Discover Bern: A Guide to Switzerland's Capital
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, captivates visitors with its stunning location on a sandstone ridge, surrounded by the Aare River. Its high-level bridges connect the historic city center with newer areas, showcasing a blend of past and present.
The city's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts 17th and 18th-century buildings with arcades and projecting roofs, reflecting Bern's historical affluence.
Cultural events like jazz festivals and the Gurtenfestival, along with numerous museums and theaters, enrich Bern's cultural landscape. Notable sights include the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower with moving puppets.
Plan your trip with this guide to Bern's top attractions.
1. Stroll through the Old Town
Bern's old town is a UNESCO-listed site, featuring cobbled streets, miles of arcade sidewalks, and a mix of shops, cafés, and historical landmarks like the Clock Tower.
2. See World-Class Art at the Kunstmuseum
The Kunstmuseum, Switzerland's oldest art museum, houses over 51,000 works, including pieces by Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Pablo Picasso. Check their website for current exhibitions and tours.
3. Visit the Einstein Museum and the Historical Museum of Bern
The combined Historical and Einstein Museums showcase over half a million objects and delve into Einstein's life and work. Visit their website for more information.
4. Take a Tour of the Einstein Haus
Explore Einstein's former home, where he developed his groundbreaking theories. The apartment is furnished to reflect the period, and a small exhibition explains his work. More details can be found on their website.
5. Spend an Afternoon at the Rosengarten
The Rosengarten offers stunning city views and features over 200 types of roses, irises, and other plants, along with a pond and restaurant.
6. Discover the Berner Münster
The Berner Münster, Switzerland's largest late medieval church, is known for its intricate doorway sculptures and panoramic views from its tower.
7. Admire the Clock Tower
The 800-year-old Zytglogge features an astronomical clock and a show of mechanical figures before the hour strikes. Visitors can climb the tower for city views.
8. Browse Art at the Paul Klee Center (Zentrum Paul Klee)
Home to 4,000 works by Paul Klee, the center is a masterpiece designed by Renzo Piano. Visit their website for more information.
9. Check Out the Town's Ancient Fountains
Bern's old town features 100 fountains with potable water, many topped with historical statues.
10. Stroll through the Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden showcases diverse ecosystems, including Alpine, desert, tropical, and subtropical plants.
11. Explore the Trails on the Gurten
The Gurten offers panoramic views, hiking trails, winter sports, and dining options. The Gurtenfestival is held here in July.
12. Pose in Front of the Fountain at the Bundeshaus
The Bundeshaus, home to the Swiss Parliament, offers tours and stunning views from the Bundesterrasse.
13. Take in the Wonders at the Natural History Museum
The museum features dioramas, big game, and exhibits on evolution. Visit their website for more details.
14. Play with Technology at the Communication Museum
This museum explores the history of human communication with interactive displays. More information is available on their website.
15. Shop at the Weekly Markets
Bern hosts various markets, including vegetable, flower, flea, and Christmas markets, as well as the unique annual Onion Market.
16. Enjoy a Wealth of Activities at the Aare River
The Aare River is central to Bern's outdoor activities, including swimming, rafting, and canoeing. The Nydeggbrücke bridge offers picturesque views.
17. Visit the Bear Park
The Bear Park is a modern habitat for Bern's symbol, the bear, featuring walking paths and river access for the animals.
18. Explore the Many Sides of the Granary (Kornhaus)
The Kornhaus is a cultural hub with theaters, libraries, and restaurants, housed in a former grain storage building.
19. Drop in at the French Church
The French Church, Bern's oldest, has a history dating back to the 13th century and was a refuge for Huguenots.
