Bärengraben, Bern

Park in Bern

Barengraben Bern
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Patrick Nouhailler's

For centuries, bears have been the living symbol of Bern—so much so that the city itself takes its name from the animal. The Bear Park, or BärenPark, continues this tradition in a modern, humane way, providing a natural hillside habitat where bears roam freely along the banks of the Aare River. Located near the Nydegg Bridge at the eastern end of the Old City, it's one of the top attractions in Bern for visitors of all ages, combining history, nature, and stunning views in one peaceful setting.

The park connects to the historic Bärengraben, or Bear Pit, which dates back to the 16th century. Once a simple enclosure, it has evolved into a thoughtfully designed landscape that lets Bern's bears live as naturally as possible while remaining close to the city's heart. It's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Bern, offering a moment of calm and connection between the cobbled Old Town streets and the flowing turquoise waters of the Aare.

History and Significance of Bear Park

The story of Bern's bears stretches back to the city's founding. According to legend, Duke Berthold V of Zähringen named Bern after the first animal he hunted in the region—a bear. By the 16th century, real bears were being kept in the city as a living emblem of its heritage. The original Bear Pit near the Nydegg Bridge became one of Bern's best-known landmarks, though by modern standards, it was small and outdated.

In 2009, the new Bear Park opened alongside the historic pit, expanding the bears' living area to 6,000 square meters of terraced terrain beside the Aare. This space features trees, shrubs, and a pond, allowing the bears to climb, swim, and forage as they would in the wild. The original pit remains part of the complex, serving as an entrance area, shop, and small performance venue.

Accessibility improved further in 2015 with the installation of the Schräglift Bärenpark, a small inclined lift (nicknamed the “Bärenbähnli”) that connects the upper Old City to the riverside park below. Today, the Bear Park represents Bern's commitment to animal welfare, education, and the respectful continuation of a centuries-old symbol.

Things to See and Do in Bear Park

Visitors can watch Bern’s bears as they explore their hillside home, play in the water, or rest under the trees. Large viewing terraces provide excellent vantage points, and the glass-fronted lower gallery lets you observe the bears at eye level. Educational panels explain their behavior, diet, and the city’s historic relationship with these animals.

Beyond bear-watching, the setting itself is worth lingering in. The park’s riverside paths offer spectacular views of Bern’s Old City skyline, framed by the turquoise Aare and the graceful Nydegg Bridge. Children especially enjoy spotting the bears or riding the nearby funicular lift, while adults appreciate the tranquil scenery and photo opportunities. The surrounding area also features cafés and scenic trails leading toward the Matte district and Marzili quarter.

How to Get There

Bear Park (BärenPark) is located at Grosser Muristalden, just below the Nydegg Bridge at the eastern end of Bern's Old City. It's about a 15-minute walk from Bern train station through Kramgasse and past the Zytglogge Clock Tower. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If driving, you can park at Metro Parking Bern or City West Parking before walking to the Old City and following signs toward Nydeggbrücke.

Practical Tips on Visiting Bear Park

  • Best time to visit Bear Park: Spring to autumn when the bears are most active outdoors.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free admission year-round.
  • Opening hours: Open daily, 24 hours; bears visible mainly from morning until evening.
  • Official website: https://www.baerenpark-bern.ch
  • How long to spend: 30–60 minutes to watch the bears and explore the riverside paths.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible via the Schräglift Bärenpark (inclined lift).
  • Facilities: Shop, restrooms, and viewing terraces.
  • Photography tip: Late afternoon sunlight enhances the warm tones of the sandstone bridge and riverside greenery.
  • Guided tours: Occasional themed tours offered through Bern Tourism.
  • Nearby food options: Restaurant Altes Tramdepot, directly beside the park, offers great views and local beer.

Is Bear Park Worth Visiting?

Definitely. Bear Park perfectly captures Bern's spirit—where history, nature, and local pride come together. Watching the bears roam freely against the backdrop of the Old City is both moving and memorable, making it one of the must-see places in Bern for visitors of all ages. Whether you come for the legend, the scenery, or simply a peaceful riverside stroll, this site offers a uniquely Bernese experience.

FAQs for Visiting Bear Park

Are the bears visible all year round?
They hibernate in winter but may be seen occasionally depending on weather and behavior.

Is the park free to enter?
Yes, there’s no entrance fee.

Can visitors feed the bears?
No, feeding is strictly prohibited for their safety and health.

Is the park accessible to wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, the inclined lift ensures full accessibility from the upper city.

Are there public restrooms nearby?
Yes, near the park entrance and at the adjacent restaurant.

Nearby Attractions to Bear Park

  • Nydegg Bridge – The graceful 19th-century bridge connecting the Old City to the Aare’s east bank.
  • Bern Minster – The Gothic cathedral offering sweeping city and river views from its tower.
  • Einstein House – The preserved home where Einstein developed his Theory of Relativity.
  • Rosengarten – A peaceful garden above the park with panoramic views of Bern.
  • Bern Historical Museum – A cultural landmark featuring the Einstein Museum and world-class exhibits.

The Bärengraben appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bern!

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Visiting Bärengraben

Hours:

24 Hours

Price:

Free

Address: Bärengraben, Grosser Muristalden, Bern, Switzerland
Bern: 1 km

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