Both the Einsteinhaus and the Zytglogge are within a 10-minute or less walk from the three-pearl Hotel Baren am Bundesplatz. The hotel is a functional property with little character, which is somewhat odd for a historic hotel in the old town of Bern. It offers 67 rooms with the basics, like flat-screen TVs and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Unfortunately, some rooms don't have air-conditioning and reports of thin walls and bothersome noise are common. The lobby bar provides space for social interaction. There are a free Swiss breakfast in the morning and drinks throughout the day and evening. For rooms with mini-fridges and a full on-site restaurant, Best Western Hotelbern is a good alternative.  

Hotel Eiger is an upper-middle-range property, conveniently located across the street from Murren's train station. Snow-capped peaks and chalet layouts are every inch the Swiss mountain village here, but Murren's car-free setting isn't for everyone. A nature-loving crowd here embrace it though, and family owners use their golf buggy to ease arrivals. Much of the property takes in the humbling mountain backdrop -- from the two restaurants, sun terrace, and spa's indoor pool, to many of the 49 rooms. Rooms are outfitted in attractive rustic decor, with flat-screen TVs and minibars, but they lack AC. Travelers preferring a location permitting vehicles should compare with Grindelwald's Hotel Gletschergarten.