Where to stay
Hotels in Bern
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At a glance
Climate
Temperate
Languages
German and French and English
Local currency
CHF
(CHF)
Local time
(GMT+2)
Ideal trip length
2–4 days
Cost level
4 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Old Town (Altstadt)
Tap water
Generally described as safe to drink
Tipping
Not mandatory, appreciated for good service.
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
80 · Very good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Berner Platte
Rösti
Swiss Cheese Fondue
Meringues
When to visit Bern
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: July
Busiest: Jun-Aug
-
Jan30
Cold, snowy, festive
-
Feb35
Chilly, often snowy
-
Mar45
Cool, melting snow
-
Apr60
Mild, spring blooms
-
May75
Pleasant, green
-
Jun85
Warm, long days
-
Jul90
Hot, ideal for Aare
-
Aug88
Warm, summer festivals
-
Sept80
Mild, autumn colors
-
Oct65
Cool, crisp air
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Nov40
Cold, misty, quiet
-
Dec50
Chilly, festive markets
Things to do in Bern
8 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 8 of 8 places ·
Best in the morning
2 places
Bear Park (BärenPark)
Aare River 1.5 hrs
Observe Bern's symbolic bears roaming freely along the Aare River.
Bundeshaus (Parliament Building)
Old Town 1 hr
Admire the impressive architecture and join a guided tour of Switzerland's Parliament.
Best in the afternoon
3 places
Bern Minster
Old Town 1.5 hrs
Climb Switzerland's tallest cathedral tower for panoramic city views.
Aare River Swim
Aare River 2 hrs
Experience the refreshing current of the emerald Aare River, a local summer tradition.
Rose Garden (Rosengarten)
East of Old Town 1.5 hrs
Enjoy stunning views of the Old Town, Aare loop, and Alps from a beautiful park.
Any time of day
3 places
Zytglogge Clock Tower
Old Town 0.5 hrs
Witness the intricate hourly show of Bern's iconic medieval clock tower.
Einstein House
Old Town 1 hr
Explore the apartment where Albert Einstein developed the theory of relativity.
Kramgasse Arcades
Old Town 2 hrs
Wander through the historic arcades, discovering boutiques, cafes, and cellars.
Bern itineraries
For couples
2 Days in Bern — Romance
Discover the enchanting beauty and intimate charm of Switzerland's capital with your loved one.
This two-day itinerary is crafted for couples seeking a romantic escape amidst Bern's medieval charm and stunning natural beauty. From historic arcades and panoramic viewpoints to intimate riverside dining, experience the city's most enchanting spots. Perfect for those who cherish shared moments and picturesque settings.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
With the family
3 Days in Bern — Family with Kids
Discover Bern's charm and playful adventures, perfect for all ages.
This delightful 3-day itinerary is crafted for families with children, blending Bern's historic beauty with engaging activities. Explore medieval streets, encounter bears, splash in fountains, and enjoy interactive museums, ensuring smiles for both parents and kids.
3 Days
14 Stops
See the full plan
First-timer highlights
3 Days in Bern — First-Timer Highlights
Discover the UNESCO-listed Old Town, iconic landmarks, and charming Swiss capital.
This 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors eager to experience the best of Bern. Explore its medieval Old Town, marvel at historic clock towers, enjoy panoramic views, and delve into Swiss culture and history, all at a relaxed pace.
3 Days
12 Stops
See the full plan
Culture and history
3 Days in Bern — Culture & History
Uncover Bern's medieval charm, scientific legacy, and political heart within its UNESCO-listed Old Town.
This 3-day itinerary is crafted for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to delve into Bern's rich past and vibrant present. Explore the city's iconic clock tower, grand cathedral, and significant museums, all nestled within its picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Experience the unique blend of medieval architecture, scientific breakthroughs, and Swiss political life that defines this captivating capital.
3 Days
15 Stops
See the full plan
Food and drink
2 Days in Bern — Food & Wine
Savor the culinary delights and Swiss wines of Bern's charming Old Town.
This luxurious 2-day itinerary invites foodies and wine lovers to explore Bern's UNESCO-listed Old Town through its vibrant gastronomic scene. From traditional Swiss dishes to exquisite local wines and artisanal chocolates, discover the city's rich flavors and charming ambiance. Perfect for couples or friends seeking a gourmet escape.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Things to book
Tours and activities in Bern
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Standard tour
Exclusive Zermatt and Matterhorn: Small Group Tour from Bern
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Bern Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Chocolate tour in Bern with chocolate tasting
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Guided Walking Tour in Bern
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Bern Private Tour - Gruyères , Cheese, and Lavaux's UNESCO Wine
Free cancellationFind deals
Activity tour
Thun Foxtrail Treasure
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Bern : Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide (Private tour)
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Gruyères Castle, Cheese, and Chocolate Private Tour from Bern
Free cancellationFind deals
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Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Bern
Straight-line distance from the centre of Bern.
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Getaways from Bern
Places people from Bern travel to, from our own travel research.
Zurich
Switzerland
Geneva
Switzerland
Lucerne
Switzerland
Basel
Switzerland
Lausanne
Switzerland
Interlaken
Switzerland
Paris
France
Milan
Italy
Munich
Germany
Vienna
Austria