Einsteinhaus , Bern

Historic Building in Bern

Public Domain / Gerd Kortemeyer

Nestled in the heart of Bern's Old City at Kramgasse No. 49, the Einsteinhaus offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the domestic life of one of humanity's greatest minds. Between 1903 and 1905, Albert Einstein lived here with his wife Mileva Marić and their young son, Hans. In this simple second-floor apartment, he penned the groundbreaking Annus Mirabilis papers that transformed physics forever, introducing concepts that still shape our understanding of time, space, and energy. It's one of the top sights in Bern for anyone interested in science, history, or the personal side of genius.

The apartment remains a humble yet powerful reminder of Einstein's early years in Switzerland. The rooms are furnished with period pieces that evoke everyday life at the dawn of the 20th century. Visitors can easily imagine the young physicist jotting ideas on scraps of paper between family meals or strolls along the Aare River. The Einsteinhaus is often visited on walking tours of Bern, situated right along Kramgasse—the city's most historic street and a UNESCO World Heritage highlight.

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

History and Significance of Einsteinhaus

Einstein moved into this apartment in 1903 while working as a clerk at the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property. Though far from luxurious, the flat provided stability for his young family and proximity to the places where he developed his world-changing theories. It was during his years here that Einstein wrote four pivotal papers—the photoelectric effect, Brownian motion, special relativity, and the equivalence of mass and energy (E=mc²)—earning 1905 the title “Annus Mirabilis,” or “Miracle Year.”

The apartment was restored and opened to the public in 1979 to mark Einstein's centenary. Great care was taken to recreate its original furnishings and layout, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into how the family lived. Today, the second floor is preserved as a period home, while the third floor hosts a compact exhibition tracing Einstein's career, scientific contributions, and connection to Bern. Together, they offer an inspiring contrast between ordinary surroundings and extraordinary thought.

Things to See and Do in Einsteinhaus

The second-floor living space is the heart of the museum. Modest yet warmly atmospheric, it reflects the daily rhythm of Einstein’s family life, with simple wooden furniture, lamps, and household objects from the early 1900s. Visitors can explore the kitchen, sitting room, and study area where Einstein developed his ideas in his spare time, long before international fame found him.

On the third floor, the exhibition delves deeper into Einstein's biography and intellectual journey. Panels and displays explain his theories in accessible language, enriched with photographs, letters, and original documents. There's also a short film about his years in Bern, helping visitors connect his scientific discoveries to the place and time in which they were conceived. To expand the experience, visitors can also explore the Einstein Museum at the Bern Historical Museum, which provides broader context about his life and work.

How to Get There

Einsteinhaus is located at Kramgasse No. 49, right in the center of Bern's Old City. It's an easy 10-minute walk from Bern train station through the city's arcaded streets. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If driving, you can park nearby at Metro Parking Bern or City West Parking before exploring the area on foot.

Practical Tips on Visiting Einsteinhaus

Best time to visit Einsteinhaus: Mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €6 for adults; discounts for students and groups.
Opening hours: Daily from 11:00 to 16:00 (check seasonal variations).
Official website: https://www.einstein-bern.ch
How long to spend: 30–45 minutes for the museum; longer if combining with the Einstein Museum.
Accessibility: The building’s historic structure includes stairs; no lift available.
Facilities: Small shop on-site; cafés and restrooms nearby along Kramgasse.
Photography tip: Capture the exterior balcony and signage early in the morning before foot traffic builds up.
Guided tours: Available through Bern Tourism or as part of city walking tours.
Nearby food options: Café Einstein and Restaurant Zum Zähringer are nearby for a cozy lunch or coffee stop.

Is Einsteinhaus Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially for those fascinated by history, science, or the human stories behind great ideas. The Einsteinhaus captures the moment when an unknown patent clerk in Bern reshaped the world of physics from a modest family flat. Its authenticity and intimacy make it one of the must-see places in Bern, offering a personal connection to a global legacy.

FAQs for Visiting Einsteinhaus

Can you go inside the apartment?
Yes, both the second and third floors are open to visitors.

Is photography allowed inside?
Yes, but without flash to protect the furnishings.

How long did Einstein live here?
From 1903 to 1905, during which he wrote his famous Annus Mirabilis papers.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, though the exhibits are compact; older children may enjoy the science displays.

Can you buy souvenirs?
A small selection of Einstein-themed items is available at the entrance.

Nearby Attractions to Einsteinhaus

Zytglogge Clock Tower – A 13th-century astronomical clock and one of Bern's most iconic landmarks.
Bern Minster – Switzerland's tallest cathedral, offering panoramic views from its tower.
Bern Historical Museum – Home to the Einstein Museum and collections spanning global history.
Bundeshaus (Federal Palace) – The impressive seat of Switzerland's national government.
Rosengarten – A peaceful hillside park with sweeping views of Bern's Old City.

The Einsteinhaus appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bern!

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