Bern,Switzerland
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, this charming capital city is famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture lining the cobblestone streets of its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by the serene Aare River, Bern offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication, with numerous museums, cultural attractions, and the iconic Zytglogge, an ancient clock tower with moving puppets.
The city is also known for its bear park, where visitors can observe these majestic animals, a nod to the city's emblem and namesake.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Old Town
morning:Start your day with a scenic walk through the historic Old Town, admiring the beautiful medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Don't miss the iconic Zytglogge clock tower!
afternoon:Visit the Einstein Museum to learn about the life and achievements of the renowned physicist. Afterwards, savor traditional Swiss cuisine at Kornhauskeller, a delightful restaurant housed in a stunning historical building.
evening:Experience Bern's vibrant nightlife by heading to Mattequartier, where you can find cozy bars and lively pubs for a memorable night out.
Cultural Delights and River Walks
morning:Immerse yourself in the cultural scene by visiting the Bern Historical Museum, home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts. Don't forget to indulge in a delicious breakfast at Café Kairo before setting off.
afternoon:Take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River, enjoying the picturesque views and serene atmosphere. For lunch, treat yourself to gourmet Mediterranean cuisine at Rosengarten Restaurant, boasting panoramic city vistas.
evening:Spend the evening at Turnhalle, a hip cultural center hosting live music events, art exhibitions, and engaging performances that offer a unique and memorable experience.
Nature Retreat and Botanical Wonder
morning:Embark on a refreshing morning hike up Gurten Mountain, rewarding yourself with breathtaking panoramas of the city and surrounding landscapes. Fuel up for the day ahead with a delightful breakfast at Kaffee Montag.
afternoon:Explore Bern's enchanting Botanical Garden, where you can marvel at a diverse array of plant species from around the world. For lunch, relish delectable dishes at Altes Tramdepot, a charming brewery restaurant by the river.
evening:Enjoy a serene evening walk by the Aare River, taking in the tranquil ambiance and perhaps indulging in a relaxing boat ride to enhance your experience.
Museum Hopping and Culinary Delights
morning:Dive into the world of fine arts at the Paul Klee Center, showcasing an extraordinary collection of works by the renowned artist. Refuel with a delightful brunch at Museum Café Loeb to start your day off deliciously.
afternoon:Discover the captivating Swiss Alpine Museum, where you can learn about the country's mountain heritage and alpine culture. Indulge in a gourmet lunch at Restaurant Lötschberg, renowned for its innovative Swiss specialties.
evening:Wrap up the day by venturing to Breitsch, a lively district with an array of cozy cafes and trendy wine bars, offering the perfect setting for a laid-back and enjoyable evening.
Bern Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Fondue
A beloved Swiss dish made of melted cheese and served with bread cubes for dipping. It is best enjoyed at traditional restaurants like Kornhauskeller and Della Casa.
Must-Try!
Raclette
Another classic dish where cheese is melted and scraped onto accompaniments like potatoes, gherkins, and onions. Visit the Restaurant Harmonie for an authentic raclette experience.
Rösti
A Swiss dish made of grated and fried potatoes, often served as a side dish. Head to Altes Tramdepot for a delicious rösti along with panoramic views of the city.
Swiss Chocolate
Indulge in high-quality Swiss chocolate at Läderach or the famous Swiss chocolatier, Sprüngli.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Markt am Bundesplatz
A bustling market offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and artisanal food products. It's a great place to sample local snacks and mingle with the locals.
Gurten - Park im GrĂĽnen
Take the funicular up Gurten mountain to enjoy not only stunning views but also a variety of street food stalls offering everything from Swiss sausages to international cuisines.
Things to do in Bern
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Bern
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!