Things to do in Bern might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Switzerland but it should be. While Zurich dazzles with finance and nightlife, and Lucerne lures visitors with lake-and-mountain beauty, Bern, the Swiss capital, quietly offers one of the most authentic travel experiences in the country. With its UNESCO Old Town, arcade-lined streets, and turquoise River Aare, Bern is a city that mixes medieval heritage with modern Swiss charm.
This guide covers the best things to do in Bern, from landmarks like the Zytglogge Clock Tower and Bern Cathedral to local favorites like Aare swimming, fondue dinners, and shopping under historic arcades. You’ll also discover hidden gems, nearby day trips, seasonal events, and plenty of practical travel tips including how to save money with the Bern Ticket and where to find the best Swiss food in Bern. For those planning a longer trip, we’ve also included suggestions on what to do in Interlaken, making it easy to combine both cities into an unforgettable Swiss adventure.
Explore Bern’s UNESCO Old Town
The heart of Bern is its Old Town (Altstadt), a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with arcades, medieval towers, and historic fountains.
Highlights in Old Town:
- Zytglogge (Clock Tower) → Watch the hourly figurine show.
- Bern Cathedral (Münster) → The tallest cathedral in Switzerland; climb for views of the Bernese Alps.
- Käfigturm (Prison Tower) → A reminder of Bern’s medieval justice system.
- Bundeshaus (Federal Palace / Parliament House) → Switzerland’s political hub.
Relax at the Rose Garden (Rosengarten Bern)
Perched above the city, the Rose Garden offers sweeping views of Bern’s rooftops, the River Aare, and even the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks on clear days.
- 200+ varieties of roses.
- Perfect picnic spot.
- Great photo location for Instagram.
Meet Bern’s Bears at the BärenPark
The bear is Bern’s symbol and at the Bear Park (Bärengraben) you can see them roaming a spacious riverside enclosure.
- Free entry.
- Great for kids and families.
- Connects beautifully with the Nydeggbrücke bridge and riverside walks.
Swim in the River Aare
One of the most unique things to do in Bern in summer: swimming in the turquoise Aare River.
- Locals float downstream with waterproof bags.
- Designated swimming areas ensure safety.
- Combine with a riverside walk or bike ride.
Visit Bern’s Museums
Bern punches above its weight in culture. Some must-visits:
- Bern History Museum (with the Einstein Museum inside).
- Alpine Museum of Switzerland → for mountain lovers.
- Botanical Garden Bern → free entry, great escape in spring.
Take in the Views from Gurten Mountain
Hop on the cable car to Gurten and enjoy:
- Hiking trails and biking routes.
- Panoramic views of the city and Alps.
- Gurten Festival in summer.
Taste Traditional Swiss Food in Bern
No Bern trip is complete without Swiss comfort food. Must-tries include:
- Cheese Fondue (best shared with friends).
- Rösti (crispy potato dish).
- Berner Platte (hearty meat platter).
- Zopf (Sunday braided bread).
- Mandelbärli (bear-shaped almond cake).
- Käseschnitten (cheese toast).
Stroll Bern’s Arcades (Shopping & Cafés)
Bern’s arcades stretch for 6 kilometers, making them one of Europe’s longest covered shopping promenades.
- Local boutiques and chocolatiers.
- Cozy cafés for people-watching.
- Perfect in winter or rainy days.
Day Trips from Bern
One of the best things about Bern is its central location. Easy day trips include:
- Lake Thun & Lake Brienz → boat cruises.
- Lake Biel & Lake Murten → wine regions.
- Niederhorn → alpine hiking.
- Gantrisch Nature Park → forests and meadows.
- Interlaken & Jungfrau Region → adventure sports.
Getting Around Bern
- Bern Airport (BRN) for regional flights.
- Bern Central Station connects you to Zurich, Geneva, and beyond.
- Bern Ticket gives hotel guests free use of trams, buses, and S-Bahn.
- City is bike-friendly and walkable.
Where to Stay in Bern
- Budget: Prizeotel Bern
- Mid-range: Hotel Savoy Bern
- Luxury: Bellevue Palace Bern
When to Visit Bern
- Summer (June–August) → Aare swimming, festivals, long days.
- Autumn (September–October) → wine regions, fall colors.
- Winter (December–February) → Christmas markets, day trips to ski resorts.
- Spring (March–May) → rose gardens and blooming parks.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary in Bern
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Old Town walk (Zytglogge, Cathedral, Bundeshaus) | Bear Park + Rose Garden | Fondue dinner |
| 2 | Gurten Mountain | Bern History Museum + Einstein Museum | Aare riverside stroll |
Final Thoughts:
By now, you’ve seen that the list of things to do in Bern goes far beyond the basics. This city isn’t just the political capital of Switzerland it’s a cultural, historical, and natural hub wrapped in one. You can wander through UNESCO heritage streets, climb the Bern Cathedral tower for alpine views, watch bears at the BärenPark, and end your day with a plate of Rösti or fondue in a cozy tavern. Getting around is also easy, since the city is well connected by trams, trains, and the Switzerland bus network, making Bern a perfect starting point for exploring nearby towns and alpine regions.
What makes Bern truly special is the balance: big-city culture with a small-town feel. One moment you’re learning about Einstein in a museum, the next you’re floating down the Aare River with locals. And when you want more, the city’s central location makes day trips to Lake Thun, Interlaken, or the Bernese Alps incredibly easy.
FAQs About Things to do in Bern
Is Bern worth visiting?
Yes! It’s Switzerland’s capital, with UNESCO heritage, stunning views, and a relaxed vibe.
Can you see Bern in one day?
Yes, but staying 2–3 days lets you enjoy the river, museums, and nearby day trips.
Is Bern expensive?
Like most of Switzerland, yes but with free attractions (Old Town, Rose Garden, Bear Park), you can do a Bern budget trip.
Bern vs Zurich vs Lucerne which is better?
Zurich = cosmopolitan, finance hub.
Lucerne = lakes and mountains.
Bern = history, laid-back charm, central location.
