Bern

Bern, Old Town and the Aare River Cities © Marie Geiglé

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Intro

The Swiss capital is a total work of art. With its UNESCO-listed old town, cathedral, clock tower, fountains and numerous arcades, Bern is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities. Between all of the sights on offer, the city also offers you plenty of nature and a chance to refresh yourself on the River Aare.

Bern at a glance

This is Bern

Bern is Switzerland’s capital city and can be found in the west of the country on the River Aare. The city is a popular excursion destination, thanks to the many sights it offers, and its old town in particular.

Discover Bern

Sightseeing in Bern is one thing above all: it offers variety. You can first visit the Parliament House, the centre of Swiss democracy, as well as Parliament Square and the Parliament House terrace. Continue your stroll through Bern’s old town with its many arcades. Want more? Then make a detour to the Bear Park. The journey there is a highlight in itself: you’ll cross the River Aare via the imposing Nydeggbrücke bridge, which offers you amazing views of the old town and the mountains.

Bern’s old town

The old town of Bern has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983. Covering a distance of six kilometres, walk through the characteristic arcades and marvel at the vaulted cellars that are home to studios, bars and shops. Visit the Zytglogge clock tower and the cathedral and marvel at the impressive sandstone houses and the many historic fountains, such as the Zähringen Fountain or the Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child-Eater Fountain). 

Nature and the River Aare

Bern creates a unique connection between the city, its sights and nature. You can take a break in the Rose Garden, while enjoying spectacular views of the old town at the same time. The botanical garden is also well worth a visit. And another natural highlight: the turquoise-blue River Aare. It is simply part of life in Bern and is also a must for any visitor to the city and strong swimmer. Whether while swimming or floating downriver in a dinghy: the clean river represents a way of life and fun in the water.

Around Bern

Bern is an ideal starting point for excursions into the mountains – both in summer and in winter. Bern’s local mountain, the Gurten, is known for hikes, the open-air festival of the same name or as a vantage point. From Bern, you can reach Gantrisch Nature Park in no time at all. The Niederhorn, Lake Biel, Lake Thun or Lake Murten are all welcome excursion destinations as well. 

Experience Bern for less

When you stay in the city of Bern for one night or more, you will receive the Bern Ticket. This allows you to travel free of charge on trams and buses in Bern and the surrounding area. In addition, with the Bernese Oberland Pass, you’ll also benefit from numerous discounts.

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Bern
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Impressions

News

The news listed here is maintained by the regional / local tourist offices, which is why Switzerland Tourism can not guarantee the content.

  • Creative, more creative, Bern in full bloom – May is finally here! In the merry month of May, Swiss designers present their newest creations at a fashion show at the Kornhausforum, bookworms are losing themselves in the history of one of Bern’s authors, architecture aficionados get a sneaky peek into apartments and houses, and that’s just the start. It’s also the month to get moving. Some of us might be dancing through May, others will be jogging through the city, accompanied by the spectators’ cheering.

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  • Bern The Grand Tour of Bern, 5 days

    Included: Overnight stay in the selected category incl. breakfast Daily luggage transfers Costs for... from CHF 955
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    valid: 01.05.2025 - 26.09.2025

    Learn more about The Grand Tour of Bern, 5 days
  • Bern "Catch the Agent" GPS game for team events in Bern

    This interactive agent game is played right in the city of Bern. You chase rival teams and score... from CHF 20
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    valid: 01.05.2025 - 31.12.2025

    Learn more about "Catch the Agent" GPS game for team events in Bern
  • Bern "Beat the groom" in Bern: action-packed stag party

    You and your wedding party will go on a fun city rally through Bern to see the groom off into... from CHF 299
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    valid: 22.05.2025 - 30.04.2026

    Learn more about "Beat the groom" in Bern: action-packed stag party
  • Bern Chocolate city tour in Bern

    Discover the unique chocolate history of the city of Bern. Visit famous chocolate producers and... from CHF 55
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    valid: 02.05.2025 - 31.10.2025

    Learn more about Chocolate city tour in Bern
  • Bern Aare route: Top Cycling Tour Bern - Aarau, 4 days, Cat. A

    Included: Overnight stay in the selected category incl. breakfast Daily luggage transfers Costs for... from CHF 605
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    valid: 01.05.2025 - 26.09.2025

    Learn more about Aare route: Top Cycling Tour Bern - Aarau, 4 days, Cat. A
  • Bern "Beat the bride" in Bern: action-packed hen party

    Go on an action-packed city rally through Bern with your wedding party to see the bride off into... from CHF 299
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    valid: 22.05.2025 - 30.04.2026

    Learn more about "Beat the bride" in Bern: action-packed hen party
  • Kursaal Bern AG, Bern Kursaal Barbecue

    Delight in our first-class barbecue fun: a 30-metre-long barbecue on our forum terrace is a special... from CHF 58
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    valid: 01.05.2025 - 30.09.2025

    Learn more about Kursaal Barbecue
  • Bern Funny Farm Games at the Desired Location

    The funny farm games are exciting competitions for team events and groups. The traditional Swiss... from CHF 75
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    valid: 08.05.2025 - 30.11.2025

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  • Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa, Bern 3 for 2

    3 nights, 3 Nights in Double room, Breakfast, Public transport ticket for Bern per person per night, e-bike... from CHF 860
    Offer details

    Double room
    valid: 01.05.2025 - 30.06.2025

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Travel information: Bern