15 Things To Do In Bern, Switzerland
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Bern, the capital of Switzerland is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Founded in the 12th century, the UNESCO old town of Bern sits atop a hill, surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Aare river and patches of luscious emerald forests. Bern, feeling more like a big town rather than a city, offers the perfect blend of charming gothic architecture, lively street vibes, and nature. Today I’m going to reveal my 14 favorite places to go in Bern, no matter what season it is. If you have just one day in Bern don’t worry, you can easily follow this route and make a self-guided walking tour. Also, don’t forget to like this video and subscribe to my YouTube channel if you find this information helpful.
Matequartier
Let’s start down along the river at Bern’s oldest bridge, Untertorbrücke, which was the only Aare bridge in Bern until the 19th century. This bridge will lead you into the Matequartier, one of Bern’s smallest and oldest medieval neighborhoods. Historically, it was famous for its workshops and mercantiles, and through the years, has continued to stay true to its roots. Walking the quaint streets of the Mate you will still find craftsmen workshops, tiny boutiques, and cozy cafes. The neighborhood has a charming village vibe with its beautiful trees, benches, fountains, and it even has a communal library. Make sure you check out the Ländtetor ruins, a 13th century gate along the river, which was once the only direct access into the lower town.
Marzili
Keep walking along the Aare and you will reach Marzili. You’ll find a lovely little park with views of the city, perfect for picnicking or relaxing. During the summer months, Marzili is known as being a hotspot for Aare river swimming. You can go to the Marzilibad, where you will find a giant park along the river with several staircases from which you can swim in and out of the Aare.
Dalmaziquai
Cross the Dalmaziquaibrücke, and head to the left down Dalmaziquai street. Walking along this street you will have stunning views of the city of Bern from below. You can stop and sit along the riverside staircases and soak up the views of the magnificent Bundeshaus and Münster. Continue down, passing a few riverfront restaurants, and you will be led to a path through the forest, where you will feel back in nature again.
Bärengraben
When the forest gives way, you will arrive at Bärengraben, the famous natural park along the river where the bears of Bern are living. The Bärengraben is a Swiss heritage site of national significance, and is particularly of importance in Bern because the Bear is the symbol of the city. If you are there at the right time, you may be able to see one of the bears roaming around.
Rosengarten
Just up the hill is the panoramic Rosengarten park. On the walk up, you will witness striking views of the old city, and begin to see the surrounding area of Bern. At the top, you will have a birds eye view of the entire city and see how the river makes a horseshoe bend around it. In the park you will find an array of plants, flowers, and trees, along with a lily pad pond. It’s a great place for having a picnic or an apero. In Switzerland apero means happy hour.
Nydeggbrücke
Head back down the hill and cross the Nydeggbrücke bridge. From the north side of the bridge you have a clear view of the Untertorbrücke, and can appreciate just how old it is. You can also see the Matequartier from above, along with the majestic Nydeggkirche church. In the distance you will see a beautiful hillside lined with historic homes.
Kramgasse
After crossing the bridge you will be led into the old city of Bern, onto Kramgasse street, one of medieval Bern’s most popular streets that served as the main marketplace. You will notice doors leading underground into old cellars, which have mostly been converted into bars and shops. Kramgasse is also where Albert Einstein lived from 1903-1905 and his home is now a small museum.
Rathausplatz
Up the street take a quick detour over to Rathausplatz, where you will pass Bern’s oldest pharmacy, dating back to 1527. From Rathausplatz you can admire the Rathaus, which means Town Hall in German. It was originally built around 1406, and after being remodeled several times throughout the centuries, still to this day it is where the parliaments of Bern hold their meetings. Next to it you can see the first Catholic church built in Bern since the Reformation of the 16th century. It was built in the style of the Romanesque and French cathedral Gothic.
Münsterplattform/ Münsterplatz
Head back across Kramgasse towards the 600 year old Münster, the tallest cathedral in Switzerland with a height of 100.6 meters, or 330 feet. Next to the Münster lies the former churchyard, now known as the Münsterplattform park. Filled with chestnut trees, green grass, games, benches, and delightful views of the city and alps, it's a lovely place to pass time. Also make sure to walk around the Münster to see it from the front.
Zytglogge
Just up the street is one of Bern’s most recognizable landmarks and the oldest monument, the Zytglogge clock tower. It was originally built in the 13th century, and has since served as a guard tower, prison, and clock tower, to name a few. The astrological clock and musical mechanism were installed in the 15th century, and thus the tower got its name Zytglogge, meaning “time bell” in German. If you’re lucky enough to be there on the hour, you can watch the unique hourly show of the clock, music, and all its moving mechanisms.
Kirchenfeldbrücke
Next, take a walk across Kirchenfeldbrücke, a high bridge with views of the city and Aare river on both sides. On the other side of the bridge you will see what looks like a castle, but is in fact the Bernese Historical Museum. With over 500,000 pieces in the museum, it is worth a visit if you are interested in learning more about the history of Bern. Either way, the architecture of this museum is an interesting site to see.
Bärenplatz/ Bern Market
Next cross back over the bridge and head to Bärenplatz, once a market for horses, wood, and cattle, and now a bustling plaza with restaurants. If you’re there on a Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, you’ll have to be sure to stop by their weekly markets and check out the selection of foods, artisan crafts, and other merchandise.
Bundehaus
Just next to Bärenplatz you will see the giant Bundeshaus, also known as the Federal Palace of Switzerland. It is considered one of the most important buildings in Switzerland, as it houses the Federal council and assembly, and is the seat of government in Switzerland and parliament of the country. Walk through to the other side of the Bundeshaus and you will have a grand view of Bern, and on clear days you can see the Swiss alps. The Bundeshaus is a popular area for locals to gather and admire the beautiful countryside views, especially at sunset.
Kleine Schanze
Just next to the Bundeshaus you will see another park along a hillside. This is the Kleine Schanze, another popular park and lookout point lined with benches and trees. Make sure to walk over the hill to get a bird's eye view of this beautiful little park, and then back down on the other side, where you will walk down a path through the trees. On this side of the park you have a big grassy area, a fountain, and in the spring and summertime it turns into a botanical paradise, with an array of plant and flower species thriving.
Grosse Schanze
Last but not least on our list is Grosse Schanze. Once part of the city fortifications, the Grosse Schanze is now a large roof terrace in front of the main building of the University of Bern. It is one of Bern’s highest parks with sweeping views of the old city, and a gorgeous background of the swiss alps, just like you would imagine on a postcard. Walk around the entire park to take in all the unique views of this picturesque scene.
Well, that’s a wrap up of the best of Bern. If you have any tips you’d like to share, or any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below. If you found this video helpful I would love it if you gave it a like and subscribed to the channel