The Best Things to Do in Bern

Welcome to Bern, Switzerland’s enchanting capital and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure that seamlessly blends medieval charm with modern Swiss sophistication. Nestled within a dramatic loop of the turquoise Aare River and backed by the stunning Alps, this compact city offers an extraordinary concentration of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and authentic Swiss experiences.

Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or an extended stay, this comprehensive guide reveals the best things to do in Bern—from exploring six kilometers of covered medieval arcades to discovering hidden fountains, climbing historic towers, and experiencing the vibrant local lifestyle that makes Switzerland’s capital so captivating.

Unlike Switzerland’s more tourist-heavy destinations, Bern maintains an authentic, relaxed atmosphere where locals still outnumber visitors in the charming cafes beneath those famous arcades. With its exceptional public transportation, walkable layout, and concentration of world-class attractions, Bern rewards travelers with rich experiences without the overwhelming crowds found elsewhere in the country.

The Old Town of Bern stands as one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval city centers, earning its UNESCO World Heritage status in 1983. This remarkable historic quarter spans nearly six kilometers of covered arcades—locally called “Lauben”—creating Europe’s longest weather-protected shopping promenade.

As you wander through this living museum, you’ll discover over 100 ornate fountains dating from the 16th century, each telling stories of Bern’s rich history. The sandstone buildings, red-tiled roofs, and narrow cobblestone streets create an atmospheric journey back to medieval times, yet the vibrant shops, restaurants, and cultural venues beneath the arcades pulse with contemporary Swiss life.

Bern’s signature arcades represent one of the city’s most distinctive features. Built in the 15th century after a devastating fire destroyed much of the wooden city, these stone archways now house an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, antiquarian bookshops, and artisan workshops. The ground-level shops operate beneath vaulted cellars that extend another level below—many of these atmospheric basement spaces now serve as wine bars, galleries, and specialty stores.

The main shopping street, Kramgasse, leads directly from the Zytglogge clock tower through the heart of the Old Town. Here you’ll find everything from Swiss watch boutiques to chocolate shops, cheese merchants to contemporary fashion—all sheltered from rain or snow by those remarkable medieval arches.

Bern’s 11 historic Renaissance fountains, created by master sculptor Hans Gieng in the 16th century, rank among the city’s most photographed landmarks. Each fountain features elaborately painted figures representing various themes from justice and strength to more mysterious subjects.

The most famous—and controversial—is the Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child Eater Fountain), depicting an ogre devouring children. While theories about its meaning abound, this macabre sculpture continues to fascinate visitors centuries later. All of Bern’s fountain water is drinkable, so bring a refillable bottle and enjoy some of the world’s purest tap water straight from these historic monuments.

The Bundesplatz serves as Bern’s civic heart, a grand open square dominated by the impressive Bundeshaus (Parliament Building). This is where Bern transforms from medieval town to modern capital, and where locals gather for markets, festivals, and political demonstrations.

In summer, the square’s fountains become an impromptu water park where children splash and play. During December, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful Christmas markets fills the space with twinkling lights, artisan crafts, and the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The twice-weekly produce market (Tuesday and Saturday mornings) offers a perfect opportunity to sample local cheeses, seasonal produce, and baked goods while mingling with Bernese residents.

The Zytglogge ranks among Bern’s most iconic landmarks and one of Switzerland’s oldest functioning clock towers. Built in the early 13th century, this medieval structure has served multiple roles throughout its 800-year history—originally a western city gate, then a guard tower, later a women’s prison, and finally the clock tower that has marked time for Bern since 1530.

What makes the Zytglogge truly special is its elaborate astronomical clock mechanism, created by Kaspar Brunner in 1530. Four minutes before each hour, an automated performance begins: a jester rings bells, a lion roars, roosters crow, and bears parade—all orchestrated by the intricate clockwork mechanism hidden inside the tower.

The astronomical clock face displays not just the time, but also the day of the week, month, zodiac sign, and phases of the moon. This remarkable 15th-century engineering marvel continues to fascinate visitors who gather in crowds minutes before each hour to watch the mechanical performance.

For the full experience, book a guided tour inside the tower. These 50-minute tours reveal the intricate clockwork mechanism, explain the astronomical functions, and offer access to the tower platform with its excellent views over the Old Town rooftops. Tours are limited to small groups and must be reserved in advance, especially during peak summer months.

The Berner Münster stands as Switzerland’s tallest cathedral and most important ecclesiastical building, dominating Bern’s skyline with its 100-meter (328-foot) spire. Construction began in 1421, but this magnificent Gothic masterpiece wasn’t completed until 1893—nearly 500 years of building that resulted in exceptional architectural unity.

The cathedral’s most remarkable feature is its main portal, adorned with an extraordinarily detailed Last Judgment sculpture featuring 294 individual figures. This 15th-century masterpiece represents one of Switzerland’s most important medieval artworks, though the original vibrant colors have faded over centuries of exposure.

For those willing to climb 344 steps up the narrow spiral staircase, the reward is Bern’s finest panoramic view. From the observation platform at 64 meters, you’ll see the entire Old Town peninsula wrapped by the Aare River, with the snow-capped Alps forming a dramatic backdrop on clear days.

The climb itself becomes part of the experience—as you ascend, small windows offer glimpses of the changing perspective, and you’ll pass the massive church bells before emerging onto the platform. The tower is open daily except during church services, but note that it’s not wheelchair accessible and can be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

The Bundeshaus serves as the seat of Switzerland’s federal government and represents a fascinating glimpse into Swiss democracy in action. Completed in 1902, this impressive Renaissance Revival building features a distinctive green copper dome and houses both chambers of the Swiss Federal Assembly.

Unlike many national capitals, Bern welcomes visitors inside its parliament building with free guided tours (when parliament is not in session). These tours provide insight into Switzerland’s unique political system, the architecture of the building, and the workings of Swiss democracy.

Don’t miss the terrace behind the Parliament Building, offering one of Bern’s most photographed views. From this elevated vantage point, you overlook the Aare River valley, the historic Kirchenfeld district, and the dramatic Alpine panorama beyond. The terrace is freely accessible year-round and particularly spectacular at sunset.

The Rosengarten offers Bern’s most romantic vantage point—a beautifully landscaped hilltop park featuring over 200 varieties of roses, 200 iris species, and 28 rhododendron types, all framing spectacular panoramic views of the Old Town below.

Originally a cemetery from 1765 to 1877, the space was transformed into a public rose garden in 1913. Today, it serves as a favorite retreat for locals and visitors seeking respite from urban exploration or simply wanting to soak in Bern’s beauty from an elevated perspective.

While the Rose Garden offers year-round views, the optimal time to visit is from May through September when the roses reach peak bloom. The garden becomes particularly enchanting in early morning (fewer crowds, soft light) or at sunset (dramatic lighting, romantic atmosphere).

The small restaurant pavilion serves coffee, light meals, and refreshing drinks with arguably Bern’s best terrace views. In summer, this becomes a popular spot for sunset drinks, so arrive early to secure a table.

Bears have symbolized Bern since the city’s founding in 1191—legend claims Duke Berchtold V named the city after the first animal he killed while hunting in these forests: a bear (Bär in German). This connection has endured for over 800 years, with the city maintaining live bears since 1513.

Today’s BärenPark represents a dramatic improvement over the historic bear pit that housed Bern’s bears for centuries. The modern 6,000-square-meter enclosure provides a naturalistic habitat extending down to the Aare River, where bears can swim, forage, and hibernate naturally. Viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points to observe these magnificent animals in conditions far more humane than the traditional pit.

Currently, three brown bears call BärenPark home. During active hours (typically morning and late afternoon), you might see them swimming in the river, foraging for food, or playing in their habitat. In winter months (roughly December through February), the bears hibernate and won’t be visible.

Information panels throughout the park explain bear behavior, the history of bears in Bern, and conservation efforts. The adjacent old bear pit now serves as a historical exhibit, showing how attitudes toward animal welfare have evolved.

The Aare River defines Bern’s geography and character, wrapping the Old Town peninsula in a dramatic horseshoe bend. But more than just scenic background, the Aare serves as the city’s summer playground—a unique urban experience where locals plunge into the rushing turquoise water for a thrilling downstream float.

Fed by glacial meltwater from the Alps, the Aare flows through Bern at approximately 13 kilometers per hour, carrying swimmers downstream in a tradition called “Aare swimming” or “Aare floating.” This quintessentially Bernese summer activity sees thousands of locals and brave visitors enjoying the cold, clean water on warm days.

Aare swimming involves entering the river at designated points, floating downstream with the current, and exiting at downstream spots before the water becomes dangerous. Popular routes include swimming from the BärenPark area down to Marzili Baths—a thrilling 15-minute float covering about two kilometers.

Before attempting Aare swimming, understand the risks: the water is cold (15-18°C even in summer), the current is strong, and only confident swimmers should participate. Locals use waterproof bags called “Wickelfische” to carry clothes and belongings while swimming. Many sporting goods stores near the river sell these distinctive fish-shaped dry bags.

For a safer river experience, visit Marzili—a beloved public lido on the Aare featuring outdoor pools, direct river access, and lawn areas for sunbathing. Entrance is free, making this one of Bern’s best budget-friendly activities on hot summer days.

The facility includes changing rooms, showers, a playground, and a small restaurant serving simple food and drinks. Families particularly appreciate Marzili’s combination of safe pools for children and controlled river access for stronger swimmers.

Despite its modest size, Bern boasts an exceptional collection of museums spanning art, history, science, and specialized topics. Many museums are included free with the Swiss Travel Pass, making cultural exploration an excellent value.

The Zentrum Paul Klee stands as Switzerland’s most important modern art venue and home to the world’s largest collection of works by Paul Klee—nearly 4,000 pieces by the Swiss-German artist. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, the museum’s three undulating pavilions integrate beautifully into the landscape outside the city center.

Beyond Klee’s extensive collection, the museum hosts rotating contemporary exhibitions, concerts, and performances. The interactive children’s area, Kindermuseum Creaviva, makes this an excellent family destination. Budget 2-3 hours for a thorough visit.

This impressive castle-like building houses Switzerland’s second-largest historical museum, with collections spanning archaeology, history, and ethnography from prehistoric times through the present. The museum’s 500,000 objects include Swiss cultural artifacts, Asian art, and Egyptian antiquities.

The adjacent Einstein Museum occupies a dedicated wing, documenting Albert Einstein’s life in Bern from 1903-1905—the period when he developed his groundbreaking theories including E=mc². Interactive exhibits explain Einstein’s revolutionary ideas and their impact on modern physics.

For Einstein enthusiasts, visit the actual apartment where the famous physicist lived with his wife Mileva and developed the theory of relativity. Located on Kramgasse in the heart of the Old Town, this modest second-floor flat has been restored to period style with photographs, documents, and Einstein memorabilia.

The intimate museum offers a personal glimpse into Einstein’s Bern years—a relatively obscure patent clerk by day who revolutionized physics by night. The visit takes about 30 minutes and combines well with Old Town exploration.

The Gurten, Bern’s beloved Hausberg (local mountain), offers a refreshing escape just 15 minutes from the city center. At 858 meters elevation, this forested hilltop provides spectacular 360-degree panoramas encompassing Bern, the Mittelland plain, and the dramatic Alpine chain from the Jura to the Bernese Oberland.

Reach the summit via the historic Gurtenbahn funicular, operating since 1899. The charming red railway climbs through forest and meadows, delivering you to a recreational paradise with hiking trails, a playground, miniature railway for children, and restaurants serving traditional Swiss fare with unbeatable views.

Beyond the panoramic views, the Gurten offers diverse activities for all ages. The observation tower adds another 30 meters to your elevation for even more impressive vistas. In summer, well-marked hiking trails wind through the forest, while the toboggan run provides thrilling descents (operates year-round when conditions permit).

The Gurten Park im Grünen restaurant features a large terrace perfect for sunset dining, while the more casual Tapis Rouge serves snacks and drinks. In July, the mountain transforms into a concert venue for the legendary Gurtenfestival, attracting international music acts and thousands of festival-goers.

Bern’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Switzerland’s most spectacular destinations. With efficient train connections and the convenience of the Swiss Travel Pass, world-famous Alpine peaks, charming towns, and stunning lakes lie within easy reach for day trips.

The Jungfrau Region, just one hour from Bern by train, offers Switzerland’s most iconic Alpine experiences. Base yourself in Interlaken—nestled between Lakes Thun and Brienz—or venture to the car-free mountain villages of Wengen, Mürren, or Grindelwald for hiking, cable car rides, and breathtaking panoramas.

The ultimate experience is ascending to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe” at 3,454 meters. This highest railway station in Europe delivers you to an icy wonderland of glaciers and peaks, with observation decks offering 360-degree Alpine views extending into neighboring France and Italy on clear days.

The charming medieval town of Thun sits just 25 minutes from Bern by train, guarding the northern end of stunning Lake Thun (Thunersee). The town’s elevated old quarter features a picturesque castle, covered wooden walkways, and waterfront promenades lined with cafes and restaurants.

Take a boat cruise on Lake Thun to experience Switzerland’s most scenic lake journey, with emerald water framed by dramatic mountains. The cruise connects numerous lakeside villages perfect for hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in Alpine beauty. The Swiss Travel Pass includes lake boats, making this an excellent value day trip.

The hilltop medieval village of Gruyères embodies Swiss postcard perfection—a car-free cobblestone town dominated by a 13th-century castle, surrounded by Alpine pastures dotted with brown cows. Located 45 minutes from Bern, this makes an ideal day trip combining culture, gastronomy, and scenery.

Visit La Maison du Gruyère cheese dairy to watch Gruyère cheese production and sample the famous regional specialty. Nearby Broc houses the Maison Cailler chocolate factory, where interactive exhibits reveal Swiss chocolate-making secrets, culminating in generous tasting sessions. Many visitors combine both experiences in one delicious day trip.

Lucerne, Switzerland’s most beautiful city, lies just one hour from Bern by train. This lakeside gem combines medieval old town charm with spectacular Alpine setting, world-class museums, and the famous Chapel Bridge spanning the Reuss River.

From Lucerne, ascend Mount Pilatus via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway for panoramic views encompassing 73 Alpine peaks and numerous lakes. Alternatively, take the cable car route and hike at various levels. The Swiss Travel Pass covers Lucerne access and provides discounts on mountain excursions.

With just one day in Bern, focus on the UNESCO-listed Old Town and its immediately surrounding attractions. This efficient itinerary maximizes your time while ensuring you experience Bern’s essential highlights without feeling rushed.

Two days allows you to explore Bern’s highlights more thoroughly while adding cultural depth through museums, a local mountain excursion, or deeper Old Town exploration. This itinerary balances must-see attractions with authentic local experiences.

Three days in Bern provides the luxury of thorough city exploration plus a memorable day trip to Switzerland’s spectacular surrounding regions. This extended itinerary balances urban sightseeing with Alpine adventures.

Bern’s dining scene reflects its multicultural population and agricultural richness, offering everything from hearty traditional Swiss fare to international cuisines and innovative contemporary cooking. The city’s numerous restaurants beneath the medieval arcades provide atmospheric dining regardless of weather.

For authentic Bernese specialties, seek out restaurants serving these regional classics:

Bern’s Länggasse and Lorraine neighborhoods offer excellent international restaurants at more affordable prices than the Old Town. Thai, Turkish, Indian, Ethiopian, Vietnamese, and Italian restaurants provide authentic flavors from around the world. For contemporary cuisine, several Michelin-recommended restaurants elevate Swiss ingredients with modern techniques.

Start your day with Swiss breakfast staples at one of Bern’s excellent bakeries or cafes:

Bern’s central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in Switzerland and neighboring countries:

Bern’s central station (Bern Hauptbahnhof) connects to all major Swiss cities with frequent service. Travel times: Zurich (1 hour), Geneva (1.5 hours), Basel (1 hour), Interlaken (1 hour), Lucerne (1.5 hours). International trains arrive from Paris, Milan, and German cities. The Swiss Travel Pass covers all domestic rail travel.

Bern Airport (BRN) is small with limited international flights. Most visitors fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH, 1.5 hours by train), Geneva Airport (GVA, 2 hours), or Basel Airport (BSL, 1.5 hours). Direct trains from all three airports to Bern run frequently throughout the day.

Driving to Bern is straightforward via Switzerland’s excellent highway system. However, a car is unnecessary in Bern itself—parking is expensive and limited in the Old Town. If driving, stay at a hotel with parking or use Park+Ride facilities on the city outskirts.

Bern’s excellent public transport network consists of trams (streetcars) and buses covering the entire city and suburbs. The system is punctual, clean, and user-friendly:

Bern’s compact Old Town and most central attractions are easily walkable. The entire UNESCO-listed peninsula can be crossed in 20 minutes. Comfortable walking shoes are essential—many streets are cobblestoned. The city is generally flat, though approaches to Rosengarten and Gurten involve uphill sections.

Switzerland ranks among the world’s most expensive countries. Budget accordingly:

Money-saving tips:

Bern is located in the German-speaking region of Switzerland. However, locals actually speak Swiss German (Bärndütsch in the local dialect), which differs significantly from standard German. Fortunately, nearly everyone speaks excellent English, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Basic German phrases are appreciated but not essential. Most signage, menus, and tourist information appear in German, French, and often English. The Swiss are multilingual and patient with visitors attempting local language.

Bern ranks among Europe’s safest capitals. Violent crime is extremely rare, and petty theft is uncommon compared to other European tourist cities. Normal precautions apply:

Accommodation in Bern reflects Swiss pricing—expensive by international standards but offering excellent quality and service. Book well in advance, especially for summer travel (June-September) when prices peak and availability tightens.

For travelers on tighter budgets, consider these alternatives to traditional hotels:

Bern defies the typical capital city stereotype. Rather than feeling like a bustling political center, Switzerland’s de facto capital maintains the intimate charm of a medieval town where locals still greet each other on the street, leisurely coffee breaks stretch for hours beneath 600-year-old arcades, and the turquoise river remains clean enough for an afternoon swim.

What makes Bern truly special is this seamless blend of historical significance and livable authenticity. You’ll explore one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centers, climb towers for Alpine panoramas, and discover world-class museums—yet never feel like you’re in a tourist trap. The city has successfully balanced heritage preservation with contemporary life, creating a destination that rewards both quick visits and extended stays.

Whether you spend just one day marveling at the Zytglogge’s mechanical performance and strolling the fountain-lined streets, or dedicate three days to deep cultural immersion plus an Alpine day trip, Bern delivers unforgettable Swiss experiences without the overwhelming crowds of more famous destinations. The city’s manageable size, excellent public transport, and concentration of attractions make it remarkably easy to explore, while the stunning surrounding regions ensure you’re never far from dramatic mountain scenery.

For first-time visitors to Switzerland, Bern offers the perfect introduction—authentically Swiss, historically rich, naturally beautiful, yet refreshingly approachable. For repeat visitors, the city reveals layers of depth through its museums, neighborhoods, seasonal festivals, and role as gateway to the Bernese Alps. Either way, Bern’s combination of UNESCO heritage, cultural vitality, and genuine local character makes it one of Switzerland’s most rewarding destinations.

Pack comfortable walking shoes, bring a refillable water bottle for those drinkable fountains, don’t miss swimming in the Aare if you visit in summer, and prepare to fall in love with one of Europe’s most enchanting yet underrated capitals. Grüezi, and welcome to beautiful Bern!