Bern, Switzerland's capital, is a gem of European history, culture, and scenic beauty. Known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, rich cultural scene, and striking architecture, Bern is a captivating mix of tradition and modernity.

📝Things to do in Bern:

🌸Explore Bern’s Old Town:

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town is a stunning blend of medieval charm and modern life. Its long, covered arcades (called Lauben) stretch for six kilometres, making it one of the longest covered shopping promenades in Europe. Exploring the Old Town’s winding streets, fountains, and clock towers is like stepping into a storybook.

📸The Zytglogge Clock Tower

One of Bern’s most iconic landmarks, the Zytglogge is a 13th-century clock tower adorned with an elaborate astronomical clock. At the top of each hour, you can watch a mechanical show featuring figurines that come to life. You can also tour of the Zytglogge reveals the clock’s inner workings and offers insight into Bern’s history. (Ticket: CHF 20)

⭐️Top tip: As part of tour you will have the chance to climb 130 steps to the top, where you will reach a lookout platform and experience stunning views of Bern’s old city and beyond.

🛍️Kramgasse:

This long, bustling street is home to many of Bern’s 16th-century fountains, each with unique statues representing various themes and characters. The arcades along Kramgasse house a variety of boutiques, cafes, and shops, perfect for leisurely exploring.

⛪️ Munster Cathedral :

The Cathedral of Bern is an impressive Gothic church located in central Bern. You will be able to climb up 344 stairs to the lookout point, where you can even admire views across the whole city of Bern, all the way to the snow-capped Alps, from the church’s tower. 

👟The Green Aare Walk:

The Green Aare Walk is an easy scenic walk along the banks of the Aare River where you can enjoy some of Switzerland’s most picturesque landscapes.

Duration: 2-4hrs

🚋Gurten Mountain:

Just a short tram ride from the city center, Gurten Mountain provides panoramic views of Bern and the Bernese Alps.You can take a funicular to the top, enjoy hiking trails, or picnic with views of the city.

🌹Rosengarten (Rose Garden):

This elevated park offers one of the best views of Bern’s Old Town. With over 200 varieties of roses and beautiful walking paths, it’s a lovely place to relax and take in the city’s atmosphere.

📚A perk of the Rosengaren is the open access library. Where you can borrow a book to read in the park free of charge and return at the end of the day .

🫕Fondue in a Gondola at Marzilibrucke Restaurant (Oct-Feb)

Marzilibrucke Restaurant provides a unique opportunity to try fondue in a ski gondola (or, you can choose to do so on solid ground also).

Be sure to book your gondola in advance because the experience is in high demand!

☕️Cafes in Bern:

Adriano’s Bar & Café

Adriano’s Bar & Café is famous for its artisan coffee and stylish interior. Located in the heart of the Old Town on Theaterplatz, Adriano’s has a modern, cosy ambiance and serves high-quality, freshly roasted coffee sourced from around the world. The cafe’s dedication to quality coffee makes it a go-to spot. Try their espresso or cappuccino, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite.

Address: Theaterplatz 2, 3011 Bern

🥐Café des Pyrénées

A vintage charm and an ideal place for breakfast, a mid-morning coffee, or an afternoon pastry. With outdoor seating in summer, it’s also a great place for people-watching in the heart of the Old Town.

Address: Aarbergergasse 60, 3011 Bern

☕️Martha's Kitchen

Though slightly off the main tourist path, Martha’s Kitchen is worth a visit for rustic charm and excellent coffee. Located in an old stone building, Martha’s has a small but cosy interior and offers a selection of artisanal coffee drinks and fresh-baked goods.

Address: Brunngasse 36, 3011 Bern

Things to know:

🧀Märit Münstergasse

Münstergasse Market: There is a lively street market on Tuesdays and Saturdays, offering local produce, cheeses, and handcrafted items. It’s a great place to pick up authentic Swiss products.