Bern
· CH

Bern

Bern, Bern, Switzerland

Step into a Fairytale: Discover Bern, Switzerland Nestled within a curve of the turquoise Aare River lies Bern, the captivating capital of Switzerland. This UNESCO World Heritage city enchants visitors with its storyboo…

#Capital city#Historic#Cultural#Scenic views#European cuisine
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Bern.

Top Hotels in Bern

Top Flights to Bern

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Bern.

Tours

Walking Tour of the Old Town

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Bern with its medieval buildings and cobblestone streets.

Rosengarten

Relax in a beautiful rose garden with a view over the Old Town.

Shopping

Shopping at Welle7

A modern shopping center with a variety of shops, eateries, and services near the Bern train station.

Outdoor

Hiking in the Gurten Mountain

Enjoy a panoramic view of the city by hiking up the Gurten Mountain.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Bern.

Currency
CHF | CHF | Swiss Franc
Population
0.13 million
Languages
German, French, Italian
Average weather
Bern
Jan
snow
3°-3°
Feb
snow
5°-2°
Mar
cloud
10°0°
Apr
rain
14°3°
May
rain
18°7°
Jun
rain
22°11°
Jul
sun
25°13°
Aug
sun
24°13°
Sep
rain
20°10°
Oct
cloud
14°6°
Nov
cloud
8°2°
Dec
snow
4°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Bern.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. Here are some detailed reasons why you may enjoy visiting Bern:

  1. Historical Charm: Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town. You can wander through the narrow streets lined with sandstone buildings, fountains, and clock towers, immersing yourself in the city's rich history.

  2. Beautiful Scenery: Situated along the banks of the Aare River and surrounded by the Swiss Alps, Bern offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the river.

  3. Cultural Attractions: Bern is home to many museums, galleries, and theaters, showcasing Swiss art, history, and culture. The Zytglogge clock tower, the Federal Palace, and the Bear Park are popular attractions worth visiting.

  4. Gastronomy: Swiss cuisine is diverse and delicious, and Bern is no exception. You can indulge in traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue, raclette, and rösti, as well as sample local specialties like Berner Platte (a dish featuring various meats and sausages).

  5. Shopping: The shopping scene in Bern is vibrant, with a mix of luxury boutiques, local shops selling Swiss watches and chocolates, and markets where you can find unique souvenirs to take back home.

  6. Safety and Cleanliness: Switzerland is known for its safety and cleanliness, and Bern is no exception. You can feel secure walking around the city and enjoy the pristine surroundings.

These are just a few reasons why traveling to Bern, Switzerland, can be a rewarding experience. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or gastronomy, Bern has something to offer every type of traveler.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Bern, Switzerland, could include:

  1. Expensive: Switzerland is known for being an expensive country to visit, and Bern is no exception. Accommodation, dining, and transportation costs can be higher compared to other European destinations.

  2. Language Barrier: While many people in Bern speak English, the official languages are German and French. If you don't speak these languages, communication may be a challenge in some situations.

  3. Limited Nightlife: Bern is not known for its vibrant nightlife scene compared to other Swiss cities like Zurich or Geneva. If you're looking for a party atmosphere, you may be disappointed.

  4. Seasonal Crowds: Bern can get quite crowded with tourists, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter. This can lead to longer queues at popular attractions and a more crowded city experience.

  5. Limited Public Transportation: While Bern has a good public transportation system, it may not be as extensive or convenient as in other major cities. Getting around by public transport may require some planning and patience.

Overall, Bern is a beautiful and charming city with a lot to offer visitors, but it's important to be aware of these potential drawbacks before planning your trip.

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, has a rich and storied history that dates back to its founding in the 12th century. Here's a detailed overview of its historical development, significant events, notable figures, and important landmarks:

Founding and Medieval Period

  • 1191: Bern was founded by Berchtold V, Duke of Zähringen. According to legend, the city was named after the first animal he hunted in the area, which was a bear ("Bär" in German).
  • 1218: The House of Zähringen became extinct, and Bern became a free imperial city under the Holy Roman Empire.
  • 1353: Bern joined the Swiss Confederation, strengthening its position in the region.

Growth and Expansion

  • During the 14th and 15th centuries, Bern expanded its territory through conquest and strategic alliances, becoming one of the largest city-states north of the Alps.
  • 1528: The Protestant Reformation reached Bern, and the city adopted Protestantism, significantly influencing its cultural and religious landscape.

Early Modern Period

  • 1798: Bern was occupied by French troops during the Napoleonic Wars and became part of the Helvetic Republic.
  • 1815: After the fall of Napoleon, Bern regained its independence and joined the restored Swiss Confederation.

19th and 20th Centuries

  • 1848: Bern was chosen as the federal city (de facto capital) of Switzerland when the modern Swiss Confederation was established.
  • The city developed rapidly with the construction of infrastructure such as railways, bridges, and public buildings.

Significant Events and Figures

  • Albert Einstein lived in Bern from 1902 to 1909. During his time in the city, he developed the theory of relativity and worked at the Swiss Patent Office.
  • Bern played a crucial role during both World Wars, maintaining Swiss neutrality while serving as a center for diplomacy and international cooperation.

Important Landmarks

  • Zytglogge: This medieval clock tower is one of Bern's most iconic landmarks, featuring an astronomical clock that dates back to the early 13th century.
  • Federal Palace (Bundeshaus): The seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council, located in the heart of Bern.
  • Bern Cathedral (Münster): A magnificent example of late Gothic architecture, it is the tallest cathedral in Switzerland.
  • Bear Park (BärenPark): Paying homage to the city's namesake, this park houses bears and is a popular tourist attraction.
  • Einstein Museum: Part of the Bern Historical Museum, it explores the life and work of Albert Einstein during his years in Bern.

Cultural and Historical Importance

  • Bern's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its well-preserved medieval architecture and urban planning.
  • The city is known for its rich cultural life, including museums, theaters, and festivals that reflect its historical significance and modern vibrancy.

Bern continues to be an important political, cultural, and historical center in Switzerland, balancing its rich heritage with its role as a modern capital.