Bern in a Nutshell: Your Essential Guide to Switzerland's Historic Capital

Bern, at the center of Swiss history, has frequently shaped the fortunes of the Mittelland, or populated west-central heartland of the nation. All Swiss have a strong sense of pride in their native canton, but Bernese people take great pleasure in their country.

I find it one of the most enchanting cities in Switzerland right away. Tucked up in a curve of the swiftly flowing River Aare, the Bernese peninsula is crammed with steep sides and quiet, cobbled pathways with sandstone arcaded buildings spanning the sidewalk. The steep riverbanks and surrounding slopes are still covered in forest.

It can be difficult to recall that little Bern, which was previously named Europe's most flowery city, is the capital of the country if you're from Zürich or Geneva. With less than 140,000 residents, Bern maintains the laid-back lifestyle of a small town despite its political dominance. The Old Town is closed to traffic, so you could spend days exploring its alleys and lanes, stopping at cafés and, in the summer, jumping into the river with the residents.

Bern is, in fact, one of the reasons Switzerland is considered to be among the world's most attractive nations for tourists.

Best Bern attractions and activities:

1. Old Town

Explore the UNESCO-protected Old Town of Bern for a really enchanting experience. Few cities in Europe have architecture and a street layout so firmly rooted in their medieval past.

Discover Bern's past with a guided tour led by a knowledgeable travel guide. Then, indulge in some relaxation at the Hamman and Spa.

2. The Münster

Easily recognizable, the late Gothic Münster in Bern towers over the Old Town with its feathery spire, the highest in Switzerland, and its thunderous bells filling the peaceful city.

It is a revered location because of its tower, which is the tallest in Switzerland, which offers breathtaking views of the Alps and its lofty, gloomy interior.

3. The Paul Klee Zentrum

Located in a striking Renzo Piano structure, the excellent museum Zentrum housing the largest collection of the well-known Swiss artist in the world is owned by Paul Klee. The northern "hill," which has a steel ceiling that flows in three lovely waves, or "hills," is devoted to Klee, the composer and teacher.

The southern "hill" honors mathematician and researcher Klee, while below are a children's museum and an underground performance theater.

Which parts of Bern should you visit?

East of the train station, the Old Town occupies the middle high ground of a narrow peninsula that resembles a finger.

The Old Town neighborhood is defined by three lengthy, parallel cobblestone streets, each of which has a different name as it goes along: Schauplatzgasse–Amthausgasse–Münstergasse–Junkerngasse is to the south; Aarbergergasse–Zeughausgasse–Rathausgasse–Postgasse is the northernmost; Spitalgasse–Marktgasse–Kramgasse–Gerechtigkeitsgasse is in the middle.

The older, eastern half of the Old Town is slower-paced, whereas the western half, especially Marktgasse and Spitalgasse, has the busiest shopping.

Located in the heart of the Old Town, the Zytglogge clock tower is almost as much a symbol of Bern as the bear. Its massive, gilded clock face, huge spired roof and squat design will stick in your mind when you think of the city.

Towards the east is the BärenPark (Bear Park), home to three shaggy brown bears kept in a steep hillside region with a riverfront pool at its base. Although bears were housed at this location since the early sixteenth century in the little Bärengraben (Bear Pits), the park was established in 2009.

To the south, centered on Helvetiaplatz, are the principal museums of Bern.

Good to know: The entire city of Bern may be explored on foot thanks to its compact size; for example, it only takes 20 minutes to walk from the station to BärenPark, passing through the entire length of the Old Town. For me, the main pleasure of traveling to Bern is walking, which is the only way to experience the arcades' atmosphere.

Bern as an extensive bus and tram network. Almost all bus lines pass through Bahnhofplatz, however, the electric bus #12, which runs every six minutes, is the most helpful bus route in Bern.

Day trips

Kemmeriboden-Bad: A Countryside Escape from the City

While located outside the urban hustle and bustle, Kemmeriboden-Bad offers a serene and pastoral contrast to the city life of Bern. For visitors or locals from Bern seeking a tranquil retreat, Kemmeriboden-Bad presents an ideal getaway to the Swiss countryside. This transition from the city to the countryside encapsulates the diverse landscape and cultural offerings of the Bern region.

In the heart of the Emmental valley, Kemmeriboden-Bad is part of the Swiss heritage, offering a glimpse into rural Swiss traditions and lifestyles. Visitors from the city will find this a refreshing change of pace, where the slower, more measured rhythm of life allows for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The journey from Bern to Kemmeriboden-Bad is itself a scenic tour, showcasing the natural beauty of the Swiss landscape—rolling hills, lush meadows, and traditional Swiss farmhouses dot the route, offering a stark yet pleasant contrast to the historical cityscapes of Bern.

The Kornhauskeller - Located in a stunningly renovated granary, this restaurant offers a grand dining experience with its vaulted ceilings and intricate frescoes. The menu features Swiss and Mediterranean specialties, making it a perfect spot for a memorable dinner.

Restaurant Schöngrün - Next to the Zentrum Paul Klee, this restaurant is housed in a beautiful villa and offers modern Swiss cuisine. The menu changes with the seasons to ensure freshness and quality, and the tranquil garden setting provides a lovely dining atmosphere.

Casa Novo Restaurante & Vinoteca - Overlooking the Aare River, Casa Novo offers a cozy ambiance and a menu filled with Mediterranean and Spanish delicacies. It’s also known for its extensive wine list, perfect for pairing with your meal.

Jack’s Brasserie - Located in the Schweizerhof Hotel, Jack’s Brasserie is known for its classic French cuisine and legendary Wiener schnitzel. The Belle Époque setting creates an elegant dining environment that’s ideal for special occasions.

Lorenzini - A well-loved Italian restaurant in the heart of Bern, Lorenzini attracts diners with its authentic Italian dishes, from fresh pasta to perfectly cooked steaks and seafood. The lively atmosphere and stylish decor make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.