Altstadt, Bern Travel Guide

Explore Altstadt in Bern: A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval charm, historical landmarks, unique shopping arcades, and Swiss culinary delights.

Altstadt, the Old Town of Bern, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. A walk through its cobblestone streets will transport you back in time, with medieval architecture and centuries-old fountains at every turn. The Zytglogge clock tower, an iconic symbol of Bern, stands proudly in the heart of Altstadt, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich history. The area is also home to the Federal Palace, where you can witness Swiss democracy in action. For art enthusiasts, the Kunstmuseum houses an impressive collection of works from various periods. Altstadt's six kilometers of arcades, known as 'Lauben', provide a unique shopping experience, offering everything from luxury boutiques to charming local shops. Don't forget to visit the Bear Park, located at the edge of Altstadt, where you can see Bern's beloved bears in a natural setting. The neighborhood's vibrant cafes and restaurants offer a taste of Swiss cuisine, making it a perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to explore, Altstadt has something to offer for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
Visit the Zytglogge clock tower at noon to see the mechanical figures in action.
Take a guided tour of the Federal Palace for an insightful experience.
Check out the local market on Bundesplatz if you're visiting on a Tuesday or Saturday.
Sample Swiss chocolate from one of the local confectioneries.

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

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

Best attractions in Altstadt

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Best Attractions

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UNESCO - Bern Old Town

Discover the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site of Bern Old Town, where medieval charm meets vibrant culture in the heart of Switzerland.

4.8

Kleine Schanze

Discover the tranquility of Kleine Schanze, Bern's charming city park, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic views in Switzerland's capital.

4.5

Waisenhausplatz

Explore Waisenhausplatz in Bern, a captivating square rich in history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, perfect for every traveler.

4.3

Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen

Discover the historical Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen in Bern, a majestic fountain symbolizing justice and artistic grandeur, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.

4.6

Best landmarks in Altstadt

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Best Landmarks

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UNESCO - Bern Old Town

Explore Bern's Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval charm, stunning architecture, and rich history.

4.8

Zytglogge

Discover the Zytglogge, an iconic clock tower in Bern, Switzerland, showcasing a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture.

4.6

Käfigturm

Discover Käfigturm, an iconic historical landmark in Bern, showcasing rich heritage, stunning views, and fascinating exhibitions.

4.5

Waisenhausplatz

Discover the historic Waisenhausplatz in Bern, Switzerland, a beautiful square rich in culture and stunning architecture, perfect for leisurely exploration.

4.3

Best restaurants in Altstadt

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Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar

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

4.4

Ristorante Verdi

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Verdi in Bern - where tradition meets modern elegance.

4.4

Restaurant Zunft zu Webern

Discover authentic Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Zunft zu Webern in Bern's historic old town, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.2

Mille Sens

Discover the art of fusion cuisine at Mille Sens in Bern - where Swiss tradition meets global flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.8

Best bars in Altstadt

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Cuba Bar Bern

Experience the vibrant spirit of Cuba at Cuba Bar Bern, where cocktails and lively ambiance create unforgettable moments in the heart of the city.

3.7

Old City Irish Pub

Discover the Old City Irish Pub in Bern - a vibrant spot for drinks, delicious food, and live sports in a charming atmosphere.

4.7

Abflugbar

Discover the vibrant ambiance of Abflugbar in Bern, where cocktails, camaraderie, and a captivating nightlife await you.

4.8

Die Taube

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bern at Die Taube, where local charm meets modern sophistication in a delightful bar atmosphere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Altstadt

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Club du Théâtre

Discover the pulse of Bern's nightlife at Club du Théâtre, where music, dancing, and vibrant energy meet in a stylish setting.

3.7

Le Ciel

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bern at Le Ciel, a premier disco club that promises an unforgettable evening of music and dance.

3.0

Gaskessel Bern

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Gaskessel Bern, where live music meets a vibrant atmosphere in a unique historical venue.

4.5

Kapitel Bollwerk | Club, Burgers & Cocktails

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bern at Kapitel Bollwerk, where gourmet burgers and crafted cocktails meet a lively club atmosphere.

3.7

Best shops in Altstadt

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CHAT NOIR AG

Explore the enchanting CHAT NOIR AG, Bern's quintessential gift shop for unique souvenirs, greeting cards, and local artistry.

4.5

Yamatuti

Explore Yamatuti in Bern for unique gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Swiss craftsmanship and charm.

4.6

Swiss Design Market

Explore the Swiss Design Market in Bern for unique artisanal goods, showcasing the best of Swiss craftsmanship and contemporary design.

4.3

Lhasa Boutique

Explore Lhasa Boutique in Bern, where unique Tibetan treasures await to enrich your travel experience with cultural authenticity.

4.9

Explore Altstadt on the Map

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

Altstadt Essentials

Altstadt is conveniently located in the heart of Bern, and can be easily accessed via various modes of transportation. From Bern's main train station (Bern Hauptbahnhof), you can walk to Altstadt in about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, tram lines 9 and 10 provide direct access to the area. If you are coming from other neighborhoods, local buses also connect to Altstadt, making it accessible from all parts of the city.
Altstadt is a compact area that is best explored on foot, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its historical architecture and cobblestone streets. Public transportation options include trams and buses, which are frequent and reliable. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle; Bern is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure. Bicycle rental stations are available throughout the city.
Altstadt is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it is advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing may occur. Specific areas to be cautious about include the vicinity of major tourist attractions during peak hours. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance in Switzerland. The nearest hospital is Inselspital, located a short distance from Altstadt. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies can be found throughout the neighborhood for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Don't wear revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; take care to cover your head when entering specific religious locations. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Grüezi' and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be seen as disrespectful.
To experience Altstadt like a local, visit the weekly markets for fresh produce and local specialties. Engage with shopkeepers and locals, as they often have great stories to share. Don't miss the opportunity to explore hidden courtyards and lesser-known alleys for a more authentic experience. Additionally, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cozy cafés, where you can soak in the ambiance and people-watch.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Altstadt

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 Altstadt. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGrüezi
  [grewt-see]
- GoodbyeUf Widerluege
  [oof vee-der-lee-ge]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [nye]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bi-te]
- Thank youMerci vilmal
  [mehr-see feel-mal]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie goht's dir?
  [vee gotz deer]
- Fine. And you?Guat. Und dir?
  [gwat oond deer]
- Do you speak English?Redsch du Englesch?
  [redsh doo eng-lesh]
- I don't understandI verstoh nid
  [ee verst-ho neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChönnti bitte d'Menu ha?
  [churn-tee bi-te d'meh-noo ha]
- I don't eat meatI äss keis Fleisch
  [ee ess kice flysh]
- Cheers!Proscht!
  [prosht]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChönnti bitte zahle?
  [churn-tee bi-te tsah-leh]
- Help!Hülf!
  [hoelf]
- Go away!Gang weg!
  [gahng vehg]
- Call the Police!Ruef d'Polizei!
  [roo-ehf deh-poh-lee-tsey]
- Call a doctor!Ruef en Dokter!
  [roo-ehf en dohk-ter]
- I'm lostI ha mi verlore
  [ee hah mee fer-loh-reh]
- I'm illI bi chrangk
  [ee bee krank]
- I'd like to buy...I möcht ... chaufe
  [ee muhkt ... kow-fuh]
- I'm just lookingI lueg nur
  [ee loog noor]
- How much is it?Was koschtet das?
  [vahs kohshtet dahs]
- That's too expensiveDas isch z' teuer
  [dahs ish tsoh toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Chönd Sie de Priis redeziere?
  [churnt zee deh prees reh-deh-tsee-reh]
- What time is it?Wieviu isch's?
  [vee-foy isschs]
- It's one o'clockEis isch's
  [ice isschs]
- Half past (10)Halbi zehni
  [hal-bee tseh-nee]
- MorningMorge
  [mohr-geh]
- AfternoonNamitag
  [nah-mee-tahg]
- EveningAbig
  [ah-big]
- YesterdayGestere
  [gehs-teh-reh]
- TodayHüt
  [hoot]
- TomorrowMorn
  [morn]
- 1Eis
  [ice]
- 2Zwei
  [tsey]
- 3Drei
  [dry]
- 4Vieri
  [feer-ee]
- 5Füfi
  [foo-fee]
- 6Sächsi
  [zehk-see]
- 7Sächsi
  [zehk-see]
- 8Achti
  [ahk-tee]
- 9Nüni
  [noo-nee]
- 10Zähni
  [tseh-nee]
- Where's a/the...?Wo isch a/d...?
  [voh issch ah/deh]
- What's the address?Was isch d'Adresse?
  [vahs issch dah-drehseh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Chönd Sie mir's zeige (uf em Plan)?
  [churnt zee meers tsie-geh (oof em plahn)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wänn gaht de nächschti (Bus)?
  [vann gaht deh nekh-shtee (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)E Billett (nach ....)
  [eh bill-et (nahkh ....)]

History of Altstadt

Bern was founded in 1191 by Duke Berthold V of Zähringen. The Altstadt, or Old Town, developed rapidly due to its strategic location along the Aare River, which facilitated trade and commerce. The layout of the Altstadt reflects a typical medieval city, with narrow streets, well-preserved buildings, and a distinct architectural style that showcases its historical significance.
In 1983, Bern's Altstadt was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural and historical importance. The recognition emphasized the preservation of its medieval architecture, including the iconic Zytglogge clock tower and the Federal Palace, which symbolize the city's rich history and its role as Switzerland's capital.
Since the establishment of the Swiss Confederation in 1291, Bern has served as a political hub. The Altstadt houses the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus), completed in 1902, which is the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council. This building is a crucial site for Swiss governance and reflects the evolution of democracy in the country.
The 19th century was a period of cultural flourishing for Bern. The Altstadt became a center for arts and education, with institutions such as the Bern Historical Museum and the University of Bern being established. This era also saw the construction of several public buildings and the enhancement of public spaces, contributing to the city's cultural landscape.
In recent decades, Bern has focused on preserving the character of the Altstadt while accommodating modern needs. Initiatives aimed at maintaining its historical integrity include restrictions on new construction and renovations. The city has also enhanced pedestrian areas, making it more accessible and promoting tourism while respecting its heritage.