Bern Old Town Self Guided Audio Tour

Bern, CH
Self-guided - entry to attractions not included

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Self-guided tour on your smartphone, APP not needed!
  • inclusion
    Other
    Audioguide with quizzes about each point of interest along the tour

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    A physical guide (the tour is accessible on your smartphone)
  • exclusion
    Other
    Access offline. Internet needed on your phone

Meeting Point

Start your self-guided tour on Bundesplatz, the square in front of the Federal Palace. Open your Ciceru experience nearby and follow the route on your smartphone.

Meeting point

Bundesplatz, 3011 Bern , Switzerland

End point

End Point

The tour ends at the BarenPark bear enclosure on the Aare. Take a moment to watch the bears and enjoy the riverside before finishing your walk.

Meeting point

Grosser Muristalden 4, 3006 Bern , Switzerland

End point

What to expect

1

Parliament Square

The open square in front of the Swiss Federal Palace, where parliament sits. Your audio guide explains the building's role in Swiss federal politics and the 26 water jets set into the paving, one for each canton.

2
Kafigturm (Prison Tower)

A medieval gate tower that later served as the city prison, which is how it got its German name. Standing beneath the arch, the audio guide covers how Bern's walls moved outward as the city grew.

3
Child Eater Fountain (Kindlifresserbrunnen)

One of Bern's 16th-century painted fountains, topped by an ogre figure devouring a child. The audio guide walks through the competing theories about what the statue was meant to represent, none of them confirmed.

4

Clock Tower - Zytglogge

Bern's oldest tower and its astronomical clock, which still puts on a short mechanical show a few minutes before every hour. The audio guide explains the dial's calendar and zodiac faces and why the tower once marked the western city gate.

5
Einstein House (Einsteinhaus)

The second-floor apartment on Kramgasse where Albert Einstein lived while working at the Bern patent office and published his 1905 papers, including special relativity. You view the building from the arcade outside.

6
Berner Munster

Bern's late-Gothic cathedral, whose spire is the tallest in Switzerland. From the terrace outside you look down over the Aare and the rooftops of the old town while the audio guide covers the Last Judgement carving above the main portal.

7

Gerechtigkeitsgasse

The arcaded lane running down towards the river, named after its Justice Fountain, where a blindfolded figure of Justice stands over four defeated rulers. The audio guide explains what the arrangement was meant to say to Bern's citizens.

8
Barenpark

The open riverside enclosure across the Nydegg bridge where Bern's bears live, the animal that gives the city its name and appears on its coat of arms. The final chapter of the audio guide closes the walk here.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Ciceru

What our experts say

  • icon
    Grab coffee at nearby Cafe Barfüsser.
  • icon
    Consider visiting the Einstein Museum.
  • icon
    Try local Swiss chocolate at Läderach.
  • icon
    Check out the views from Berner Munster.
  • icon
    Explore the shops along Kramgasse.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the enchanting charm of Bern, Switzerland, with the Bern Old Town Self Guided Audio Tour. This immersive experience allows travelers to explore the city's medieval heart at their own pace, guided solely by their smartphones. For 1.5 to 2 hours, participants will wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks such as the breathtaking Zytglogge clock tower and the fascinating Child Eater Fountain. The tour is designed for all, with audio stories in multiple languages, including English, German, and Spanish, ensuring everyone can enjoy the rich history and culture of Bern. With no app to download and the freedom to pause for a coffee or capture that perfect photo, this self-guided adventure is perfect for both solo travelers and groups looking to dive deep into the heart of Switzerland.

What to expect?

Expect an exciting journey through Bern's Old Town, where each landmark unveils a story waiting to be discovered. The tour features eight captivating stops, each equipped with an audio story that brings history to life. Walk past the iconic Federal Palace, marvel at the towering spire of the Berner Munster, and stand in awe of the Kafigturm, all while engaging in interactive quizzes that make learning fun. Every stop is strategically planned, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the sights while enjoying the flexible nature of a self-guided adventure. Whether you're a history buff or simply love exploring new places, this tour offers a unique blend of knowledge and entertainment, making it an unforgettable experience as you unveil Bern’s medieval secrets at your leisure.

Who is this for?

This audio tour is perfect for a wide range of audiences. History enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed narratives about Bern's significant landmarks, while casual travelers will love the relaxed pace and flexible schedule. Couples seeking a romantic outing will find the tour a delightful way to explore together, and families can enjoy the interactive quizzes that engage children and adults alike. Even solo adventurers can revel in the freedom of discovering the city's treasures independently, without the pressure of keeping up with a group. The tour is designed to accommodate all physical fitness levels, making it an inclusive experience for everyone, whether you're strolling leisurely through the historic streets or racing against time to snap that perfect picture.

Why book this?

Booking the Bern Old Town Self Guided Audio Tour is an opportunity to experience the city on your own terms, blending education with exploration. Unlike traditional guided tours, this experience offers the freedom to create your own itinerary, pause whenever you like, and dive deeper into the stories that pique your interest. With the added fun of interactive quizzes, it transforms the tour into a game, making it perfect for both solo travelers and groups. The convenience of using your smartphone means you can enjoy a high-quality audio guide without the hassle of downloading an app, making it accessible for anyone. The tour not only enlightens you about Bern's rich history but also allows you to soak in the stunning architecture and scenic views, ensuring you leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful city.

Good to know

Before embarking on the Bern Old Town Self Guided Audio Tour, it's worth noting that an internet connection is required on your phone to access the audio guide and interactive features, so make sure you're connected before you start. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels, but travelers with specific health concerns, such as pregnancy or spinal injuries, should consider their options carefully. While the experience is designed to be flexible and leisurely, nearby public transportation options make it easy to reach the starting point at Bundesplatz. As you navigate through the picturesque streets of Bern, don't forget to pause and enjoy a coffee or snack at one of the charming cafes along the way, making the most of your experience in this stunning Swiss city.

Reviews

Feedback from those who have embarked on the Bern Old Town Self Guided Audio Tour has been overwhelmingly positive. Travelers rave about the ease of use and the captivating stories that accompany each landmark, highlighting how the audio guide brings history to life in an engaging way. Many have appreciated the flexibility of the self-guided format, allowing them to explore at their own pace and take breaks when needed. The interactive quizzes have been a hit, adding an element of fun to the educational experience. Overall, users express satisfaction with the value offered, enjoying the ability to discover Bern's rich heritage while creating their own adventure, making it a highly recommended experience for anyone visiting this beautiful city.

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