Bern Historical Museum

Museum in Bern

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Marianabeauty

The Bern Historical Museum is more than just a showcase of artifacts—it's a journey through human history, art, and discovery. Housed in a grand neo-Gothic building reminiscent of a medieval castle, this is Switzerland's second-largest historical museum and one of the top attractions in Bern. From ancient Bernese relics to Egyptian treasures and meteorite-forged arrowheads, every exhibit invites visitors to explore the connections between past and present.

Set just across the Aare River from the Old City, the museum's fairy-tale architecture is matched by its fascinating interiors. Its companion, the Einstein Museum, offers a captivating look into the life and ideas of Albert Einstein, who developed his Theory of Relativity while living in Bern. Together, they form a highlight of any walking tour of Bern, blending intellectual curiosity with a sense of wonder that keeps travelers coming back.

History and Significance of Bern Historical Museum
Things to See and Do in Bern Historical Museum
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Bern Historical Museum
Is Bern Historical Museum Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Bern Historical Museum
Nearby Attractions to Bern Historical Museum

History and Significance of Bern Historical Museum

Designed by André Lambert and completed in 1894, the Bern Historical Museum was originally intended to be the Swiss National Museum. Its design drew inspiration from 15th- and 16th-century castles, giving it an appearance both regal and timeless. Though Zurich eventually became home to the national museum, Bern's creation evolved into one of Switzerland's most significant cultural institutions.

The museum’s role extends beyond local history—it’s a reflection of Bern’s global connections through trade, exploration, and scholarship. In 2009, a striking modern glass-and-steel extension was added, symbolizing the dialogue between old and new. Above the entrance, the magnificent mosaic “The Age of History” by Swiss artist Léo-Paul Robert (1900) sets the tone for the experience within, depicting the muses of Poetry and History watching over humanity’s unfolding story.

Today, the museum is recognized as a Swiss heritage site of national significance, preserving and interpreting thousands of years of cultural evolution—from the prehistoric Aare Valley to the scientific breakthroughs of the 20th century.

Things to See and Do in Bern Historical Museum

Inside the museum, visitors encounter an extraordinary range of collections. Bern’s local history comes alive through medieval tapestries, armor, and the spoils taken from Charles the Bold’s camp after his defeat in 1477. These artifacts vividly illustrate the city’s power during its medieval heyday. Among the museum’s most prized exhibits is the Muri statuette group—six exquisite Gallo-Roman bronze figures representing Mercury and other deities, discovered in the Bernese countryside.

In 2023, the museum made headlines when the Moringen arrowhead, part of its collection for over a century, was found to be crafted from a meteorite. This revelation underscored the museum’s role in ongoing scientific discovery. Alongside these treasures, international exhibits transport visitors to ancient Egypt, Oceania, and the Americas, reminding them of humanity’s shared cultural heritage.

A major attraction within the complex is the Einstein Museum. What began as a temporary exhibition in 2005 has become a permanent fixture dedicated to the world's most famous physicist. Through films, documents, and interactive displays, visitors can trace Einstein's journey from his Bern years—when he formulated the Theory of Relativity—to his later influence on modern science. For an even deeper dive, the nearby Einsteinhaus on Kramgasse allows visitors to step into the apartment where he once lived and worked.

How to Get There

The Bern Historical Museum is located at Helvetiaplatz 5, just a 15-minute walk from the Old City. Bern train station, around 10 minutes away on foot, offers excellent rail connections to other Swiss cities and beyond. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Bern train station

For those arriving by car, parking is available at Metro Parking Bern and City West Parking. Public trams and buses also stop nearby at Helvetiaplatz, making it easily accessible from any part of the city.

Practical Tips on Visiting Bern Historical Museum

Best time to visit Bern Historical Museum: Year-round; rainy days are perfect for exploring its vast indoor exhibits.
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €13 for adults, including the Einstein Museum; discounts available for students and groups.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–17:00; closed Mondays.
Official website: https://www.bhm.ch
How long to spend: At least 2–3 hours to explore both the Historical and Einstein Museums.
Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators and wheelchair-friendly paths.
Facilities: Café, museum shop, lockers, and cloakroom.
Photography tip: Capture the fairy-tale façade in morning light for the best photos; interior photography is permitted in most sections.
Guided tours: Available in multiple languages and highly recommended for deeper context.
Nearby food options: Enjoy coffee at the on-site café or head to nearby Dampfzentrale for riverside dining.

Is Bern Historical Museum Worth Visiting?

Without question. The Bern Historical Museum is one of the must-see places in Bern, combining history, art, and science in a way that few institutions can match. Whether you're intrigued by medieval armor, fascinated by Einstein's revolutionary ideas, or drawn to rare archaeological finds, this museum offers a uniquely enriching experience. Its thoughtful exhibits and architectural beauty make it one of the best places to visit in Bern for travelers seeking depth and discovery.

FAQs for Visiting Bern Historical Museum

Is entry to the Einstein Museum included?
Yes, the ticket includes admission to both the Historical and Einstein Museums.

Are there guided tours?
Yes, group and private tours are available and can be booked online.

Can I buy tickets on-site?
Yes, tickets are available at the entrance or via the official website.

Is the museum family-friendly?
Absolutely, with interactive exhibits and family-oriented tours available.

How far is the museum from the Old City?
It’s about a 10–15 minute walk across the Kirchenfeld Bridge.

Nearby Attractions to Bern Historical Museum

Einsteinhaus – The former home of Albert Einstein, where he lived and worked during his Bern years.
Bern Cathedral (Bern Minster) – The city's stunning Gothic landmark with panoramic tower views.
Zytglogge Clock Tower – A medieval clock tower famous for its animated figurines.
Bundeshaus (Federal Palace) – The Swiss Parliament building, open for free guided tours.
Rosengarten – A tranquil hillside garden offering sweeping views over Bern's Old City and the Aare River.

The Bern Historical Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bern!

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