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The Bern Belfry, located in Bern, Switzerland, is the city's oldest building. Built in the early 13th century, it represents medieval architecture and is one of Bern's most distinctive symbols. When the city of Bern was built in the 13th century, it served as a gateway connecting the city to the outside world. The Belfry has served as a city guard tower, a prison, a bell tower, and a center of urban life and civic commemoration. It is now a Swiss national treasure and part of the Old Town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Temperate maritime climate, summer
Bern Old Town, 1-3 hours
Adults CHF 12, Students CHF 6
Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00, closed on Monday.
The Bern Clock Tower (Zytglogge) is one of Bern’s most famous landmarks, built in the 13th century. Originally a gate to the city, it became a clock tower in the 15th century. Its astronomical clock, which dates back to the 16th century, is a masterpiece of mechanical engineering and symbolizes Bern’s rich history in timekeeping and medieval architecture.
The Bern Clock Tower is located in the heart of Bern's Old Town, at Kramgasse 49. It is easily accessible by walking from most places in the city center. Public transportation options like buses and trams also stop nearby. The closest tram stop is "Zytglogge," which is just a short walk from the tower.
The Clock Tower is open to visitors daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when the crowds are smaller. Be sure to visit on the hour to witness the famous clock show!
The entrance fee for the Clock Tower museum is around CHF 5 for adults, and CHF 2 for children. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket booth, or online for special tours.
For general admission, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, if you are interested in a guided tour, it is recommended to book at least 1-2 days in advance to secure a spot.
Visiting the Bern Clock Tower and viewing the astronomical clock show typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes. If you plan to explore the museum or climb the tower for panoramic views, allocate about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Yes, guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, German, and French. Audio guides in these languages are also offered for self-guided tours.
Start by watching the hourly clock show, then head inside the tower for a quick tour of the museum. If you’re interested in more in-depth history, take the time to explore the artifacts and learn about the clock’s mechanics. Finally, don’t miss the climb to the top for panoramic city views.
While the Clock Tower is not typically open for night visits, the tower’s clock face is beautifully illuminated at night, making for a stunning sight. Special tours can be arranged for private groups during the evening, so it’s best to inquire in advance.
The Clock Tower can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and around noon. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays.
The Clock Tower itself is accessible for most visitors, including the elderly and children. However, climbing the tower may be difficult for those with mobility issues due to the narrow, steep stairs. The museum and clock shows are fully accessible.
Both cash and card payments are accepted at the Clock Tower for entry tickets and at nearby shops and cafés. Mobile payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly accepted.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at many nearby restaurants and cafés. Halal food may be harder to find but can be found at some Middle Eastern eateries in Bern.
There are several souvenir shops around the Clock Tower selling Swiss watches, postcards, chocolates, and local crafts. A popular souvenir is Swiss timepieces, particularly those with unique designs or engravings.
