Bern, Switzerland Travel Guide | Top Attractions, Food & Tips

Bern, Switzerland

🏰 Old Town (Altstadt): A Medieval Masterpiece

Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is a living museum. With cobbled streets, medieval towers, sandstone buildings, and over 6 km of arcaded walkways, it’s perfect for history lovers and photographers. Don’t miss:

Zytglogge (Clock Tower): A 13th-century astronomical clock that performs every hour.
Bundeshaus (Federal Palace): Home of the Swiss Parliament, with free guided tours.
Einstein House: Explore Albert Einstein’s apartment where he developed the theory of relativity.

📸 Tip: The view from the Rose Garden (Rosengarten) across the Aare River gives you a postcard-perfect panorama of the Old Town.

🌿 Aare River & Outdoor Bliss

The turquoise Aare River loops around Bern’s core, inviting visitors to swim, float, or walk along its banks.

Floating down the Aare in summer is a favorite local activity. You can rent a dry bag and let the current guide you.
Marzili Pool: A riverside public swimming area with mountain views and zero entry fee.

🚶 Don’t Miss: The scenic Gurten Hill—a funicular ride away—offers walking trails, a tower with panoramic views, and even a toboggan run for kids.

🐻 Bear Park (BärenPark): Bern's Living Emblem

The bear has been a symbol of Bern for centuries. Visit the Bear Park, an open habitat on the riverbank where resident bears roam freely in a natural environment.

Free Entry and open year-round.
Connected to the Old Town by a short walk or tram ride.

🧸 Fun Fact: The city’s name “Bern” is believed to come from the word “Bär” (bear).

🖼️ Museums & Culture: Art, Science, and Einstein

Bern is brimming with museums that appeal to all interests:

Bern Historical Museum: Second largest in Switzerland, combining local history with a dedicated Einstein Museum.
Zentrum Paul Klee: A striking, wave-like building housing 4,000 works by Swiss artist Paul Klee.
Museum of Communication: An interactive favorite for kids and adults alike.

🎟️ Tip: Get the Bern Museum Pass for discounted or free entry to multiple museums.

🍫 Swiss Flavors: Cheese, Chocolate, and More

Bern delivers a delightful culinary experience:

Try a Bernese platter: local meats, sauerkraut, and potatoes.
Kambly Biscuit Factory (nearby): Offers free samples of gourmet Swiss cookies.
Toblerone: This world-famous chocolate was born in Bern — spot the Matterhorn and hidden bear in the logo.

🍷 Drink Like a Local: Sip on Rivella, a Swiss soft drink, or try local Bernese craft beers.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Bern

Bern offers options from luxurious to budget:

🏨 Hotel Bellevue Palace: 5-star, historic, and often hosts dignitaries.
🏠 Stay Kooook: Trendy, modern, and ideal for young travelers.
🛌 Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke: Affordable and centrally located, great for solo travelers.

🚆 Note: Bern’s compact layout means most attractions are within walking distance from any central hotel.

🚉 Getting There & Around

By Train: 1 hour from Zurich, 1.5 hours from Geneva. Swiss trains are efficient and scenic.
Public Transport: Trams and buses are punctual and free with the Bern Ticket, which comes with most hotel stays.
On Foot: Bern is one of Europe’s most walkable capitals.