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The Old Town of Bern, located in the Swiss capital, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Its architecture reflects the evolution of culture and history. The Old Town retains a 16th-century fountain and elegant arcaded corridors. The main buildings were renovated in the 18th century, preserving their original character. The Old Town is known as the City of Fountains, with fountains appearing every few steps. The Old Town is also known as the City of Fountains, with many unique souvenir shops and shopping spots attracting tourists. The Albert Einstein Museum is also located in the Old Town.
Temperate maritime climate, suitable for all seasons
Street Fountain, Arched Corridor, Einstein Museum, 1-3 hours
free
All day
Old Town Bern dates back to the 12th century and is a perfect example of medieval urban development. Its well-preserved architecture and historical significance led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland, known for its political and cultural importance.
Old Town Bern is located in the center of Bern, Switzerland. It is easily accessible by public transportation, including trams and buses. The city’s main train station is a short walk away, and taxis or bicycles are also convenient options for getting around.
Old Town Bern is open year-round, as it is a public area. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (June-August) is the peak tourist season, so visiting early in the morning or late afternoon may help avoid crowds.
There is no entrance fee to explore Old Town Bern itself, as it is a public area. Some attractions, such as the Zytglogge clock tower or the Bern Cathedral, may have entry fees ranging from CHF 5 to CHF 10. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site or online for specific attractions.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary for Old Town Bern. However, for popular attractions such as the Zytglogge clock tower or the Bern Cathedral, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To explore Old Town Bern thoroughly, allow 3 to 4 hours. This will give you time to visit key attractions like the Zytglogge, the Cathedral, and museums, as well as to wander through the streets and enjoy the atmosphere.
Guided tours and audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish. These can be booked in advance or rented on-site at some of the major attractions in Old Town Bern.
A recommended itinerary would start at the Bern Cathedral, then move towards the Zytglogge clock tower. From there, explore the surrounding streets of Old Town, including Kramgasse, for its charming shops and cafés. End the visit with a walk along the Aare River or a visit to the Bear Park.
Night visits are not typically available in Old Town Bern itself, but some attractions like the Bern Cathedral offer evening tours. During special events, such as the annual Zibelemärit (Onion Market), the town comes alive at night with light displays and festivities.
Old Town Bern can be crowded during peak tourist seasons (summer and Christmas markets). To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during the off-peak months (March to May and September to November).
There are public restrooms available at key locations throughout Old Town Bern. Several cafés, restaurants, and shops line the streets, offering food, water, and souvenirs. There are also plenty of benches and rest areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the views.
Old Town Bern is generally accessible to all visitors. Most areas have paved walkways suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some of the historic buildings, like the Cathedral tower, may have steep stairs that are not wheelchair-accessible.
Both cash and credit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and attractions in Old Town Bern. Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in most restaurants and cafés in Old Town Bern. Halal options may be more limited but can be found in some international restaurants.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in Old Town Bern selling Swiss watches, chocolates, traditional Swiss folk art, and postcards. Local products like Bernese honey and Swiss cheese are also popular souvenirs.
From Old Town Bern, you can easily continue your journey by walking to nearby bus and tram stations. The Bern main train station is also within walking distance, offering convenient connections to other Swiss cities and destinations.
