Thun Castle (dating back to the 12th century), which now houses an engaging museum with hands-on activities for kids. After lunch by the Aare River, we made our way to Oberhofen Castle, where my kids had a blast dressing up in medieval costumes.

On the walk back from the castle, we found a small business renting electric boats—CHF 75 for an hour on Lake Thun was well worth it. Picture-perfect views of the Bernese Oberland capped off the day.

4. Adventure Day in Interlaken

For my son’s birthday, we booked with Outdoor Switzerland, choosing two thrilling activities:

• Seilpark Interlaken (Ropes Course) – a forest ropes park with zip lines and aerial challenges
• Jetboat Ride on Lake Brienz – fast, fun, and full of spins

Afterward, we relaxed at Lido Brienz, a lakeside beach club with pools, lake access, water trampolines, and kayak rentals. It’s an affordable family-friendly spot just a short walk from the jetboat dock.

5. Top of Europe – Jungfraujoch

Though fog kept us from going up, this is a must-do if the weather cooperates. From Interlaken or Grindelwald, take the train to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe. Panoramic glacier views await!

Where to Eat in and Around Brienz

Let’s be real—Switzerland is pricey, so we often hit the Coop grocery store to save money. But we made a point to indulge in local bakeries and cafés whenever possible. Here are a few we loved:

Bakeries:

• Steininger Bäckerei – fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches
• Confiserie Rieder (Brienz) – chocolate heaven!
• Mohler (Interlaken) – their almond croissants are a must

Restaurants/Cafés to Try:

• Café Walz (Thun) – riverside spot with a great brunch
• Restaurant Brienzerburli – traditional Swiss fare like rösti and fondue
• Restaurant Seeblick Giessbach – upscale dining with views to match

Final Thoughts: Why Brienz Stole My Heart

As someone who adores Lake Tahoe, Glacier National Park, and spending time outdoors, I knew Switzerland would speak to my soul—and it did. The serenity of Lake Brienz, the charm of alpine villages, and the thrill of exploring castles and peaks made this one of the most unforgettable trips we’ve ever taken.

And the best part? We did it using points and miles, turning what could’ve been a budget-busting itinerary into a savvy, luxurious getaway.