Hint

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.

Hint

Overview
Bern
Bern Region
Show on map

Partner

Impressions

News

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

  • Christmas in Bern

    During the Christmas season, Bern transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Atmospheric Christmas markets, cosy pop-up bars, culinary delights and unique experiences invite visitors to explore and indulge.

    Christmas in Bern - Bern Welcome

Auszeichnungen

Partner

Experiences & Activities

Show all ofExperiences & Activities
  • Bern "Bern Bites" Private Food Tour

    At five selected stops, you'll experience the city of Bern through its flavors, stories, and... from CHF 90
    Offer details


    valid: 05.11.2026 - 17.12.2026

    Learn more about "Bern Bites" Private Food Tour
  • Bern Cycling holidays The Grand Tour of Bern

    Luggage transfer, travel documents, navigation app, SchweizMobil-Plus subscription from CHF 1,039
    Offer details


    valid: 20.03.2027 - 17.10.2027

    Learn more about Cycling holidays The Grand Tour of Bern
  • Bern Polterchallenge "Hangover - Girls Edition" in Bern

    The "Hangover Girls Edition" polter party challenge in Bern turns your pre-wedding party into an... from CHF 250
    Offer details


    valid: 05.11.2026 - 26.10.2027

    Learn more about Polterchallenge "Hangover - Girls Edition" in Bern
  • Bern Cycling Holidays Aare-Route Top Cycling Tour

    Luggage transfer, travel documents, navigation app, SchweizMobil-Plus subscription from CHF 679
    Offer details


    valid: 20.03.2027 - 17.10.2027

    Learn more about Cycling Holidays Aare-Route Top Cycling Tour
  • Bern Marzilibahn ticket in Bern

    The Marzili funicular connects the Marzili district on the Aare River with Bundesgasse in Bern’s Old... from CHF 10.40
    Offer details


    valid: 29.10.2026 - 26.04.2027

    Learn more about Marzilibahn ticket in Bern
  • Bern "Gentlemen Club" Escape Game for Bachelor Party in Bern

    Solve the riddle with the groom and his friends about the missing bride. At the Gentlemen's Club,... from CHF 250
    Offer details


    valid: 08.11.2026 - 26.10.2027

    Learn more about "Gentlemen Club" Escape Game for Bachelor Party in Bern
  • Bern Private transfer from Bern to Zurich, 2h Stop in Solothurn

    Private one-way transfer in a clean, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a sightseeing... from CHF 537
    Offer details


    valid: 29.10.2026 - 27.11.2026

    Learn more about Private transfer from Bern to Zurich, 2h Stop in Solothurn
  • Bern Bern Self-Guided Detective Murder Mystery Game

    Access to the Detective City Game in the Loquiz app1 ticket per team of 1 to 4 people (larger groups... from CHF 19
    Offer details


    valid: 29.10.2026 - 27.11.2026

    Learn more about Bern Self-Guided Detective Murder Mystery Game

Travel information: Bern