Bern is the captivating, slow-paced capital of Switzerland, defined by its well-preserved medieval Old Town and the emerald waters of the Aare River. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its sandstone architecture, iconic clock tower, and a unique blend of political history and relaxed riverside culture. The best time to visit is during the summer months when you can swim in the river, or in December for the festive, cozy Christmas markets.
Top Things to Do in Bern
Tap an attraction to look it up on TripAdvisor.
Getting Around Bern
From the Airport
Train. Bern Airport (BRN) is small; the Airport Bus (Line 334) connects you to the Belp train station, where you can catch a local S-Bahn train to Bern's main station (Bern Bahnhof). The total journey takes about 20-30 minutes and costs roughly 10-15 CHF. Taxi. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall, though they are significantly more expensive than the train, typically costing 50-70 CHF for the ride into the city center.
Once You're There
Walking. The Old Town is extremely compact and almost entirely pedestrian-friendly, making walking the absolute best way to see the main sights. Tram and Bus. Bern has an excellent public transport network operated by BERNMOBIL; your hotel will usually provide a 'Bern Ticket' for free travel on all zones during your stay.
Where to Stay in Bern
Hotel picks for Bern are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Bern
Wein & Sein★ 4.8 (300)Münstergasse 50, 3011 Bern, SwitzerlandThis Michelin-recognized restaurant focuses on seasonal, creative fine dining in an intimate, rustic setting.
Klösterli Weincafe★ 4.6 (932)Klösterlistutz 16, 3013 Bern, SwitzerlandA cozy, sophisticated spot perfect for enjoying high-quality Swiss wines and small plates.
Casa Novo★ 4.6 (453)Läuferpl. 6, 3011 Bern, SwitzerlandA refined riverside restaurant offering exquisite Mediterranean-influenced cuisine in a beautiful historic building.
Adrianos Bar & Café★ 4.5 (1,204)Theaterpl. 2, 3011 Bern, SwitzerlandThe go-to spot for the city's best coffee and a vibrant, bustling local atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.
Restaurant Rosengarten★ 4.4 (6,305)Alter Aargauerstalden 31b, 3006 Bern, SwitzerlandThe panoramic views of the city skyline from this terrace are unmatched, especially during sunset.
Kornhauskeller★ 4.4 (4,144)Kornhauspl. 18, 3011 Bern, SwitzerlandDine in a stunning former grain cellar featuring high vaulted ceilings and authentic Swiss-Mediterranean fusion.
Entrecôte Café Fédéral★ 4.4 (2,069)Bärenpl. 31, 3011 Bern, SwitzerlandA classic brasserie known for its signature steak frites and lively political atmosphere.
Altes Tramdepot★ 4.3 (3,067)Grosser Muristalden 6, 3006 Bern, SwitzerlandLocated right next to the bear park, this brewery offers hearty pub fare and excellent house-made beers.
Tibits★ 4.3 (1,880)Bahnhofpl. 10, 3011 Bern, SwitzerlandA beloved vegetarian buffet concept housed in a historic building that offers incredible variety and quality.
Restaurant Della Casa★ 4.3 (675)Schauplatzgasse 16, 3011 Bern, SwitzerlandThis historic institution is the gold standard for traditional Bernese dishes like Berner Platte.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Bern
Medieval Heart & Icons
Morning. Start your journey at the Zytglogge, the city's 13th-century clock tower, and make sure to arrive shortly before the hour to witness the mechanical puppet show. From there, wander through the arcaded streets of the Old Town, keeping an eye out for the colorful fountains that line the main thoroughfare. Take a short walk to the Einstein House to see where the physicist lived while developing his Theory of Relativity. Spend about an hour exploring the narrow rooms before heading toward the river. It is best to arrive early to beat the crowds at the narrow entrance of the clock tower.
Afternoon. Continue your stroll toward the Bern Minster, the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, and climb the spiraling stairs to the top for a breathtaking panorama of the red-tiled roofs. After descending, head toward the BarenPark, where you can watch the city's famous brown bears roaming along the banks of the Aare River. It is a unique experience to see these animals so close to the urban center. Grab a quick snack at the nearby park benches before walking over the Nydeggbrücke for the best photos of the peninsula. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the cobblestones are quite uneven.
Evening. Wind down your day by walking up the hill to the Rose Garden, which offers the most famous sunset view of the city. As the sky turns pink, you will see the Aare River loop perfectly around the historic center. Once the sun dips below the horizon, walk back down toward the city center for a hearty traditional dinner. The atmosphere here is magical at night when the sandstone buildings are illuminated by golden streetlights. It is the perfect time to reflect on the day's sights over a glass of local wine.
Culture & Political Grandeur
Morning. Begin your second day at the Federal Palace of Switzerland, the seat of the Swiss government, which is a masterpiece of late 19th-century architecture. If you book in advance, you can join a guided tour of the parliament chambers to learn about the unique Swiss political system. Afterward, walk through the bustling Parliament Square, where local markets often set up shop during the mornings. Take a moment to admire the water fountains that shoot up from the plaza floor. It is a great spot for people-watching before you head toward the nearby museums.
Afternoon. Head over to the Kunstmuseum Bern, which houses an impressive collection ranging from Renaissance masters to contemporary art. Spend several hours wandering through the galleries, particularly focusing on the works of Paul Klee, who is deeply associated with the city. If you prefer something more historical, the Bernisches Historisches Museum is just a short tram ride away and offers a deep dive into the region's past. Both museums are well-organized and provide a quiet respite from the city streets. Be sure to check the special exhibition schedule online before you visit.
Evening. End your afternoon by crossing the Kirchenfeldbrücke to reach the elegant Helvetiaplatz area for a more sophisticated evening vibe. Browse the boutique shops or enjoy a quiet stroll through the leafy residential streets that surround the museums. For dinner, choose a place with a view of the river or a cozy bistro tucked into an alleyway. The area feels like a different, more refined side of Bern compared to the busy main street. It is a fantastic way to end a day of intellectual exploration.
Panoramic Heights & River Life
Morning. For your final morning, take the funicular up to the Gurten, the city's local mountain, which offers a stunning view of the Bernese Alps on a clear day. Spend the morning walking the well-marked trails or just relaxing on the sprawling meadows at the summit. There are plenty of activities for families, but it is equally rewarding for solo travelers seeking peace. The funicular ride itself is quick and provides a great perspective on how the city sits within the valley. Bring a light jacket as it can be breezy at the top.
Afternoon. Return to the city center and head to the Kornhaus, a magnificent building that once served as a granary and now houses a beautiful library and restaurant. Spend time browsing the books or admiring the ornate interior architecture that showcases the wealth of the city's past. Afterward, walk down to the Matte district, the oldest neighborhood in Bern, which sits right at the water level. It is a quiet, charming area with narrow lanes and historic workshops that feel worlds away from the busy main shopping streets. It is the perfect place to find local artisan crafts.
Evening. For your final evening, head back to the riverbanks near the Untertorbrücke to experience the local tradition of riverside relaxation. If the weather is warm, you will see locals jumping into the Aare to swim with the current, which is a quintessential Bernese experience. Even if you don't swim, sitting by the water with a drink is the best way to soak in the city's vibe. Conclude your trip with a celebratory dinner at one of the city's top-rated spots near the river. It is the ideal way to say goodbye to this charming capital.