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Visiting bern.

From the «Zentrum Paul Klee» to the «Rose Garden» and to the «Bear Park»: the City of Bern provides many highlights for visitors to the city.

View from the Rose Garden on the Old Town

© Bern Tourism

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CITY OF BERN MAIN NUMBER +41 31 321 61 11

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Bern Ticket

From your very first overnight stay at a tourist accommodation in the city of Bern, you will receive a Bern Ticket for your entire stay, which lets you travel for free on public transport in zones 100/101 operated by the LIBERO Association.

The Bern Ticket is ideal for travelling from A to B or for exploring and getting to know the federal city. With this ticket, you enjoy free travel in Bern and the surrounding area. All streetcar and bus journeys in zones 100/101 operated by the LIBERO Association are included.

Activate your Bern Ticket in the Bern Welcome app

To the step-by-step guide

Overview of the fare zones 100 and 101 in Bern

more information (German only)

The Bern Ticket also includes the famous Gurten and Marzili funiculars and the elevator to the platform of the Bern Minster.

On the day of your arrival, you won’t have to worry about a transfer ticket. If you haven’t already activated the ticket in advance via the Bern Welcome app, the hotel’s reservation confirmation is sufficient to travel from the train station or BERN Airport to your accommodation.

Discover Bern

Unesco stroll through the old city.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

10 cool things to do in Bern

Sleep, Eat, Spa, Repeat

The rejuvenating benefits of Alpine air have been prized for centuries and Bern has some of the world’s most indulgent mountain spas, with hot tubs encircled by snow-capped peaks, therapeutic mountain-herb massages and pampering edelweiss facials. Wellness hotels abound, from the historic Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel and Spa in Interlaken and its vast Art Deco spa, to the hip Cambrian and its heated infinity pool overlooking Adelboden. For the quintessentially Swiss treatment and cashmere-soft skin, the Six Senses Spa at Alpina Gstaad offers a unique detox scrub and wrap using purifying salt crystals sourced from glaciers.

Ski the best pistes

The Bernese Oberland is home to more than its fair share of famous mountains and historic ski resorts. Follow in the footsteps of the world’s greatest mountaineers as you ski the flanks of the Eiger and Jungfrau in Grindelwald, Wengen and Mürren, or head to Gstaad for a dose of glamour and beautiful slopes. Thrill-seekers are well catered to in Adelboden-Lenk with an abundance of winter activities, as are children at the Halisberg winter wonderland. Still not satisfied by Bern’s 500 miles of pistes and 224 ski lifts? Hail a helicopter or go ski touring for virgin descents on untouched peaks.

• Dining with altitude

From fondue in the hot tub to lavish urban brunches, Bern is an undulating treasure trove for gastronomes. The region covers all culinary bases, from rock oysters and sturgeon served at the Michelin-starred Meridiano in Bern’s ritzy casino to surf and turf on the slopes at the Alpina Gstaad’s Lounge Bar. Drop into a rustic mountain hut, such as the Suppenalp in Mürren, or go for a silver service Sunday brunch at the Bellevue Palace in Bern and feast on local specialities including Pilzpastetli (mushroom vol-au-vents), air-dried meats and rich cheeses. For Alpine dining with a difference, visit the Tropenhaus in Frutigen to sample caviar farmed on-site in pure mountain water.

Eye-popping vistas

The Bernese Oberland is home to one of the most prominent mountain ranges in the Alps, a dramatic landscape with beautiful panoramas. Locals love to admire the peaks from vertigo-defying adventure trails such as Grindelwald’s First Cliff Walk , a suspended walkway to a viewing platform stretching 147ft out over a sheer drop, and Gstaad’s Peak Walk, a 350-foot-long suspension bridge that links two mountain peaks at nearly 9,750ft above sea level. Measuring just two-and-a-half-feet wide, Peak Walk rewards the brave with sweeping views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Hot-tub tips

Hot tubbing with style is part of Bernese winter life, as locals bubble away their aches and stresses in hot beer, whey or water. Join them by soaking tired ski legs after exploring Gstaad’s extensive ski area in the wood-fired outdoor hot tub at the rustic-chic Rinderberg Swiss Alpine Lodge or sipping a glass of Champagne as you take in the views of the Bernese Alps and rolling valleys of the Emmental from foodie hotspot, the Hotel Moosegg. Fondue and hot tub, simultaneously? Only on Lake Brienz, where double-dipping fun comes with lake and mountain views at Hotpot Brienz .

Simply Gstaad

Justifiably renowned, Gstaad seems to have it all: a whopping 125 miles of pistes, a glacier for snow-safe skiing from October through to May, terrain parks, gastronomic mountain restaurants, winter hiking and snowshoeing trails, husky tours, destination spa hotels, Michelin-star restaurants and designer boutiques. It’s a heady mix that’s attracted the rich, royal and famous from across the globe but Gstaad’s down-to-earth locals will keep you grounded (when you’re not soaring above the slopes heliskiing).

Lovely lodgings

The Rinderberg Swiss Alpine Lodge near Gstaad is every inch the cosy mountain hotel, with the added bonus of being ski-in/ski-out. Nordic-inspired, pale-wood-panelled bedrooms sit under vaulted ceilings and roaring fires warm the convivial bar. But you don’t have to ski to find Bernese cosiness: boutique Hotel and Spa Blausee is in a nature reserve built in 1878 as a curative retreat along the shores of the piercingly blue Blausee lake near Kandersteg.

You can’t come to Switzerland and not have a fondue, especially in Bern where there are so many recipes for it. Grab a fondue rucksack from Gstaad’s Fondueland and select your favourite spot for a cheesy picnic; work up an appetite with some pre-supper moonlight sledging in Niederhorn; keep warm and cosy with molten cheese in the Igloo-Village Schilthorn, or dip into unctuous fondue on the hoof aboard a horse-drawn carriage as you trot gently around the atmospheric resort of Lenk.

The Icy Magic of Interlaken

Outdoorsy types angling for adventure will love Interlaken, the buzzing lakeside city that has Bern’s mountains, nature parks and ski resorts in its back yard. As is all the frozen fun: the Top of Europe ICE MAGIC Piazza transforms the city’s heart into an outdoor ice-skating wonderland each winter. Various ice rinks, including dedicated children’s and curling rinks, are joined by winding ice paths, which also lead to market stalls, an igloo restaurant and the inviting Winter Lounge.

Winter walks

Routes through quiet forests and across snow-blanketed pastures call those keen to swap ski boots for snowshoes. Trade the pistes for Bern’s extensive hiking and snowshoeing trails for a slower, more mindful winter experience. From gentle family-friendly strolls in the Emmental valley to challenging high-altitude treks in the Jungfrau region and circular trails to hikes served by lifts, off-ski Bern is just as alluring.

To discover more about Bern, visit madeinbern.com

• 1.1 Tourist information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3.1 By foot
• 3.2 By tram and bus
• 3.3 By rail
• 3.4 By car or motorbike
• 3.5 By bike
• 3.6 By taxi
• 9.1.1 City centre
• 9.1.2 Near the city centre
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 11.1 Budget
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 13 Stay safe
• 14.1 Embassies

Although Berne ( German : Bern ) is the seat of most of the institutions of the Swiss Confederation, The remarkable design coherence of Berne's old town has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List . It has 6.4 km (4 miles) of arcaded walkways along streets decked out with fountains and clock-towers.

In 2018, it had a population of about 134,000 in the city, and roughly 420,000 in the urban agglomeration. It sits on a peninsula formed by the meandering turns of the river Aare.

Understand [ edit ]

Berne was founded in 1191 by Duke Berthold V von Zähringen and was part of the Holy Roman Empire. It was made a free imperial city by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II in 1218 after Berthold died without an heir.

In 1353 Berne joined the Swiss Confederation. After conquering several rivals, Berne became the largest independent city-state north of the Alps. It was occupied by French troops in 1798 during the French Revolutionary Wars, and was stripped of a large part of its territory. The city became the Swiss capital in 1848.

Bern was one of the eight host cities in the 2008 European Football Championships .

Bern hosted EuroGames in 2023 - the biggest annual LGBT+ sports event in Europe.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Tourist information website . ( updated Feb 2024 )
• There are Tourist Information Centres outside the main railway station, and in the Old Tram Depot next to the Bear Pit.

Get in [ edit ]

Situated in the middle of Switzerland, Berne is easy to reach from all parts of the country.

By plane [ edit ]

To reach the city take Bus 334 or 160 [dead link] to Belp railway station (10 min). Frequent S-bahn local trains connect Belp to Bern's main station, 40 min altogether. The bus runs every 30 min between 05:10 and 23:10, with the first and last buses of the day running directly to Bern railway station. The transfer is free if you have booked accommodation in Bern, just show your confirmation letter; otherwise Fr. 7 each way.

A taxi to the city is about 40 Fr and takes 20 mins.

For a better choice of flights, fly into Geneva ( GVA  IATA ), Zurich ( ZRH  IATA ) or Basel ( BSL  IATA ) then take the train to Bern.

By train [ edit ]

Berne is at the hub of the Swiss Federal Railway network. Express ( InterCity ) trains connect twice per hour to Geneva , Basel and Zurich as well as Zürich and Geneva airports. Hourly express trains connect to most other cities, including Interlaken , Brig , and Lucerne .

For timetables and connections see Swiss Federal Railway . For best travel deals see the Swiss Travel Planner - walk-up full fare tickets are expensive. And see also Switzerland#Get around#by rail .

By car [ edit ]

Berne is easily reachable with the national motorway network from all directions and has several exits from motorways A1, A12 and A6.

By bus [ edit ]

Eurolines [dead link] , Flixbus and RegioJet connect Bern to several European cities by bus.

Get around [ edit ]

Berne has an excellent public transportation system, with frequent local city services provided by trams, trolleybuses and buses, together with an S-Bahn rail system for longer journeys into the surrounding suburbs. Tickets are valid for all modes of transport within a given zone and time. The suburbs of Berne, Biel and Solothurn form a common public transport network named "Libero-Tarifverbund". Tickets can be purchased as single ticket, saver ticket with six rides, day pass as well as weekly, monthly or yearly passes.

Tickets can be bought at vending machines at most stops, or with a smartphone using the SBB mobile app. They are valid for all modes of public transport within the zones they encompass. A ticket valid in the central urban zones (100 and 101) for 60 minutes costs Fr. 4.60 (March 2019).

Since June 2014, all hotel accommodations in Bern include the " Bern-Ticket ", which allows the free use of public transport within the city (zones 100 and 101) for the duration of the stay, including the Gurten funicular and transfer from and to the airport.

By foot [ edit ]

The city centre of Berne is easily accessible by foot. The relatively small old town and the area around the main train station are best explored by walking.

By tram and bus [ edit ]

The bus and tram lines operated by Bernmobil are complemented with yellow Postauto bus lines connecting to the suburbs. Almost all lines are linked together at the main train station, and operate at intervals between 5 and 30 minutes.

• Bernmobil , ☏ +41 31 321 88 88 . Operator of the local tram and bus services, and provides timetables and other information on its website or by telephone.  

By rail [ edit ]

Berne's S-Bahn rail system will take you to many places in the suburbs and to nearby cities like Biel, Thun, Fribourg or Solothurn.

• S-Bahn Bern , ☏ +41 31 327 27 27 . Web site in German only.  

By car or motorbike [ edit ]

Like in most Swiss cities, parking space is rare and expensive. There are several paid parking stations, including at the main train station. As the city centre is quite small and all of the major attractions are within walking distance, it's a good choice to park in a "park and ride" and take public transport to the centre of town. Using the car in the old town is very difficult and not recommended.

Motorbikers will find free dedicated parking spaces in several places around the perimeter of the old town, including near Waisenhausplatz and at the main train station.

By bike [ edit ]

Berne is a bike-friendly city, and most thoroughfares include dedicated bike lanes. There are a few challenging spots where bike traffic interweaves with motor traffic, but motorists are used to sharing the road with bikers and will normally pay attention. Because of the city's topography, some stamina may be required, or an electric bike.

The local branch of the Swiss-wide bike sharing Publibike [dead link] charges Fr. 3 for the first 30 minutes. The formerly free local bike-share "Bern Rollt" has been terminated.

By taxi [ edit ]

Several taxi companies operate in Berne, including Nova Taxi (+41 31 331 33 13), Bären Taxi (+41 31 371 11 11) and Taxi Bern (+41 31 333 88 88). Taxis can be booked by phone, or at the main train station.

Talk [ edit ]

The main language spoken in Berne is (Bernese-)Swiss-German, a Swiss dialect of the Alemannic language. Swiss-German is mostly a spoken language, but also used in text messages, etc. In official publications and announcements, Standard German is used.

English seems to be supplanting French as the favourite second language of the Bernese, even though the canton of Berne is a bilingual German and French-speaking canton. However, many people you encounter as a tourist will be able to speak both so it's certainly worth a try.

See [ edit ]

Berne is full of history and museums. It also has quite a bit of public art, all of which is marked on a walking map which is available from the tourist office in the train station for free.

• Invasion of Berne - successful! . As you explore, you may notice these small graffiti mosaics, in the style of Taito's "Space Invaders". There are some 29 in Bern, the work of an "Unidentified Free Artist". They've appeared on the walls, bridges and roofs of many cities around the world, including Basel, Geneva and Lausanne. And still they come: "Game Not Over". Consider buying a map and doing the space invader tour - though in midsummer 2018 the Invader's online shop is closed. ( updated Jul 2018 )

Do [ edit ]

• Watch football ie soccer at BSC Young Boys , who play in the Swiss Super League, the top tier of Swiss football. They play at Stade de Suisse, capacity 32,000, 1 km north of the city centre.
• SC Bern . The SCB is Berne's ice-hockey team. The stadium is the second largest in Europe and is regularly sold out, producing an impressive atmosphere in the arena. It is also mentionable that the SC Bern boasts the highest average attendance outside the NHL. To get there, just take Tram Nr. 9 towards Guisanplatz and get off at the terminal stop.  
• Swimming in the river Aare . On hot summer days, let yourself drift for a few kilometres in the river Aare. Good (and safe) stretches are between the Kornhausbridge and the public pool of the Lorraine (old-fashioned swimming pool just next to the river) and between the Eichholz and the public pool of the Marzili. Other stretches such as swimming the bend around the old town (starting at the "Englische Anlagen" to the Lorraine) or the "Bremgartenschlaufe" are only to be done by good swimmers accompanied by experienced locals. Entrance to public pools is free of charge. This makes it a good idea to choose a swim that ends at a public pool so you can have a shower afterwards.  

Events [ edit ]

Learn [ edit ].

Berne is home to the prestigious University of Berne which enrolls 17,431 students (2015). In addition, the city has the University of Applied Science also known as Berner Fachhochschule. There are also many vocational schools and offices of the Goethe Institute and the Alliance-Francaise (German and French cultural institutes).

Buy [ edit ]

As with most other cities in Switzerland , store opening and closing hours in Berne are strictly regulated. All stores, including grocers, close by 18:30 or 19:00 from Monday to Friday, except on Thursdays when they remain open until 21:00. Aldi supermarkets are an exception, closing at 20:00 during the week. On Saturdays everything must close by 17:00. On Sundays, all stores are closed, except for those in the main railway station, which are open 7 days a week until about 22:00, and which include Migros and Coop supermarkets.

Rathausgasse and the streets parallel to it have any number of cute shops with an amazing range of handicrafts and luxury goods. This is not the normal range of Swiss souvenir stuff, but really interesting things. There are a couple of worthy examples below, but the real pleasure is in spending a few hours (or days) exploring the arcades and vitrines.

• Yamatuti , Aarbergergasse 16-18 , ☏ +41 31 318 26 56 . M-W F 10:00–18:30, Th 10:00–21:00, Sa 10:00–17:00 . Unique toys and kitsch collectables pack the walls of this cramped space.  
• Krompholz Music , Effingerstrasse 51, 3008 Bern ( Visit website for which tram lines to take and the stops. ), ☏ +41 31 311 3489 , [email protected] . M-Sa 10:00–17:00 . The thing that makes this shop special is its huge collection of sheet music and English language music instruction materials. Pretty good CD section with lots of Swiss artists, both pop and folk.  

There are several used bookstores that carry cheap books in German, English and French:

• Bücherbergwerk Monbijou , Monbijoustrasse 16 ( on the street through which tram line 9 descends from Hirschengraben near the main station, in the basement of the building marked SWICA ), ☏ +41 31 381 71 25 . Tu-F 10:00–17:00 and Sa 11:00–15:00 . The used bookstore of the Swiss Workers' Aid Society.  
• Bücher-Brockenhaus Bern , Rathausgasse 34 ( in the old city between the Zytglogge and the Rathaus ), ☏ +41 31 311 44 59 . Tu-F 14:00–18:30, Sa 09:00–12:00, 14:00–16:00 .  

Eat [ edit ]

Eating in Berne (or almost anywhere in Switzerland for that matter) can be an expensive proposition for foreign tourists. Be sure to "shop around" before deciding on a restaurant as many of them cater to foreign tourists (especially those serving traditional Swiss food) and have inflated their prices accordingly. Most Bernese natives prefer Italian, Asian, or other non-local cuisine so finding a traditional Swiss restaurant with acceptable prices can often be a daunting experience. Be patient and you will persevere without breaking the bank.

Budget [ edit ]

City centre [ edit ].

• 46.948179 7.452988 1 Restaurant Zunft zu Webern , Gerechtigkeitsgasse 68 , ☏ +41 31 311 42 58 , fax : +41 31 312 20 67 . M-Sa 11:00–23:00 . Excellent soups, a good rendering of Swiss standards, such as cheese fondue, and a decent number of veggie choices. Many items are available in half portions. Fr. 14-24 (Oct 2021) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 46.949752 7.441771 2 Coop Restaurant Bern Ryfflihof , Aarbergergasse 53 . Very wide variety of dishes, a nice curry station, salad bar and lots of desserts. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 46.948428 7.450877 3 Lo stuzzichino da Mohan , Rathausgasse 23 . A simple Italian restaurant. The menu is mainly pasta. The food, dessert and the service are good. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 46.948893 7.450096 4 Tong Fong , Brunngasse 9 . It's a delicious Asian take-away restaurant. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Near the city centre [ edit ]

• 46.952898 7.44037 5 Sous le Pont , ☏ +41 31 306 69 55 , [email protected] . Tu-F 11:30–14:30 and 18:00–00:00, Sa 19:00–00:00, Su 10:00–16:00 . A nice restaurant in the Reitschule complex which serves excellent dishes. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Beaulieu , Erlachstrasse 3 , ☏ +41 31 301 24 59 , fax : +41 31 305 86 55 . M-Th 08:00–11:30, F 08:00–00:30, Sa 10:00–22:00 . Old-fashioned restaurant serving traditional Swiss and Bernese cuisine at very affordable prices. Popular among students due to its situation close to the university; it is equally popular among the local workers. Definitely not a tourist restaurant—go here if you want to meet the Bernese among themselves. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• Old Tram Depot ( Altes Tramdepot ), Grosser Muristalden ( across bridge at the east end of the city centre, next to bear pit ), ☏ +41 31 368 14 15 . 11:00-23:00 . The trams used to terminate here: nowadays it's a trolleybus route. Good, hearty Swiss food. Range of dishes from budget price rösti to higher-priced meat specialities. On-site brewery with traditional beers available. Bench seating with a great atmosphere. Fr. 20-40 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
• Café Fédéral , Bärenplatz 31 , ☏ +41 31 311 16 24 . Stylish, modern atmosphere and international cuisine. Situated in front of the Bundeshaus, its popularity among politicians during the "Session" is legendary. Specializes in entrecôtes (a kind of steak), but has other dishes, including vegetarian ones.  
• Casino Restaurant , Herrengasse 25 , ☏ +41 31 328 03 28 , [email protected] . At the shore of Aare river, with a view over the river and mountains on the South. Dishes include excellent pasta with mushrooms, fish, and meats, served throughout the day. Fr. 25-45 a main dish . ( updated Jul 2016 )
• Kornhaus , Kornhausplatz 18 , ☏ +41 31 327 72 70 , fax : +41 31 327 72 71 . The room alone is worth a stop at this fabulously appointed mostly Italian restaurant. As one might guess from the name, the building was built for grain storage, but now features fresco paintings of traditional Swiss scenes, events from local history, and related characters. Fr. 26-45 for the main dish. Fr. 9-14 for appetizers. . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• Schmiedstube , Schmiedenplatz 5 , ☏ +41 31 311 34 61 . M-Sa 08:30–23:30 . German, French, Italian, English and Spanish spoken. This traditional Swiss restaurant is well known for its typical dishes, such as Röschti, Cordon Bleu, Älplermakkaronen. It's 90 m (300 ft) from the clock tower "Zytglogge".  
• Schwellenmätteli , Dalmaziquai 11 , ☏ +41 31 350 50 01 , [email protected] . Terrace open daily 08:00–00:00 . A very nice restaurant at the side of the river Aare with a nice view on the Cathedral. Fr. 20-40 for a main dish .  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Bellevue Palace , Kochergasse 3-5 , ☏ +41 31 320 45 45 , fax : +41 31 47 43 . Stylish hotel and restaurant; has its price. Go there when the Parliament is in session, and you may very well see the president of Switzerland having lunch.  
• Restaurant Rosengarten , Alter Aargauerstalden 31b , ☏ +41 31 331 32 06 . Upscale Swiss restaurant with an amazing view over the city ( updated Jan 2017 )
• Kursaal-Bern ( Meridiano ), Kornhausstrasse 3 , ☏ +41 31 339 55 00 . Tu-F 11:30–14:00, 18:00–00:00; Sa 18:00–24:00; Sunday & Monday closed . The Meridiano is renowned far beyond the borders of Bern for its welcoming hospitality. And for its innovative cuisine - prepared to perfection by Chef de Cuisine Markus Arnold and his team. The restaurant has been awarded 16 Gault-millau points and one Michelin star. Guests are offered fine views extending over Bern and the surrounding scenic countryside. Fr. 20-76 . ( updated Jan 2017 )

Drink [ edit ]

Many Bernese will tell you that the nightlife in Berne is not exactly what you might call spectacular, but they're probably comparing it to Zurich or Paris. There are quite a few good spots to hang out.

For a drink or two, there's a wide choice of bars all over town. However, you might be disappointed with most central options as they tend to be annoyingly conventional, though there are an ample number of exceptions:

• Du Nord , Lorrainestrasse 2 ( across Lorraine Bridge from the city centre ), ☏ +41 31 332 23 38 .  
• Café Kairo , Dammweg 43, 3013 Bern . Another nice choice in the same area as Du Nord.  
• Cuba , Kornhausplatz 14 , ☏ +41 31 311 64 86 . With Latin-influenced Cuba Bar next door.  

Most of the town's cooler bars are around the main clubbing venues though. In the ancient Matte neighborhood, which is well worth a daytime visit too, you'll find nightlife options for almost every taste.

• Dampfzentrale , Marzilistrasse 47 , ☏ +41 31 310 05 40 . In this former electricity facility you'll find an excellent restaurant and bar, along with lots of cultural pearls. They specialize in urban, jazzy, electronic music and dance performances. Definitely a gem!  
• PROGR_centre for cultural production , Waisenhausplatz 30/ Speichergasse 4 , ☏ +41 31 318 82 70 . Close to the Reithalle and even closer to the city centre, you will find the PROGR. More than 100 artists, dancers, actors and musicians have their studios here. Its large courtyard with the CaféBar Turnhalle is a real oasis. From September to June, they offer a cultural program with exhibitions of experimental and contemporary art, theatre, performance, lectures and regular concerts on Sunday nights (jazz-connected, world women voices).  
• Wasserwerk Club . This is one of Berne's traditional clubbing and concert venues for urban music. It actually features two parts: Sportwerk The very welcoming, smaller "Sportwerk", which is open all week and free of charge, offers drinks, music, pool, snooker, darts, table soccer and flipper games as well as sports events on TV in a laid back, greenish atmosphere. The bigger part of the club, the actual "Wasserwerk" is open on weekends and features excellent djs and live concerts.  

Sleep [ edit ]

The main train station has a tourist office on the west side on the ground floor. They'll try to help you find a hotel room, if you arrive without booking. However, it is better to book ahead if you can, as Berne is a capital city; the budget hotels do tend to fill up on the weekends.

• Landhaus , Altenbergstrasse 4 ( near the bear pit ), ☏ +41 31 331 41 66 , fax : +41 31 332 69 04 , [email protected] . Check-out: Reception is open until 22:00 . A cute, friendly, and well-kept place with a good restaurant and bar downstairs. ( If they are fully booked ask to crash in the TV room, Fr. 34 ) Fr. 90-160 .  
• Berne backpackers - Hotel Glocke , Rathausgasse 75 , ☏ +41 31 311 37 71 , fax : +41 31 311 10 08 , [email protected] . A member of the Swiss Backpackers Association in the centre of the old town this highly favored backpackers' hotel is a 10-15 min walk from the central train station they have Internet, games and laundry facilities, solid security and no more than six beds in a room. There are also kitchen facilities, a big common room with a TV, a pool table, games, movies at night, and a gift shop. Prices from Fr. 31 per person, per night .  
• Youth Hostel , Weihergasse 4 , ☏ +41 31 311 63 16 . 187 beds in all, consisting of two, four, five and six-bed rooms and two group rooms, one with eighteen and one with 20 beds. Showers and WC on each floor, the security is lacking though, and theft is common in the dorms, given the area the hostel is in.  
• Astoria Swiss Quality Hotel , Zieglerstrasse 66 . Tastefully renovated 3*-hotel with a friendly and informal atmosphere, close to the city centre on the “Eigerplatz” (motorway exit “Berne Forsthaus”). Awarded Swiss Tourism’s Quality Award I, the hotel has 62 spacious and comfortable rooms, a restaurant with a bar, conference rooms, a w-lan and parking for cars and coaches.  
• Bern Swiss Quality Hotel , Zeughausgasse 9 , fax : +41 31 329 22 99 , [email protected] . Charming hotel in the city centre of Bern, 600 m from the main station away and 10 km from the airport Bern Belp. Single room from Fr. 245, double room from Fr. 280 .  
• Kreuz , Zeughausgasse 41 ( 500 m from the railway station directly in the city centre ), fax : +41 31 329 95 96 , [email protected] . Member of Swiss Quality Hotels International. Double from Fr. 225 . ( updated Apr 2018 )
• Metropole , Zeughausgasse 26 ( 600m from the railway station ), fax : +41 31 329 94 95 , [email protected] . Member of Swiss Quality Hotels International. Double from Fr. 129 . ( updated Apr 2018 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of Sep 2021, the city has 5G from all Swiss carriers.

The city center is mostly covered by WiFi networks that have limited speed and access as open access after obligatory registration with SMS.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Berne is a very safe place with nearly no violent crime. However, as it is the capital of Switzerland, it sees political demonstrations every few weeks on a variety of subjects, occasionally leading to police intervention.

LGBT+ people feel safe in the city center and around major spots in the city, though not many explicitly LGBT+ spaces are available.

The drunks and vagrants often congregate at the central railway station at night, which is a nuisance but in general not dangerous.

There has been a slight increase in violence from young people. Try to avoid groups of drunk teenagers that look suspicious and you should be fine.

While police officers in Berne will happily help you out if you are in trouble or need information, they are also known for approaching "suspicious" persons in order to check their papers. This procedure is annoying, but legal as you will probably have a hard time proving you were not acting suspicious. Carry a photocopy of your passport and your onward ticket with you, stay calm and polite and you won't have much trouble.

Cope [ edit ]

Embassies [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

Berne is an ideal gateway to the Bernese Highlands. You can make day trips to beautiful locations like Spiez , Thun , Interlaken , Grindelwald and all the way up the Jungfrau to Jungfraujoch. Other pleasant day trips are to Biel , Fribourg , Gstaad , Murten , Neuchatel and Solothurn .

Geneva, Basel and Zurich can easily be done as day-trips but deserve a longer stay.

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Accessible travel guide to Bern, Switzerland

You are reading a snippet of this article, curated from its original source. Click the button below to read the full article. Source: https://www.travelbreatherepeat.com/accessible-travel-guide-bern-switzerland/

Bern has been on our travel wish list for quite some time for a fairly oddball reason: its flag. It’s got a bear on it that’s simultaneously menacing and adorable. And we love bears and we love flags, and there have got to be sillier reasons to visit a place (right?). Of course, once we started actually reading about the city, we had a strong inkling it was the type of place we would love. We also read that accessibility in Bern is good, so last year we made it a priority to go. We worked out a good time to visit Bern during a 12-day trip through a few places in Switzerland and Germany. We spent a short but busy two days in the city and worked with the Bern tourism board to learn as much as we could about its accessibility. Based on all that we created this accessible travel guide which includes things to do in Bern, accessibility of the Bern Old Town, as well as information about public transport in Bern and Switzerland for wheelchair users. We’ve also thrown in some ways to save money during your stay because it is Switzerland after all.

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Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 15 Best Things to Do in Bern (Switzerland)

15 Best Things to Do in Bern (Switzerland)

Looking out to the Alps, Switzerland’s fifth largest city has been the “Bundesstadt” and de facto capital for almost 170 years. Bern has a lovable UNESCO listed old town tucked into a long meander of the River Aare. A lot of the old core is from the 15th century and is laced with several kilometres of arcades covering stylish shops and eateries.

Bern was also Albert Einstein’s home town for the first decade of the 20th century. The Historical Museum has a riveting exhibition about his time at the patent office in the city, and you can visit the apartment he shared with his wife and son. Another Bern native was the modern artist Paul Klee, a luminary of Expressionism and Surrealism. He is represented by a museum designed by Renzo Piano and holding almost half of the work he ever produced.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Bern :

1. Old Town

One of the many things to love about Bern’s UNESCO-listed medieval centre is its uniformity: Most of the city was claimed by a fire in 1405, and tall sandstone buildings took over from the old wooden houses.

Many are woven with arcades on their ground floor, and these are a defining characteristic of the city.

There are six kilometres of arcades in all, hiding shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants.

One idea for a walking tour is try to find all 11 Renaissance fountains in the centre.

Each of these dates from the 16th century and has a polychrome statue of a real personality from the city’s past, or an allegorical figure like Lady Justice.

Suggested tour : Bern: 90-Minute Stroll Through the Old Town

2. Zentrum Paul Klee

In Bern’s eastern outskirts is a phenomenal modern museum for one of the most influential artists of the early 20th century.

Klee was born just outside Bern and went to Gymnasium in the city.

In 1997 his daughter donated all of her inheritance to the city, and Renzo Piano was hired to design a museum for these works.

Looking like an oscillating wave, the museum opened in 2005 and after later donations now has around 40% of Klee’s entire oeuvre, beginning with childhood sketches and continuing through his Expressionist, Cubist and Surrealist periods.

Klee’s paintings are presented in ever-changing temporary shows on set themes, so no two visits to the centre will be the same.

3. Zytglogge

Erected at the end of the 12th century as Bern’s western city gate, this tower in the Old Town has become an icon for an extraordinary clock that was installed in 1530. One of the oldest in Switzerland, this measured standard time in the Canton of Bern, and has an astounding astronomical clock below.

Get to Marktgasse on the stroke of the hour for a little show when some of the earliest examples of automata come alive beside the astrolabe.

These mechanical figures, the astronomical clock and the clock itself are all controlled by the same mechanism.

You can see it in action behind the scenes on a daily tour of the tower that starts at 14:30. Book in advance because numbers are limited.

Recommended tour : Zytglogge – Tour through the Clock Tower

4. Bern Cathedral

Switzerland’s tallest cathedral went up gradually during the 15th and 16th centuries.

The single spire soars to more than 100 metres and unless you’re a bit squeamish about heights you should have no hesitation conquering the 400-odd steps to view the distant, snow-capped Alps.

But before you do that, the Last Judgement will greet you as you enter.

Not literally the end of the world: This is the astonishing set-piece on the main portal, held as one of Europe’s greatest groups of Late Gothic sculpture.

In the tympanum you’ll see how the wicked are separated from the virtuous by the Archangel Michael, while Jesus, Mary and the Apostles look down from the archivolts.

Inside you can admire the 16th-century carved choir stalls and the “Dance of Death” stained glass window from around the same time.

If you’re in Bern for more than a day you have to plan a few hours on the slopes of Bern’s own hill, Gurten.

There’s a funicular that you catch from by the Aare in Waben.

This has been serving the 858-metre hill since 1899 and gets to the top in just five minutes.

Summer means hiking, a ride on the miniature railway for little ones, barbecues and other good times outdoors, while a toboggan run is available if there’s sufficient snow in winter.

Mid-July is time for the Gurtenfestival, which continues to grow and in the last few editions has booked artists like Muse, Patti Smith and Massive Attack.

6. Bern Historical Museum

Switzerland’s second largest institution in this field, the Bern Historical Museum handles historical and ethnographical collections going back to the Stone Age.

These are housed in a Neo-Renaissance edifice, which has a modern extension for temporary exhibitions.

Among the highlights of the vast and varied permanent displays are spoils of war: There’s set of tapestries taken from Burgundy in the 1400s and 1500s, and the bewitching Königsfelden Diptych, composed in Venice for the King of Hungary at the end of the 13th century.

The integrated Einstein Museum is a must-see, containing lots of footage, photography and objects illustrating his time in Bern when he devised his Theory of Relativity.

7. Bundeshaus

In Switzerland’s capital you have to make time for the Swiss Federal Assembly.

After all, we’re talking one of the world’s oldest democracies.

The Bundeshaus was completed in stages throughout the second half of the 19th century.

If you want to see inside you’ll need to book in advance as the tours fill up quickly.

Your knowledgeable guide will bombard you with interesting facts about the Swiss federal government, its founding myths and Bern’s 150 years as capital.

The interior is even more impressive than the dominant Neo-Renaissance facade, and bursts sculpture, stained glass and carved wood.

In front, on the Bundesplatz is a popular fountain with 26 jets, each one symbolising one of Switzerland’s Cantons.

8. BärenPark

Cross the Aare from the Old Town and you’ll find yourself in the company of three brown bears.

Bern has long had an affection for bears, and the animal was adopted as an emblem as long ago as the 12th century.

Bern has kept its own bears since at least the 16th century, and they were moved to this park on the opposite bank of the Aare in 1857. The habitat was modernised in 2009, when a new space was opened next to the original pit.

The two enclosures are linked by a tunnel, and even allow the bears to take dips in the river.

If you’re hesitant about animals in captivity you’ll be cheered by the all the room the three inhabitants have and how healthy they look.

9. Rosengarten

The city’s rose garden is on high ground, close to the BärenPark and with a very satisfying vista of Bern’s Old Town from the right bank of the Aare.

Families, friends and couples come to meet up and take picnics with Bern at their feet.

This piece of open land was a cemetery up to 1913, and the first of its roses were planted in 1917. Spring and early summer are the most beautiful times, when ithe223 rose and 200 iris species are in flower.

The rose garden also has 23 rhododendron species that flower in May, as well as a graceful pond with lilies that bloom in July.

10. Museum of Fine Arts

The oldest art museum in the country opened its doors in 1879 in a purpose-built Eclecticist hall.

The earliest pieces are from the middle ages and the museum grazes over host of movements up to the present day.

In the collection there are 3,000 paintings and sculptures as well as almost 50,000 photographs, prints, sketches and pieces of video art.

There’s a batch of works by the Symbolist Ferdinand Hodler, and Expressionism is well-represented by Paul Klee, Franz Marc, Kandinsky, August Macke and Alexej von Jawlensky.

The museum made the news recently when it was unexpectedly bequeathed a cache of 1,400 works by the German collector Cornelius Gurlitt.

The only drawback is that a great deal are likely to have been stolen by the Nazis in the 30s and 40s.

11. Tierpark Dählhölzli

Swearing by the credo, “More Space for Fewer Animals”, Bern’s zoo is ten minutes from the Hauptbahnhof.

This wooded park is divided between a free and paid sections: In the free enclosures beside the Aare you’ll pass wild boar, chamois and ibex, as well as a small farm with domestic animals like horses and goats.

The paying section has more exotic animals, but there’s still an emphasis on European species.

In the tropical house are reptiles, birds and monkeys and there’s an aquarium here with a coral reef ecosystem.

And outside, leopards, wolves and harbour seals are all granted spacious enclosures.

12. Museum für Kommunikation

Just off Helvetiaplatz is the only museum in Switzerland on the subject of communication.

Its origins lie in a post museum founded in 1907, and there’s still an exhibition on this topic, explaining the postal network and showing historic coaches and postage stamps.

There’s also some archive correspondence, like authentic letters sent by Paul von Hindenburg.

Another exhibition deals with “media” , and teems with interactive audiovisual displays.

And there’s an extensive area for telecommunications, complete with early telephones, telegraphs where you can decipher Morse code and vacuum tubes for sending messages.

13. Einsteinhaus

A nice complement to the Historical Museum, this minor attraction holds the second floor flat where Einstein lived from 1903 to 1905. He shared this modest abode with his wife Mileva Marić and son Hans Albert while he was employed at the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property.

While living here Einstein wrote his Annus Mirabilis papers, which changed the way we understand the universe.

On the second floor the flat has been recreated with contemporary architecture, while there’s more of a scientific theme on the floor above.

This exhibition looks into the theories he developed in Bern, and has a timeline of his life.

14. SC Bern

Attending a sports event may not be the first thing on your mind in a city flush with art and sights.

But SC Bern are not your average ice hockey team.

Playing at the PostFinance Arena, they’re the best supported ice hockey team in the world outside the NHL. Their home stadium has a capacity for 17,000 and regularly sells out during the season from September to March.

The standard is also as high as you’ll find outside North America, and in 2017 SC Bern won their second NL Championship in a row their third in five seasons.

Their talisman is right-wing Mark Arcobello, an import from the NHL who contributed 55 points (25 goals and 30 assists) in the 2016-17 campaign.

15. Swimming in the Aare

In spring and summer the Aare can seem a bit treacherous, particularly when you cross the Nydeggbrücke on the way to the BärenPark.

But south of the Altstadt it’s perfectly safe to bathe in the river.

And the ultimate way to do this is to enter the water at the recreation area at Eichholz and just let yourself drift downstream to the Freiban Marzili.

This bathing area also has outdoor pools for set aside for kids and women, and a lush grassy space where you can dry off in the sun.

From here you can catch one of the shortest funicular railways in the world, trundling up the hill for just over 100 metres to the Bundeshaus.

15 Best Things to Do in Bern (Switzerland):

• Zentrum Paul Klee
• Bern Cathedral
• Bern Historical Museum
• Rosengarten
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Tierpark Dählhölzli
• Museum für Kommunikation
• Einsteinhaus
• Swimming in the Aare

18 amazing things to do in Bern, Switzerland

Bern is the charming capital city of Switzerland that is renowned for having a rich history and stunning architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, I love that Bern perfectly mixes old-world charm and modern lifestyle. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s unique museums and impressive galleries, sampling some of the region’s world-famous chocolate and cheese, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, I know you’re going to love this Swiss bucket list destination.

One of my favourite parts of Bern, and its most famous landmark, is the mediaeval old town. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 12th century.

With its winding streets, quaint shops, and picturesque fountains, I’m not surprised that the endearing old town draws visitors from both near and far. 

Avid history buff, foodie, or art enthusiast, Bern has something to offer everyone. With its simply stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that Bern is quickly becoming one of Europe’s unmissable travel hotspots.

I’d recommend visiting before it gets too popular! It’s one of my favourite cities to visit in Switzerland and I can’t wait to share my top tips and favourite things to do in Bern with you.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

How to get to Bern

Bern has a small airport (Bern Airport) which is located approximately 6 kilometres southeast of the city centre.

The airport serves international destinations – including London , Amsterdam , and Munich – as well as several domestic destinations within Switzerland.

From the airport, I’d recommend taking a taxi or a bus to reach the city centre. The bus service is operated by Bernmobil and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the city centre.

Alternatively, you can fly into Zurich Airport, which is the largest airport in Switzerland.

You can easily take a train from Zurich Airport (Zürich Flughafen) to Bern , which takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes.

I love that Bern is well-connected to other major cities in Switzerland and Europe by train. The city has two train stations: Bern Hauptbahnhof (Bern main station) and Bern Wankdorf.

From Bern Hauptbahnhof, there are frequent trains to other major Swiss cities, such as Zurich , Geneva, and Basel, as well as to other European destinations including Paris and Milan.

Easily accessible by train and car, Bern is one of the best day trips from Zurich .

You can also reach Bern by car as the city is located at the intersection of several major highways, including the A1, A6, and A12.

However, I would note that driving in the city centre can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking options. 

Good to know: To avoid driving in Bern city centre, I’d recommend parking in one of the many parking garages located on the outskirts of the city and take public transportation or walk to the city centre.

Swiss Travel Pass

I’d advise getting the Swiss Travel Pass , which allows you to explore Switzerland by train, bus, and boat.

It offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, which includes Switzerland’s extensive public transportation system, as well as some private railways, cable cars, and funiculars. 

The pass is available for purchase for a duration of three, four, eight, or 15 consecutive days. As a bonus, I love that it includes free admission to more than 90 museums and exhibitions across the country.

Children under the age of 16 travel for free with a parent or guardian who has a Swiss Travel Pass.

Included with the pass are some of Switzerland’s most scenic train journeys , such as the iconic Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Golden Pass Line, Jungfrau Railway and among others, the Wengernalpbahn Railway.

I’d recommend the Swiss Travel Pass as a great option for those who want to explore Switzerland’s scenic landscapes and cities without worrying about the cost of transportation.

It also offers discounts on mountain excursions and other activities, making it a cost-effective way to experience all of the best that Switzerland has to offer.

Insider travel tip: Some train journeys included in the Swiss Travel Pass require you to reserve a seat, so do check beforehand. 

How to get around Bern

Public transportation.

I’m pleased to say that Bern has an excellent public transportation system, which includes buses, trams and trains.

The city’s public transport network is operated by Bernmobil, which is part of the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). 

Insider travel tip: A single ticket is typically valid for one hour. Alternatively, you can purchase a day pass which allows unlimited travel on all modes of public transport within Bern for 24 hours.

Walking and biking

I love that Bern is a very walkable city, and many of the main attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

The city also has an extensive network of cycle paths, making it a great place to explore by bike. There are several bike rental shops in and around the city which offer a range of bikes for rent at reasonable prices.

Taxis and car rentals

Taxis are readily available in Bern, and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. All taxis in Bern are metered, and fares are regulated by the city. 

Alternatively, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental companies in the city.

Car rental prices vary depending on the type of vehicle, the rental period, and the company you rent from. So it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal.

18 best things to do in Bern

From its winding mediaeval streets to its stunning mountain views, here is my pick of the best things to do in Bern.

1. Explore the old town

Bern’s old town is a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered one of the most well-preserved mediaeval towns in Europe.

Situated on a hill providing gorgeous views of the city below and surrounded by the River Aare, I’d really recommend leaving plenty of time to explore the old town.

Navigate through the narrow streets and alleys which are lined with charming buildings, fountains, and fantastic sculptures.

One of the most famous landmarks in the old town is the Zytglogge Clock Tower, which dates back to the 13th century and features a moving parade of bears.

Additionally, you’ll find many museums to explore, family-run shops, and cafés and restaurants to dine at.

I’d suggest sampling traditional Swiss dishes, such as cheese fondue and rösti, or enjoy a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate surrounded by incredible scenery.

Top tours to book:  

• Bern: 90-Minute Stroll Through the Old Town
• Bern Old City Walking Tour

Good to know: Bern’s old town is best explored on foot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobbled and can be steep in places. 

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2. Tour Zytglogge clock tower

Opening times:

• Daily from 1 April to 31 October and 26 December to 31 December
• Every Saturday from 1 November to 31 March

Prices: 

• Adults: CHF 20
• Children aged six to 16: CHF 10
• Students and seniors: CHF 18
• Group of up to 19 people: CHF 250

Tickets: Bern: Zytglogge – Tour Through the Clock Tower

A truly iconic landmark in Bern, the Zytglogge clock tower has been proudly standing since the 13th century.

This mediaeval clock tower used to serve as the main gate to the city and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bern – and I can see why.

Rather than just seeing it from the outside, I’d advise that you take a guided tour of the clock tower, including a visit to the clock mechanism room. Here you can see the intricate workings of the clock up close.

The tour also takes you to the top of the tower, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city.

Insider travel tip: Make sure you’re there on the hour to watch the clock strike and see the famous figures in action. These include a parade of bears, a jester, a golden rooster and Chronos, the god of time. 

3. Admire Bern Cathedral

Opening times: 

• Monday – Saturday 10:00 – 17:00
• Sunday 11:30 – 17:00
• Monday – Friday 12:00 – 16:00
• Saturday 10:00 – 17:00
• Sunday 11:30 – 16:00
• Entrance to the cathedral is free
• Entrance to the tower costs CHF 5 for adults and CHF 2 for children.

A stunning example of Gothic architecture located in the heart of the city, Bern Cathedral was built in the 15th century and is considered one of the most important landmarks in Bern.

The cathedral’s most striking feature is its towering spire, which stands at 100 metres tall and can be seen from many parts of the city.

If you’re feeling brave enough, you can climb to the top of the spire for panoramic views of Bern and the surrounding countryside. I really think the views are worth the climb!

Inside the cathedral, take time to admire the intricate stained glass windows which cast colourful shadows over the ornate altar and impressive pipe organ.

The cathedral also houses a number of important religious relics, including a piece of the True Cross and a fragment of the veil of the Virgin Mary.

4. See the Untertorbrücke Bridge

Located in the beating heart of Bern, the Untertorbrücke Bridge is one of the most stunning and iconic landmarks in the city.

This historic bridge spans the Aare River, connecting the old town with the river’s eastern bank. While the bridge was originally built in the 15th century, it has undergone several renovations over the years.

Today, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to take in the breathtaking views of the river and the city. I spent a lot of time here with my camera, as it is just so wonderfully picturesque.

Insider travel tip: A well-timed sunset visit to the Untertorbrücke Bridge is like a scene straight from a film. The reflection of the lights on the river creates a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.

5. Find the Bern fountains

Bern is famous for its many fountains, which can be found all over the city. Many of these fountains date back to the 16th century and are considered to be works of art.

Here are some of my favourite fountains to check out while in Bern:

Zähringerbrunnen : Classed as a Swiss Cultural Property of National Significance, this fountain is located in the heart of the old town.

Built in 1535 as a memorial to the city’s founder, Berchtold von Zähringer, the fountain features a statue of a bear wearing full armour, with a bear cub at its feet..

Kindlifresserbrunnen : This fountain – also known as the “Child-Eater Fountain” – features a statue of an ogre eating a child, next to a bag full of more children.

I admit this does sound somewhat unsettling! But I’d say that it’s all the more worth seeing due to its quirks. The fountain was built in the 16th century and has contested representations from carnival characters to cannibals. 

Mosesbrunnen : This impressive fountain features a statue of Moses holding the Ten Commandments and bringing them to the Tribes of Israel.

The fountain was built in the 16th century and rebuilt in the 18th century after damage from a storm.

Anna Seiler Brunnen : This fountain features a statue of the Bernese woman Anna Seiler, dressed in blue and pouring water into a bowl. The fountain was built to memorialise Selier, who founded Bern’s hospital.

Good to know: You can easily find these and many more fountains by walking around the quaint old town. Many of the fountains are located in public squares and are easy to spot. 

6. Tour the Bundeshaus (Swiss Parliament Building)

Opening times: Tour times are dependent on which language you’d like to take the tour in.

Prices: Free

The Swiss Parliament Building, also known as the Bundeshaus, is a prominent landmark in Bern.

It is the seat of the Swiss government and houses the National Council and the Council of States, the two chambers of the Swiss federal parliament.

I think a tour of the Bundeshaus is one of the best things to do in Bern, provided Parliament is not in session.

The tours last 60 minutes and are available in four languages, including: English, French, German and Italian.

During the tour, you can explore the impressive halls and ornate chambers of the building, including the National Council Chamber, the Council of States Chamber, and the Federal Assembly Hall.

You can also see the famous “Hall of the Dome,” which features a beautiful stained-glass dome and is used for official ceremonies and events.

Good to know: Visitors aged 16 and over are required to deposit an official identity document with security and pass through a metal detector. While photography is permitted during the tour, filming is not allowed.

7. Go swimming in the Aare

One of the most popular things to do in Bern during the summer months is to go for a swim in the Aare River.

The crystal-clear water is perfect for cooling off on a hot day and the river is easily accessible from various points in the city.

I’d advise that the best spot to start your Aare swim is at the Marzili public swimming pool, which has changing rooms and lockers available. From there, you can jump into the river and let the current carry you downstream.

There are several exits along the river where you can get out and walk back to your starting point or continue your swim.

The most popular exit is at Eichholz, where you can relax on the riverbank or grab a snack at the nearby kiosk.

Good to know: The Aare is a fast-flowing river, so it’s recommended to wear a life jacket and always swim with a partner.

The water temperature is also quite chilly, even in the summer, so be prepared for a refreshing but invigorating swim!

8. Visit the Zentrum Paul Klee Art Museum

Opening hours: 

• During term time: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 – 17:00
• During holidays: see official website
• Adult: CHF 20
• Senior citizens and concessions: CHF 18
• Students and apprentices: CHF 10
• Children aged six to 16: CHF 7
• Various family tickets are available.

Trust me when I say that the Zentrum Paul Klee Art Museum is a truly unmissable attraction in Bern for art lovers.

It’s dedicated to the awe-inspiring work of the Swiss artist Paul Klee, who is renowned for his colourful and imaginative paintings. 

The museum’s collection includes over 4,000 works by Klee, making it one of the most extensive collections of his work in Europe and around the world.

The building itself is a work of art, designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano. Shaped like three hills and covered in a shimmering steel roof, the building’s interior is spacious and light, with large windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

As well as exploring the magnificent permanent collection, visitors to the Zentrum Paul Klee Art Museum can explore various temporary exhibitions.

The temporary exhibitions feature works by other artists, as well as thematic exhibitions that explore different aspects of Klee’s art.

Good to know: The museum also offers a range of educational programmes and events, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours. 

9. Explore the Bern Historical Museum & Einstein Museum

Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00

• Adults: CHF 16
• Concessions: CHF 14
• Children aged six to 16: CHF 8
• Families of up to five people with a maximum of two adults: CHF 35
• Prices are for the basic rate, which allows entry to permanent and temporary exhibitions. For other costs , visit the official site. 

The Bern Historical Museum is one of the largest historical museums in Switzerland and one of the best things to do in Bern. It’s located in the Kirchenfeld district of the city.

The museum showcases the rich and varied history of the city and the country. Plus, it houses a vast collection of artefacts, documents, and paintings that date back to the Stone Age.

Here, you can explore the museum’s various sections, which span significant periods of Swiss history.

The museum’s most famous exhibit is the Einstein Museum, which is dedicated to the life and work of Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern from 1902 to 1909.

I’d really recommend a visit to the Einstein Museum, not only for budding physicists! The museum has a collection of original documents, manuscripts, and personal belongings of Einstein.

Learn about Einstein’s theories, including the theory of relativity, and his life in Bern.

Good to know: The museum has an interactive exhibition that allows visitors to perform experiments and learn about the principles of physics.

10. Take the funicular to Gurten Mountain

• Monday to Saturday: 07:00 – 23:45 with the last ascent at 23:30
• Sunday and public holidays: 07:00 – 20:15 with the last ascent at 20:00
• Adults: single CHF 6; return CHF 11
• Children aged six to 16: half fare

If you’re keen to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside, I’d advise taking the funicular to Gurten Mountain.

The funicular is a quick and convenient way to reach the summit, which stands at an altitude of 858 metres.

Once you reach the top, take in the gorgeous panoramic views of the city, the Swiss Alps, and the Jura Mountains. On a perfectly clear day, you can see as far as the striking Black Forest in Germany.

There are several walking trails to explore, including a circular trail that takes about an hour to complete.  The trails are well-marked, making it easy to find your way around, and suitable for various experience levels.

In addition to the gorgeous views, Gurten Mountain also offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages.

There is a playground for children, a mini-golf course, a restaurant that serves delectable Swiss cuisine, and a tobogganing run for adrenaline junkies.

Good to know: Every summer, the Gurten Mountain hosts the GurtenFestival for four days, welcoming music-lovers from across the globe.

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11. See the bears at BärenPark

Opening hours: Open 24/7, 365 days per year. Park keepers are on site from 08:00 – 17:00 daily.

One of the most popular and unique tourist attractions in Bern is the BärenPark, a spacious 5,000 square metre area that is home to several Bernese brown bears.

The park is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible by public transport, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors.

Here, you can watch the magnificent bears as they play, swim, and relax in their habitat. The park also features several viewing platforms that offer unparalleled views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

In addition to watching the bears, visitors can learn about the history of the park and the bears that call it home at Bärenpark – Björk, Finn, and Ursina. 

Top tour to book: Bern: City Sightseeing Self-Guided Walking Tour Game  

Good to know: The “BäreBähnli” provides obstacle-free wheelchair access to the Aare at the BearPark. It connects the upper viewing platform with the lower Aare promenade.

12. Visit Rosengarten (Rose Garden Park)

One of the top things to do in Bern is to visit the Rosengarten. This beautiful park is located on a hill overlooking the city, and it’s one of my favourite viewpoints in Bern.

It provides visitors with breathtaking views of the old town and the Aare River against the backdrop of hundreds of flourishing blooms.

The rose garden is home to over 400 types of roses and irises as well as 28 different rhododendrons, making it a must-visit destination for flower lovers and budding botanists.

The park also features a beautiful fountain, a pond, and several sculptures. In addition to its natural beauty, the park has a restaurant that serves mouth-watering Swiss cuisine.

The restaurant’s outdoor terrace offers breathtaking views of the city, and I’d recommend it as the perfect spot for a romantic Swiss dinner or a relaxing lunch.

Good to know: The park is also a popular spot for picnics and offers several picnic tables for you to use.

13. Explore the Museum of Fine Arts

Opening hours:

• Tuesday: 10:00 – 21:00 
• Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
• Prices for all exhibitions are as follows:
• Adult: CHF 24 
• Concessions: CHF 20
• Students: CHF 12
• Children under 16: Free

The Museum of Fine Arts in Bern is a popular tourist attraction in the city; in my opinion, this is one of the best winter things to do in Bern.

It houses a vast collection of art and artefacts from various periods in history, from the mediaeval period to the present day. 

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Swiss art, which includes works by famous artists such as Ferdinand Hodler and Albert Anker.

The museum also has an extensive collection of international art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, and Salvador Dalí.

You can take a guided tour of the museum to learn more about the art and artefacts on display and delve deeper into their history. The museum also offers audio guides in several languages, including English.

Good to know: I’d advise purchasing a combined ticket for the Museum of Fine Arts and the Zentrum Paul Klee Art Museum, which is located nearby.

14. Relax at the Hammam & Spa Oktogon

• Monday: 9:00 – 21:30 for ‘Quiet Day’
• Tuesday: 9:00 – 21:30 
• Wednesday: 13:00 – 21:30 
• Thursday and Friday: 09:00 – 21:30 
• Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 – 20:00
• The spa stops running 30 minutes before closing.

If you’re seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating spa experience in Bern, look no further than the Hammam & Spa Oktogon.

This luxurious spa offers a range of glorious treatments and services designed to help you unwind and feel your best.

One of the most popular offerings at the Hammam & Spa Oktogon is the traditional Hammam experience.

This involves a series of treatments such as steam baths, body scrubs, and massages to help detoxify the body and leave you feeling utterly refreshed and renewed. Sign me up!

In addition to the restoring Hammam experience, the spa offers a range of other deluxe treatments, including facials, massages, and body wraps.

Whether you’re looking to soothe sore muscles from hiking or simply relax and unwind surrounded by the splendid Swiss landscape, a visit to the Hammam & Spa Oktogon is one of the best things to do in Bern.

The spa’s facilities are top-notch, with a range of amenities designed to help you feel comfortable and at ease.

These include a heated pool, a sauna, and a relaxation room, as well as a range of complimentary teas and snacks.

Good to know: At the Hammam & Spa Oktogon, Tuesdays are ‘women only’ days, meaning there is no admission for men.

15. Embark on a scavenger hunt

For a fun and interactive way to explore Bern, I’d recommend embarking on a scavenger hunt in the city. These hunts are a great way to see the city’s top sights and learn about the immense history and culture in a unique and engaging way.

The scavenger hunts typically last between two to three hours and can be tailored to suit your interests and preferences.

During the Bern city scavenger hunt, you’ll be given a set of clues and challenges to solve, which will lead you to various locations and attractions around the city.

Along the way, you’ll learn about Bern’s history, culture and architecture. Some of the challenges you might encounter during a scavenger hunt include solving riddles, taking photos at specific locations, and answering trivia questions.

You’ll need to work together as a team to complete the challenges and solve the clues. So it’s a great activity for couples, families and groups of friends.

Top tours to book:

• Bern Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Audio Tour
• Bern: Sherlock Holmes Self-Guided Smartphone City Game

Good to know: Some of these scavenger hunts can involve a fair bit of walking around the city. So make sure you’re wearing suitable clothing, comfortable shoes and have packed the SPF!

16. Go shopping at the weekly markets

Bern is well known across the country for its weekly markets offering a range of fresh produce, local crafts, and unique souvenirs.

Take a trip to the city centre on market days and find fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, cheese, and meat from local farmers and producers. 

As you wander near, you’ll smell scrumptious fresh-bread, mouth-watering baked goods and delectable meats from artisan sellers. I’d advise sampling the local delights and enjoying a feast for the senses. 

Some markets sell goods aside from produce, including fresh flowers, clothing and jewellery. Stop by and find a momento from your trip. 

Good to know: These markets can be busy, as locals and tourists alike flock to find a great deal.

17. Gruyères Cheese Factory & Maison Cailler Tasting Tour

• Gruyères Cheese Factory is open June to September: 09:00 – 18.30 pm with last entrance at 18:00.
• Maison Cailler is open daily 10:00 – 17:00 between November and March and 10:00 – 18:00 between April and October.
• CHF 7 for adults
• CHF 6 for students from age 12 and senior citizens
• CHF 12 for a family ticket (two adults and children up to age 12).
• CHF 17 for adults
• CHF 14 for students, seniors and disabled people
• CHF 7 for children aged between six and 15

Visiting the Gruyères Cheese Factory and Maison Cailler is a must-do if, like me, you love cheese and chocolate.

Located in the picturesque town of Gruyères , the cheese factory offers an interactive tour where you can learn about the history of cheese-making and watch the cheese being made in the traditional Swiss way.

After the cheese factory tour, you can head to the nearby Maison Cailler chocolate factory for a delightful tasting tour.

The tour takes you through the history of chocolate-making and the production process. There are plenty of opportunities to sample the delicious chocolate along the way, making it one of the best things to do near Bern.

The chocolate produced at Maison Cailler is known for its smooth and creamy texture, and there are a variety of flavours to choose from.

You can also purchase some of this delectable chocolate to take home. Booking a tour of both attractions is perfect for foodies hoping to experience the culinary delights of Switzerland.

• Bern: Gruyères Cheese Factory & Maison Cailler Tasting Tour
• Gruyères, Cheese and Chocolate: Private Guided Tour

Good to know: Some tours depart from Bern (like the first one linked above), so you don’t need to worry about getting there and back. 

18. Take to the skies in a helicopter flight over the Swiss Alps

There’s nothing quite like experiencing the stunning beauty of the Swiss Alps from the skies, soaring above the trees and seeing the Alps up close and personal. I’ve included this as a real bucket list activity!

Flights typically range from just under 20 minutes to over an hour. During the flight, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

Fly over some of the most iconic landmarks in the region, such as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

This isn’t just for adrenaline junkies: it’s a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that I know will stay with you for the rest of your life. 

Top tours to book: 

• Bern: Private 26-Minute Stockhorn Mountain Helicopter Flight
• Bern: Private 42-Minute Swiss Alps Helicopter Flight

Good to know: Helicopter pilots typically provide commentary during the flight, pointing out famous landmarks and impressive sights.

Best time to visit Bern

Bern is a beautiful city in Switzerland that is worth visiting at any time of year. However, some seasons are better than others, depending on what you want to do and see.

Here are my recommendations for when to visit Bern:

Spring (March – May)

I think spring is a beautiful time to visit Bern and it’s my personal favourite time of year to visit. The city’s flowers are blooming and the weather is starting to warm up.

The average temperature during this season is around 13°C, making it perfect for exploring the city’s parks and gardens.

Hiking the nearby mountains is easier in this more temperate weather, with no glaring sun or snowstorms. 

Summer (June – August)

As to be expected, summer is the peak tourist season in Bern. With the warmer weather, the city comes alive with events and activities.

The average temperature during this season is around 23°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and cycling. The city also hosts various festivals during this season, such as the GurtenFestival.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Bern, with the city’s trees turning golden and red.

The weather is cooler, with an average temperature of 12°C. This makes it a great time to explore the city’s museums, galleries, and historical sites.

With less tourists in the city, it’s easier to see all the sites you want to see.

Winter (December – February)

Winter is a magical time to visit Bern, with the city’s streets and buildings adorned with Christmas lights and decorations.

The average temperature during this season is around -1°C, making it ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

The city also hosts various Christmas markets , including the famous Berner Weihnachtsmarkt.

Where to stay in Bern

Bern is an enchanting city that offers plenty of accommodation options for visitors.

Read my full guide to the best hotels in Bern or discover my top picks of the best places to stay in Bern:

1. Hotel Bellevue Palace

Best for: Luxury and opulence

Address: Kochergasse 3-5, 3011 Bern

As the official guesthouse of the Swiss government, Hotel Bellevue Palace oozes luxury and subtle decadence.

Located in the heart of Bern, I adore the epic views of the Bernese Alps and the city that this hotel offers. 

You’ll also find elegant rooms and suites, as well as a gym and sauna; plus, the hotel has a fantastic restaurant that serves delicious Swiss cuisine.

Book with ASMALLWORLD for VIP benefits like free room upgrades when available.

2. Hotel Schweizerhof

Best for: Classical charm

Address: Bahnhofplatz 11, 3001 Bern

Hotel Schweizerhof is a historic hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1859 and is located in the city centre, close to the main train station.

The hotel features spacious rooms and suites that are gorgeously decorated and equipped with modern amenities. 

Proudly offering five-star luxury and comfort, the hotel has a restaurant that serves delicious Swiss and international cuisine, a bar, and a luxurious spa.

Book with ASMALLWORLD for access to perks like free room upgrades and late check-outs. Or discover more of the best Swiss spa hotels .

3. Hotel Savoy

Best for: A sustainable stay

Address: Neuengasse 26, 3011 Bern

Hotel Savoy is a ‘Swisstainable’ engaged company, committed to helping Switzerland become the leading destination for sustainable travel.

With light modern rooms and suites, the hotel offers both style and comfort.  Guests can make use of gym facilities a short walk from the hotel seven days per week, free of charge.

As well as this, the hotel’s restaurant serves up mouth-watering dishes for hotel guests each day and night. 

Best restaurants in Bern

1. wein & sein.

Best for: Fine dining

Address: Munstergasse 50, 3011 Bern

Awarded a Michelin-star, Wein & Sein is a cosy wine bar and restaurant located in the heart of Bern’s Old Town.

Combining traditional Swiss dishes with modern flavour combinations, the chef will cook up a storm.  The menu features a variety of Swiss and European dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

If enjoying over four courses of delectable cuisine is your idea of a perfect meal, then I’d definitely recommend booking into Wein & Sein. 

2. Kornhauskeller

Best for: A romantic setting

Address: Kornhausplatz 18, 3011 Bern

Kornhauskeller is a historic restaurant located in a 500-year-old cellar in the city centre. The grand dining hall oozes old-world charm and romance, so I’d recommend this spot for couples in particular. 

The menu features traditional Swiss cuisine, including fondue, raclette, and schnitzel, plus a great selection of local beers and wines.

I love the atmosphere here, which is rustic and charming with vaulted ceilings, stone walls, and candlelit tables.

3. Klösterli Weincafe

Best for: Wine lovers

Address: Klösterlistutz 16, 3013 Bern

Klösterli Weincafe is a small, intimate wine bar and restaurant located in the trendy Matte neighbourhood.

The menu features a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.  An impressive wine list features a range of Swiss and international wines available by the glass or bottle.

The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, making it one of my favourite spots for a low-key dinner or a glass of wine after adventuring.

Best day trips from Bern

Bern is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. However, if you’re looking to explore beautiful Swiss towns beyond the city limits, there are several fantastic day trips you can take.

Here are three of the my favourite options:

1. Interlaken

Best for: Water sports and adrenaline-fuelled activities

Travel time: From 49 minutes by train

Train tickets: Bern to Interlaken

Interlaken is a picturesque town located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its stunning scenery and wide range of activities on offer.

From hiking and mountain biking to paragliding and white-water rafting , I love that there is something for everyone in Interlaken.

One of the most popular things to do in Interlaken is to take a trip up to Jungfraujoch , the highest railway station in Europe. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Other must-see attractions in Interlaken include Lake Brienz, the Harder Kulm viewpoint, and the St. Beatus Caves .

If you fancy staying for a night or two, discover my guide to the best hotels in Interlaken .

Best for: Stunning lakeside views

Travel time: From 1 hour 1 minute by train

Train tickets: Bern to Lucerne

Lucerne is a charmingly quaint city located on the shores of Lake Lucerne. It’s famous for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, including the Chapel Bridge and the Water Tower.

There are also several excellent museums in Lucerne for culture enthusiasts, including the Swiss Museum of Transport and the Richard Wagner Museum.

In my opinion, one of the best ways to explore Lucerne is by taking a boat trip on Lake Lucerne. You’ll be greeted with stunning views of the city and the towering snow-capped mountains. 

Best activities to book in Lucerne:

• From Lucerne: Day Trip to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• From Lucerne: Day Trip to Grindelwald and Interlaken
• From Lucerne: Mt. Pilatus Gondola, Cable Car, and Boat Trip
• Lucerne: 1-Hour Cruise on Panoramic Yacht
• From Lucerne: Mount Rigi Day Trip with Cruise and Cable Car

Best for: Alpine vistas

Travel time: From 18 minutes by train

Train tickets: Bern to Thun

A small but bubbly town located on the banks of the River Aare, Thun is known for its beautiful castle, which dates back to the 12th century.

The castle now houses a museum, which gives you an insight into the rich history of the town and the surrounding Swiss areas.

I think Thun is a great base for exploring further afield, including the scenic valley town, Lauterbrunnen , the quaint town on the banks of the Lake Thun, Spiez , and the Pearl of the Swiss Riviera, Montreux .

Frequently asked questions

Is bern the capital of switzerland.

Yes, Bern is the capital of Switzerland. It is located in the central part of the country and is the fifth-largest city in Switzerland.

Is Bern worth visiting?

Yes, Bern is definitely worth visiting in my opinion! The city has a rich history and culture, and there are many things to see and do for every taste and the whole family.

Plus, Bern is a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains, waterfalls and Swiss countryside.

What are the best viewpoints in Bern?

There are several great viewpoints in Bern that offer breathtaking views of the city and unparalleled alpine scenes.

Some of my favourite viewpoints include:

• Gurten: This mountain is located just outside of the city and offers stunning panoramic views of Bern and the Alps.
• Rosengarten: This park is located on a hill above the old town and offers great views of the city and the Aare River.
• Münsterplattform: This terrace is located next to the Bern Cathedral and offers breathtaking views of both the old town and the nearby mountains.
• Nydeggbrücke: This bridge crosses the Aare River and offers incredible views of the river, the old town and the incredible Swiss landscape. 

What are the closest ski resorts to Bern?

There are several ski resorts located within easy reach of Bern, including:

• Adelboden: This resort is located about an hour from Bern and offers over 200 kilometres of ski runs.
• Gstaad: This resort is located 1 hour 30 minutes from Bern and is known for its luxury hotels and high-end shopping. Discover more of the best ski luxury resorts in Europe .
• Jungfrau Region: This region is located just under an hour from Bern and is home to several ski resorts, including Grindelwald , Wengen, and Mürren.

Are there Christmas markets in Bern?

Yes, there are several Christmas markets in Bern. My favourite markets are: Waisenhausplatz Christmas Market, Berner Sternenmarkt and Bern Minster Christmas Market.

Expect traditional Swiss food and drink, handmade ornaments and gifts, as well as a hearty dose of festive cheer. 

Watch my travel vlog to see what I got up to on my most recent visit to Bern:

To help you plan your Bern trip, unearth my pick of the best hotels in Bern . If you have any questions or recommendations for visiting Bern, do get in touch in the comments!

Planning a trip to Switzerland? You may also like:

• 15 best spa resorts in Switzerland
• 12 most scenic train rides in Switzerland 
• 21 beautiful fairytale towns in Switzerland

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Find me on: Web | Instagram

Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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Accessible travel guide to bern, switzerland.

Last Updated on 19th March 2019 by Sarah and Justin

Bern has been on our travel wish list for quite some time for a fairly oddball reason: its flag. It’s got a bear on it that’s simultaneously menacing and adorable. And we love bears and we love flags, and there have got to be sillier reasons to visit a place (right?). Of course, once we started actually reading about the city, we had a strong inkling it was the type of place we would love. We also read that accessibility in Bern is good, so last year we made it a priority to go. We worked out a good time to visit Bern during a 12-day trip through a few places in Switzerland and Germany. We spent a short but busy two days in the city and worked with the Bern tourism board to learn as much as we could about its accessibility. Based on all that we created this accessible travel guide which includes things to do in Bern, accessibility of the Bern Old Town, as well as information about public transport in Bern and Switzerland for wheelchair users. We’ve also thrown in some ways to save money during your stay because it is Switzerland after all.

Introduction to Bern

Bern is the capital of Switzerland. It’s located in the eastern part of the country on a peninsula carved out by the Aare River (the aerial view of the city is pretty cool). The city dates back to the 12th century, and its well-preserved Medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bern itself has a very small airport served by limited routes. But it’s pretty close to both Zurich Airport and EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg as well. Bern is also quite well-connected by train. We arrived in Bern by train ourselves, having come from Zurich.

Accessibility in Bern

We found accessibility in Bern to be quite good. Not only is the city’s infrastructure good, but the availability of information about accessibility of attractions is robust. The Bern Tourism Board was also helpful. When we contacted them about visiting the city and writing this accessible travel guide to Bern, they sent us information and arranged a tour with a specialized guide. One of the resources they showed us was the above-pictured map for blind people. It is a raised map of the Bern Old Town with key points of interest noted in braille. If you would like one, or other information about accessibility in Bern (or anything at all really!), visit the Tourist Information office located in the Bern Hauptbanhof (the main train station).

Things to do in Bern

For a relatively small city, Bern has quite a lot of things to see and do and enjoy. In this post, we’ve included our favorite accessible things to do in Bern, as well as some information about places we didn’t have time to visit but look pretty cool.

Bern Old Town

We’ve seen a lot of old towns here in Europe, but if you love them, they never get… well… old. And Bern’s is no different. Even if you only have a day in the city, we say go, and enjoy wandering around the Bern Old Town.

Accessibility

Bern’s Old Town is pretty accessible all things considered. Though many of its streets are cobbled, many of the cobblestones are pretty flat and more easily navigable. The main street that runs through the area, Kramgasse, is also quite wide and there are sidewalks running under the arcades lining the street, although some have steps. Buses also go all the way down this street specifically, and throughout the whole area, there are public transport stops at pretty much every major sight.

There are so many different things to see in the Old Town, from its 16th century fountains (there are over 100 in the city) to its famous clock tower. But the highlight for us – as per usual – was just soaking it all in. We wandered around ourselves taking it all in and then explored everything a bit more thoroughly with the tour guide provided by the Bern tourism board. If you want to, you can book a private or group tour or online .

Bern clock tower

A highlight for many visitors to Bern is the aforementioned clock tower (Zytglogge). Every hour its gorgeous astronomical clock puts on a show with mechanical figures dancing and crowing. We stood in the pouring rain (with many other silly tourists) watching it do its thing as our tour guide explained exactly what was happening. You can also take a tour inside the tower, which would likely be a bit more interesting than watching the tiny figures from outside. We opted against it since it requires climbing lots of stairs (there is no elevator inside the Zytglogge, which makes sense since it was built in the 13th century).

Note: the bus/tram stop right outside the clock tower also called Zytglogge.

Swiss Parliament

Since Bern is the capital of Switzerland, it would make sense that the Swiss Parliament would meet in the city. The building in which they do, the Bundeshaus, is a beautiful and quite impressive domed structure built in the late 19th century. Tourists and locals alike can visit the Parliament Building free of charge. When Parliament is in session, you can visit and see the debates, Q&A, and information sessions. Tours are offered when Parliament is not in session. Reservations are necessary for in-session visits for groups of 10 people or more and all tours (individuals and groups). Visit the Budeshaus website  for reservations.

The Parliament Building and tours are accessible for wheelchair users without restrictions. While all other visitors must enter the building through the back entrance, wheelchair users should enter the building through the main entrance on the Budesplatz (pictured above). Additionally, induction loops are available for people with hearing aids. And – a more recent addition since Spring 2018 – outside is a small model of the building with braille. It’s located behind the Bundeshaus on a terrace from where you can see a nice view. The large terrace is flat and easy to navigate.

The Parliament building is right in the middle of the city. It’s only an eight minute walk from the central train station, or you can take the tram or bus to the Bundesplatz stop right in front of the building.

Bern Cathedral

The Berner Münster is a big, beautiful Gothic cathedral in the Bern Old Town. It stands out and can be seen from many different points in the city. It’s also quite impressive up close. The main entrance is decorated with a beautifully ornate sculptural depiction of the Last Judgement, and inside there are 15th century stained glass windows and the ceiling features the flags of the Swiss cantons.

Much of the cathedral is wheelchair-accessible, although the bell tower is not. For a fee, you can climb (hundreds of steps to) the tower to see a sweeping view of the region. We did not, opting instead to see what we can only assume is an equally stunning view from the area right outside the church called the Münsterplattform.

This small area outside the cathedral is really nice to sit or walk around or play ping pong. And it also offers some of the most beautiful views of the city. From one side, you can see down into the (supposedly) cool Matte neighborhood and across the Aare River. From the other, you can see the impressive High Bridge and the Bundeshaus.

There are two entrances to the terrace. Coming from the front of the cathedral, there are a few stairs leading down to it. Coming around the back is flat.

Kleine Schanze park and Europapromenade

Our other favorite viewpoint in Bern is the Europapromenade, which winds its way behind a pretty little park called Kleine Schanze. We’re a bit biased about this spot in the city because when we arrived, the sky was super clear and we were wowed by the most incredible view of the Swiss Alps. It was also home to our favorite Christmas Market in Bern, the Sternenmarkt. It’s a truly lovely place for a (st)roll or a rest on one of the many benches.

Bern museums

There are a lot of museums in Bern. Given our relatively brief visit, we visited two: Kunstmuseum Bern and Zentrum Paul Klee. If you want to see both museums in one day (which is definitely doable), we recommend buying the combination ticket to save money. Both museums are wheelchair-accessible. We found them easy to navigate and were particularly impressed with the amount of information about accessibility available on their websites.

Kunstmuseum Bern

If you like modern art, this is a must-see museum in Bern. It’s right in the middle of the city so it’s easy to get to. It features works by popular artists like Klee, Picasso, and Giacometti.

The museum is accessible for wheelchair users, including a ramp to the main entrance, elevators, and stair lifts. Wheelchairs are also free to borrow, though a reservation is needed. With identification, disabled visitors can receive reduced admission for themselves and an escort. Guide dogs are allowed to enter the museum. Even more information about the accessibility of Kunstmuseum Bern, including the widths of doorways and entrances, can be found on their website .

Zentrum Paul Klee

Paul Klee was born in the area surrounding Bern and lived about half of his life in the city. Zentrum Paul Klee is a monument to his work. The museum rotates its works by Klee through thematic exhibitions. They also have special exhibitions by other artists with connections to Klee.  It is a beautiful building, worth visiting just to see, just a short bus ride or drive outside the city center. The day we visited it was pouring rain, so we didn’t get to fully explore the area outside the museum building, which sounded absolutely lovely. We’d gladly return to give it a walk. We did enjoy a rest and the German tradition of Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) at their cafe. It was a beautiful space, reasonable prices, and everything was delicious.

The museum is committed to making itself and its works accessible to people with all types of disabilities and special needs. As you can read on the website , the building is fully wheelchair-accessible and they provide all manner of assistance to visitors in wheelchairs or needing to borrow wheelchairs. They offer assistance to people who are deaf and hard of hearing. And they also focus on creating unique visiting experiences for all types of art lovers including people who are blind and people with learning disabilities.

Other museums in Bern

The Museen Bern website has a comprehensive list of all the museums and other cultural attractions in the city as well as their exhibitions. The website includes “wheelchair access” as a filter option (which we think is awesome and should be done on more websites!). If we return, we’d especially love to check out the Swiss Alpine Museum and the Botanical Garden.

Bärengraben

You can’t talk about Bern without mentioning its bears, which are a huge part of the city’s identity. Bern has had bears within its city limits for centuries, and our tour guide told us a funny story about when one escaped from its pit. Since 2009, the bears have a bigger home in the appropriately named BärenPark, from which they can also take a swim in the Aare River. But before the park was set up, they were in fact kept in pits. From above the most recent one, known as Bärengraben, one can see a great view of the Old Town.

The Bärengraben is walkable from the Old Town, but if you take the bus to the BärenPark stop you’re right there. There’s also a public wheelchair accessible bathroom outside Altes Tramdepot Brauerei (which we recommend for tasty food and even tastier beer). We visited Bern during December when the bears were hibernating.

Rose Garden

We sadly did not make it to this popular park and viewpoint in Bern. It’s located above the Bärengraben and reachable by walking (up a hill) or taking the bus to the Rosengarten stop. Having seen pictures of the view of the Old Town from this point, we would definitely go ourselves if we return to the city. From what we’ve read, it’s wheelchair-accessible.

There is a biggish hill in Bern called Gurten. It’s a feast for nature lovers with parks and playgrounds and trails. And it also offers some nice views of Bern and its surroundings. We saw people of all ages walking around, playing, and riding their mountain bikes in the area. Our tour guide told us Gurten is also a paradise for dogs, and we could see why. If you’re going for the view (like we did), save it for a clear day. It was a bit too hazy when we went.

To get there, take the bus to the Wabern, Gurtenbahn stop and then take the Gurtenbahn (a funicular) up to the top of the hill. The funicular ticket is also included in any Bern day pass and the funicular is wheelchair-accessible. However, the walk to the entrance is up a small hill in and of itself.

SC Bern hockey

Hockey in Switzerland goes back a long way, and the quality of the national league is quite good. PostFinance arena in Bern is the largest indoor venue in the country. The local club, SC Bern, has boasted the highest attendance of any hockey team in Europe for a crazy 17 straight years. An average of over 16,000 fans support their club each game, well over half of whom are standing in the steep fan section on one side of the rink. This feature is unique as usually the fan sections are behind the goals. And the sheer volume of fans there (the largest such section in a European arena) makes the arena atmospheric and fun. We had an awesome time cheering the home team from our seats right next to the fan section.

PostFinance arena is easily reachable by public transportation, features 57 dedicated wheelchair places, elevators, and has dedicated parking for those with access needs. Food was tasty and we were surprised by the reasonable prices considering we were at a sporting event in Switzerland. Hockey rinks seem to be excessively hot or cold, and this one was no different. It was very chilly inside, especially with so many people packed in.

As games regularly sell out, you’ll need to buy tickets well in advance. We bought ours pretty much right when they went on sale. Information about how to buy tickets is on the SC Bern website here . Wheelchair seats are only available for purchase by phone at +41 (0) 31 336 80 80.

Christmas Markets in Bern

If you’re visiting Bern in December (like we did), you’ll definitely want to visit their Christmas Markets. Fun and festive, in 2018 there were five Christmas Markets throughout the city. They were all wheelchair accessible although navigating them during their busiest times on weekends may take some extra time.

Our favorite Christmas Market was the city’s newest, the Sternenmarkt, located in the aforementioned Kleine Schanze park. It had great shops, delicious and varied food options, and the most romantic little spots with waterfalls and twinkle lights ( check out Sarah’s Instagram Story to see it ). And of course, the view can’t be beat. They also had wheelchair-accessible bathrooms which was awesome.

Public transport in Bern

In case we haven’t made it perfectly clear until now, we think Bern has a fantastic public transportation system. We love that you can see an Old Town as great as Bern’s via public transport (we’ve found this a pretty unique thing). And though the city itself is fairly small, there are some areas outside the center you’ll want to visit (and even stay in), so it’s great that there’s reliable, easy to use public transportation.

But, truly, the best thing about public transport in Bern is that it’s free for overnight visitors! If you stay at a hotel or other registered accommodation, you will receive a free transit pass. If you travel by public transportation to your accommodation, you can use your hotel confirmation as your ticket before you get the official pass. This is also the case in certain other cities in Switzerland (we were first wowed by the deal when we were figuring out how not to go broke in Basel ). But we think this is so great: it saves people money and encourages them to take public transportation at the same time.

If you are just coming to Bern for a day trip, it’s easy enough to buy public transportation tickets. Just follow the instructions on any of the kiosks outside the major bus or tram stops. If you just want to see the main sights in the Old Town, you may not even need to use public transportation. But if you have mobility limitations or want to go a bit further afield, we recommend getting a day pass. It’s a pretty good deal (13 CHF as of February 2019) and then you can just hop on and off whatever comes your way without thinking about it. You can buy a day pass at the kiosks, or if you’re visiting from another city in Switzerland you can add it to your regional train ticket at an SBB kiosk or online.

Accessibility of Bern public transport

Many (but not all) of Bern’s buses and trams are wheelchair accessible. Both the vehicles that are wheelchair accessible and the stops that are wheelchair accessible are marked with a wheelchair symbol. You can learn more about the accessibility of the vehicles here and the accessibility of the stops here . They also provide information for hard of hearing people here  and people with visual impairments here .  Please note, these pages are in German, so you may have to translate them.

Train travel in Switzerland

Switzerland has a highly efficient, albeit expensive, regional train network run by SBB. We thoroughly tested the system during our trip and never had an issue. We bought all but one of our train tickets online well in advance to save money, and specifically took advantage of their “Saver” day passes. They go on sale 60 days before your travel date, and if your plans are set, you’ll want to jump on them. We set up calendar reminders so we’d remember to buy them at their cheapest!

If you’re going to be doing a lot of train travel in Switzerland, you may also want to consider investing in a half fare card that will then allow you to purchase tickets at half price. SBB also offers discounts to elderly passengers, and they require that you enter your age when you purchase a ticket online to make sure you get the best price.

SBB accessibility

The Swiss train system is quite accessible and improvements are ongoing as part of their goal to be in compliance with certain disability acts by 2023. Many of their stations are fully accessible and assistance is not needed. For those traveling to stations that do require assistance, it is necessary to call SBB at least one hour before the train is due to request it. More information in English can be found here .

SBB also has clear, easy to find information about accessible travel on their website here . As they note, the best way to find the most up to date information about accessibility is via the SBB mobile app. We used the app for our tickets and it always worked well.

Hotels in Bern

Ibis styles bern city.

We spent two nights at the Ibis Styles Bern City . We are members of the (free) Accor loyalty program, so we get even better deals on their already good rates (plus the always appreciated welcome drink). Though our room was small, we enjoyed our stay at the Ibis and would recommend it for anyone looking for reasonably priced accommodation and a robust, delicious breakfast (a huge benefit in pricey Switzerland). The hotel is located just outside the city center, but easily reachable by public transportation. The bus/tram stop is just a few minutes from the hotel entrance.

We didn’t stay in an accessible room ourselves, but saw online that they offer them so asked for more information. While they don’t have pictures, they described their accessible rooms as being on the ground floor with wide doors, a roll-in shower, and a toilet with wall handles. The rooms are bookable directly with the hotel via phone or email . To book online, you must note that an accessible room is needed.

Hotel Savoy Bern

If you’re looking to stay closer to the train station and the Bern Old Town, consider the  Hotel Savoy Bern . All the facilities in the hotel are wheelchair-accessible and they have two barrier-free rooms in their “comfort” category (one pictured above). These rooms have a walk-in shower with handles as well as handles by the toilet. The rooms can be booked directly by phone or  email . To book online, you must book one of the rooms in this category and make a note that a barrier-free room is needed. if you have any questions or need further information about the rooms, they are quick to reply to inquiries by email.

Bellevue Palace

If you’re looking for a little luxury, the highly rated  Bellevue Palace is also an option. This hotel is located right in the center of the Old Town, just next to the Parliament Building. They have three wheelchair-accessible rooms with special shower and toilets and all public areas in the hotel are accessible as well. Bookings can be made directly by emailing the reservations department or on their website, with a special request for an accessible room in the notes.

<< Check prices and availability for these and other hotels in Bern >>

Additional resources

The Bern tourism board shared this accessible city guide  with us before our visit. It’s a bit old, but is a good place to start if you’re looking for some specific additional information that we didn’t cover like accessible taxis and restaurants. It also has a great map that shows recommended streets for wheelchair users to use to tour the city.

This post was written with support from Bern Welcome who provided us with a complimentary private tour of the Bern Old Town. While some of the information presented was gathered in conjunction with Bern Welcome , all opinions are our own.

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Sarah and Justin

3 thoughts on “ accessible travel guide to bern, switzerland ”.

Such a comprehensive guide! Well done!

Hi Justin and Sarah, glad to hear that you had a good time in Berne! My wife’s in a wheelchair too and I also write a blog about our experiences (in German). Living in the outskirts of Berne, it’s mostly things we encounter in and around Berne. I’d be interested to learn how – in your opinion – Switzerland compares to the Netherlands as far as accessibility is concerned. Also, do you have a ”Eurokey”, or is this even something you know in the Netherlands? I guess that despite its name, it’s only known in Switzerland. It’s a special key that people with disabilities can get. You use it to open disabled toilet doors or operate lifts. For instance, there’s a small disabled lift that lets you go into the old bear pit that you can use the key for, or for the larger lift down to the bottom part of the new bear park. With the key, you can use it outside of the regular operation time. Best regards, Thomas

Thanks for writing! No – don’t think there’s a Eurokey system in the Netherlands. Upon a quick search it looks like it’s only available in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. But will look into it further. From our experience (though, note, Sarah is not in a wheelchair) we think accessibility in Switzerland and the Netherlands is comparable. Although, on the whole, the Netherlands is flatter! But we found it easier to find information about certain aspects of accessibility in Switzerland. However, we live in Rotterdam, which is truly one of the most accessible cities we’ve ever seen.

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Not many cities have managed to retain their historic features quite as successfully as Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The old town of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and thanks to its 6 kilometres of arcades - the locals refer to them as 'Lauben' - boasts on of the longest weather-sheltered shopping promenades in Europe.

Description

The medieval air of this city with its many fountains, sandstone facades, narrow streets and historic towers is unique. The elevated Rose Garden  above the Bear Park  and the platform of the 101-metre-high cathedral  tower offer the best views of the old town  round which the River Aare  flows. The former entrenchments and bastions drop down steeply to the river. The boutiques, bars and cabaret stages of the old town, some of which are located in vaulted cellars, and the small street cafes attract locals as well as a lot of tourists. Although Bern has a very good public transport network it is best to explore the city centre on foot. The Zentrum Paul Klee  situated on the outskirts of the city houses the most comprehensive collection of works by the artist Paul Klee. The Albert Einstein House  bears testimony to the physics genius' stay in Bern at the start of the 20th century and may ideally be combined with a visit to the Einstein Museum. With the History Museum , Art Museum , Swiss Alpine Museum  and Communication Museum  Bern offers a very varied range of exhibitions. Bern is the seat of Switzerland's government. The Houses of Parliament  (Bundeshaus) rise above the city just a stone's throw away from the railway station. The doors to the Houses of Parliament are open to visitors most of the time, and if you're lucky you might even bump into a member of parliament in the streets of the city. In summer the River Aare provides an opportunity for the ultimate bathing experience ; very good, experienced swimmers allow themselves to drift along in the clean Aare while enjoying a view of the Houses of Parliament. The Botanical Gardens are also located along the river, as is the Dählhölzli  Zoo and the old Matte district. Bern and bears, the cities heraldic beast, are inseparable. A visit to the Bear Park, habitat of a family of bears, is a must-do. In the squares of the city centre colourful weekly markets present their wares. The Onion Market  (Zibelemärit) which takes place on the fourth Monday in November is particularly worth visiting: visitors to the traditional market dedicated to onions start pouring into the city in the early hours. Set in the heart of Switzerland, Bern is the gateway to the Alps. The capital city may easily be reached by car or by air via the Bern-Belp Airport and bus links to the city centre. Visitors who prefer to travel by train may take advantage of the dense rail network with its direct connections to the major European cities. Bern’s central location makes it the perfect base for overnight accommodation and for excursions throughout Switzerland.

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Safety, transport links, infrastructure and local attractions are the reasons why the region around the Swiss capital is the second strongest economic area in Switzerland. The real secret behind Bern’s success, however, is its relaxed atmosphere. This may be due to the Swiss capital’s legendary charm, the interplay between visionary architecture and its world-famous UNESCO-listed old town. Bern offers an enormous variety of locations for business events all within easy walking distance – from historic vaulted cellars such as the Kornhauskeller to cultural and architectural gems such as the Zentrum Paul Klee or the ultra-modern Kursaal Bern conference centre.

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9 Bernese Highlights in May

In May, the federal city of Bern will be hosting presentations, dancing, and races: while local and national designers show their latest collections in the Kornhausforum and dance crews make the city shake, participants in the Grand Prix of Bern will race through the UNESCO-listed Old City. These events in May will make your heart beat a little faster – be that through movement, emotional plays, the many attractions on our local mountain, or the exchange with unique artists.

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Tourism Development Authority

The Craven County Tourism Development Authority (“TDA”) consists of nine (9) members appointed as follows:

• One County Commissioner appointed by the Craven County Board of Commissioners;
• One person appointed by the governing entity of each municipality from whose jurisdiction at least ten percent (10%) of the county-wide gross proceeds of the room occupancy tax were collected during the previous TDA administrative year.  Such person shall serve a full term of appointment regardless of whether during that term there may be an administrative year during which less than ten percent (10%) of the county-wide gross proceeds of the room occupancy tax were collected within the jurisdiction that person represents.  Such person shall not be re-appointed, however, unless at least ten percent (10%) of the county-wide gross proceeds of the room occupancy  tax  were collected from that jurisdiction during the administrative year immediately preceding the re-appointment ( currently the City of New Bern and the City of Havelock);
• One person appointed by and representing the New Bern Chamber of Commerce;
• One person appointed by and representing the Havelock Chamber of Commerce;
• One person appointed by the Craven County Board of Commissioners representing hotel/motel operators;
• One person appointed by the Tryon Palace Commission representing the Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens.;
• Two persons appointed by the TDA as members-at-large who have a demonstrated interest in conventions and tourism development in Craven County;
• The Craven County Finance Officer, who shall serve as a non-voting ex-officio member and      Treasurer; and
• The Executive Director of the CVC, who shall serve as a non-voting ex-officio member and      Executive Secretary.

Members shall serve no more than two consecutive three-year terms, except periods of service to fill the unexpired term of a former member shall not be computed in the tenure of a current member.  Tenure may not be extended by separate appointing authorities. 

Members are expected to attend all meetings of the TDA. In the event a member misses two (2) consecutive unexcused monthly meetings, the TDA shall notify the member’s appointing authority.  Membership vacancies shall be filled by the appointing authority for the member creating the vacancy.  Members appointed to fill vacancies shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired term for which they are appointed to fill.

The purpose of the TDA is to allocate the net proceeds of the Craven County Room Occupancy and Tourism Development Tax.  Additionally, the TDA serves as the lead entity to develop and promote Craven County as a travel destination.

The objective of the TDA is to serve in a policy making role to provide leadership in moving Craven County toward unity in building a better county-wide and regional partnership for insuring orderly and desired growth in the visitor and travel industry. To attain such an objective, the TDA shall retain, as a body, the authority for approving annual budgets, marketing plans, strategic long-range plans, feasibility plans and to support tourism related projects.     

The TDA meets at 8:00 a.m. on the second Wednesday of every other month at various locations throughout Craven County.

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