Things To Do
in Burgdorf

Burgdorf is a charming town located in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, known for its rich history and beautiful medieval architecture. The town is nestled on a hill overlooking the Emme River, providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Burgdorf's old town features cobblestone streets and well-preserved buildings, making it a delightful place to explore.

With a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Burgdorf offers visitors a unique Swiss experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Burgdorf's History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Burgdorf Castle, where you can explore its museum and enjoy panoramic views from the tower.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the old town, visiting the historical churches and local shops, and enjoy lunch at a café in the main square.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Swiss cuisine, followed by a relaxing walk along the Emme River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby nature reserve, enjoying the scenic trails and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art gallery or museum to learn about Burgdorf's cultural history, followed by lunch at a popular street food market.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local bar or tavern where you can enjoy live music and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant25-40 CHF
Coffee4-6 CHF
🥖Bakery item2-5 CHF
🚌Public transport ticket3-5 CHF
🏨Hotel room (per night)100-200 CHF

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural surroundings ideal for outdoor activities
  • Friendly and welcoming local community
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Some restaurants may have limited vegetarian options
  • Public transport options may be fewer in remote areas
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Burgdorf

Visit one of these nice places.

Burgdorf Castle

Capture the stunning medieval architecture and panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.

Old Town Streets

Photograph the charming cobblestone streets and historical buildings that reflect the town's rich heritage.

Emme River Path

A picturesque location for nature photography, especially during sunset when the light reflects beautifully on the water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Burgdorf

Burgdorf offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases traditional Swiss dishes and local specialties.

Burgdorf Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A crispy Swiss potato dish often served as a side, made from grated potatoes.

Must-Try!

Älplermagronen

A hearty Swiss pasta dish made with potatoes, macaroni, cream, and cheese, typically baked.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Burgdorf Market

A vibrant weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Burgdorf experiences a temperate climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with temperatures averaging between -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F), often accompanied by snow. Summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall occurs throughout the year, with more precipitation in late spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Swiss culture, so always aim to arrive promptly for appointments and social gatherings.

Respect for Nature

Switzerland values its natural environment; always follow marked paths and dispose of waste responsibly.

Politeness

Greeting people with a friendly 'Grüezi' (hello) is customary, and using polite language is highly valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Burgdorf is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure are advisable. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical emergencies.

Tipping in Burgdorf

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it is advisable to carry some Swiss Francs for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and outdoor events. This is a great time for hiking and enjoying the town’s parks.

Summer

Summer brings warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and local festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage in the surrounding countryside, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

Winter

Winter offers a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes, perfect for winter sports nearby and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Burgdorf at Night

Burgdorf offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a selection of bars and pubs that cater to various tastes. Locals often gather in cozy taverns for a drink and conversation, and some venues host live music on weekends. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, the friendly atmosphere makes for enjoyable evenings out.

Hiking in Burgdorf

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gurten Trail

A popular hiking spot with trails leading to the Gurten mountain, offering panoramic views of Bern and the surrounding areas.

Käppeligraben Trail

A scenic trail that winds through forests and fields, ideal for a leisurely hike with family or friends.

Airports

How to reach Burgdorf by plane.

Bern Airport (BRN)

Located about 30 km from Burgdorf, Bern Airport offers limited international flights and is the closest airport for domestic travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Burgdorf is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The old town is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore its charming streets at leisure. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of signs to guide you along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Burgdorf has a growing population of young families attracted by its quality of life and access to nature.

Retirees

The town is also home to many retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is popular among locals, with several amateur teams and leagues active in the region.

Cycling

With its scenic routes, cycling is a favored pastime, and many residents participate in organized cycling events and races.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Burgdorf is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include trains and buses, which are reliable and connect to nearby cities. Parking is available but can be limited in the town center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Burgdorf.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Burgdorf offer vegetarian options, but it's best to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are available, they may be limited, so it is advisable to communicate dietary needs to the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Burgdorf is of high quality, with access to several clinics and hospitals in the area. Emergency services are prompt and efficient, and most healthcare providers speak English. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide