Bern City Guide

Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town captures the essence of medieval Europe with its perfectly preserved sandstone facades and six kilometers of covered arcades. At the heart of this historical maze stands the Zytglogge, a 13th-century clock tower featuring a whimsical astronomical mechanism. Visitors stroll past ornate 16th-century fountains while exploring the boutique shops and cellar bars that define the city’s unique architectural rhythm.

Life in the capital revolves around the turquoise waters of the Aare River. In summer, the city transforms as locals leap into the current for a refreshing float down to the Marzili pools. On the banks nearby, the BärenPark offers a spacious habitat for the city’s namesake bears. For the finest perspective of the skyline and the surrounding Alps, a short climb to the Rosengarten provides a panoramic vista over the river’s dramatic horseshoe bend.

To experience Bern like a resident, head to the banks of the Aare. While tourists admire the river from high bridges, locals leap into the glacial waters at Eichholz and float down to the Marzili pool. It is a summer rite of passage that defines the city's relaxed character.

Explore the Matte district, the city’s oldest neighborhood tucked away at the river's edge. Known for its history of artisan workshops and its own secret dialect, this car-free zone offers a tranquil, medieval atmosphere away from the main shopping streets.

For a spectacular sunset, head to the Grosse Schanze. Located behind the main station at the University, this sprawling terrace provides a local perspective of the Alps and the city skyline, making it a favorite spot for evening drinks and picnics.

Bern’s compact layout and efficient public transport system make navigating the Swiss capital a breeze. The BernMobil network of trams and buses covers the city comprehensively, and if you are staying in commercial accommodation, you will receive the Bern Ticket, granting free unlimited travel in zones 100 and 101. For those exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, walking is the most rewarding method, as the cobblestone streets and medieval arcades are best experienced on foot.

For longer distances, taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available, though they are relatively expensive compared to public transit. A taxi ride from Bern Airport (BRN) to the city center typically costs between CHF 50 and CHF 60. Alternatively, the more budget-friendly route involves taking the S-Bahn train to Belp and transferring to bus line 160, which costs approximately CHF 7.00. Within the city, a standard single ticket for one to two zones costs around CHF 4.60, while a short-distance hop is roughly CHF 2.60.

Cycling is another popular and eco-friendly option. Through the Bern rollt initiative, visitors can borrow bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters for free for up to four hours with a valid ID and a small cash deposit. This provides a fantastic way to reach the riverside or the Rosengarten park while enjoying the city’s clean air and scenic vistas.

Bern offers a unique shopping experience centered around its UNESCO-listed Old Town, where six kilometers of limestone arcades, known as Lauben, provide shelter for shoppers. For luxury seekers and international brands, the bustling Spitalgasse and Marktgasse are the primary destinations. Here, you will find high-end boutiques and the prestigious Globus department store, offering everything from designer fashion to exquisite Swiss delicacies.

Those seeking a more eclectic or budget-friendly experience should wander into the lower Old Town, particularly around Rathausgasse. This area is home to independent ateliers, second-hand shops, and charming bookstores. For a truly local flavor, do not miss the weekly markets at Waisenhausplatz or Bundesplatz, where you can purchase world-famous Swiss cheeses, artisanal honey, and traditional crafts directly from regional producers.

No trip to Bern is complete without exploring the city’s specialty products. Look for premium Swiss watches, intricate woodcarvings, and the legendary local chocolates. Whether you are browsing for a high-precision timepiece or a simple bag of Mandelbärli—the city's famous almond bear cookies—Bern’s mix of historic charm and modern retail ensures there is something for every budget.

In Bern, tipping is appreciated but never mandatory, as service charges are legally included in prices at restaurants, cafes, and bars. For good service, it is customary to round up the bill to the nearest five or ten Swiss Francs (CHF). A tip of roughly 5% to 10% is considered generous for an exceptional dining experience. When paying by card, tell the server the total amount you wish to pay before they process the transaction.

The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), which currently trades at approximately 1.15 USD for every 1 CHF. While credit cards are widely accepted throughout the city, keeping small coins on hand is helpful for rounding up at smaller establishments. In hotels, a couple of francs per bag for the porter is a kind gesture that reflects the high standard of Swiss hospitality.

The ideal window to visit Bern spans from June to August, when the city’s medieval charm is best enjoyed alongside the turquoise Aare River. During these warm months, locals and visitors alike take to the water for a refreshing float through the UNESCO-listed Old Town. While summer brings the highest visitor numbers and premium lodging prices, the vibrant outdoor atmosphere and long daylight hours make it the most popular choice.

For a more tranquil experience with lower costs, consider the shoulder seasons of May and September. Alternatively, late November offers a unique cultural highlight with the Zibelemärit (Onion Market), followed by the cozy glow of traditional Christmas markets. While winter weather is brisk and gray, the festive spirit and fewer crowds provide a cozy, intimate perspective of Switzerland’s capital.