Bern

Introducing Bern

Bern, located in the central mountains of the western Swiss plateau, is the capital of Switzerland. One-third of the city is covered by forest. The Aare River divides this low-key city into two halves: the New Town on the east bank and the Old Town on the west bank. Bern is recognized for three things: the most tram lines in Europe, the longest stone arched shopping street in Europe, and the most fountains and fountain columns.

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is not as imposing and grand as many other capitals. It is not the largest city in Switzerland, nor does it have an international airport. It is a very low-key city. The old town still retains its medieval architectural style. Historical sites can be seen everywhere, especially the bell tower and the cathedral, which are unique.

It is also known as the " Bear City " and the " Spring City " . Whether it is the fountain in the center of the street or on those ancient buildings, there are almost always bear sculptures; there are many street springs in the streets, most of which were built in the 16th century. Each spring has a fountain column statue, and each sculpture here tells a legend.

Bern boasts a high-quality artistic and cultural life. Paul Klee, a world-renowned figure and icon of European modern art, grew up and spent half his life here. Traces of Klee's work can be seen throughout Bern's streets and alleys. The Paul Klee Art Center , comprised of three interconnected, wavy buildings , is a landmark in Bern, showcasing 4,000 of Klee's 10,000 masterpieces.

Bern is also the center of Switzerland's traditional watchmaking industry, known as the " Watch Capital . " Many world-famous brands have been created here. Einstein's theory of relativity and the now-widely used World Wide Web domain name ( www ) were also born in this city.

Climate and best time to travel

July to August is the best season to travel to Switzerland. The summer from June to September is suitable for outdoor and adventure activities. The temperature in spring from April to May and autumn from October to November is suitable for hiking. The winter from December to February is the best for skiing.

The Onion Festival is an ancient traditional festival in Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Every year on the fourth Monday of November , Bern will be transformed into an onion kingdom. Onion lovers from all over Switzerland will transform into chefs, cats, Harry Potter, etc., or form groups and dress up with beautiful onion braids, making the old town of Bern as high as a carnival.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lauben

The 6- kilometer-long arcade in Bern is the longest covered shopping arcade in Europe and is considered a unique feature of Bern. It is home to large shopping malls, fashion stores, jewelry stores, antique shops, watch shops, handicraft shops, confectionery shops, chocolate shops, cafes and restaurants.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

---

Most Popular FAQs for Bern

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Bern is the capital city of Switzerland, founded in the 12th century. Its historic Old Town, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is famous for its political and cultural significance, housing the Swiss federal government and numerous museums.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Bern is located in the central part of Switzerland. It is easily accessible by train from Zurich, Geneva, and other Swiss cities. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and taxis. You can also walk around the Old Town, which is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The city itself is open year-round, with most attractions open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit Bern is in spring and early autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Summer can be busier, especially in the Old Town.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary depending on the attraction. For example, the Bern Historical Museum costs around CHF 18 for adults. You can buy tickets online for some museums and attractions, or at the venue directly. It's recommended to check specific attraction websites for updated pricing.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not usually necessary to book tickets in advance for general attractions in Bern. However, if you plan to visit popular museums or special events, booking tickets online a few days in advance can be beneficial, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Bern, including the Old Town, museums, and the Bear Park, you would need about 1 to 2 days. If you’re only interested in key attractions, a half-day visit can still offer a memorable experience.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Zytglogge clock tower, which features a mechanical clock show every hour.
• The Bern Historical Museum, showcasing the city’s history and culture.
• The Bear Park, where you can see Bern’s mascot animals in a natural setting.
• The Old Town, with its medieval streets, fountains, and historical buildings.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, German, and French. Audio guides are also available at many attractions such as the Bern Historical Museum and the Zytglogge clock tower.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Rose Garden offers panoramic views of the Old Town and the Aare River.
• From the top of the Zytglogge clock tower, you can capture a great view of the city.
• The Bear Park provides excellent photo opportunities with the city’s iconic bears and surrounding views.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested route is to start with a visit to the Zytglogge clock tower, then explore the streets of the Old Town. Afterward, visit the Bern Historical Museum and end your day with a peaceful walk along the Aare River, followed by a stop at the Bear Park.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available to some museums, like the Bern Historical Museum, during special evening events. There are also occasional light shows in the city during festivals, especially around the Bernese Alps during the winter months.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Bern is less crowded during the off-season in winter (except around Christmas). Weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon, are the least crowded times to visit popular spots like the Old Town and the museums.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, cafes, and shops are widely available throughout the city. Many restaurants and cafes offer both indoor and outdoor seating, especially in the Old Town area. Rest areas are scattered across popular sites like the Bear Park and Rose Garden.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Bern’s Old Town is pedestrian-friendly with paved streets, though some areas have cobblestones. Most major attractions like the Bern Historical Museum and Bear Park are accessible for elderly visitors and those with mobility challenges, though some sites may require assistance due to stairs or uneven paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Swiss mobile payment systems) are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and attractions. It’s always handy to carry some Swiss Francs in cash for smaller purchases or in case of any technical issues.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Café de Paris, a classic Swiss café near the Old Town.
• Restaurant Kornhauskeller, located in a beautiful historical cellar, offering Swiss and European dishes.
• Various cafés and eateries line the streets of the Old Town, perfect for a coffee or light meal.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Bern offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, particularly in the city’s international restaurants. Many Swiss restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, and halal food can be found at specialized eateries in the Old Town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotel Allegro Bern, located close to the city center.
• Hotel Bern, a comfortable and modern option in the heart of the city.
• Hotel Innere Enge, offering a more tranquil setting with views of the Aare River.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Gurten Hill, a mountain offering hiking trails and panoramic views of Bern.
• The Emmental region, known for its rolling hills and the famous Emmental cheese.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are numerous souvenir shops in Bern selling Swiss chocolates, watches, and handmade crafts. Traditional Swiss cowbells, textiles, and mini Swiss flag souvenirs are also popular choices.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Trains from Bern station connect the city to other major Swiss destinations like Lucerne, Zurich, and Geneva.
• Buses and taxis are available for local travel, or you can rent a car to explore the nearby Bernese Oberland region.