Things To Do
in Bern
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.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zytglogge clock tower and catch the hourly show. Wander through the cobbled streets and admire the medieval architecture.
Visit the Bern Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich heritage. Take a stroll along the Aare river and enjoy a picnic in the park.
Dine at a local Swiss restaurant and savor traditional fondue. End your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets.
Begin your morning at the Kunstmuseum Bern, home to impressive artworks. Enjoy a coffee at the museum café afterward.
Visit the Zentrum Paul Klee to explore modern art in a stunning setting. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a casual stroll.
Attend a concert or performance at the Bern Concert Hall. Cap off the night at a local bar for a taste of Bernese nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with the Aare River and nearby mountains, ideal for outdoor activities.
- High quality of life with excellent public services, healthcare, and education.
- Strong cultural scene with numerous museums, galleries, and annual festivals.
- Multilingual population and international atmosphere due to its political significance.
- High cost of living, especially housing and daily expenses.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities like Zurich or Geneva.
- Public transportation can be expensive, although it's generally efficient.
- Harsh winter weather with cold temperatures and occasional heavy snowfall.
- Language barrier for non-German speakers, as German is the primary language.
Best Activities in Bern
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a hike or funicular railway to the top of Gurten for stunning views of Bern and the surrounding countryside.
Enjoy a scenic walk through the beautiful Rose Garden while taking in panoramic views of the city and the Aare river.
Take a refreshing dip in the Aare River during the summer months and enjoy a leisurely swim in the pristine waters.
Explore the city and its surroundings on a bike tour, taking advantage of Bern's well-maintained cycling paths and routes.
Stroll through the Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten) to discover a diverse range of plants and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bern with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bern
Visit one of these nice places.
A local mountain with panoramic views of Bern and the surrounding area, accessible by funicular or hiking trails.
A beautiful park with a famous rose garden offering stunning views of the old town and the Aare loop.
A historic bridge providing picturesque views of the Old Town and the river Aare.
Food in Bern
Bern Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
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.
Indulge in high-quality Swiss chocolate at Läderach or the famous Swiss chocolatier, Sprüngli.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bern better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bern, Switzerland, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, and always address them using their titles and surnames, unless invited to use their first names.
Swiss culture places a strong emphasis on punctuality, so it is important to be on time for appointments and social gatherings in Bern.
Swiss people value their personal space, so it's important to avoid standing too close or initiating physical contact unless it is welcomed.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bern with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bern
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bern, it is customary to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if the service is outstanding. Some service charges may already be included in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Bern, including Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro. However, it's always good to carry some Swiss francs for smaller purchases or at establishments that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bern.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Bern, Switzerland as the city comes alive with colorful flowers blooming and pleasant, mild weather. It's a wonderful time for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful parks and gardens.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Bern, with warm weather perfect for exploring the city's historic sites, enjoying outdoor festivals, and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
In autumn, Bern is adorned with beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is still pleasant, and the city has a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the local cuisine and seasonal specialties.
Winter in Bern can be cold, but it's a magical time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and festive holiday markets. The city is adorned with lights and decorations, creating a charming atmosphere, and nearby ski resorts offer great opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
Bern at Night
Hiking in Bern
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gurten is a local mountain offering trails with stunning views of Bern and the surrounding region. It's accessible by a funicular ride and has various hiking paths suited for different skill levels.
Located near Bern, this area features several hiking paths through scenic landscapes and art installations by the famous artist Paul Klee. The trails offer a combination of culture and nature.
The hiking trails around Lake Thun provide breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. The area offers a variety of routes, including easy walks along the shore and more challenging hikes into the surrounding hills.
Known for its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, Emmental offers numerous hiking trails, including routes that pass through charming small villages and past traditional Swiss farms.
Located a bit further from Bern, Schwarzsee is a beautiful area for hiking with stunning mountain views and numerous trails of varying difficulty. It's ideal for both families and experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bern through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bern by plane.
The largest international airport in Switzerland, located approximately 125 km northeast of Bern. It serves as a primary hub for European and intercontinental flights.
Another major international airport in Switzerland, located about 160 km southwest of Bern. It is primarily a hub for international flights to Europe and the rest of the world.
Located around 90 km northwest of Bern, this airport serves the tri-national area of France, Germany, and Switzerland and offers a range of international flights.
The local airport serving Bern, it offers mostly regional flights but can be considered for smaller international connections. Located about 10 km from the city center.
Located roughly 210 km southeast of Bern, this smaller international airport primarily serves the southern regions of Switzerland and offers flights to various European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Bern, comprising individuals holding Swiss citizenship.
Individuals residing in Bern who are not Swiss citizens, including EU and non-EU nationals.
A significant portion of the population that primarily speaks German, given Bern's linguistic demographics.
A smaller demographic group in Bern, consisting of individuals who speak French.
A minority group in Bern that communicates primarily in Italian.
Residents of Bern who have immigration backgrounds or belong to families with a history of migration.
A demographic group that includes local and international students enrolled in educational institutions in Bern.
Older adults, often representing a growing demographic in Bern due to increasing life expectancy.
The Soul of Bern
Discover the essence of Bern through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Bern, with the Swiss football club BSC Young Boys being the city's most prominent team.
Ice hockey has a strong following in Bern, home to the SC Bern team which competes in the Swiss National League.
A traditional sport in Switzerland, Swiss wrestling attracts many fans during the national championships and local festivals.
Both road cycling and mountain biking are popular in and around Bern, with numerous trails and cycling clubs.
Athletics is popular for both amateur and competitive levels, with events hosted at various venues throughout the city.
Handball has a growing following in Bern, with local teams competing in the national leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bern.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Bern offer a good selection of vegetarian dishes. Look for options like cheese and vegetable-based fondues, fresh salads, and hearty vegetable soups.
While vegan options may be limited in some traditional Swiss restaurants, several modern eateries like Tibits and Restaurant Läderach offer vegan-friendly choices.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at cafes and restaurants in Bern. Look for dishes like grilled fish, risotto, or quinoa salads.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bern with these cultural adventures.
