Things To Do
in Ostermundigen

Ostermundigen is a charming suburb located just outside of Bern, Switzerland, offering a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Nestled in the hills, it boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and lush greenery. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for both locals and visitors.

With its proximity to Bern, Ostermundigen serves as an excellent base for exploring the capital city and its rich cultural heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ostermundigen
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying fresh Swiss pastries and coffee. Then, take a stroll through the picturesque neighborhood to admire the traditional Swiss architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Gurten Park, where you can hike up for panoramic views of Bern and enjoy a picnic lunch in the grassy park area.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant in Ostermundigen, sampling traditional Swiss dishes, followed by a relaxed evening walk along the Aare River.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Bern
morning
:

Take a short tram ride into Bern and start your day at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Explore the Zytglogge clock tower and the famous Bear Park.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bern Historical Museum and enjoy lunch at the Museum's café. Afterwards, take a stroll through the Rose Garden for stunning views of the city.

evening
:

Return to Ostermundigen and enjoy dinner at a local fondue restaurant, followed by a nightcap at a nearby bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍺Local beer$6
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night stay$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Bern's cultural attractions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Quiet, peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Less variety in dining options.
  • Public transport may require transfers for some destinations.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Ostermundigen

Visit one of these nice places.

Gurten Park

An iconic park offering stunning views of Bern and the surrounding mountains, perfect for sunset photography.

Rose Garden

Famous for its beautiful rose varieties and panoramic views of the Old Town of Bern, ideal for floral and landscape photography.

Aare River

The tranquil riverbanks provide picturesque settings for nature photography, especially during the golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ostermundigen

Ostermundigen offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the best of Swiss cuisine, combining fresh local ingredients with traditional recipes. You will find a variety of options from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments.

Ostermundigen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish, similar to hash browns, often served as a side or topped with cheese or eggs.

Must-Try!

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a pot, typically enjoyed by dipping bread into the cheese with long forks.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ostermundigen Farmers' Market

A weekly market featuring fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal products from local farmers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ostermundigen experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold, ranging from -1 to 5°C (30-41°F). Spring and autumn are mild, with temperatures between 10-20°C (50-68°F), making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Swiss culture values punctuality; always be on time for appointments and gatherings.

Quietness

Maintain a respectful noise level, especially in residential areas and public transport.

Politeness

Greeting with a handshake and using polite language is important when meeting locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ostermundigen is generally a safe place for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as in any area, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially at night, and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Ostermundigen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Service is usually included in the bill, but rounding up the total or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and green landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days allow for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant with reds and golds, offering scenic views and pleasant weather for hikes.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall, providing opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Ostermundigen at Night

Ostermundigen has a laid-back nightlife scene, with several bars and restaurants offering a relaxed atmosphere. Most nightlife activities center around socializing in pubs or enjoying live music at local venues. The nearby city of Bern, just a short tram ride away, provides more vibrant nightlife options, including nightclubs, cocktail bars, and late-night eateries.

Hiking in Ostermundigen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gurten Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Gurten, offering breathtaking views of Bern and the Alps.

Schwarzsee Trail

A scenic hiking route that takes you through lush forests and picturesque landscapes, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Ostermundigen by plane.

Bern Airport (BRN)

Located about 10 km from Ostermundigen, Bern Airport offers flights to various European destinations and is easily accessible by public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ostermundigen is quite walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths. The town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot, with many local shops, parks, and cafes within walking distance. Public transport options are also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Ostermundigen is home to many families who appreciate the safe environment and access to parks and schools.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Bern, Ostermundigen attracts young professionals commuting to the city for work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular in the region, with local clubs and community events fostering a strong sports culture.

Cycling

With many scenic bike paths, cycling is a favored activity for both leisure and sport, attracting enthusiasts throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ostermundigen is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation is efficient, with trams and buses connecting to Bern and surrounding areas, allowing for convenient travel without needing a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ostermundigen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check with the staff for specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

Some establishments can accommodate gluten-free requests, but it is best to inform them in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ostermundigen is of high quality, with access to clinics and hospitals in Bern. Emergency services are prompt, and residents generally have health insurance coverage. Pharmacies are readily available for common health needs.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide