Bern, Switzerland Travel Guide

Discover Bern, Switzerland's charming capital, where medieval architecture meets natural beauty and a vibrant cultural scene, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Alps.

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Its medieval city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of cobblestone streets, sandstone buildings, and charming arcades. Walking through Bern feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with its iconic Clock Tower (Zytglogge) and the stunning Federal Palace (Bundeshaus) standing as proud symbols of its rich history. Nature lovers will find Bern equally enchanting. The city is cradled by the Aare River, offering picturesque views and serene moments. The Rosengarten park provides a panoramic view of the old town and the distant Alps, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. Don't miss a visit to the Bear Park, home to the animals that are the city's namesake. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate Bern's vibrant arts scene. The city hosts numerous museums, including the Zentrum Paul Klee, dedicated to the works of the famed artist, and the Bern Historical Museum, which offers a deep dive into Swiss heritage. The annual Gurtenfestival and various other cultural events ensure there's always something happening in this lively city.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bern.

Buy a Bern Ticket: This allows free travel on public transport within the city and includes funiculars and the Gurtenbahn.
Visit the Zytglogge on the hour to watch the clock's fascinating mechanical show.
Explore the city on foot to fully appreciate the historic arcades and hidden alleyways.
Check out the local markets at Bundesplatz for a taste of fresh Swiss produce and regional specialties.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it at the Rosengarten for the best views of the city.
Take a dip in the Aare River during summer for a refreshing experience.

Neighbourhoods in Bern

Altstadt

Kirchenfeld-Schosshalde

Länggasse-Felsenau

Breitenrain-Lorraine

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Bern

Explore Bern: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Bern

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

BearPark

Explore BearPark in Bern: A captivating animal park where you can connect with nature and witness majestic bears in a stunning natural setting.

4.4

Maison Cailler

Discover the art of chocolate-making at Maison Cailler, Switzerland's oldest chocolate factory, and indulge in a sweet culinary journey.

4.6

Château de Gruyères

Explore the enchanting Château de Gruyères, a medieval castle offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a unique blend of art and culture in Switzerland.

4.6

La Maison du Gruyère

Experience the rich tradition of Swiss cheese-making at La Maison du Gruyère, featuring a museum, restaurant, and shop dedicated to the famous Gruyère cheese.

4.3

Best landmarks in Bern

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Best Landmarks

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Bear Pit

Experience the majesty of bears in a stunning natural setting at Bern's captivating Bear Pit, a unique animal park and essential tourist attraction.

4.4

UNESCO - Bern Old Town

Explore Bern's UNESCO Old Town, a historical gem with enchanting architecture, vibrant shops, and rich cultural experiences.

4.8

Cathedral of Bern

Explore the Cathedral of Bern, a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views and rich history in the heart of Switzerland.

4.6

Kleine Schanze

Discover the serene beauty of Kleine Schanze, Bern's picturesque city park, where nature and stunning views meet urban charm.

4.5

Best restaurants in Bern

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Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar

Experience exquisite Swiss and Mediterranean cuisine at Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar in Bern's historic setting.

4.4

Ristorante Luce

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Luce in Bern – where every dish tells a story.

4.4

Altes Tramdepot Brauerei Restaurant

Experience authentic Swiss cuisine and craft beers at Altes Tramdepot Brauerei Restaurant in Bern.

4.3

Lötschberg

Experience traditional Swiss cuisine at Lötschberg in Bern - a culinary delight blending heritage with modern flavors.

4.3

Best bars in Bern

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Best Bars

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Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar

Experience the perfect blend of Swiss and Mediterranean cuisine in the heart of Bern at Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar.

4.4

Mr. Pickwick Pub Bern

Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious British fare at Mr. Pickwick Pub in Bern, a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy sports with friends.

4.3

Cuba Bar Bern

Discover the vibrant ambiance and delightful cocktails at Cuba Bar Bern, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking relaxation and fun.

3.7

Volver BarTapasCafé

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain at Volver BarTapasCafé in Bern, where delicious tapas and exquisite cocktails await.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Bern

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Le Ciel

Discover the electric nightlife at Le Ciel, Bern's premier disco club, where music and dance come together for an unforgettable experience!

3.0

Gaskessel Bern

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Gaskessel Bern, a premier nightclub and live music venue in the heart of Switzerland's capital.

4.5

Kapitel Bollwerk | Club, Burgers & Cocktails

Discover the lively nightlife at Kapitel Bollwerk, where delicious burgers meet crafted cocktails for an unforgettable experience in Bern.

3.6

Karma Club & Shisha Lounge

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Karma Club & Shisha Lounge in Bern, combining dance, live music, and a unique shisha atmosphere.

2.9

Best shops in Bern

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Westside

Discover the vibrant Westside shopping mall in Bern, Switzerland, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Fribourg Centre

Discover the best of shopping and dining at Fribourg Centre, a vibrant mall in the heart of Fribourg, Switzerland.

4.3

Loeb department store Bern

Experience the charm of Swiss shopping at Loeb Department Store in Bern, offering a wide variety of fashion, home goods, and more in a stunning setting.

4.3

MANOR Bern

Explore MANOR Bern, the ultimate shopping hub offering a diverse range of clothing, home goods, perfumes, and toys in the heart of Switzerland's capital.

4.2

Explore Bern on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bern, mapped for you.

Bern Essentials

Bern is easily accessible from major cities across Europe and beyond. The Bern Airport (BRN) is the closest airport, mainly serving regional flights. For international travelers, Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA) are the primary gateways, with efficient train connections to Bern. From Zurich, the train journey to Bern takes about 1 hour, and from Geneva, it's around 2 hours. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides frequent and reliable services to Bern from other Swiss cities.
Bern offers an efficient public transportation network, including trams, buses, and trains, managed by Bernmobil. A Bern Ticket, provided by many hotels, allows free travel on public transport within the city. For more flexibility, consider renting a bike or using the city's e-scooter services. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. The Old Town is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case of card payment issues. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. Currency exchange services are available at banks and dedicated exchange bureaus.
Bern is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, like any other tourist destination, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas like the train station and tourist hotspots. Stay vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists.
In case of an emergency, dial 117 for police, 144 for medical emergencies, and 118 for fire services. English-speaking operators are available. Bern's hospitals and clinics provide high-quality medical care. Pharmacies are well-stocked and can offer advice and over-the-counter medications. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially in restaurants and cultural venues. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and beachwear in the city center. Religion: Do respect religious sites by dressing modestly and speaking quietly. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. A polite 'Grüezi' (hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine and make reservations at popular restaurants. Don't tip excessively; a service charge is usually included.
To experience Bern like a local, visit the weekly markets at Bundesplatz and Münstergasse for fresh produce and local specialties. Take a stroll along the Aare River, and don’t miss a swim in the river during summer. Explore the hidden alleys and arcades in the Old Town, and enjoy a coffee at one of the traditional cafés. Attend a local event or festival to immerse yourself in Bernese culture.

When is the best time to visit Bern?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bern

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bern. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGueten Tag
  [güe-ten tahg]
- GoodbyeUf Widerluege
  [oof vee-der-lee-geh]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [ni]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bi-teh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie goht's?
  [vee gohts]
- Fine. And you?Guet. Und dir?
  [güet. oont deer]
- Do you speak English?Sprichsch Englisch?
  [shpree-sh eng-leesh]
- I don't understandIch verstah nöd
  [eech fer-shtah nud]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChasch mer bitte d'Menükarte zeige?
  [khash mehr bi-teh deh-men-oo-kar-teh zy-geh]
- I don't eat meatIch ässe kei Fleisch
  [eech eh-seh kigh flysh]
- Cheers!Zum Wohl!
  [tzoom voohl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChasch mer bitte zahle?
  [khash mehr bi-teh tsah-luh]
- Help!Hilf!
  [hilf]
- Go away!Gang wäg!
  [gahng vehg]
- Call the Police!Ruf d'Polizei!
  [roof deh-poh-lee-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Ruf en Arzt!
  [roof en ahr-tsht]
- I'm lostIch han mi verlore
  [eech hahn mee fehr-loreh]
- I'm illIch bin chrank
  [eech been khrahnk]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möcht ... koufe
  [eech muh-kt ... kow-fuh]
- I'm just lookingIch luege nur
  [eech loo-geh noor]
- How much is it?Wieviel koscht es?
  [vee-vee-el kohsht es]
- That's too expensiveDas isch z' teuer
  [dahs ish tsoh toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Chasch du de Priis reduziere?
  [khash doo deh prees reh-doo-tsee-uh-ruh]
- What time is it?Wieviel Uhr isch es?
  [vee-vee-el oor ish es]
- It's one o'clockEs isch eis Uhr
  [es ish eyes oor]
- Half past (10)Halbi (zähni)
  [halb-ee tsay-nee]
- MorningMorge
  [mohr-geh]
- AfternoonNamittag
  [nah-mee-tahg]
- EveningAbig
  [ah-beeg]
- YesterdayGestere
  [geh-shteh-ruh]
- TodayHüt
  [hoote]
- TomorrowMorn
  [mohrn]
- 1Eis
  [eyes]
- 2Zwei
  [tsvy]
- 3Drei
  [dry]
- 4Vieri
  [vee-ree]
- 5Füfi
  [foo-fee]
- 6Sächsi
  [sahk-see]
- 7Sibi
  [see-bee]
- 8Achti
  [ahk-tee]
- 9Nüni
  [noo-nee]
- 10Zähni
  [tsay-nee]
- Where's a/the...?Wo isch ...?
  [voh ish]
- What's the address?Was isch d'Adresse?
  [vahs ish dah-dreh-suh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Chasch mir (ufem Plan) zeige?
  [khash meer oof-uhm plahn zy-geh]
- When's the next (bus)?Wänn fahrt de nächschte (Bus)?
  [vann fahrt deh naykshteh boos]
- A ticket (to ....)E Billett (nach ...)
  [eh bee-leht nahkh]

History of Bern

Bern was founded in 1191 by Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen. According to legend, the Duke vowed to name the city after the first animal he encountered during a hunt, which turned out to be a bear. This is why a bear features prominently on the city’s coat of arms and has become an enduring symbol of Bern.
During the 13th and 14th centuries, Bern expanded rapidly and became a significant player in the region. The city joined the Swiss Confederation in 1353, solidifying its importance and ensuring its prosperity. This period saw the construction of many of Bern's iconic buildings, including the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and the Münster (Cathedral).
In the early 16th century, Bern played a pivotal role in the Swiss Reformation. In 1528, the city officially adopted Protestantism under the influence of reformers like Huldrych Zwingli and Berchtold Haller. This religious shift had profound impacts on the cultural and social landscape of Bern, leading to the secularization of many church properties.
In 1848, Bern was chosen as the federal city (Bundesstadt) of the newly established Swiss Confederation. This decision solidified Bern's role as the political heart of Switzerland. The Federal Palace (Bundeshaus) was constructed, and it remains the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council to this day.
Albert Einstein lived in Bern from 1903 to 1905, a period often referred to as his 'Miracle Years.' During his time in Bern, Einstein worked at the Swiss Patent Office and developed his groundbreaking theories of special relativity and the photoelectric effect. The house where he lived, now the Einstein Museum, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of history’s greatest minds.
Bern's Old City (Altstadt) is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The arcaded streets, historic fountains, and the Käfigturm (Prison Tower) are just a few examples of the city's rich architectural heritage. This designation underscores Bern's commitment to preserving its historical and cultural legacy.
Today, Bern is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its historical roots with modern innovation. It is home to numerous cultural institutions such as the Bern Historical Museum, the Zentrum Paul Klee, and the Bern Theatre. The city continues to honor its traditions while embracing contemporary advancements, making it a dynamic and exciting place to visit.