Bern, Switzerland: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, remarkably preserves its historic features, including its UNESCO-listed old town. Known for its 6 kilometers of arcades, known locally as ‘Lauben,’ Bern offers one of Europe’s longest weather-sheltered shopping promenades. The city’s medieval ambiance is complemented by numerous fountains, sandstone facades, narrow streets, and historic towers. Noteworthy viewpoints include the elevated Rose Garden above the Bear Park and the 101-meter-high cathedral tower, offering panoramic views of the old town encircled by the River Aare.
The city’s vibrant old town is alive with boutiques, bars, cabaret stages, often in vaulted cellars, and quaint street cafes, drawing both locals and tourists. While Bern has an excellent public transport network, exploring the city center on foot is recommended. Cultural offerings include the Zentrum Paul Klee, which houses an extensive collection of works by Paul Klee, and the Albert Einstein House, reflecting his early 20th-century stay in Bern. Bern also features diverse museums like the History Museum, Art Museum, Swiss Alpine Museum, and Communication Museum.
As the seat of Switzerland’s government, the Houses of Parliament are a key attraction, closely situated to the railway station and often open to visitors. In summer, the clean Aare River invites experienced swimmers for a unique swimming experience with views of the Parliament.
Bern’s connection to bears is celebrated at the Bear Park, a must-visit attraction showcasing the city’s heraldic beasts. Seasonal markets, especially the Onion Market in November, offer a colourful array of local products.
Table of Contents
- History of Bern
- Foundation and Early Development
- Expansion and Prosperity
- Membership in the Swiss Confederacy
- Reformation and Culture
- Modern Era Developments
- 20th Century to Present
- 16 Best places to See in Bern
- Zytglogge Clock Tower
- Bern Fountains
- Einsteinhaus
- Käfigturm
- Bundesplatz & Bundeshaus
- Münster of Bern
- Rathaus Bern
- Münsterplattform
- Heiliggeistkirche
- Bern Botanical Garden
- Bern Historical Museum
- Nydeggkirche
- Untertorbrucke
- Bärengraben
- Rosengarten
- Zentrum Paul Klee
- 6 Best Day Trips from Bern
- Where to Stay in Bern
- Best Time to Visit Bern
- How to get to Bern
History of Bern
The history of Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is rich and storied, characterized by its medieval origins and evolution into a cultural and political hub.
Foundation and Early Development
Bern was founded on the 12th of July, 1191, by Duke Berthold V of Zähringen. According to legend, the name was chosen after the first animal hunted in the area during a hunting expedition, which was a bear (“Bär” in German). This animal remains the symbol of the city today, depicted in its coat of arms. Bern was strategically located on a peninsula formed by the bends of the River Aare, making it easily defensible.
Expansion and Prosperity
After the extinction of the Zähringen dynasty, Bern became a Free Imperial City in 1218 under the Holy Roman Empire. Throughout the 13th to 15th centuries, Bern expanded its territory significantly, becoming one of the largest city-states north of the Alps. The city’s structure with its large sandstone buildings and arcades began to take shape during this period.
Membership in the Swiss Confederacy
In 1353, Bern joined the Swiss Confederacy, becoming one of the eight cantons. This alliance was crucial during the Burgundian Wars, where Bern played a significant role in defeating Charles the Bold of Burgundy, enhancing its influence and wealth.
Reformation and Culture
The Protestant Reformation reached Bern in the 16th century, led by reformers such as Berchtold Haller and Niklaus Manuel, which saw Bern adopting Protestantism and reforming its church and academic institutions. The city became a haven for refugees from religious persecution, enhancing its cultural diversity.
Modern Era Developments
In 1848, when the new Swiss Federal Constitution was adopted, Bern was chosen as the Federal Capital of Switzerland, a status that brought significant political and infrastructural development. The city saw the construction of the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus), and it became the political center of Switzerland.
20th Century to Present
Bern continued to grow and modernize through the 20th century. It preserved its historical architecture, which led to the Old City of Bern being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Today, Bern is known for its high quality of life, cultural richness, and as a hub for diplomacy and international cooperation.
Bern’s historical journey from a medieval city to a modern capital reflects its resilience and strategic importance in Swiss and European history.
Visiting Bern for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Bern on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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16 Best places to See in Bern
This complete guide to Bern not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Bern and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Zytglogge Clock Tower
Location: Zytglogge, Bim Zytglogge, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Price: CHF 15.00 | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Zytglogge Clock Tower
Bern Fountains
Location: Zähringerbrunnen, Kramgasse, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Bern Fountains
Einsteinhaus
Location: Einsteinhaus, Kramgasse, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: Monday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Price: CHF 7 | Website | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Einsteinhaus
Käfigturm
Location: Käfigturm, Marktgasse, Bern, Switzerland | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Käfigturm
Bundesplatz & Bundeshaus
Location: Bundeshaus, Bundesplatz, Bern, Switzerland | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Bundesplatz & Bundeshaus
Münster of Bern
Location: Munster of Berne, Münsterplatz, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: Church: Mon.–Sat.: 10.00 – 16.00, Su.: 11.30 – 16.00 Tower: Mon.–Sat.: 10.00 – 16.30*, Su.: 11.30 – 16.30* *last ascent | Website | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Münster of Bern
Rathaus Bern
Location: Rathauspl. 2, 3011 Bern, Switzerland | Hours: 08:00-12:00 & 13:30-17:00 (Mon-Thur) & 08:00-12:00 (Fri) | Price: Public tours are free | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Rathaus Bern
Münsterplattform
Location: Münsterplattform, Bern, Switzerland | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Münsterplattform
Heiliggeistkirche
Location: Heiliggeistkirche, Spitalgasse, Bern, Switzerland | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Heiliggeistkirche
Bern Botanical Garden
Location: Botanischer Garten der Universität Bern, Altenbergrain, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: April to October 08:00 – 21:00 November to March 08:00 - 17:00 | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Bern Botanical Garden
Bern Historical Museum
Location: Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, Helvetiaplatz, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10 am – 5 pm Monday closed | Price: CHF 16 | Website | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Bern Historical Museum
Nydeggkirche
Location: Nydeggkirche, Nydeggasse, Bern, Switzerland | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Nydeggkirche
Untertorbrucke
Location: Untertorbrücke, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Untertorbrucke
Bärengraben
Location: Bärengraben, Grosser Muristalden, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Bärengraben
Rosengarten
Location: Rosengarten, Alter Aargauerstalden, Bern, Switzerland | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Rosengarten
Zentrum Paul Klee
Location: Zentrum Paul Klee, Monument im Fruchtland, Bern, Switzerland | Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00–17:00 | Price: CHF 20 | Website | Distance: 153.9km
Visiting Zentrum Paul Klee
Best Day Trips from Bern
A day trip from Bern offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Bern provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.
Reichenbach Falls
Location: Reichenbachfall Reichenbach 3860 Meiringen Switzerland | Distance: 61.7km
Visiting Reichenbach Falls
Lucerne
Visiting Lucerne
Freiburg im Breisgau
Visiting Freiburg im Breisgau
Chamonix
Visiting Chamonix
Colmar
Visiting Colmar
Annecy
Visiting Annecy
Where to Stay in Bern
The best place to stay is the Old Town, a UNESCO-listed area filled with charming boutique hotels, cobbled streets, and medieval clock towers. For a more modern experience, the Kirchenfeld or Langgasse districts provide stylish accommodations near museums and green spaces.
Bern can be explored in 2 days, covering key sights like the Zytglogge clock tower, the Bear Park, and the Federal Palace. A 3 to 4-day stay allows for trips to the Emmental cheese region, the scenic Gurten mountain, or the nearby Swiss Alps.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Bern. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Bern Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Bern
Bern, with its well-preserved medieval cityscape and rich cultural offerings, provides distinct experiences in each season, making it a year-round destination. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Bern during each season:
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Bern is delightful as the city shakes off the chill of winter and bursts into bloom. This season is perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like the Rose Garden or the Bear Park. The weather is mild, ideal for walking tours around the historic old town and enjoying the open-air cafes. Spring also witnesses the return of vibrant markets and various cultural events as the city comes to life.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is a popular time to visit Bern due to the warm and pleasant weather, with temperatures typically comfortable for exploring. The River Aare becomes a focal point for activities, offering unique swimming experiences for skilled swimmers who can float along its clean waters enjoying views of the city. Summer in Bern is also filled with outdoor events, concerts, and festivals, including the Buskers Bern Street Music Festival.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings a serene beauty to Bern as the leaves change colors, creating picturesque settings around the city and its many parks. The cooler temperatures make it great for hiking and enjoying nature. Autumn is also a time for cultural activities, with various exhibitions and performances in the city’s museums and theaters. The Onion Market (Zibelemärit), held in November, is a highlight, attracting visitors with its festive atmosphere and traditional onion-themed products.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Bern is cold, but the city’s charm is amplified by festive lights and Christmas markets that warm the atmosphere. It’s a magical time to visit, especially when snow blankets the medieval rooftops and cobblestone streets. The Bundesplatz in front of the Parliament building turns into an ice-skating rink, offering a picturesque skating experience. Although the days are shorter, the cultural scene remains vibrant with events and activities suited for the indoor weather.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 5°C 45°F
- February 8°C 49°F
- March 10°C 55°F
- April 16°C 64°F
- May 18°C 69°F
- June 23°C 77°F
- July 25°C 80°F
- August 24°C 80°F
- September 22°C 75°F
- October 17°C 66°F
- November 10°C 53°F
- December 6°C 47°F
How to get to Bern
Getting to Bern, Switzerland’s capital, is straightforward thanks to its central location and well-developed transport infrastructure. Here are the main ways you can reach Bern:
By Air
The closest major airport to Bern is Bern Airport (BRN), which offers limited flights mostly within Europe. For international travelers, the more commonly used gateway is Zurich Airport (ZRH), which is about 130 kilometers away. From Zurich Airport, you can easily get to Bern by train or car in about an hour and a half.
By Train
Bern is well-connected by train to major Swiss cities and many European destinations, thanks to its position on the Swiss rail network. The Bern Railway Station is one of the busiest in the country and serves as a major hub. High-speed trains like the EuroCity and InterCity connect Bern with Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lucerne, with frequent services throughout the day. International trains from cities like Paris, Berlin, and Milan also stop in Bern, making train travel a convenient option.
By Car
Driving to Bern is relatively easy due to the excellent road network in Switzerland. Bern is well-connected by motorways A1 and A6, which link it to other major Swiss cities and neighboring countries. Renting a car or driving your own vehicle can offer the flexibility to explore the picturesque Swiss countryside at your own pace.
By Bus
Long-distance buses also connect Bern with other Swiss cities and some European destinations. The bus network can offer a more economical but slower alternative to train travel. Major bus companies like Flixbus operate routes that include Bern as a key stop.
Local Transportation
Once in Bern, the city boasts an efficient public transportation system managed by Bernmobil, which includes trams, buses, and local trains (S-Bahn) that can get you around the city and to nearby regions easily.
