Things To Do
in Bern
Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city's charming streets are lined with beautiful sandstone buildings and arcades, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploration. The Aare River, which flows through the city, offers scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Bern is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing Swiss art and history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zytglogge, Bern's iconic clock tower, then stroll through the Bundesplatz to see the Federal Palace.
Explore the Einstein Museum to learn about the life of Albert Einstein, followed by lunch at a local café.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the Aare River to watch the sunset.
Visit the Rose Garden for panoramic views of the city, then head to the Bear Park to see the city's symbol, the Bernese bears.
Spend time at the Bern Historical Museum, followed by a visit to the local food market to sample Swiss delicacies.
Wrap up your trip with a night out in the Old Town, enjoying the lively atmosphere at local bars and enjoying Swiss wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $25 |
| ☕Coffee | $4 |
| 🍺Pint of beer | $6 |
| 🚍Public transport ticket | $3 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful medieval architecture and UNESCO World Heritage site status.
- Rich cultural scene with museums, galleries, and theaters.
- Safe and clean environment with friendly locals.
- Can be expensive in terms of accommodation and dining.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities like Zurich or Geneva.
- Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours.
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Wo ist...?" - Where is...?
- "Ich spreche kein Deutsch" - I don't speak German
Places to Visit in Bern
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic clock tower is a must-visit for stunning architectural photography.
Capture picturesque views of the bears and the surrounding gardens with the city as a backdrop.
Offers panoramic views of Bern's Old Town and the Aare River, perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Bern
Bern Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A melted cheese dish served in a communal pot, perfect for dipping bread.
Must-Try!
A crispy potato dish, often served as a side or topped with various ingredients.
Melted cheese scraped from a wheel, traditionally served with potatoes and pickles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market held in the Old Town every Tuesday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.
An annual event showcasing a variety of food trucks and stalls offering diverse street food from around the world.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting people with a friendly 'Grüezi' (hello) is customary and appreciated.
Being on time is highly valued in Swiss culture; always aim to arrive promptly.
Maintain a respectful noise level in public areas, especially in residential neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Bern
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is common.
Many establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Springtime brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.
Summer is warm and lively, with numerous festivals and outdoor events, but can get crowded.
Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, and it's a great time for hiking and enjoying seasonal foods.
Winter offers a magical atmosphere with holiday markets and snow-covered landscapes, perfect for winter sports.
Bern at Night
Hiking in Bern
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail located on the Gurten mountain, offering stunning views of Bern and the surrounding landscape.
A scenic trail in the nearby Emmental region, known for its picturesque rolling hills and traditional Swiss farms.
Airports
How to reach Bern by plane.
Located about 10 km from the city center, Bern Airport offers limited international flights but is well-connected to major Swiss cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bern has a diverse population, with a mix of native Swiss and expatriates from various countries contributing to the city's multicultural atmosphere.
With several universities and colleges, Bern attracts a significant number of students, adding to the youthful vibe of the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is very popular in Bern, with the local team, SC Bern, drawing large crowds during the season.
Football is also a major sport, with local clubs competing in the Swiss leagues and passionate fans supporting their teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bern.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Bern offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.
Some eateries cater to gluten-free diets, though options may be limited.