Visiting Bern, Switzerland: Things To Do & Day Trip Attractions

Discovering Bern, Switzerland: The Perfect Destination for Culture, History, and Natural Beauty

Switzerland, often renowned for its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and world-class cities like Lucerne and Interlaken, hides some treasures that don’t always make the top of the tourist list. One such gem is Bern, the capital of Switzerland. While Zurich and Geneva might steal the spotlight when it comes to Swiss cities, Bern is undoubtedly a must-see destination for anyone who wants to experience a harmonious blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to see and do in Bern, Switzerland, helping you plan your visit while also shedding light on why this beautiful city should be on your travel radar. Let’s explore the top places and activities that will ensure an unforgettable experience in the city of Bern, including recommendations from Rick Steves.

Why Visit Bern, Switzerland?

Before we get into the specifics of what to see on your day trip to Bern, let’s take a moment to discuss why this Swiss capital should be part of your travel itinerary.

A Blend of History and Modernity

While Zurich and Geneva are renowned for their urban vibrancy and financial significance, Bern offers a more laid-back atmosphere with a strong sense of history. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with medieval streets, impressive architecture, and historical landmarks. Despite its historical depth, Bern is also very much alive with contemporary art, great shopping, and a thriving culinary scene.

Walkable and Accessible

One of the most appealing features of Bern is that it’s incredibly walkable, allowing you to easily explore the Old City, making it a top destination on a trip to Switzerland. The Old Town is compact and easily navigable on foot, which means you can explore almost everything without the need for public transport. It’s a city that invites you to slow down and enjoy the charm of its cobbled streets, colorful fountains, and vibrant squares.

Top Things to See and Do in Bern

Now that we’ve discussed why Bern is such a great destination, let’s explore the top attractions and experiences that should be on your to-do list.

1. Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)

Bern’s Old Town is where the magic happens, making it a must-see during your trip to Bern. This part of the city looks like it has stepped straight out of a history book. The Old Town (Altstadt) is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets and squares that are home to centuries-old architecture. The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so you can expect to find beautiful buildings, cultural landmarks, and charming shops at every corner in the Old Town of Bern, enhancing your experience while you stay in Bern.

Zytglogge (Clock Tower): Perhaps the most famous landmark in Bern, this clock tower dates back to the 13th century. Don’t miss the hourly show where a mechanical rooster crows, and a series of animated characters come to life.
The Federal Palace is a significant landmark in Bern, the capital city of Switzerland.Home to the Swiss Federal Assembly, this is where Swiss politics come to life. The building itself is stunning, and guided tours are available to explore its political significance.
- Bern Cathedral (Münster) is a must-see landmark in the Old City. As the tallest church in Switzerland, this Gothic masterpiece offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Oberland. Climb the bell tower for a panoramic view of Bern and the picturesque surrounding landscape.

2. Visit the Bear Park (Bärenpark)

Bears are an essential part of Bern’s history. The name “Bern” actually comes from the German word “Bär,” which means bear. The Bear Park is located along the Aare River and houses real bears in a natural, spacious habitat. It’s a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent animals in the heart of the city.

A Walk Through History: Learn about the significance of bears in Bern’s history and the legend of how the city got its name, which is certainly worth a visit.
Bear Watching: The park is a peaceful location where visitors can relax and observe the bears as they roam freely, providing fantastic photo opportunities during your day trip to Bern.

3. Gurten Hill: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Views

For a stunning view of Bern and the surrounding countryside, head to the Parliament building. Gurten Hill. This hill offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the city, the Aare River, and the distant peaks of the Alps, which are part of the stunning Berner Oberland region.

Getting There: You can take a funicular railway to the top, or for the more adventurous, a hike up the hill will reward you with even better views of the Swiss capital.
Activities: Once at the top, you can enjoy a picnic, hike the trails, or simply take in the breathtaking surroundings. It’s a favorite spot for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Gurten Festival: If you’re visiting in July, the Gurten Festival brings a lively atmosphere to the city. Gurten Festival brings top-notch music to this iconic hill.

4. Bern Historical Museum (Bernisches Historisches Museum)

If you’re a fan of history and culture, the Bern Historical Museum is an essential stop. It is the second-largest museum in Switzerland and offers a deep dive into the country’s history, art, and culture.

Einstein Museum: Don’t miss the Einstein Museum, which is housed here. Albert Einstein lived in Bern during his years working at the Swiss Patent Office, and this museum offers a fascinating look at his life and work in the city of Bern.
Exhibitions: The museum is home to exhibitions spanning centuries of Swiss history, including collections on the country’s folk culture, art, and the evolution of Bern itself.

5. Take a Stroll Along the Aare River

The Aare River flows through Bern and offers some of the most stunning views of the city. There are several ways to enjoy the river—whether you’re walking along the riverbanks, taking a boat ride, or simply sitting on one of the many benches by the water, making it one of the best things to do in Bern.

6. Rosengarten (Rose Garden)

Swimming in the Aare: In the summer months, the locals often take a dip in the river, as the waters are refreshingly cool and the current is strong enough for an exciting experience.
A Scenic walk along the Aare is ideal for those looking to take in the beauty of the city and enjoy its natural surroundings, a perfect addition to your trip to Switzerland.

Located on a hill above Bern’s Old Town, the Rosengarten offers one of the best views of the city. The rose garden is not only beautiful but also tranquil, offering a perfect spot to take a break after a day of sightseeing.

A Botanical Oasis in Bern, Switzerland’s capital city. With over 200 varieties of roses, it’s a perfect location for nature lovers and photographers to visit in Bern.
Ideal for Photos, the Old City provides stunning backdrops for your memories in the city of Bern. The views of the Old Town from here are some of the most photographed scenes in Bern, making it an excellent spot for capturing the essence of the city.

7. Kunstmuseum Bern (Bern Museum of Art)

Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Kunstmuseum Bern, the city’s premier art museum, which is located near the Parliament building, making it an ideal stop during your trip to Bern. This museum has an impressive collection of Swiss and international art from the Middle Ages to contemporary times.

Renowned Artists like Picasso and Klee have their works showcased in the city of Bern. The museum houses works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, and Marc Chagall, making it one of the top things to do in Bern and a highlight of your time in Switzerland.
Exhibitions: The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions that showcase modern and contemporary works, perfect for a day in Bern.

8. Swiss Alpine Museum

The Swiss Alpine Museum is the ideal spot for nature and history lovers. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the cultural, environmental, and historical aspects of the Swiss Alps, making it a valuable addition to your trip to Bern, especially if you plan to visit Murren or Wengen.

Swiss Mountain Culture: Learn about life in the Alps, including mountaineering, the impact of alpine life on Swiss culture, and the beautiful landscapes of the region during your trip to Bern.
Interactive Exhibitions at the Einstein House provide a unique insight into the life of one of Bern’s most famous residents. With its engaging and interactive exhibits, this museum offers a unique way to learn about Switzerland’s most iconic feature—the Alps, making it one of the top attractions in Bern.
Consider Switzerland for your honeymoon plans.

Best Time to Visit Bern

Understanding the best time to visit Bern is crucial for tailoring your trip to the experience you want in the Swiss capital. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons:

Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to explore the Old City and enjoy all that Bern has to offer. The city starts to warm up, flowers bloom, and the outdoor attractions become more enjoyable. It’s a quieter time to visit Bern, ideal for those who prefer fewer crowds during their day in Bern.
Summer (June to August): Warm and sunny, this is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming in the Aare River, and relaxing in parks. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors.
Autumn (September to November): The autumn foliage transforms the city, and the weather remains pleasant. This is a wonderful time for hiking in the surrounding hills of the Bernese Oberland and enjoying the changing colors.
Winter (December to February) is a great time to experience the charm of Bern, Switzerland’s capital city. For a cozy atmosphere, visit Bern during the winter months when Christmas markets fill the city, and snow covers the ground. While it’s colder, the city of Bern becomes magical with the holiday lights and winter activities, attracting visitors from around the world.

FAQ

1. What is the best way to get to Bern from Zurich or Geneva?

From Zurich Bern is about 1 hour by train from Zurich, making it very accessible and a great starting point for exploring the rest of Switzerland. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and it’s one of the easiest and most efficient ways to travel between the two cities.
From Geneva, Bern is approximately 1.5 hours away from Geneva by train. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides comfortable and direct connections between the two cities.
By Car, you can enjoy a picturesque drive to Bern, which is worth a visit for its stunning views. If you prefer driving, it will take you around 1.5 hours from Zurich and 2 hours from Geneva to reach Bern. Keep in mind that parking in the city center can be limited and costly, so public transportation is often more convenient.

2. How walkable is Bern?

Bern is a very walkable city. The Old Town (Altstadt) is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with most major attractions located within walking distance of each other, making it easy to see in Bern. You can easily explore the city on foot and enjoy its cobblestone streets, squares, and gardens without needing public transportation. For longer distances, public transport is efficient and easy to navigate.

3. Is Bern an expensive city to visit?

Switzerland, in general, is known for being one of the more expensive countries in Europe, and Bern is no exception. However, there are ways to enjoy Bern without breaking the bank:

Public Transport: Consider buying a Bern Travel Pass, which offers unlimited access to buses, trams, and funiculars within the city.
Free Attractions: Many of the city’s outdoor attractions, like the Bear Park, Rosengarten, and the walking trails along the Aare River, are completely free.
Eating Out in Bern offers a chance to enjoy local delicacies, including cheese fondue, which is a highlight of your time in Switzerland. While dining in Bern can be pricey, you can save money by visiting casual eateries, bakeries, or local markets where you can grab a bite without spending too much.

4. What are the must-try foods in Bern?

When visiting Bern, there are a few Swiss dishes you absolutely must try:

Fondue: A Swiss classic, enjoy melted cheese fondue with bread, vegetables, or potatoes, which is a must-try during your time in Switzerland. Many restaurants in Bern offer a cozy fondue experience.
Rösti: A traditional Swiss dish made of crispy grated potatoes, often served with a variety of toppings like cheese, eggs, or vegetables.
Bernese Platter is a delightful dish that you must try when visiting the capital city of Switzerland. A hearty dish of sausages, meat, and potatoes, often accompanied by sauerkraut or pickles.
Swiss Chocolate: Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, and Bern is no different. Be sure to visit one of the many chocolatiers around the city to sample some high-quality treats.

5. Is English spoken in Bern?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Bern, especially in tourist areas, making it easier for visitors to stay in Bern. Most signs, menus, and public transport information are available in English, and locals are generally happy to assist you in English if needed. However, learning a few basic phrases in German (the main language spoken in Bern) will go a long way in making your visit to Bern for a day even more enjoyable.