Things To Do
in Bern
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is famed for its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city sits along the Aare River, framed by the Bernese Alps, and blends historic architecture with lush green spaces. Cobblestone lanes, arcades, and fountains create a fairy-tale backdrop that invites exploration by foot.
With top museums, charming cafés, and easy access to alpine day trips, Bern offers a compact, culture-filled city break.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in the Old Town, savoring fresh pastries and Swiss coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, marveling at its medieval architecture and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower. Don't forget to visit the Bear Park, where you can watch the city's beloved bears in their natural habitat.
After lunch at one of the traditional Swiss restaurants, head over to the Federal Palace, where you can learn about Switzerland's political history. Spend some time wandering along the Aare River, where the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere are perfect for relaxing. Visit the Einstein Museum to delve into the life and work of Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern during his formative years.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant, taking in panoramic views of the city. Afterward, take a scenic night walk along the riverbanks, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water. End your day with a taste of Bern's vibrant nightlife at a local bar or pub, experiencing the city's unique blend of culture and entertainment.
Begin your day with a visit to the Bern Kunstmuseum, which houses an impressive collection of Swiss art and international works. Spend your morning exploring the various exhibitions, and don’t miss the chance to admire the works of famous artists like Paul Klee and Alberto Giacometti. Grab a light lunch at the museum café, enjoying local delicacies.
After lunch, head to the Zentrum Paul Klee, where you can explore the architecture and gardens designed by the renowned architect Renzo Piano. Participate in a workshop or guided tour to gain deeper insights into Klee's artistic journey and techniques. Spend the late afternoon wandering through the nearby Rosengarten, where you can relax amid thousands of blooming roses and enjoy spectacular views over the city.
For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant in the heart of Bern that specializes in traditional Swiss cuisine. After your meal, catch a performance at the Bern Theatre, whether it’s a captivating play or a concert, to experience the local arts scene. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, allowing the ambiance of the city to captivate you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or latte | $4-6 |
| 🚇Public transit day pass | $8-12 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $100-250 |
| 🧀Market snack or cheese | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Walkable old town with medieval charm
- Excellent museums and culture
- Efficient public transport and safety
- Beautiful nearby nature and day trips
- High quality of life
- Can be expensive for meals and accommodation
- Weather can be chilly and changeable
- Tourist crowds in peak season
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Bern
Visit one of these nice places.
A medieval clock tower with animated figures; iconic for sunrise and cityscape shots.
Gothic cathedral with a soaring spire and ornate interior; rooftop views on clear days.
Terraced rose gardens overlooking the Old Town; perfect for golden-hour photography.
Historic bridge offering views of the river and the medieval rooftops.
Bear habitats with the city skyline as a backdrop; great for portraits and nature shots.
Long riverside walk with reflections of the town and frequent swan sightings.
Food in Bern
Bern Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Swiss cheese fondue served with bread cubes; a must-try in the Old Town.
Must-Try!
Crispy potato hash served with toppings like eggs, bacon, or cheese.
A shareable platter of sausages, cured meats, and sauerkraut with potatoes.
Creamy Alpine macaroni with cheese, cream, and often apples for a comforting dish.
Minced meat with traditional Hörnli pasta and onions; a Swiss classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the Cathedral offering cheeses, breads, fruit, and regional specialties.
Seasonal stalls with local produce and street snacks in the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Timeliness is appreciated in appointments and trains; plan ahead for schedules.
Greet with Grüezi (formal) or Gruezi mitanand in the local dialect; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Dispose of trash properly and keep noise to a considerate level in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Bern
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are usually included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless, Apple Pay/Google Pay, and TWINT are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures, and outdoor events; bring a light layer for cooler evenings and occasional rain.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; harvest markets provide fresh regional produce and snacks.
Cold with possible snow; Christmas markets illuminate the Old Town and indoor museums offer warmth.
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; ideal for outdoor cafés, parks, and hikes.
Bern at Night
Hiking in Bern
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with city and Alpine views; easily reachable from the city.
Extensive hiking routes through forests and meadows, a short train ride from Bern.
Scenic alpine hikes accessible via cable car to a ridge with sweeping vistas.
Airports
How to reach Bern by plane.
A small international airport just outside Bern; quick 15-20 minute ride to the city center.
Switzerland’s largest international hub; direct rail connections to Bern in about 1h30m–2h.
Major western hub; easy train connections to Bern with connections in Lausanne or Basel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language group; strong Swiss-German cultural identity.
A mix of expatriates and students in Bern's universities.
A family-friendly city with museums, parks, and safe neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local passion for BSC Young Boys and domestic leagues; matches draw enthusiastic crowds.
Nearby Alpine resorts offer winter sports within a few hours by train or car.
Seasonal trails around Bern, Gurten, Gantrisch, and nearby valleys.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bern.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; ask for seasonal vegetables, vegetarian rösti, or cheese dishes.