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17 Top Sights & Best Things to Do in Bern, Switzerland (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: July 23, 2024

Planning a visit to Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, and wondering what there’s to see and do in Bern, or whether it’s worth a trip? In this guide, we share the best things to do in Bern and some tips for your visit. I hope this will inspire you to visit!

Beautiful Bern is quite unlike any other city in Switzerland. From its covered arcades to its prestigious title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is uniquely charming and very relaxed. Bern is rather small (at least for a capital city) and has a totally different feel than all the major capital cities in Europe.

Bern is really picturesque , with its medieval architecture lovingly preserved. There are cultural and historic gems scattered throughout. The city is also very easy to get around and is so compact that you can comfortably tour on foot. In fact, almost all the main landmarks and sights in Bern mentioned in this guide are within short walking distance from each other.

With so many attractions to visit, it can be difficult to know which ones to include in your itinerary. So in this guide, we focus only on the VERY BEST places to see and things to do in Bern that are worth it the most if visiting Bern for the first time. So if your Swiss trip itinerary includes one day in Bern, you know exactly where to go.

To help you plan your time, we also created a map of Bern attractions (you can find it at the bottom of this article), together with some practical info for your visit.

Top 3 Experiences in Bern:

• Old Town Walking Tour.
• Zytglogge Clock Tower .
• Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour .

Here are the main sights and things to do in Bern:

1. Bern Old Town

One of the first places to see in Bern is its medieval Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is beautifully located, high on a cliff with the sparkling blue waters of the Aare River on three sides. But it’s the beautiful buildings, colorful flags, and traditional fountains that make it picture-perfect.

You’ll find most of Bern’s main landmarks in this part of town, along with numerous fountains, the famous Clock Tower, old statues, and impressive bridges that cross the Aare. Indeed, it is easy to spend many happy hours in the Old Town as there is simply so much to see and do.

Originally filled with wooden structures, Bern Old Town was devastated by fire in 1405. Tall sandstone buildings were built to replace them, uniform in appearance and most with arcades on the ground floor. These arcades are filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops. They run for several miles and the local tourist office describes them as the ‘longest covered shopping promenade in the world’.

There are four main streets in the Old Town – Spitalgasse , Marktgasse , Kramgasse , and Gerechtigkeitsgasse – running east from the city’s central station. When you walk them, you hardly notice when one street turns into the other – it looks almost like one long road. It’s not entirely reserved for pedestrians, but there’s usually little traffic and it’s wide enough to stroll along comfortably, (just look out for buses when you cross!).

Be sure to check out the rest of the Old Town as well and don’t miss the Rathausplatz where the Bern Town Hall and the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul are located. Lots of smaller streets are just as picturesque and usually not as busy as the main road, and you’ll find some really pretty buildings and town squares that are well worth seeing too.

TIP: If you want to see the very best of Bern in a short time, check out this popular old town walking tour . It takes about 1.5 hours and is a great first introduction to the city!

2. Bern Fountains

Bern is home to a staggering 100 public fountains. Many have interesting histories behind them and some offer free, drinkable water to thirsty passers-by.

But the most famous of them all are the 11 Renaissance fountains in the city center . Attributed to the Swiss sculptor Hans Gieng, these fountains date back to the 16th century. They all feature polychrome sculptures on a pedestal .

Some sculptures are of some dignitary from Bern’s past, some others – of a historic figure like Moses ( Mosesbrunnen ), or a symbolic figure like Lady Justice. The latter can be seen atop the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen (Fountain of Justice).

The Zähringerbrunnen (Zähringen Fountain) – close to the Zytglogge clock – is worth a special mention too. It is topped with the statue of a bear in full armor, with weapons. The Läuferbrunnen (Runner Fountain) is another popular attraction, built in homage to Bern’s power.

The city originally had wooden fountains and these elaborate stone fountains were built to replace them. They played an important role in society and provided a place for locals to meet up and exchange gossip. They are still a focal point of Bern today, with some used as sites for Christmas markets and others used for gatherings like political demonstrations.

Good to know: Kronenbrunnen in the Postgasse is a sculpture known as a fountain without a sculpture on top. It’s a popular spot to pose for a photo – you can climb the stairs to the top and stand where the statue would be.

3. Cathedral of Bern

Also known as Berner Münster or the Cathedral of St. Vincent , the Cathedral of Bern is located right in the heart of the Old Town. Built from the 15th century onwards, Bern’s Cathedral is the tallest in Switzerland .

This beautiful Gothic building is made from sandstone and its chief attraction is its magnificent spire, which was only completed in 1893. It is more than 100 meters tall and you can buy tickets to climb all the way to the top – up an eye-watering 254 steps!

There is a lot to see inside the Cathedral too. As you enter, you come across the Last Judgement . This is a collection of stone and wood sculptures depicting naked sinners and clothed righteous gathered around Michael the Archangel. The stained glass windows are exceptional too, with the most memorable being Matter Chapel’s Dance of Death.

Also note the ornately carved choir stalls dating back to the 16th century, a Gothic font in the apse, and a magnificent Baroque organ from the early 18th century.

Bern Cathedral is an active place of worship and services are held every Saturday and Sunday.

If you are feeling energetic, it’s well worth the effort to climb the tower of Berner Münster . The 360° views from the tower are wonderful. The entire city of Bern is under your feet – this is really the place to be for the very best views in Bern!

Inside the tower, you can also see the largest bell in Switzerland – “Grosse Glocke” (Big Bell) which weighs 10 tons. There are also several other bells, dating from the 14-19th centuries.

Good to know: No bags or backpacks are allowed inside the Cathedral tower. I had a really small purse with me and even that wasn’t allowed. Luckily, they have secure lockers where you can leave your (not too large) bags behind.

TIP: For some nice views without the climb, head to the Münsterplattform behind the Cathedral. From this pretty terrace, you can look right across the Aare river and the city.

4. Zytglogge Clock Tower

Zytglogge is one of the most famous landmarks in Bern. This clock tower dates back to the 12th century and is one of the remainders of Bern’s first city walls. In the early part of the 16th century, an astronomical clock was added which has struck on the hour ever since!

Be sure to arrive at Marktgasse several minutes before the hour and you’ll be rewarded with a fun sight when a circus of mechanical creatures appears and performs a little show.

PRO TIP: If you want to visit the Clock Tower inside, I highly recommend booking this highly-rated clock tower tour . It takes you inside the tower and behind the scenes to show you the mechanism controlling both the figures and the clock.

On this 1-hr tour, you can also climb the 130 steps of the spiral staircase to reach the lookout platform at the top. There are some nice views across the city’s rooftops. This is the most popular tour in Bern, so be sure to book in advance!

Good to know: In the high season (June-October), the tour of the Zytglogge clock tower runs daily. In the low season, there are no tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Here you can check the availability and reserve your spot .

5. Käfigturm

Käfigturm is another medieval tower in Bern, part of the old city gate. Featuring a clock at the top, its architecture is quite beautiful. Nowadays, trams pass directly through the arch at the base of the tower, where the city gate used to be. It’s always fun to see a tram drive under the tower.

This picturesque tower has a rather grim history. Built early in the 13th century, it was first used as a defense tower but later became a prison where criminals were interrogated and then locked away! Rumor has it that you can still see things the prisoners scribbled onto the doors of their dungeons…

Happily, the Käfigturm tower is now less forbidding and is used for political discussions instead.

Good to know: On request, guided tours of the tower are available from Polit-Forum Bern – see their website (in German) for more information. But it’s really not a must to visit inside – you can just admire the tower from the outside.

6. Bear Pit

Bears are the symbol of Bern and one appears on the city’s coat of arms. Legend has it that the founder of the city – Berchtold V. von Zähringen – went on a hunting expedition in the surrounding forest and a bear was the very first animal he caught. It was to this bear that the city owes its name!

The very first bear to be kept in Bern was brought home as the spoils of war after a battle. It was kept in front of the Käfigturm, in the city’s moat. Bears have continued to be kept in Bern ever since, and they were moved to the Bärengraben (or Bear Pit) in 1857.

Bear Pir is free to visit and is one of the most popular Bern attractions. You can’t come to Bern and not see its bears!

Covering a big area next to the river, the Bear Pit comprises two enclosures connected by a tunnel. One is the older, original pit which was rather basic and didn’t give the bears a very pleasant environment in which to live. The second – which you can also view from above – is far newer, richly forested, and much bigger.

The area surrounding the Pit has several scenic walkways and there is an elevator connecting the upper and lower levels. The best views are from the top.

At the moment, there are four bears kept here – Byörk, Finn, and their cubs Ursina and Berna. If you are lucky, you can see them play-fighting or eating their favorite foods – melons and apples. When we visited, the bears were hanging around in the forest part of their large enclosure. Even then we could still see them, but a bit of patience was required.

Good to know: The bears hibernate between October and March. So if you are visiting Bern in winter, you can only see them through a webcam.

7. Rosengarten

Not too far from the Bear Pit is Bern’s beautiful Rose Garden Park (Rosengarten) . Located high on a steep hill, it affords exceptional views of the Old Town and across to the Alps.

Once a cemetery, Rosengarten became a public park in 1913, with its very first roses planted a few years later. Now, it has over 200 kinds of roses plus hundreds of different types of rhododendrons, azaleas, and irises. You’ll also find a pond (which is dotted with gorgeous lilies in July), plus sculptures, fountains, and a pavilion.

Green and tranquil, it is a favorite spot with local families and couples. When we visited, there was even a morning yoga class on the big lawn with the most amazing city views. And there’s a big playground here as well, so if you are visiting Bern with kids, this might be a good place to blow off some steam…

The best time to visit the Rosengarten is, of course, in spring and in summer when all the flowers are in bloom. It’s also a nice spot to watch the sunset in Bern.

You can bring a picnic and stop here for lunch, or enjoy a meal at the lovely Restaurant Rosengarten. It is reasonably priced and has a large sun terrace with some fabulous views.

TIP: Don’t miss the Einstein bench close to the restaurant and overlooking the city. This is one of the four Einstein benches in Bern and a nice spot for a picture… Another Einstein bench that you can easily see is located at the Bern Historical Museum/Einstein Museum mentioned below.

8. Einstein Museum/ Bern Historical Museum

Albert Einstein’s link to Bern is strong – he lived here for 7 years at the beginning of the 20th century. What’s more, Bern is where he developed his famous Theory of Relativity and published some of his most important papers. He also lectured at the University of Bern.

This link is celebrated at the Einstein Museum. It’s part of the Bern Historical Museum (Bernisches Historisches Museum) , Switzerland’s second-largest institution of its kind.

Bern’s Historical Museum focuses on ancient history, archeology, and ethnography. The Einstein Museum is a fascinating place too, with lots of photos, footage, and documents connected to his time there.

Highlights include a letter from Einstein to President Roosevelt, warning him of Germany’s nuclear capabilities, and Einstein’s 1921 Nobel Prize certificate. You can even see his (somewhat unimpressive) school reports. There is also a great deal of information about his private life – some of it quite surprising!

And if you’ve always wondered what the Theory of Relativity actually is, you can find out through an animated film designed for non-scientific minds!

Good to know: The Einstein Museum is open daily except on Mondays (see their website for more practical info). You need at least 1.5-2 hours for a quick visit to the Bern Historical Museum/ Einstein Museum. But you can easily spend half a day here too. It’s also a good place to visit in Bern when it rains.

TIP: It’s well worth coming here even if you don’t have the time or interest to visit the museum. The 19th-century castle-style building of the museum and the park are really beautiful and well worth seeing.

9. Einstein House

Einstein House in the old town is another popular place to visit in Bern. If you don’t have the time for the Einstein Museum, this might be a good alternative. Einstein House is located in the city center and you only need 15-30 minutes for a visit. But you can’t really compare the two museums in any way.

At the Einstein House, you can see the third-floor flat where he lived from 1903 to 1905 with his wife Mileva Marić and son Hans Albert. At the time, Einstein was working for the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property. More importantly, it was where he wrote the Annus Mirabilis papers which revolutionized the scientific community’s understanding of the universe.

There are two floors to explore at this museum – one scientific in nature and the other decorated to look as it would have done when the family lived here.

Good to know: Access is via a steep flight of stairs and there is no elevator, so this attraction is not suitable for anyone with mobility problems.

Practical info: Einstein House is open daily, except for a few weeks at the end of December and in January. See their website for more practical info.

TIP: Considering its popularity and the very small area this flat occupies, it can get very crowded here! Try to visit just as it opens or late in the day when there are fewer tourists.

10. Swiss Parliament Building

The Swiss Federal Assembly is one of the oldest democracies in the world. Its home in Bern’s Renaissance-style Parliament Building (Bundeshaus) is a must-see attraction. Not only is the building’s facade quite beautiful, but its interior is breathtaking, with stunning stained glass, elegantly carved wood, and magnificent sculptures.

The two chambers of the Swiss Parliament are housed in the domed block in the center, whilst the wings are used for different federal agencies and the federal library. Everything is open to the public, although access is restricted when Parliament is in session.

Good to know: Guided tours of the Parliament Building are free of charge and take around an hour. You have to book well in advance, as they are extremely popular. More info here .

Don’t miss the spectacular fountain on the Bundesplatz (Parliament Square) outside. It has 26 jets symbolizing the 26 cantons of Switzerland (the member states of the Swiss Confederation). The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly. It’s a spot where locals come to socialize and you can sometimes catch a market by day, or a spectacular light show on the Parliament building at night.

TIP: Just beyond the Bundeshaus is the Bundeshausterrasse . This is a popular viewpoint with a small park where you’ll find some benches to relax. There are also a few giant chess boards where you can often see locals play. Here, you can also see a 3D model of the Parliament Building and there’s an orientation sign highlighting all the mountain peaks you can see in the distance.

11. Nydeggbrücke & Untertorbrücke

Nydeggbrücke is a bridge in the eastern end of the old city of Bern. The bridge is a Swiss heritage site of national significance, but it’s mostly worth visiting for the very picturesque view across the city and down to the Bear Pit.

From here, you can also see the older stone bridge Untertorbrücke which was originally the only bridge crossing the Aare.

Both bridges are quite picturesque – and the surroundings even more so. If you walk to/from Bear Pit or Rosengarten Park, you’ll likely cross Nydeggbrücke anyway. But even if you are not planning to visit those places, it’s worth coming to these bridges for the nice views of the city and the Aare.

12. Zentrum Paul Klee

Located on the eastern outskirts of Bern, Zentrum Paul Klee is the best art museum in Bern.

This outstanding museum contains about 4,000 works by the German-Swiss painter Paul Klee, one of the early 20th century’s most influential artists. In this museum in Bern, you can see some of his most recognized works.

Because many of Klee’s works are very sensitive to light, they are shown on a rotational basis along with pieces from other artists. There are usually some 120 to 150 works of Paul Klee on display at any given time and the collection changes on a regular basis.

The building housing the museum is worth a visit in its own right! It was designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano and commissioned by Klee’s daughter, who donated all of her inheritance to the city of Bern. Airy and light, it resembles a rolling landscape and is quite stunning!

Good to know: The museum is open daily except on Mondays and some public holidays. They run guided tours and creative workshops for all ages. For more information, check their website .

Getting there: If you don’t have a car, you can easily get here by bus #12 in the direction ‘Zentrum Paul Klee’ from the old town. It takes just 10-15 minutes.

13. Hammam & Spa Oktogon

For a relaxing break from sightseeing in Bern and something different to do in the city, why not book a bathing ritual at the city’s Hammam & Spa Oktogon .

Spread over four floors, this unique spa is housed in a beautiful building that was once the home of Switzerland’s first gas boiler. It offers a really special experience that follows a fixed course, involving warming, cleansing, exfoliation, a bath, and a steam room.

Good to know: The culture in Bern is a little less body-shy than you might be used to, so be prepared to witness some nudity during your spa experience. It’s an adults-only experience (from 16 years), except a few days a year when they organize a special kids’ day.

TIP: The quietest time to visit is in the morning or around noon. You can find more info and opening times here .

14. Shopping & Dining

If you are looking for a more relaxing city trip, Bern offers some great shopping and dining too!

Its 6 km (almost 4 miles) of covered arcades in the Old Town protect you from the weather while you peruse the high-end boutiques and stores within. You’ll find everything from luxury goods to traditional Swiss knives and Einstein-themed souvenirs.

And everywhere you go, you’ll find brown bears – the symbol of the city. From irresistible cuddly bear toys to bear-shaped cookies, bear chocolates, etc.

If you like to check out some local markets , you have some choices in Bern, too. You’ll find a vegetable and flower market on the Bundesplatz every Tuesday and Saturday morning. On the third Saturday during the warm months, head to the Mühleplatz for Bern’s largest flea market. And if you’re lucky enough to be visiting at Christmas, check out the festive markets at the Waisenhausplatz and the Münsterplatz.

And as far as food goes, you’ll find plenty of nice restaurants in Bern, with lots of Swiss and also Italian restaurants. In summer, check out the restaurant terraces close to Käfigturm. It might be a bit touristy, but the atmosphere is great and the food is usually very good too.

TIP: If you are a chocolate lover, check out one of the Läderach chocolate shops. It offers some of the best Swiss chocolate you will ever taste, available in every flavor you can imagine!

Gurten – or “Güsche” as locals call it – is a mountain located just to the south of Bern city. Even though Gurten is not that high (858 m (2,815 ft)) and is rather a hill than a mountain, it offers nice 360-degree views across the city and the Alps.

However, don’t expect the views like at Mt Titlis , Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , Gornergrat , or Mt Pilatus – it’s simply not high enough for that. This is a more low-key experience in Bern where you’ll find more locals than tourists.

At the top of Gurten Kulm, there is a free tower to climb (Gurten Observation Tower) and lots of scenic trails, taking in the dense forests and flowery meadows. There is also a charming miniature railway for children. The fun doesn’t stop in the winter. If there is enough snow, then you can enjoy a toboggan run and there is even skiing for kids.

TIP: There are several excellent dining options on Gurten, including the buffet-style offerings at Tapis Rouge and tasty brunches at the Pavilion. For a gourmet treat, dine at Gurtners, which is a great place to watch the sun go down over a truly stunning landscape.

Good to know: The Gurtenfestival is held in mid-July and has attracted some big names in music in the past. This means that the area can be very busy, so if you are visiting in this period, be prepared for long queues.

Getting there: Gurten is easy to access by tram no. 9 which takes just about 20 minutes from Bern city center. Once you get there, you can simply take the funicular to the top of the mountain. More than a century old, the funicular departs every 15 minutes and only takes a few minutes to get to the top.

Practical information: Gurten funicular runs daily the whole year round, except for a few days of annual maintenance. It usually starts at around 7 AM and runs until late in the evening. For more information, see the official website . Normally, you don’t have to plan much or book anything in advance – you can simply get tickets once you get there. If you have the Swiss Travel Pass, it’s valid here too.

READ ALSO: Swiss Travel Pass (& Is It Worth It)

16. Emmental Valley

Located about 30km east of Bern, Emmental Valley is one of the places that might be worth visiting if you have more time in the area.

Less than an hour from Bern by car, Emmental has a quintessentially Swiss landscape. Its verdant hills are dotted with cows and farmhouses, set against a breathtaking backdrop of the Bernese Oberland.

You may recognize the name of this area by the cheese for which it is famous. If you are just passing the area by car, you can stop at Kambly Experience in Trubschachen, where you can taste Switzerland’s best-known premium biscuit brand, and the show dairy, where you can learn all about the history of Swiss cheese. Emmentaler Schaukäserei in Affoltern also organizes guided tours of a show dairy farm.

TIP: Some day tours that visit Bern from Zurich or Lucerne also include a stop here ( see this popular tour – it has the most complete itinerary for a day trip to Bern including Emmental Valley).

If you have more time, it is really worth visiting for its magnificent valley for hiking and biking too. Should you choose to visit in winter, then the terrain is completely covered in snow, with skiing and snowshoeing available too.

Good to know: E-bikes were invented here and they are ideal for exploring the uphill trails in the region. You can rent them locally but do some more research as to where exactly to go and what to see if you decide to spend more time here.

17. Helicopter Tours

If you are looking for something truly unique to do in Switzerland, you may want to consider a scenic helicopter flight above the Swiss Alps . Bern is a great place for that – with the central location and a small airport where helicopter flights depart from.

Because of its great location, you can choose from a big variety of helicopter tours from Bern .

There are shorter tours focusing on the Bern area (this is the most affordable option ) or somewhat longer ones to Interlaken or the famous mountains of the Jungfrau Region (see this tour ).

TIP: If money is not an issue and you are looking for something truly unique, you can take the longest scenic flight over the Swiss Alps and even get to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt . You can find more information about this helicopter flight and book it on Viator .

Good to know: Helicopter tours from Bern run the whole year. The tours we recommend above normally offer free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance, so you don’t risk much and can cancel if the weather isn’t great.

Map of top places to see in Bern

To help you orient, we created this map indicating all the places and attractions in Bern city that are mentioned in this article. In addition to the main sights, we also indicated all the fountains, viewpoints, etc.

Further below, you can also find some practical information for your visit to Bern.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Is Bern worth visiting?

With so many amazing places to see in Switzerland and limited time, you might be wondering whether Bern is worth it… Indeed, a lot depends on how much time you have.

But in itself, yes, Bern is absolutely worth seeing. With its beautiful location, picturesque old town, and cozy atmosphere, Bern is one of the nicest cities in Switzerland. Furthermore, it has good transport connections so it’s easy to get to, AND you can see most of the main landmarks of Bern in just a day. This makes it easy to include Bern in any Swiss itinerary.

How much time do you need in Bern?

As already mentioned, you can see the best that Bern has to offer in one day. So the majority of tourists visit Bern for a day, and there are also some day tours to Bern from other major cities in Switzerland.

TIP: One of the best options for a day trip is this Bern and Emmental Valley day tour from either Zurich or Lucerne.

If you spend at least one night/ two days in Bern, you should be able to cover all the places on this list.

Where to stay in Bern

If you are planning to spend a night or two in Bern and are traveling by train, you can stay pretty much anywhere in the old town. Bern station is located in the heart of the city center and you can walk to most hotels in just a few minutes.

Here are some of the best centrally-located hotels in Bern for all budgets :

• $$$$$ 5* Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa
• $$$$ 4* THE BRISTOL
• $$$ Akomo Bern
• $$ Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke

TIP: If you are visiting by car , check out Swissotel Kursaal Bern – it has private parking and is within easy walking distance from the old town.

I hope this guide to the best attractions in Bern has been helpful. Have a wonderful time in Switzerland’s scenic and tranquil capital city!

More destination guides to some of our favorite places in Switzerland:

• Best Things to Do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Zermatt (+ Gornergrat & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise )
• Best things to do in Lucerne
• Interlaken day trip
• How to visit Mt Titlis
• How to visit Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe
• How to visit Mt Pilatus (+ Pilatus Golden Round Trip )
• Things to do at Grindelwald – First
• Grindelwald-First Cliff Walk
• Best day trips from Lucerne
• Switzerland Itinerary for 10 Days

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Read also – some of our favorite hikes in Switzerland:

• Matterhorn Glacier Trail  (in Zermatt)
• Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge Hike  (near Zermatt)
• Hiking at Schynige Platte  (near Interlaken)
• Oeschinensee Hike  (close to Interlaken)
• Four Lakes Hike in Engelberg  (near Lucerne)
• Bachalpsee Lake Hike  (Grindelwald)
• Stoos Ridge Hike  (not far from Lucerne)

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nikita hemnani

Monday 11th of September 2023

hey I am visiting Switzerland from India in the first week of October. your blog is so detailed, to make a good itinerary. Can you please help me with if there are any adventurous things to do, or warm water lakes or spas. thank you.

Hi Nikita, there are plenty of adventurous things to do in Switzerland, like paragliding, canyoning, kayaking, via ferrata's, etc. You can find some fun tours here if interested. Just keep in mind that not everything might be available in October, so you'll have to check specifically for your travel dates (and the locations where you're planning on visiting). I haven't heard of any warm lakes, but there are lots of spas (like the one mentioned in this article about Bern). Many hotels have their own spas too. A popular place is Rigi Kaltbad Spa near Lucerne (usually visited in combination with Mt Rigi - see here for more info). Another very popular place for thermal pools is Leukerbad. Free entry to Leukerbad Therme is included if you stay in this hotel. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Michelle Stevenson

Thursday 10th of August 2023

Great article, very detailed & laid out well for a great visit to Bern. We are heading there next week but one of our days there is Sunday. Are the tourist attractions, some cafes or restaurants open please ?

Friday 11th of August 2023

@Jurga, that’s great. Thanks so much !

Hi Michelle, in general yes, pretty much all the main tourist sights are open on Sundays. The Zytglogge Tower tour also runs on Sundays. If, however, you absolutely want to visit a specific place, it's best to check their website in advance. Some museums (e.g. Einstein Museum and Zentrum Paul Klee) are closed on Mondays though. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 9th of May 2023

Good article. I also think the Natural History Museum of Bern is worth visiting just to see the Swiss mineral collection, particularly the giant transparent quartz crystals.

Thanks for the suggestion, Clayton. I'm sure it could be interesting to some people indeed. We never got there on during our multiple trips...

Milan Paunovic

Thursday 20th of April 2023

I have been twice to Bern. And about the bears they look in super health and well looked after. Bern has a lot of history and culture and the bears are in Berns history thank you for your history and nostalgia super

Yes, indeed, Milan. Happy travels!

Pete Jerdel

Monday 6th of March 2023

Sad about the bears. No animal should have to live confined for the sake of tourists. I ordinarily like your site but can't stomach the promotion of animal abuse.

Seriously?! It’s somehow my fault that bears are the symbol of the city of Bern, have been for hundreds of years, and the city chooses to have a huge enclosure where a few bears live??? And I really don’t think that the city symbol has anything to do with tourists. Btw, you likely never visited Bern and have no idea what you are even talking about… As for us. We document travel experiences as they are, and no guide to Bern would be complete without mentioning its bears. That’s all there is to it. That’s also what travel is about- getting to know the world as it is and understanding that people and cultures can be different, whether you like it or not. If you travel more, you learn to acknowledge the good and the not so good stuff without judging it.

Wandering through the picture-postcard, Unesco World Heritage–listed Old Town, with its provincial, laid-back air, it's hard to believe that Bern (Berne in French) is the capital of Switzerland.

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Historisches Museum Bern

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Kunstmuseum

Bern's Museum of Fine Arts houses Switzerland’s oldest permanent collection, ranging from an exquisite early Renaissance Madonna and Child by Fra Angelico…

Bern’s 15th-century Gothic cathedral boasts Switzerland’s loftiest spire (100m); climb the 344-step spiral staircase for vertiginous views. Coming down,…

A popular etymological theory is that Bern got its name from the bear (Bär in German), when the city’s founder, Berthold V, duke of Zähringen, snagged one…

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19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bern

Written by Jim O'Donnell and Diana Bocco Updated Dec 22, 2023

The first time many visitors see Bern, they are stunned by the beauty of its setting. The capital of Switzerland is built on a sandstone ridge, encircled on three sides by the Aare flowing through a valley. High-level bridges link the city with the high ground on the right bank and with the newer parts of the city.

Houses and shops, with their street-level arcades and projecting roofs, reflect the prosperity of the citizens of Bern in the 17th and 18th centuries. And this charming character of the well-preserved old town is integrated into the everyday life of the city, causing it to be recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site .

Bern is rich in culture with year-round events such as the Summer and Winter Jazz Festivals; the Buskers Festival; and the Gurtenfestival, held in mid-July. Numerous museums and theaters cover a variety of interests, and visitors can enjoy street-side sightseeing such as the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower with moving puppets.

Plan your visit with our list of top tourist attractions and things to do in Bern.

Stroll through the Old Town

See world-class art at the kunstmuseum, visit the einstein museum and the historical museum of bern, take a tour of the einstein haus, spend an afternoon at the rosengarten, discover the berner münster, admire the clock tower, browse art at the paul klee center (zentrum paul klee), check out the town's ancient fountains, stroll through the botanical garden, explore the trails on the gurten, pose in front of the fountain at the bundeshaus, take in the wonders at the natural history museum, play with technology at the communication museum, shop at the weekly markets, enjoy a wealth of activities at the aare river, visit the bear park, explore the many sides of the granary (kornhaus), drop in at the french church, day trips from bern, map of attractions & things to do in bern, bern, switzerland - climate chart.

The old town of Bern is more than worthy of its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on a cliff surrounded on three sides by the stunning aquamarine waters of the Aare River, the old town has preserved much of its medieval character. The streets are cobbled and bordered by covered, arcade sidewalks that snake on for miles. On the lower levels of the buildings are shops, cafés, bookstores, and restaurants, while the upper floors are apartments.

This old area is where many of the best places to visit and things to do are located, including all of the bridges across the Aare, public fountains, old statues, towers, and the famous Clock Tower . Several days can be passed quite happily just strolling around the old town.

To the west of Waisenhausplatz, on the Hodlerstrasse, is the famed Kunstmuseum (Museum of Art). This massive and impressive art museum is home to more than 51,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and films. It is the oldest art museum in Switzerland, built in 1879, and holds an international reputation.

The collection comprises art from the Italian Trecento (Duccio, Fra Angelico); Swiss art since the 15th century (Niklaus Manuel, Albert Anker, Ferdinand Hodler, Cuno Amiet); and international painting from the 19th and early 20th centuries (Impressionism, Cubism, Expressionism, Blaue Reiter, Surrealism); with particular focus on Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Pablo Picasso.

Both national art trends (Meret Oppenheim, Franz Gertsch, Markus Raetz) and international ones from Jackson Pollock to the present are also represented. Other exhibitions rotate in and out. Be sure to check the excellent website for the latest details. The museum offers both public and private tours.

Address: Hodlerstrasse 8-12, Bern

Official site: http://www.kunstmuseumbern.ch/

Housed in a 130-year-old Andre-Lambert-designed building based on 15th-century castles, the Historical Museum of Bern combines with the Einstein Museum to form the second largest museum in Switzerland. Displays encompass more than half a million objects dating from the Stone Age through the Celts, Romans, Middle Ages, Napoleonic era, and into the 19th and 20th centuries. Objects from Alpine Stone Age burials are as impressive as 15th-century Flemish tapestries and the famous Königsfelden diptych painted for the King of Hungary.

The Einstein Museum is focused on the life of the great scientist, demonstrating how he lived, through dozens of old films, original objects, and letters. Even his 1921 Nobel Prize certificate is on display. And for those of us who are not genius physicists, animated films help the layperson understand Einstein's pioneering theories. The museum is found on the Helvetiaplatz just across the Aare from the Old Town.

Official site: http://www.bhm.ch/en/

If you've already visited the Einstein Museum, stopping by Einstein's former residence will give you some nice extra insight into the life of the genius scientist. Einstein lived at this second-floor apartment with his physicist wife Mileva Maric and their son Hans between 1903 and 1905. He did some of his most impressive work while living here, including writing the Annus Mirabilis papers on the photoelectric effect, the Brownian motion, the special theory of relativity, and E = mc 2 .

The apartment has been restored with period furniture, and a walk through the space gives you a good idea of how Einstein and his family were living at the time he wrote the paper that would change the course of science forever. A small exhibition on the third floor of the building showcases Einstein's work in plain words for the non-scientists, as well as presents interesting information about his life and achievements.

Address: Kramgasse 49, Bern

Official site: https://www.einstein-bern.ch/

One of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Bern with impressive views of the city. The Rose Garden Park (Rosengarten) is a large open area sitting on a hill slope just across the river from the center of town. Originally a cemetery (1765-1877), the area became a public park in 1913.

It was redesigned in the late 1950s and now sports more than 200 types of roses and another 200 species of irises, azaleas, and rhododendrons. There is also a large, splendid pond; a pavilion; restaurant; and picnic areas.

Perhaps the most famous building in Bern, the Berner Münster is also known as the Bern Cathedral or the Cathedral of St. Vincent. The cathedral is Switzerland's largest church from the late Middle Ages, and played a vital role in the overall development of the city's architecture. The late Gothic creation is a three-aisled, pillared basilica that was under construction from 1421 until 1893, when the addition of the octagonal upper section and the openwork spire was completed.

The west doorway of Bern Minster is richly decorated with sculpture (now copies); in the tympanum is a Last Judgment (completed in 1495) containing a number of figures, and on the side walls are paintings of the Fall and the Annunciation.

The nave and the choir of Bern's St. Vincent Minster have reticulated vaulting with fine 16th-century coats-of-arms. The finely carved choir stalls (1523) were the first Renaissance work of art in Bern. In the apse are a Gothic font (1524) and beautiful stained glass (1441-50).

At the end of the south aisle is a monument to Berchtold von Zähringen (1601), incorporating a coat-of-arms. In the Matter chapel (seventh bay in the south aisle) is the Dance of Death window (1917), with 20 scenes from the Dance of Death (1516-19) by Niklaus Manuel-Deutsch. There is a magnificent Baroque organ (1726-30), with 5,404 pipes, and fine modern stained glass (1947) in the south aisle.

From the tree-planted Bern Minster terrace , there is an attractive view down into the Aare valley; and if you can make it up the 254 steps of the tower, the views over the city are outstanding - especially on a clear day when the Alps appear as a backdrop.

The 800-year-old Clock Tower (Zytglogge) is one of Bern's most famous landmarks - and is well worth the visit (the clock dates to 1530). Just above the western gate tower in the old section of town, this 23-meter tower is decorated with an immense astronomical clock.

Beginning at just three minutes before every hour, a circus of mechanical creatures (The Fool, The Knight, The Rooster, The Piper, and more) come out to put on a little show. Inside, you can see the popularity of this ancient structure from the 130 worn stone steps. Visitors are welcome to climb to the observation platform, which sports some impressive views. Guided tours are excellent and informative.

German-Swiss painter Paul Klee's work is perhaps some of the most recognizable and famous of all paintings from the first part of the 20th century. Transcending the zeitgeist of his age (surrealism, cubism, abstraction), Klee regularly combined various media into his works. His Writings on Form and Design Theory is considered one of the most important theoretical works on art ever written.

The center contains about 4,000 works by Klee including the famous Dame mit Sonnenschirm (Woman with Parasol), In den Häusern von St. Germain (Houses of St. Germain) and Tod und Feuer (Death and Fire). The building itself is outstanding. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, it takes the form of a rolling, hilly landscape. It is wide and open, light and airy, and a work of art in and of itself.

Official site: http://www.zpk.org/

Scattered about the old town are a number of ancient public fountains. Installed in the 16th century, the fountains were topped with statues of ideas or biblical scenes such as Samson killing a lion. Others still sport statues praising the power of Bern, such as the Zähringerbrunnen (a bear in full armor) and the Läuferbrunnen (the Runner Fountain).

These fountains replaced wooden ones at a time when the city was rapidly gaining wealth. There are 100 fountains. Eleven retain the original statues and all are carefully maintained and frequently repainted. And, yes, the water is still potable.

The beautiful botanical garden is not to be missed. It will impress even those that might not think they are interested in plants and flowers. The garden contains several sections. The Alpinum focuses on montane ecosystems hosting mountain plants from Europe, Asia, and North America with a special focus on Swiss flora. There is also an interesting display on endangered species.

Three other buildings cover desert, tropical, and subtropical vegetation and environments. The Palm House is particularly interesting as it focuses on tropical food-producing plants such as bananas, coconuts, and coffee.

This is perhaps a favorite place in all of Bern. Just to the south of the center of the city, the Gurten is a high mountain (864 meters) with a 360-degree view. Below lies the gorgeous city with its towers and domes, while the spiky Alps jut from the countryside beyond. You can also see across the Three Lakes Region all the way to the Jura mountains.

Be sure to climb up the tower-it's free, and the views improve with every step. Several trails around the mountain offer leisurely hikes through flowery meadows and into thick forests.

In the winter, the mountain offers kids' skiing and toboggan runs. Finally, after all that activity, choose from one of several venues and enjoy a high-quality meal right on the mountain. The Gurtenfestival, a music festival, is held every year in the middle of July. The Gurten is easily accessible from the train station via buses or trams, but don't miss the chance to ride the century-old funicular up to the mountain.

Bern's Renaissance-style Bundeshaus (Parliament building) stands on the edge of the high ground above the Aare River. The domed central block contains the two chambers of the Swiss Parliament, the meeting places of the National Council, and the Council of States; in the east wing and west wings are various federal agencies and the federal library.

The entire place is open to visitors. Access is slightly restricted when Parliament is in session. From the Bundesterrasse, which rests on massive retaining walls, there are awesome views of the river Aare below and the Alps beyond.

All around the square are cafés, shops, and Renaissance-style buildings as well as the Banknote Museum . Just beyond is the Little Redoubt, a popular viewpoint in Bern, with an orientation map pointing out important sites. Next to this old structure are the gardens and a monument to Oskar Bider, who made the first flight over the Alps in 1913.

The Theaterplatz, to the east of the Bundesplatz, is where you will find the Hôtel de Musique , the Assembly and Concert Hall , and the Municipal and University Library .

A part of the University of Bern, the Natural History Museum was born in 1832 and includes more than 200 dioramas, including a 200-year-old preserved St. Bernard rescue dog named Barry. The dioramas are impressive even if they are outdated in a way. It is fascinating to see how museums were constructed in the mid-1800s.

Some of the preserved big game is impressive, as are the skeletons of The Big Bone Show. Don't miss the Stones of the Earth display where you can see Alpine gold, meteorites, and gigantic crystals. And the beetle and evolution exhibits are educational for all ages.

Address: Bernastrasse 15, Bern

Official site: http://www.nmbe.ch/

Founded in 1907, this unusual museum offers permanent exhibitions that showcase the history of human communication through the centuries. It comprises everything from sign language and speaking to postal services, the telegraph, telephone, and the Internet. This isn't so much a museum about technological advances in communication, but a museum about the relationship between men and how different cultures handle forms of communication.

Interactive displays, games, and workshops make the museum accessible and interesting for both children and adults.

Official site: http://www.mfk.ch

Bern is home to many markets-from flowers and food to flea markets and some magnificent Christmas marketplaces, the city has something for everyone. Just outside the Bundeshaus is the Bundesplatz, where an impressive vegetable and flower market takes place on Tuesday and Saturday mornings. Bern's largest flea market (perfect for finding a treasure or two) takes place on the Mühleplatz in the Matte every third Saturday during the warm months.

Bern has two Christmas markets that run the entire month of December: one at the Waisenhausplatz and one on the Münsterplatz. And for a unique market you won't find anywhere else, there's also the Zibelemärit or Onion Market , which happens only once a year, on the fourth Monday in November, and it celebrates all things onion, including food but also artful onion wreaths, ready-to-eat meals, and even kitchen decor featuring onions.

The Aare River is an intrinsic part of Bern, a beautiful mass of crystal-clear turquoise waters that have shaped the city's life and landscape. While the river is stunning all year long-and a great place to take a stroll next to as a fresh coating of snow falls on the city-it becomes the center of activities during summer.

As soon as the temperatures start to rise, you'll find the locals swimming in the Aare. There are also several outdoor swimming pools on the banks of the river, including the famous Marzili pool complex, which offers several pools and beautiful views of the Parliament Building.

Both rafting and canoeing are popular in the Aare-and there's plenty to see from the water. If you're up for a real challenge, you can take on the Uttiger Schwelle rapids; otherwise, a popular route is to take the train to Thun and then drift down the river until you get back to Bern.

For the best views of the Aare, head to the Nydeggbrücke bridge, Bern's most famous and beloved bridge, which connects the old and new parts of town and offers fairy-tale views over red rooftops.

Since the bear is the symbol of Bern, it's perhaps no surprise that the city has kept bears in a large compound for years. The area around the bears' compound is graced by an array of walking paths, many of which lead down to the river, and an inclined elevator now connects the lower area by the river to the top of the enclosure.

The bears' habitat was modernized in 2009 with the addition of a second, larger green enclosure that connects to the original one through a tunnel. The second enclosure also includes a section of the river, where the bears can safely take a dip when temperatures go up.

This impressive multi-use cultural space houses the City Theater's Kornhausbühne; the Kornhaus Library; the Library for Design; the Forum for Media and Design; and two renowned restaurants: the Kornhauskeller and Kornhauscafé. You might never guess it by looking at it today, but this building was originally used for grain storage.

The interior is decorated with twelve pillars featuring the traditional dress of Bernese women, as well as representations of more than two dozen musicians dressed in Swiss attire from the Renaissance period. It is like looking at a book.

Just behind the Granary is the French Church, the oldest church in the city, with frescoes by a group of painters known as the "Master of the Carnation." It was originally built on the foundations of an even older church that dates back to the 13 th century. The final construction took several centuries, with new facades and frescoes added until its completion in 1754.

After 1623, French-speaking Protestants became the main worshippers in the church-a big change from the church's origins as a Dominican monastery. Huguenot (French Calvinists) took refuge here starting in 1685 when fleeing prosecution.

Beautiful Interlaken is world-famous. About 60 kilometers from Bern in the Bernese-Oberland section of the Alps, the town and region is the gateway to a land of mountains, lakes, and rushing rivers. Found between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz , the town sits on the river that links the two bodies of water.

For centuries, Interlaken was known for its watchmaking and printing expertise, while today it is popular for its outdoor recreation. Visitors come around for mountain paragliding, canyon jumping, and hiking, as well as for Interlaken's many spas and wellness centers.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Interlaken & Easy Day Trips

Perhaps the most charming town in the country, Thun sits where the Aar River flows from Lake Thun-just 30 kilometers south of Bern. A castle dominates the town, while its flower-lined pedestrian walkways make the town stand out. This is a gateway to outdoor recreation in the mountains beyond, but be sure not to miss the castle, the old town hall, a walk along the lake, the Panzer Museum , and the Wocher Panorama - the oldest surviving panorama in the world.

At the foot of the Jura Mountains on the eastern end of long Lake Biel lies the center of Swiss watchmaking. The little town of Biel maintains its historic center and has a charming bilingual tradition. With excellent museums, restaurants, and cafés, Biel is delightful in and of itself, but also be sure to explore the surrounding lake region.

On the southeast shore of Lake Murten, the tiny medieval town of Murten sits on the ridge of hills that mark the linguistic boundary between German and French-speaking Switzerland. First mentioned in 515, Murten town is well preserved and picturesque. In fact, it is arguably the best-preserved medieval town in Europe, even retaining the medieval circuit of walls.

The town is known for water sports and cultural activities (surprisingly numerous for such a small town), but it's also a great place to take a peaceful stroll along the lake for a stunning view and a moment of quiet.

About 35 kilometers from Bern, Fribourg (in German Freiburg) is one of the finest medieval towns in Switzerland. It lies on the River Sarine (German Saane), which flows in a deep valley through the Mittelland and straddles the cultural border between German and French Switzerland. As a result, it offers a fascinating blend of cultures.

The Auge and Bourg quarters leading to the upper town perch in a picturesque location above the rocky banks of a bend in the river; in the lower town are the districts of Neuveville, on the left bank, and Planche, on the right bank.

Highlights here are the well-maintained old town with the Gothic Cathedral of St. Nicholas built from the 14th to the 15th centuries on the former site of a Romanesque building and renowned for its modern stained glass by Joseph de Mehoffer, as well as gold and ivory treasures from the 15th to 20th centuries. Fribourg is also home to an impressive clutch of museums, including the Natural History Museum , Musee Gutenberg , the Art and History Museum , and even a sewing machine museum.

About 90 minutes away by train and surrounded by snow-capped peaks is Lucerne. A town with stunning medieval architecture where time doesn't seem to move quite as fast as everywhere else, Lucerne is well-known for its wooden Chapel Bridge, originally built in the 14th century.

Visitors can catch a paddle steamer cruise on Lake Lucerne or get on the "Dragon Ride" aerial cableway to reach the top of Mount Pilatus. Lucerne's historic core, Old Town, is car-free and a great place to explore on foot while admiring the stunning 17th-century architecture.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

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Exploring Switzerland : While Switzerland has much to offer to visitors in any season, winter is when this small country truly shines. For an overview of the best places to get your fill of snow, check out our article on the Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Switzerland . Once you're done with your visit to Bern, see what other destinations are worth a visit in our article, Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Switzerland .

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Berner Oberland Pass

• Unlimited travel in the Bernese Oberland
• More than 25 attractive mountain excursions included
• 50% discount on numerous other mountain railways in the region
• Valid for 3, 4, 6, 8 or 10 days
• Discounts and additional services at 40 bonus partners

What is included?

• With the Bernese Oberland Pass you can travel unlimited by train, bus and boat and more than 25 mountain railways in the Bernese Oberland ( validity overview ).
• The pass is available for 3, 4, 6, 8 or 10 consecutive days
• Available as print@home ticket / eTicket and immediate booking confirmation

Could also be of interest to you

Tell-Pass – Central Switzerland

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• I segreti per risparmiare
• Tecnologia in viaggio
• Parti informato
• Presets shop
• Negozio del Viaggiatore
• Itinerari Artigianali

Visitare Berna: cosa vedere (in 2 giorni)

Nel visitare Berna ti renderai conto di come, non è un caso se il centro storico di quella che è la capitale Svizzera, nel 1983 venne dichiarato patrimonio UNESCO .

Questa città-bomboniera nel cuore di un paese formato da fiumi e Alpi è un must da vedere in Europa !

Facilmente esplorabile a piedi , Berna custodisce un’atmosfera ancora medievale , in grado di far perdere la testa anche alle personalità più difficili.

Ti sfidiamo a non rimanere colpito dai vicoli pittoreschi , dalle torri e dalle fontane che ornano la città!

E nel farlo, ti vogliamo aiutare con la nostra guida definitiva su come visitare Berna: cosa mangiare, dove dormire, cosa vedere, cosa fare… Tutto insomma. Bando alle ciance.

Partiamo subito!

Dove si trova Berna?

Visitare berna in 2 giorni: quando andare per godersi appieno la città.

Senza ombra di dubbio, il periodo perfetto per visitare Berna è l’estate.

Almeno per quanto riguarda il clima -soleggiato con temperature piacevoli-. Alla fine bisogna ricordare che la Svizzera è un territorio montuoso.

Giugno, Luglio e Agosto -con possibilità di allargarsi a Maggio e a Settembre- sono i mesi perfetti per scappare dalla calura estiva dell’Italia e scappare verso Berna e la frescura.

Però, se sei amante dell’atmosfera natalizia e dei mercatini , non possiamo non consigliarti di visitare Berna a Dicembre! Le illuminazioni, i profumi, le bancarelle… tutto è talmente magico da farti dimenticare del freddo (beh, quasi dimenticare… ecco!).

A te l’ardua scelta. 

Budget: quanto costa un weekend a Berna?

Vuoi la risposta vera o vuoi farci la domanda di riserva?

Perchè insomma, hai mai visto una città svizzera il cui tenore di vita non fosse un po’ troppo alto per le nostre tasche? Se la risposta è no allora bene, ti sei risposto da solo!

Berna, come tutte le città elvetiche, ahinoi, ha dei prezzi decisamente importanti sia per gli alloggi che per la vita in generale.

Giusto per darti un’idea, il prezzo medio di una colazione cappuccio/brioche che abbiamo pagato durante la nostra permanenza è stato di 15€ a testa. E no, non abbiamo sbagliato, non erano 15€ a testa (comunque una follia per una colazione) ma 15€ per ognuno di noi!

Una cena al fast food? 60€ in due! Una pizza? a partire da 15€!

Insomma, visitare Berna non significa visitare una città economica … questo non toglie il fatto che con qualche accortezza , non si possa godersi la città senza tornare a casa in banca rotta.

Ti fidi di noi? 

Cosa visitare a Berna? Le perle elvetiche

la torre dell’orologio (zytglogge), il simbolo della città .

Cominciamo col botto, con quella che secondo noi è la torre più bella oltre ad essere il simbolo indiscusso della città.

Signore e signori, vi presentiamo la Torre dell’Orologio!

Venne costruita tra il 1191 e il 1256, inizialmente per motivi di difesa ( si tratta infatti della principale porta d’accesso della città), per poi essere arricchita di un  orologio astronomico nel 1530 e vedere il suo scopo completamente rivisitato: da vedetta per proteggersi dai nemici a riferimento temporale per tutta la città.

→Scopri anche l’orologio astrologico di Praga ←

Ovviamente, non puoi perderti il rintocco di ogni ora che innesca il movimento di un bellissimo carillon. 

Non potrai non rimanere esterrefatto!

Ovviamente potrai salire sulla torre dell’Orologio anche se noi personalmente, ti consigliamo di risparmiare questa esperienza per una torre molto più alta, quella della cattedrale -te ne parleremo più avanti-.

A meno che tu non sia interessato a come funzioni la meccanica di un orologio medievale : in quel caso, visitare questa torre potrebbe dimostrarsi decisamente interessante e didattico. 

✨ Visitare Berna e la sua Altstadt

Altstadt è la parola tedesca che indica il centro storico , la parte più bella e antica della città, circoscritta dal fiume Aar, il cui ingresso è sancito dalla torre dell’Orologio.

Una volta dentro, ti troverai circa 6 km di portici medievali (i così conosciuti come Lauben) che nascondono galleria, negozi d’antiquariato, sale da the e piccole boutique. 

Il tutto intervallato da chiese, monumenti, palazzi storici tutelati dell’Unesco e fontane…. o non hai idea di quante fontane! 

Pronto a visitare Berna nella sua sfaccettatura più aristocratica e ferma nel tempo? 

Noi non vediamo l’ora di accompagnarti!

⛪️ Da vedere a Berna: la bellissima Cattedrale

Nel visitare Berna, non potrai non notare questo campanile alto più di 100 metri.

Ecco, appartiene a quella che è la cattedrale della città, la cui costruzione inizio nel 1421 per mano di un certo Matthaus Ensinger su una chiesa medievale.

Ci vollero circa 150 anni per completarla … ciononostante non somigliava per niente a quella che oggi vediamo e ammiriamo. A causa di problemi economici, infatti, la chiesa -prima cattolica poi convertita a chiesa protestante – aveva un campanile alto soltanto 50 metri.

Per diventare la chiesa evangelica dedicata a San Vincenzo di Saragozza che oggi conosciamo, dobbiamo aspettare il 1893 e la ricostruzione della torre campanaria in stile gotico che la rese (e la rende tutt’ora) la chiesa medievale più grande di Svizzera.

Ovviamente se c’è una cosa che non ti puoi perdere di questa chiesa, oltre all’incantevole portale centrale che raffigura il Giudizio Universale con tanto di 294 figure scolpite, oltre alle gigantesche vetrate raffiguranti scene del 400 , oltre al pulpito fittamente decorato,  è sicuramente la vista che si gode dall’alto dei suoi 100 metri di torre!

Sicuramente una delle cose da vedere a Berna!

Okey, i circa 300 scalini per raggiungere la piattaforma panoramica potrebbero scoraggiare… ma ti assicuriamo che la vista è talmente bella da valerne la pena! Senza contare che prima di arrivare in cima esiste un piano intermedio dove poter riprendere fiato (e prepararsi alla meraviglia della vista!)

Ah, tra le altre cose, la cattedrale di Berna custodisce anche la campana è la più grande di Svizzera -costruita più di 400 anni fa, dal peso complessivo di 10 tonnellate-, talmente dettagliata nei decori da meritare almeno un quarto d’ora di attenzione assoluta.

Orari: variano a seconda del periodo dell’anno e del giorno della settimana, consultabili qui ;

Prezzo: gratuito per la cattedrale, intero CHF 5.00 e ridotto CHF 2.00 per salire sulla torre.

Per maggiori informazioni, consultare il sito ufficiale .

? Munsterplattform e la vista sulla città che non ti aspetti

Proprio affianco alla cattedrale (chiamata anche Munster) c’è uno spazio verde affacciato sul fiume, dove ci si può godere le belle giornate di sole, una vista invidiabile sull’Aar , dove far giocare i bambini… spazio chiamato dai local “ Munsterplattform “.

Quel che però non ti aspetti da questo spazio è che storicamente fosse un camposanto.

? Cosa a vedere a Berna: la Torre delle Prigioni

Questa torre, del 1256, è una delle porte della città… o meglio, era una delle porte! Quelle che oggi si può vedere non è altro che una ricostruzione del 1600.

Storicamente venne utilizzata come carcere (da qui il nome che in tedesco suona come “Käfigturm”) per poi diventare Archivio di stato del Cartone di Berna e dal 1999 sede del forum politico della Confederazione e location ideale per mostre ed eventi. 

⛲️ Visitare Berna: le fontane e i loro significati

Le fontane stanno a Berna come i ponti stanno ad Amsterdam e i grattacieli a New York . Quindi lo capisci da te che non potevamo non dedicare un paragrafo intero al centinaio di fontane sparse per la città, no?  

Ovviamente non te le descriveremo tutte, s olo le più belle , che di solito si trovano lungo la Gerechtigkeitsgasse.

Nate durante il medioevo con il compito di distribuire acqua potabile a tutti gli abitanti della città, hanno acquisito con il tempo l’importante valore sociale di punto di aggregazione e oggi, sono dei bellissimi e utilissimi monumenti che lasciano a bocca aperta centinaia di migliaia di turisti ogni anno. 

Te ne citiamo alcune:

? Pfeiferbrunnen ossia la fontana del suonatore di cornamusa dove viene rappresentato un musicista appunto -s imbolo di una vita felice grazie alla musica -, un’oca -simbolo del gioco- e una scimmia con un flauto -simbolo della danza-.

?‍♂️ Kindlifresserbrunnen ossia la fontana dell’orco-mangia-bambini che lo raffigura mentre pranza con un bambino e gli altri cercano di scappare… col fine di insegnare ai più piccoli di comportarsi bene.

⚖️ Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen ossia la fontana della Giustizia che personifica questo valore come una donna dagli occhi bendati, una spada e una bilancia.

? Curiosità! Tra le tante fontane che vedrai, ce n’è una che potrai vedere soltanto se prenoterai una visita guidata. Si tratta della fontana di Len (“Lenbrunnen” in tedesco) nascosta e custodia nelle cantine della cancelleria di Stato.

Non ti incuriosisce neanche un po’? 

? Berna da vedere: la sede del Governo

Da buona capitale, Berna è sede del Governo svizzero e come tale è sede del palazzo Federale (in tedesco chiamato “Bundeshaus”): luogo di riunione del Parlamento svizzero.

? Fossa degli Orsi, un non-zoo al centro della città

Superato il Nydeggbrücke, ci si trova davanti alla fossa degli Orsi.

Il nome è abbastanza autoesplicativo e no, non è un’allegoria o una metafora, si tratta davvero di un’area (un tempo molto piccola… per questo “fossa”) di circa 6 mila metri quadri dove vivono gli orsi.

Perchè proprio degli orsi? ti stai chiedendo un po’ sconcertato.

Beh, non ti sei chiesto perchè la città si chiama proprio “Berna”? Leggenda narra che il nome di questa nuova città sarebbe stato in onore del primo animale trovato durante la prima battuta di caccia nelle vicine foreste. 

L’animale fu ovviamente un orso (“ Bär” in tedesco, “ Bären ” al plurale).

Da quel giorno lontanissimo (e forse mai esistito perché si sa, capita che le leggende non abbiamo fonti proprio attendibili), a Berna vengono allevati orsi. 

Allevamento che dopo il 1857 si trasformo in un parco dove gli animali sono liberi di vivere senza pericoli. 

Sei indeciso tra le varie cose da fare a Berna? Questa è sicuramente una delle più particolari!

? Visitare Berna: tutti i musei degni di attenzione

Non sono da trascurare neanche i musei di Berna. 

Quello che più di tutti ci sentiamo di segnalare è il Kunstmuseum, il museo d’arte della città che dal 1809 ha collezionato più di 50.000 opere di importanti artisti svizzeri ed europei comprendo un lasso di tempo di circa 8 secoli.

Qui potrai trovare opere di Picasso ma anche di Van Gogh, Cezanne, Mane, Kandisky. Divisi per piani e per aree troverai esposizioni sull’impressionismo, sul cubismo, sull’arte contemporanea, su quella rinascimentale e chi più ne ha più ne metta!

A visitarlo bene, necessiterebbe almeno una mezza giornata. Ecco, magari non vuoi passare tutto questo tempo in un museo perchè vuoi ottimizzare i tempi? Lecito, però concedigli almeno un’ora e mezza/un paio d’ore… insistiamo!

Lo trovi aperto dal martedì alla domenica, dalle 10:00 del mattino alle 17:00 (con proroga alle 21:00 il martedì) e il prezzo del biglietto è dipende dal numero di esposizioni che si vogliono vedere (decidi tu in base al tempo a disposizione quale biglietto prendere, trovi i diversi pacchetti e prezzi segnati qui ).

Altrettanto interessanti ci sono il museo dedicato ad Albert Einstein (da vedere con la sua casa al civico 49 della Kramgasse) e il Centro Paul Klee, un dei fondatori del gruppo Der Blaue Reiter .

Cosa mangiare a Berna? Ecco i piatti e le bevande imperdibili!

Visitare Berna ci ha ricordato visitare l’Alsazia per quanto riguarda il cibo: un interessantissimo mix di cucine e di pietanze che spaziando da quella francese a quella italiana passando per quella austriaca e quella tedesca.

L’unica differenza è che qua, i prezzi, sono davvero alti , forse i più alti mai trovati durante un viaggio. 

Tenendo sempre in considerazione che a Berna, essendo una capitale e un centro multi-culturale, è facile trovare tutto (dalle cucine etniche ai fast-food), non possiamo non consigliarti alcuni dei piatti più tradizionali quali il Berner Platte , una bomba calorica di diverse carni -pancetta, salsiccia a fette, prosciutto, spezzatino di manzo, lingua di maiale…- su un letto di fagioli o crauti -a seconda della stagione- e verdure miste come patate e rape…

A prova del mix di cucine, un qualcosa da provare è la fonduta di formaggio che con i tradizionali formaggi svizzeri come l’emmental e l’appenzeller avrà il potere di farvi innamorare. 

Impossibile poi non menzionare il famosissimo cioccolato svizzero , orgoglio nazionale esportato in tutto il mondo.

Non esisterà posto dove non mangerai del cioccolato da perdere la testa ma se proprio vuoi regalarti una coccola senza eguali, dirigiti alla cioccolateria Casa Nobile  e prova tutti i peccati di gola che questo posto nasconde…

Probabilmente ti si carieranno i denti, ma ne varrà la pena! 

Se invece ti dovessimo consigliare un posto dove andare a mangiare , non potremmo non rimandarti alla Barenplatz , una piazzetta tanto carina quanto piena di locali e ristoranti. 

Dove dormire a Berna: i consigli di chi c’è già stato

Ovviamente la scelta del posto dove dormire è sempre molto soggettiva :

dipende da quanto tempo si ha a disposizione, il budget che si può spendere nell’alloggio, il tipo di compagnia, gli interessi…

…ad esempio, se si è un turista che vuole visitare  Berna per la prima volta , è naturale che come direttive per l’alloggio si cercherà un qualcosa v icino al centro e alle maggiori attrazioni .

Ecco, per quanto si possano avere esigenze diverse in base all’alloggio, noi consigliamo di stare in centro -per quanto questo possa gravare sul costo della vacanza- o quanto più vicino al centro in base a quel che le tue finanze ti permettono.

✔︎ Heart of Bern ; ✔︎ Habsburg B&B ; ✔︎ Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke ; ✔︎ Hotel Allegro Bern ; ✔︎ The Bristol ; ✔︎ Hotel Savoy ; ✔︎ Hotel Bellevue Palace Bern .

Pillole salva-esperienza: i segreti per godersi Berna appieno

– come raggiungere berna dall’italia.

Dipende ovviamente dal luogo di partenza , Berna può essere raggiunta in auto se si proviene dal centro-nord/ nord-ovest utilizzando l’ottima rete stradale ed autostradale.

⚠️ Reminder! Le autostrade svizzere non hanno i caselli bensì si pagano tramite una vignetta che va comprata negli ultimi autogrill prima di varcare il confine. 

Si può decidere di prendere il treno sempre partendo dal nord e raggiungere Berna partendo ad esempio da Milano i n circa 5 ore.

Se invece si proviene dal centro-sud Italia , probabilmente la soluzione più comoda è quella di raggiungere la Svizzera tramite aereo e quindi volando sull’ aeroporto di Bern-Belp , collegato poi molto facilmente con il centro città attraverso un servizio bus.

– Berna: connessione internet in Svizzera

Ricordati che la Svizzera è fuori dall’Unione Europa e per questo, la connessione internet, non rispetta i dettami della comunità e tutte le regole che abbiamo già spiegato in questo articolo .

Quindi, per avere la connessione dovrai optare o di comprare un router (noi ti consigliamo i seguenti, sono i migliori come rapporto qualità prezzo: router Huawei e router TP-Link ) che ti permetterebbe di condividere la connessione con gli altri partecipanti al viaggio.

Dove noleggiare un’auto per visitare Berna e d’intorni?

Berna è una città a misura d’uomo ma questo non toglie il fatto di poter noleggiare una macchina e visitare il resto della Svizzera!

In questa nazione, i mezzi funzionano molto bene ma i paesini più pittoreschi purtroppo non sono collegati … senza contare che i prezzi dei mezzi pubblici sono alti, ovviamente in linea con lo stile di vita del posto.

Per questo potrebbe essere molto interessante tenere in considerazione la possibilità di noleggiare l’auto e quando noi sappiamo che ci servirà essere motorizzati,  prenotiamo sempre tutto prima di partire . 

E dove prenotiamo noi, solitamente?

Sul portale Auto Europe .

Si tratta di un sito di comparazione online, in stile Skyscanner , di autovetture a noleggio  che ci garantisce di pagare sempre al prezzo più basso.

Quali sono i principali vantaggi di prenotare con Auto Europe?

• Cancellazione gratuita fino a 48 ore dalla data di utilizzo della macchina;
• Prezzo più basso garantito sul mercato;
• Servizio clienti super responsivo : li abbiamo interpellati più volte e ci hanno risposto sempre entro 24 ore;
• Assicurazione danni completa stipulabile direttamente con loro…

Clicca qui per prenotare la tua auto.

Ce lo dai ancora un minuto?

Dopo aver letto la nostra pratica guida sul visitare Berna, pensi di avere tutte le informazioni necessarie per partire? Se così non fosse, faccelo sapere nei commenti!

Ci teniamo che le nostre guide siano le più utili e complete possibili! E nel caso avessi bisogno di supporto nell’organizzare il tuo viaggio  ad Berna (hotel, volo, noleggio auto etc).

Scrivici sotto nei commenti, ti risponderemo in 24 ore (:

Ispirazione di viaggio: mete simili ad Berna

Hai appena finito di visitare Berna e già non vedi l’ora di ripartire? E allora perchè non farlo?

Se non proprio a Berna, almeno in un posto che abbia delle caratteristiche simili! 

Ecco i nostri consigli:

• Colonia: la vicina di casa ;
• Norimberga: l’acerrima nemica ;
• Bruxelles: Al di là del confine ;
• Vienna: la sorella di lingua ;
• Amburgo: la Berna del profondo Nord ;
• Varsavia: la capitale che non si conosce ;
• Dublino, cosa vedere: l’Irlanda che non ti aspetti ;
• Cosa vedere a Budapest: vacanza immancabile ;
• Praga: città d’arte e divertimento ;
• Vilnius e una delle repubbliche baltiche ;
• Bucarest: una meta low cost molto sottovalutata ;

Cosa stai aspettando? Prenota subito il tuo viaggio!

Utilizza la nostra guida per scoprire come prenotare al prezzo più basso possibile. Clicca qui .

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The Bernina Express Train in Switzerland: Everything You Must Know

Last Updated: September 2, 2020

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Whether you’re an avid lover of train travel or simply a frequent snooper on Instagram , odds are you’ve heard of the world-famous Bernina Express train in Switzerland, frequently hailed as one of the most scenic train rides in the entire country.

And guys, let me tell you…

This. ride. is. the. bomb. diggity.

I have a jar of happy tears and full SD cards to prove it!

What’s so special about the mystical Bernina Express?

Well, if timed properly, this one single train ride brings you on a whirlwind journey through the most incredible variety of landscapes that Switzerland has to offer, from snowy mountains, adorable villages and hilltop castles to bright blue lakes and the rustic charm of northern Italy.

I recently got to check this ride off my bucket list not just once, but twice in March: once from Chur to Tirano on board the official “Bernina Express”, and then back again from Tirano to Chur in a DIY fashion, using regional trains which travelled the same route.

While the experience was fantastic, prior to my trip, I found it comically difficult to find all the right information consolidated in one place, so here’s a guide on all the important must-knows before you ride the world-famous Bernina Express, including the route, the cost, whether or not it’s right for you, how to buy tickets, and a secret trick for doing the trip cheaper/with better photography opportunities!

Choo choo! Let’s go.

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First – A Quick Intro to the Bernina Express

So, as I mentioned earlier, the Bernina Express is a legendary train ride that is often hailed as one of the most scenic in the world.

Having done it, I can assure you that it’s akin to getting throatpunched with natural beauty.

With a relatively short 4 hour  journey time from start to finish, it takes half the time of the much lengthier Glacier Express , and covers just as many scenic landscapes, from fairytale castles and mystical viaducts to mountain-top lakes and and quaint Italian towns.

Along the way, you traverse 55 tunnels and 196 bridges/viaducts, which means plenty of action to keep your eyeballs busy. Taken end to end, you’ll get from Switzerland to Italy (or vice versa) in style, making it one of the most badass ways to country hop, certainly if you indulge in some on-board vino.

… All in all, the Bernina Express is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and well worth a try on your next Swiss adventure!

The Bernina Express Route

So, if you’re curious about where the Bernina Express goes, here’s a detailed breakdown of the route:

The Bernina Express route runs between Chur and Tirano. You can start at either end, but I did it from Chur to Tirano.

If you leave from Chur as I did, you pass through Thusis and Tiefencastel, going through the Domleschg valley which is dotted with countless mountain-top castles and pretty ruins.

The journey continues for an hour until one of the key moments of the trip: crossing the Landwasser Viaduct, about 5 minutes before you arrive at Filisur.

The train crosses the viaduct extremely quickly though, so blink and you might miss it. Have those cameras at the ready!

After Filisur, you go through the Albula tunnel and head onwards to the Upper Engadine valley, passing Pontresina along the way.

Then, upwards you go!

In March, this meant we were soon face to face with snowy mountains and and an endless snowy landscape.

Seeing the Lago Bianco was a highlight, because even though it was frozen over, part had began to melt which meant we got a glimpse at the intense colour of the lake. I’d love to see it again in the summer!

Soon, you reach the Ospizio Bernina, the route’s highest point (2253m above the sea).

From here, you begin a descent and the landscapes quickly begin to change. After a 20 minute photo stop at the Alp Grüm stop, the Bernina Express curves into the Poschiavo valley, and you’ll soon see how quickly those snowy mountains have been replaced by picturesque villages and a distinctly Mediterranean vibe.

You then pass the beautifully blue Lago di Poschiavo before taking on the Brusio spiral viaduct, which is a real treat to ride. Your journey wraps up in Tirano, but along the way you weave through tiny towns, at times occupying the entire road and being so close to houses you could probably knock on their doors if you tried. Such a cool experience!

Once in Tirano, you can disembark and check out the city, take the Bernina Express bus onwards to Lugano (summer only) or take it the way back to enjoy a nice roundtrip.

If you are looking for a Bernina Express route map, here’s one.

How Much Is It? An Explanation of Bernina Express Costs

First-time customers might have a little trouble understanding how much the Bernina Express actually costs.

I know I stumbled around for this info much longer than I’d like to admit, so here’s a simple explanation.

Buying a ticket to the Bernina Express comes in two parts: first you need to buy a base ticket which covers your fare from Point A to Point B, then you need to pay a mandatory reservation fee of 14CHF to hold your seat.

As such, the cost of the Bernina Express depends on where you’re starting, where you’re getting off, and of course, what class you pick.

Here’s a table summarizing the costs for 2020.

A Quick Review: Is the Bernina Express Worth It?

There are a lot of amazing things you can do in Switzerland, so you might be wondering, as a full-day activity that costs quite a bit of money, is the Bernina Express worth it?

My annoying answer: it depends!

If you love train travel and are looking for a relaxing way to enjoy some stunning landscapes, then the Bernina Express is 100% worth the money.

If you don’t love organized “touristy” things, and feel restless being trapped on a train for 4 hours (8 hours roundtrip), then you might be better off exploring other Swiss activities.

I’ll be honest: my preferred way of doing the Bernina Express is actually the DIY route that utilizes regional trains instead of the panoramic Bernina Express tourist train.

I’ll explain how to use this method below, but overall, doing it by regional train was only minorly less convenient, with amazing perks like windows you could open, substantially less crowds and of course, all the same landscapes as you would get on the regular Bernina Express.

I would recommend this route if you are more of an independent traveler.

Regardless though, the Bernina Express is a wonderful bucket list activity, and definitely one that I’m glad I did. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions on how to book tickets, along with important tips to keep in mind.

How to Buy Bernina Express Tickets: Step by Step

Buying tickets for the Bernina Express can be a bit confusing, so here’s a foolproof guide to help you through the process.

OPTION A: From the official website

Step One: Go onto the official Bernina Express website here .

Step Two: Enter your Departure Point, Arrival Point and date of travel, bearing in mind you can only buy actual tickets 2 months in advance, but you can make a reservation (the most important part!) earlier than that, up to 6 months before (based on my own tests, as I’m able to make reservations for October at the time of writing this article, which was April).

Step Three: Choose your desired journey time and scroll down to choose your reserved seat, which will be highlighted in green. When you’re happy with your choice, press ‘Next’.

Step Four: Enter your details, press Next and pay up! Then you’re all done 🙂

OPTION B: Book a tour

If you’re looking for someone to take care of everything for you, or perhaps if you want to do the Bernina Express trip starting from another city you’re travelling in, then maybe booking a tour is a good idea.

There are many companies that offer tour packages which include transport from main cities (e.g. Zurich, Bern, Basel) to a Glacier Express stop, and also take care of your reservations and tickets. Of course, this will be more expensive than organizing everything yourself, but you do get a lot more ease of mind.

Booking a tour is ALSO a great trick for ensuring you get tickets, even more than 3 months in advance. This is important if you’re travelling from far away to do this ride!

So, if you’re interested in booking a tour, here are a few options:

How to Make a Bernina Express Seat Reservation

If you are travelling with a pass that covers the cost of your base ticket (e.g. Eurail, Interrail, Swiss Travel Pass ), then you won’t need to purchase a ticket, only a seat reservation.

Step by step, here’s how you do that.

Step Three: Click on your desired journey/departure time, then scroll down to the seating chart to select your seat. Your selected seat will be in green.

Step Four: Enter your information (first/last name and birthdate), then click on the Reduction menu and find your specific discount. If you’re using a Eurail pass for instance, select that. After you do so, the ticket price should be taken away from your cart and you’ll only need to pay the reservation fee. After that’s done, press Next, pay, and you’re all set! The details will be sent to you by email.

How to Get the Best Deal on Bernina Express Tickets

Bernina Express train tickets are a lot more affordable than the Glacier Express, but they’re still on the pricey side (you are travelling in Switzerland after all!).

That said, there are still a variety of ways that you can scheme your way into cheaper fares.

Here are some of those methods!

1. Use a rail pass

Listen up: this is how I managed to scheme my way into only paying 30 euros for my 1st class ticket!

Here’s how: When you use a Eurail/Interrail pass, that covers your base ticket fee which means you only need to pay for a reservation.

As such, I paid 306 euros for a Eurail global 10 day pass, (I got a free 1st class upgrade thanks to a sale they were running). I

then used 1 travel day on the Bernina Express, which evens out to only about 30 euros spent for this gorgeous ride (plus the 14 CHF reservation fee). Still an incredible deal, and by far the cheapest way to do it.

If you are travelling around Europe, getting a Eurail pass might be a good idea, because Switzerland is certainly where you get the best bang for your buck! Click here to browse the different passes and deals.

2. Consider a Swiss Travel Pass

This would be perfect for you if you plan to travel extensively around Switzerland.

A Swiss Travel Pass is similar to the Eurail/Interrail passes except it gives you unlimited transportation on trains, buses, boats and free public transport + museums).

I know that sounds like a total dream, but the obvious caveat is that it is still very expensive, so make sure to do the math and see if getting one would really be worth it. Click here for more info.

3. Consider getting a discount card

The Half Fare Travelcard is a very popular card that you can buy which (true to its name) gets you half price tickets.

In 2020, this card is 120 CHF for one month.

This sounds like a lot, but it could be worth it if you are spending an extended amount of time in Switzerland and plan to take multiple trains.

Click here for more details on pricing.

4. Do the “DIY” Bernina Express using regional trains

Last but not least, you can take regional trains instead of the official “Bernina Express”, which can work out to be cheaper as you don’t need to pay a reservation fee.

On my way back to Chur from Tirano, I decided to experiment and take regional trains along the Bernina Express route, just to compare the experience.

And honestly? I LOVED IT!

Having just endured four hours on a crowded train across from a judgey older couple, it was such a joy to hop on a regional train and have the first class car all to myself.

Best of all? You could open the windows on the leg from Tirano to Pontresina, and there is a special photography carriage available on many trains from Samedan to Chur, so if you’re a shutterbug like me, using regional trains is a perfect way to take excellent photos without ugly window reflections.

The main downside to this DIY route is you have to transfer a few times. I didn’t find this to be a problem. Basically this is the route:

• Tirano to Pontresina
• Pontresina to Samedan (only a quick 6 minute ride)
• Samedan to Chur

Because I didn’t have tons of heavy bags, I could easily hop onto these transfers, and the peace/quiet along with the excellent photo opportunities made it worth it.

NOTE: The Man in Seat 61 has an excellent hack for securing this trip for as low as 29.90! This involves booking the trip to depart from a German city and taking advantage of Deutsche Bahn’s super cheap Sparpreis ticket deals. Click here for more information on that special trick.

Last-Minute Bernina Express Tickets

Oftentimes, the Bernina Express sells out in peak season. If you find yourself in a situation where seats are completely sold out for your travel dates, don’t despair! Here are some solutions:

OPTION A: Check travel agencies/websites for organized tours

There are many companies that offer tour packages which include transport from main cities (e.g. Zurich, Bern, Basel) to a Bernina Express stop, and also take care of your reservations, tickets, lunch all for one package price.

Again, this will be more expensive than organizing everything yourself, but booking one these might help you score a spot even on a “sold out” train.

OPTION B: Do a DIY route with regional trains

Again, don’t panic if Bernina Express tickets are sold out.

Regional trains operate on the same railways as the Bernina Express, which means you can get the same views if you just take regional trains instead. The main inconvenience is you’d have to stop/transfer multiple times, but if you only want to do a portion of the ride, or don’t mind the switching, then this is a great way to still “do” the Bernina Express even when tickets are sold out.

And honestly, you know what? I actually preferred the DIY route! It was so much quieter, I had an entire carriage pretty much to myself, I could open the windows for two of the main rides and the few changes were super easy and non-disruptive.

This is the route you would have to take. More info on this later!

What to Pack for Your Bernina Express Trip

Passport: Don’t forget, if you start in Tirano, you WILL be taking the train from Italy to Switzerland (or the train from Switzerland to Italy if you start in Chur), so make sure you valid travel documents with you.

Headphones: The Infotrainment includes free audio stories that you can listen to, but you would need to bring your own headphones to listen to them (and not awkwardly press play at full volume in a full carriage like I did).

Sunglasses: Even in the wintertime, the sun gets blindingly bright, certainly when it reflects off the snow. Make sure you have sunglasses!

Polarizing filters: If you’re a keen photographer, know that reflections will probably get in the way of your shot. One way to get around this is to buy some polarizing filters. While they won’t get rid of the reflection 100%, it will be much better than not using a filter of any kind.

Layers: When the sun is out, the panorama cars get super hot. I would advise dressing in layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.

Drinks/snacks: The food/drink selection is super limited on board and honestly, not the best quality. I would bring your own if possible.

How to DIY the Bernina Express on Regional Trains

Alright, now let’s dig into the really juicy stuff: how to do your own DIY Bernina Express.

I mentioned this a few times throughout the article, but basically, there are two ways you can see the landscapes of the Bernina Express:

• You can take the official ‘Bernina Express’ train that is marketed to tourists as a sightseeing experience
• You can take regional trains that go along the same route, which gives you the same landscapes but without touristy add-ons like the panoramic sightseeing car, souvenirs, Infotrainment, etc.

Having tested both methods, I actually preferred recreating the route by myself on regional trains for a few different reasons: less crowds, windows you could open and an overall more “independent” experience away from the giant tourist mobs you would encounter on the Bernina Express.

So, in my opinion, doing it this DIY way is perfect if…

• Tickets for the regular Bernina Express are sold out, and you still want to see all the pretty landscapes
• You are an avid photographer and would like the ability to roll the window down partway for photos
• You are more of an independent explorer and want to get away from the “packaged tour” feeling of the Bernina Express

To do the Bernina Express is a DIY way, you will need to split your journey into the following three rides (assuming you are leaving from Tirano).

And that’s it! The exact same landscapes as the actual Bernina Express, without being on it ; )

I personally used my Eurail pass for all these rides, but  if you want the easiest way to check prices/times of point to point tickets, check out the official SBB website .

See the “how to get the best deals” section above for ideas on how to get these tickets the cheapest possible way.

11 Final Tips for Riding the Bernina Express

Alright, so now that I’ve talked your ear off about the many ways to get tickets and make the most of your experience, I have some final words of wisdom to chuck at you. In no particular order, they are…

1. Sit on the right side!

Hands down, the right side of the train (from Chur to Tirano) or the left side (from Tirano to Chur) is the far superior side.

Unlike the Glacier Express , which I would argue had pretty equal views on both sides, the Bernina Express definitely has a “better side” especially if you want a nice view of the Landwasser Viaduct.

While reserving is tricky because you don’t actually know which way the carriage will end up facing, just remember this for photos and if you see a free spot!

2. Reserve your seat ASAP

The Bernina Express is an incredibly popular train.

Even when I looked again in April, many of the window seats for 1st class in mid-June were mostly taken. I would recommend you get your seat reserved as soon as you know you’ll be doing the Bernina Express because ideally you’re going to want a window seat, and if travelling with others, you’ll want to sit together!

While they don’t have an official policy on how far in advance you can reserve seats, my tests with the online system seem to indicate the limit is about 6 months in advance.

3. If you’re not sitting on the right side, loiter by the luggage racks during key landscapes

If you have the unfortunate luck of being sat on the wrong side (in my opinion, the left side from Chur to Tirano, or the right side from Tirano to Chur), don’t despair.

First of all – the windows are huge so you’ll be able to see the landscapes no matter what.

BUT, secondly, if you are interested in capturing key moments of the journey with a photo (e.g. going over the Landwasser Viaduct), prepare yourself well and nab a spot on the right side of the train near the luggage rack!

This way you can have a good view of the right side, without disturbing anybody. You can also go to the middle connecting area between carriages.

I’ve heard the windows there can open halfway for good photos.

4. Remember your passport

Again, you’ll be crossing the border if you are taking the Bernina Express the entire way, so remember to bring some valid travel documents with you.

5. Get to the train early

Assuming you are boarding the Bernina Express on the first stop, I would advise getting to the train about 20-30 minutes before departure time.

This extra buffer time will make a world of difference in terms of keeping stress levels down, and at least based on my own experience, there’s always awkward seating misunderstandings when the train gets close to departure (e.g. one person sits in the wrong seat, displaces the next person, etc) and it all gets very confusing.

If you fear confrontation like me, getting there early is an easy way to ensure you get in your seat without having to fight with anybody!

Additionally, if you have luggage, getting on board early will mean you have first pick at the limited spots for storing luggage.

6. Know where to put your luggage

The Bernina Express has some luggage racks, but there are also slots in between the backs of seats (you’ll see what I mean) where you can slide in smaller suitcases.

If you can’t find a place, the staff are more than willing to help you out.

7. Take advantage of the free Infotrainment

The Infotrainment available on board the Bernina Express is actually a really fun and interesting addition to the ride – one that I noticed nobody was using!

So, take this tip now and run with it: if you have a smartphone during your Bernina Express ride, you can log onto a special WiFi network on board that connects you to the Bernina Express Infotrainment system, which shows you a moving map of where you are, along with a feed of fun facts/historical tidbits as you pass through different stops on the Bernina Express route.

If you bring headphones (see the tip below), you can even listen to narration, commentary and stories related to each stop. Details on how to access this network should be available on a pamphlet on the table.

8. Bring headphones

Again, if you want to make the most of the Infotrainment experience described above, make sure you have headphones so you can plug in and listen!

9. Bring sun protection

Oh my gosh, some of the landscapes along the Bernina Express route are so bright, you’ll feel your eyeballs burning ever so slightly.

To avoid this tingly sensation, be sure to bring sunglasses and sun protection if you have sensitive skin.

10. Don’t forget water and snacks for your Bernina Express trip!

To my permanently hungry hungry hippos, you need to know that there is no Dining Car available on the Bernina Express.

Instead, there is a staff member that comes around with a little trolly selling a limited selection of drinks and snacks. 

To be honest with you, the food/drink options are kind of overpriced and underwhelming. With coffee for instance, you can only order black coffee or cafe au lait (not even a cappuccino! my diva self was shocked).

Experience-wise, it pales in comparison to the Glacier Express , where you are served hot meals at your seat with proper cutlery and glasses. So, to avoid disappointment, be sure to bring your own refreshments.

11. Be mindful that the Bernina Express is not a super baby-friendly experience

Last but not least, I have to add this because I sat next to a young couple with a baby, and saw their struggle first-hand.

Sadly, the Bernina Express isn’t an ideal ride for a little baby, here’s why: the train can make some very random and sudden noises that startle babies, and there aren’t any change tables available in the train bathrooms.

All of this makes bringing your newborn spawn onto the train a bit more difficult.

So, in case you are considering doing this journey with a baby, keep those limitations in mind.

Do you have any more questions about the Bernina Express?

Phew! That was a long post, but I hope you found this guide helpful in planning your Bernina Express trip. Safe travels, and have an amazing time!

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4 thoughts on “The Bernina Express Train in Switzerland: Everything You Must Know”

Thank you so much for this comprehensive post! It has made my planning for my solo trip to Switzerland a lot less stressful. Cheers 🙂

Fantastic report!!!

THIS IS SO HELPFUL! thank you!

You’re welcome!!!

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Bern vs. Basel: Which City Is Better?

• June 12, 2023 November 8, 2023

Last Updated on November 8, 2023 by Admin

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Are you pondering whether to choose Bern or Basel for your visit to Switzerland? These two major and beloved Swiss cities, Bern and Basel , both offer a wealth of historical landmarks, shopping districts, hotels, museums, and dining establishments. Furthermore, both cities boast ample green spaces and recreational opportunities. As you weigh the options between Bern and Basel, you may be wondering which city would be the better destination for your trip. Between the two, is Basel or Bern better to visit? Let’s find out.

In this comparison of Bern vs. Basel , we highlight the distinctions between the two cities, helping you choose the ideal destination for your next visit to Switzerland when time allows for just one.

Overview: Bern vs. Basel

The key differences are as follows:

Cities: Bern vs. Basel

Switzerland’s de facto capital is Bern . This city near the Aare River is not the official capital as one might think. Unlike most countries, Switzerland does not have an official capital. Nevertheless, Bern is the seat of the Swiss Federal Government. So you’ll find a lot of government workers here – including members of the Swiss Federal Council. In Bern, the Federal Palace is home to the Swiss Federal Council, an executive council of seven members of the Swiss federal government.

Bern is not only Switzerland’s de facto capital. UNESCO has designated its old town as a world heritage site . The old town is full of colorful figures, crafted pillars, and medieval fountains. Bern has over 100 fountains. These medieval works of art were once important meeting spots for locals, and they remain an integral part of Bern’s character.

The city of Basel , located close to France and Germany and with excellent weather all year round, is known for its vibrant lifestyle and contrasting cultural traditions. Old and new are juxtaposed throughout Basel’s cosmopolitan landscape. It is located on the Rhine River .

Basel is also known as Switzerland’s cultural capital. It has more than 40 museums , including the Kunstmuseum, the Fondation Beyeler , and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, it hosts Art Basel , an international art fair that attracts thousands of artists, art collectors, and art enthusiasts from Europe, the US, and Asia. 

Basel is not just a cultural city. The city is also home to some world-renowned institutions, such as the University of Basel, the Bank of International Settlements, and FC Basel. A number of the world’s top pharma companies are based in Basel, including Roche, Novartis, the Lonza Group, and Actelion.

During February and March, Basel hosts its annual Carnival festival. It is the country’s largest carnival, which was inscribed in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017. Starting with the Morgestraich , it lasts exactly 72 hours. Locals call it the three most beautiful days ( die drey scheenschte Dääg ).

Additionally, Basel is ranked as the tenth most livable city in the world , according to Mercer .

Places to Visit: Bern vs. Basel

Places to visit in bern.

• Old City of Bern – Old City refers to the medieval city of Bern, Switzerland, which is surrounded by the river Aare on three sides. Several historic buildings dating from the 12th to 15th centuries can be found here. As a result of the number and well-preserved buildings from the medieval ages, the site was honored as a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site back in 1983.
• Zytglogge – In Bern’s Old City, the Zytglogge is a prominent medieval clock tower. One of the most recognizable symbols of the city, the clock dates back from 1218 to 1220. Every full hour, the clock rings, and some characters emerge. You can find it right at the entrance of the old town. It is fascinating to watch, especially for history buffs and those who are fascinated by its age.
• Federal Palace – The Swiss Federal Assembly and Swiss Federal Council occupy the Federal Palace in Bern. Various government departments, as well as a library, are also housed in its two wings (eastern and western wings).
• Rosengarten – The Rose Garden is a beautiful park perched on a hill overlooking the entire historic center. It is just 5 minutes away from Bear Park. If you are lucky, you can see it when the roses are in bloom. It is a beautifully maintained and well-kept garden. There are benches and walking paths, as well as a great assortment of roses.  
• Einstein Museum – It might seem random at first glance, but the Albert Einstein Museum remains an interesting place in Bern. Albert Einstein, one of the world’s most brilliant physicists, lived in Bern at the time when his theory of relativity changed the world. Within the Historical Museum of Bern, approximately 1,000m² of exhibition space focuses on both his life and work, as well as the era when he lived. 
• Historic Museum of Bern – Over half a million objects from various cultures worldwide are housed in the Bern Historic Museum, the second-largest historical museum in Switzerland. After two years of construction, the building was opened on Helvetiaplatz back in 1894. André Lambert designed the castle museum, which was influenced by various historic castles. After 80 years, it was expanded to include Kubus, a more modern-looking building, to accommodate more exhibition halls. The museum has many exhibits, including Bern and its history, art and silver, and even Asian history (India, Tibet, China, Japan). 
• Gurten – Gurten Park, located 858 meters above sea level and offering stunning views of the Bernese and Jura Alps, is worth a visit. On foot, it takes about an hour to reach it, but taking the tram and funicular (18 minutes to Gurten Kulm) is faster. Walking and cycling are possible all year round. Park amenities include playgrounds for kids, walking paths for people of all ages, and restaurants. If it’s a sunny weekend, expect to be quite busy. It would be better to visit Gurten on a weekday. 

Places to Visit in Basel

• Basel Zoo – Switzerland’s oldest zoo (or Zolli as locals call it) is located in Basel. It is a nice, somewhat compact, zoo in Basel, Switzerland. Basel Zoo contains 7,554 animals from 543 different species. The Zoo attracts more than a million visitors each year despite its relatively modest size. It is the perfect family getaway in Basel.
• Art Basel – It may only happen for a few days per year, but Art Basel is still a must-visit for art lovers. The show brings together the international world of art with most of the leading art galleries displaying thousands of artists’ works. 

• Fondation Beyeler – Switzerland’s most visited art museum, Fondation Beyeler was founded by Swiss collectors and philanthropists  Ernst and Hildy Beyeler . Basel-born art collector Ernst Beyeler created the foundation with his wife to showcase the private collection he accumulated over his career, valued at US$1.85 billion at his death. Located in Reihen, it is a 25-minute tram ride from the city center of Basel, Switzerland.
• Basel Minster – In the heart of Basel’s old town, you can find this beautiful terracotta-colored medieval cathedral. Climb the tower for a spectacular view of the city and the Rhine River.
• Rhine River – The Rhine River is also excellent for swimming if the weather allows. To make the swim even easier, some swimmers bring along floating bags. Ferryboats cross the Rhine in four different locations. If you would like to travel further, you can take a lock cruise to Rheinfelden , a local town close by. 
• Jean Tinguely Museum – The Museum Tinguely is an art museum in Basel, Switzerland that exhibits the works of Swiss painter and sculptor Jean Tinguely. Designed by Ticinese architect Mario Botta, the museum was opened in 1996 in Solitude Park by the Rhine. The museum displays sculptures, letter drawings, documents, exhibition posters, catalogs, and photographs.  Visitors can view the exhibits to gain a comprehensive view of all phases of Jean Tinguely’s career. 
• Basel Carnival – Basel Carnival (or Basler Fasnacht ) is the largest carnival in Switzerland. It takes place annually from February to March. Since 2017, it has been listed as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. A 72-hour period begins with the Morgestraich . 

Hotels: Bern vs. Basel

Hotels in bern.

• Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa (5-star) – A well-established hotel, Schweizerhof Bern & Spa offers luxurious, sleek rooms with elegant decor. This well-known and highly-rated hotel enjoys a great location in the heart of Bern.
• Hotel Savoy Bern (4-star) – This elegant hotel is located in the old town of Bern. It is just a few steps away from the train station as well as the famed arcade streets.
• Best Western Plus Hotel Bern (4-star) – Boasting a prime location at Bern’s Old Town, the hotel offers exceptional affordability coupled with a range of amenities including a rooftop bar boasting breathtaking views, an on-site restaurant, round-the-clock front desk services, complimentary Wi-Fi, and well-maintained, cozy accommodations. This establishment is a highly recommended choice for a fulfilling stay in Bern.
• Kreuz Bern Modern City Hotel (3-star) – With its ideal location in the heart of Bern, Kreuz Bern Modern City Hotel is just 5 minutes from the train station. Modern rooms, a restaurant, fitness facilities, and an infrared cabin are available at the hotel. The hotel is also reasonably priced.
• Ibis Styles Bern City (3-star) – Ibis Styles Bern City stands as a contemporary and tasteful hotel conveniently situated close to Bern’s train station. It offers exceptional value for money, features a delightful breakfast spread, and has the bonus of a compact play area by the entrance, complete with a table football setup.
• Hostel 77 Bern (Hostel) – Located near Gurten , this charming hostel is easy to reach from Bern’s Main Train Station with public transport. This affordable accommodation offers male, female, and mixed dorm beds and lockers. They also offer free breakfast and free public transportation tickets.

Hotels in Basel

• Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (5-star) – Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois is one of Europe’s oldest city hotels. Ideally located within the Old Town of Basel, the hotel offers fantastic views of the Rhine. This elegant hotel has excellent service, an exquisite dining experience, and well-appointed amenities.
• Hotel Märthof Basel (4-star) – Hotel Märthof Basel, located in the heart of Basel near Marktplatz, is one of the best hotels in town. Featuring beautiful rooms, a 24-hour front desk, a business center, a spa center, and a terrace, you won’t regret booking here. 
• GAIA Hotel (4-star) – GAIA Hotel is a family-run hotel located right across from Basel Main Train Station, only a 10-minute walk from the historic city center.
• Mövenpick Hotel Basel (4-star) – Located near Basel Train Station, this contemporary hotel offers captivating vistas of Basel. Guests are afforded complimentary city transport passes, a delightful breakfast selection, and immaculate rooms, making for a truly gratifying stay experience.
• Motel One (3-star hotel) – Right at Barfüsser Platz, Motel One Basel is a contemporary hotel with fashionable interiors and unbeatable prices.

Summary : Bern vs. Basel

Bern or Basel are both great places to visit, but the one you choose depends on you. Neither of them lacks things to do, places to see, or restaurants to dine in. Each town has a river, historical old towns, churches, and green spaces. So what would my recommendations be?

If you are visiting Switzerland for the first time, I highly recommend visiting Bern first . In addition to its status as a federal city and its UNESCO World Heritage Old City, I believe that it has more historical significance than Basel. Furthermore, it’s near much of the Jungfrau Region’s beautiful mountains (see 10 Mountains Near Bern, Switzerland ). It’s easy to reach from both Lucerne and Zurich . 

To whom would I recommend Basel? Basel is a great city for families with young children because they can visit Basel Zoo and the city at the same time. Basel Zoo makes a great family getaway. I would also suggest going to Basel first if you love art or happen to be here right when the Basel Carnival takes place.

  I hope I’ve been able to provide a brief overview of the differences between Bern and Basel to help you decide which city you want to visit next time you’re in Switzerland. 

Related Posts: Train Travel

• Basel to Bern Train: All You Need To Know
• Zurich to Bern Train: All You Need To Know
• Zurich to Basel Train: All You Need To Know

Related Posts: Bern

• 9 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland
• How to Spend 1 Day in Bern, Switzerland
• Zurich to Bern Day Trip: A Complete Guide
• What Is The Capital of Switzerland?
• 10 Beautiful Towns Near Bern, Switzerland
• 10 Mountains Near Bern, Switzerland
• 7 Top Things To Do in Bern When It Rains
• Visiting Gurten? 8 Reasons To Love It
• Bern Historical Museum: What to Expect

Related Posts: Basel

• How to Spend 1 Day in Basel, Switzerland
• 8 Beautiful Towns Near Basel, Switzerland
• Zoo Basel – An Honest Review
• Art Basel – The Most Influential Art Fair in the World
• Fondation Beyeler – Among Switzerland’s Most Visited Museums
• 10 Best Day Trips from Basel

Darla is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country. Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

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10 Cose da mangiare a Berna e dove

• Berner Platte
• Fonduta di Formaggi
• Älplermagronen
• Birchermüesli
• Cioccolato svizzero
• Schweineschnitzel
• Leberspiessli

Dove mangiare a Berna: migliori ristoranti, locali tipici e street food

Berna è una città che mette a disposizione di cittadini e turisti una grande varietà di ristoranti e locali che propongono specialità tipiche di tutto il mondo, oltre ai piatti strettamente tradizionali. Durante la visita alla città, quindi, è dovuto un assaggio alla cucina tipica svizzera , un mix di tradizioni provenienti dai principali tre cantoni, che subisce dunque le influenze francesi, tedesche, austriache e in parte italiane. Hai in programma di trascorrere qualche giorno a Berna? Ecco una piccola guida che elenca le 10 cose da mangiare a Berga !

1 - Berner Platte

• Consigliato a pranzo, cena
• Costo medio €20,00
• Ingredienti principali prosciutto, speck, costine, piedini, midollo, crauti, fagioli e patate

2 - Fonduta di Formaggi

• Costo medio €25,00
• Ingredienti principali formaggi a pasta morbida, vino bianco secco, aglio, noce moscata

3 - Raclette

• Costo medio €18,00
• Ingredienti principali formaggio Raclette, patate, pane

4 - Älplermagronen

• Costo medio €15,00
• Ingredienti principali pasta (solitamente maccheroni), patate, panna, formaggio, cipolle

• Consigliato a pranzo, cena, spuntino
• Costo medio €10,00
• Ingredienti principali patate, cipolle, speck

6 - Birchermüesli

• Consigliato a colazione, spuntino
• Costo medio €7,00
• Ingredienti principali cereali, frutta secca, bacche, latte o yogurt

7 - Spätzle

• Ingredienti principali farina di grano tenero, uova, acqua, condimento a scelta

8 - Cioccolato svizzero

• Consigliato a sempre
• Costo medio circa €12,00 al chilo
• Ingredienti principali cacao

9 - Schweineschnitzel

• Ingredienti principali carne di vitello

10 - Leberspiessli

• Ingredienti principali fegato di vitello (o di maiale), pancetta

1 - Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar

• Descrizione una vera e propria istituzione a Berna, costruito tra il 1771 e il 1778 inizialmente come granaio, poi nel tempo tramutato in ristorante, piatti tipici e ottimi vini
• Specialità tartare "Kornhaus"
• Prezzo medio da €50,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Kornhausplatz 18 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313277272

2 - Beaulieu

• Descrizione fuori dai giri più turistici, il luogo giusto in cui assaggiare e scoprire la vera tradizione bernese, diversi menu in base alla stagione, oltre che a uno per il pranzo e uno per la cena
• Specialità Market Menu Beaulieu
• Prezzo medio da €20,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Erlachstrasse 3 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313312525

3 - Le Lötschberg

• Descrizione tradizionale ristorante svizzero dove gustare una delle fondute più buone di tutta la Svizzera
• Specialità fonduta
• Indirizzo Zeughausgasse 16 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313113455

4 - Ristorante Rosengarten

• Descrizione all'interno del Rosengarten, tavolini esterni e di una sala interna, cucina tipica svizzera
• Specialità piatto del giorno
• Prezzo medio da €35,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Alter Aargauerstalden 31B - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313313206

5 - Schöngrün

• Descrizione locale con design moderno, ricavato all'interno di un edificio storico, piatti che uniscono la tradizione locale con le influenze internazionali
• Specialità zuppa del giorno
• Prezzo medio da €30,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Monument im Fruchtland 1 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313590290
• Descrizione ristorante elegante e raffinato raccomandato dalla guida Michelin, piatti ricercati e creativi
• Specialità menu degustazione
• Prezzo medio da €100,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Gerechtigkeitsgasse 56 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313321020

7 - Casa di Mamma

• Descrizione piccolo locale sempre più famoso che offre pasta takeaway a prezzi ottimi
• Specialità pasta
• Prezzo medio da €10,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Zeughausgasse 18 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41333430300

8 - The Butcher Aarbergergasse

• Descrizione hamburgeria nel cuore del centro storico con ottimi panini
• Specialità burger
• Prezzo medio da €25,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Aarbergergasse 36 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41315550260

9 - Restaurants Terrasse

• Descrizione ristorante con vista sul fiume, cucina internazionale
• Specialità pesce
• Prezzo medio da €40,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Dalmaziquai 11 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313505001

10 - Mille Sens

• Descrizione nel cuore di Berna, aspetto tipico da bistrot francese orientato alla cucina fusion
• Specialità mille sens tavolata
• Indirizzo Schweizerhof-Passage, Spitalgasse 38 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313292929

11 - Marzilibrucke

• Descrizione ristorante tipico svizzero dove è possibile anche cenare in una cabina della funivia
• Prezzo medio da €45,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Gasstrasse 8 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313112780

12 - Altes Tramdepot Brauerei Restaurant

• Descrizione grande birreria in stile industriale, cucina tipica da pub e ottime birre artigianali
• Specialità Lammnierstück vom Grill
• Indirizzo Grosser Muristalden 6 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313681415

13 - Brasserie Obstberg

• Descrizione elegante brasserie con ampie finestre, piatti ricercati e ingredienti di prima qualità
• Specialità Obstberg-Spezialitäten
• Prezzo medio da €60,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Bantigerstrasse 18 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313520440

14 - La Chouette - Crêpes & Momos

• Descrizione creperia dove poter gustare crepes dolci ma anche salate, ottime per un pranzo veloce
• Specialità crepes
• Prezzo medio da €15,00 a persona
• Indirizzo Bollwerk 39 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313110335

15 - tibits Bern Gurtengasse

• Descrizione ristorante vegetariano con tantissime opzioni e piatti
• Specialità vegetariana
• Indirizzo Gurtengasse 3 - Ottieni indicazioni / tel: +41313130222

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