Are you ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of Switzerland? This guide is your ultimate companion as you discover the picturesque city of Bern. From magnificent historic landmarks to thriving authentic food markets, and serene parks to captivating art galleries, this guide is dedicated to helping you unveil the city’s true essence. Breathe in the aura of this magical city as you plan an exciting adventure that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, sit back, relax, and let’s take a virtual trip to Bern, steering you towards the top things to see and do.
Exploring the Historic City Center
When visiting Bern, the historic city center is a must. Marveled for its well-preserved medieval architecture, it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find a wealth of sites just waiting to be explored.
Visit Zytglogge
Start off by visiting the Zytglogge, a landmark medieval clock tower that offers a captivatingly unique glimpse into Bern’s history. With its astronomical clock built in the early 15th century and myriad of preserved inscriptions and paintings, it’s a true portal to the past.
Stroll through Kramgasse
Following the clock tower, you can take a stroll along Kramgasse, a picturesque and bustling street marking the heart of the city. This street is a shopping haven featuring intricate fountains, beautiful buildings, and a collection of quaint shops and boutiques.
Discover Gerechtigkeitsgasse
Next, lose yourself in Gerechtigkeitsgasse, a street renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval buildings. While there, soak up the historical ambiance and discover the many charming shops and cafés lining its course.
Check out the Bundesplatz
Don’t miss the Bundesplatz, home to the Federal Palace of Switzerland. Here, you might also catch a demonstration or a farmers’ market. This place often serves as a gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
The Bear Park
Adding to the historical charm, Bern also boasts natural attractions. The city’s symbol is a bear, and nowhere is this more prominent than at Bear Park.
Observe bears in their natural habitat
Here, you can see these magnificent creatures frolic in a setting that closely resembles their natural habitat. The park is a lovely spot for a peaceful stroll, with its beautiful landscape and sweeping views of the old city.
Learn about the park’s history
Bear Park is not just a location, it’s a symbol of Bern’s history with its inauguration dating back to 1857. The information panels scattered around the park will tell you more about the bears and their significance to the city.
Art Museums in Bern
Art lovers will feel at home in Bern, thanks to the city’s impressive array of art museums.
Explore the Bern Museum of Art
Firstly, visit the Bern Museum of Art, the oldest art museum in Switzerland with a permanent collection. It houses works from theologies and Gothic art right up to contemporary pieces.
Visit the Albert Einstein Museum
To merge science with culture, visit the Albert Einstein Museum. Not just for science enthusiasts, the museum gives insights into Einstein’s life during the time he spent in Bern.
Check out the Swiss Alpine Museum
Next, check out the Swiss Alpine Museum. This museum presents the culture, nature and topography of the Swiss Alps in an interactive way.
Tour the Communication Museum
Lastly, tour the Communication Museum which has exhibits on everything from the history of communication to futuristic technology. Interactive displays make this a great choice for families.
Swiss Gastronomy in Bern
When in Bern, be sure to treat your palate to Swiss gastronomy.
Try traditional Swiss dishes
From raclette to rösti to Swiss chocolate, trying traditional Swiss dishes is a must. There’s something special about enjoying these dishes in their homeland.
Dining at the Bernese restaurants
Dine at Bernese restaurants, which serve a mix of local and international cuisines. They offer top-notch gastronomy experiences in warm and relaxing ambiances.
Discover local markets
Discovering local food markets is a unique way to experience authentic Swiss cuisine, often in a vibrant atmosphere full of hustle and bustle.
Experience wine tasting in the vineyards around Bern
Finally, an experience you certainly shouldn’t miss is wine tasting in the vineyards surrounding Bern. The Swiss take their wine seriously, and this is an opportunity to taste some of the finest.
Outdoor Activities in Bern
Bern and its surrounding districts offer plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts.
River swimming in the Aare
When summertime hits, take a plunge and swim in the Aare river – a popular pastime among locals. The river’s strong current carries you downstream, offering a unique perspective of the city from the water.
Hiking in the nearby mountain trails
Head off to nearby mountain trails for a day of hiking. With stunning scenery encapsulating Switzerland’s beauties, these trails leave a profound and lasting impression.
Cycling in the city and its surroundings
Enjoy the city and its idyllic surroundings with a leisurely bicycle ride. There’s a reason why the Swiss have a reputation for loving their bikes!
Visit the Bern Cathedral
No visit to Bern would be complete without stopping by the Bern Cathedral.
Explore the largest ecclesiastical building in Switzerland
As Switzerland’s largest ecclesiastical building, this cathedral stands with striking majesty against the city’s skyline. Take a moment inside to marvel at the impressive stonework and intricate stained glass.
Climb to the top of the cathedral’s spire
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, take a climb to the top of the cathedral’s spire. The 222-meter high view is worth every stair!
Bern Botanical Garden
Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the Bern Botanical Garden.
Learn about local and international flora
The garden houses a beautiful collection of local and international flora. Spread out over five greenhouses and numerous open-air sites, it’s an ideal place for botanical enthusiasts.
Photography of plant species, rock formations and water landscapes
Don’t forget to bring your camera as the diversity of plant species, intriguing rock formations, and water landscapes provide stunning opportunities for photography.
Experiencing Bern Nightlife
When the sun sets, Bern does not sleep. Instead, the city comes alive with vibrant nightlife.
Visit trendy bars and clubs
If you’re up for it, visit the city’s abundance of trendy bars and clubs. Bern has a spot for every taste, whether you prefer cocktails and craft beers or dance music that keeps you grooving on the dancefloor until the early hours.
Attend concerts and local music events
Bern is also known for its music scene. Try attending a concert or local music event to discover local bands and artists.
Cultural festivals that take place during the night
The city hosts a number of nighttime cultural festivals throughout the year, providing an opportunity for you to soak up the local culture and have fun.
Historical Landmarks in Bern
Apart from the city center, Bern is packed with a plethora of historical landmarks.
Visit the Federal Palace
Head over to the Federal Palace, the official seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council. Enjoy a guided tour and gain insights into Swiss politics.
Explore the Paul Klee Center
Next, explore the Paul Klee Center, dedicated to the Swiss painter Paul Klee. The striking building, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, showcases a vast collection of Klee’s work.
Discover the Rosengarten
Finally, a visit to the Rosengarten is worth its while. This former cemetery has been transformed into a beautiful rose garden with stunning views over the city.
Shopping in Bern
Shoppers definitely won’t feel left out in Bern. The city offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from bustling markets to high-end shopping boulevards.
Explore the stores at Bern’s Old Town
Bern’s Old Town is perfect for strolling around while browsing the many stores. These range from quirky boutiques and classic Swiss chocolateries to antique dealers and local design stores.
Visit local markets
In terms of markets, there’s plenty to choose from. Fruit, vegetables, cheese, fish, fresh flowers, second-hand books – it’s all here in Bern’s vibrant markets.
Shop in high-end Swiss boutiques
For those that like to splurge, Bern hosts some of the country’s most exclusive Swiss boutiques. Here, you can find the finest watches, chocolates and designer fashions.
You’re now equipped with an ultimate guide to exploring Bern, Switzerland. So lace up your walking shoes and prepare to be swept away by the magical allure of this enchanting city.