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Visit Bern in 1 day: our top 10 must-sees
Visiting Bern in one day is perfectly feasible. It will be a chance to discover the main attractions of the Swiss capital. As for the question "Where to walk in Bern?", there are plenty of pedestrian streets and parks within the city. Our tip: Visit Bern on foot by booking this guided tour of the old town.
Now on to our selection of the 10 must-sees not to miss :
1. The Clock Tower (Zytglogge)
Start your day with the Clock Tower, the symbol of Bern. It is an emblematic tower built in the 13th century, originally as a defensive tower. After the great fire of 1405 that ravaged a large part of Bern, it was converted into a clock tower. It is from this function that the Zytglogge takes its name, meaning "time bell" in Bernese dialect.
The tower also has an astrolabe dating from 1530, showing the position of the stars. Nearby, discover a magnificent medieval gate at 1 Hotelgasse, adding to the historic charm of the visit. Above all, don't miss the show of animated figurines at every change of the hour. You will hear the bells of the Zytglogge ring out.
Another magnificent tower with a clock to see: the "Käfigturm" tower, built in 1256 and also nicknamed the Prison Tower.
A bit of history: in 1641, a commission of the Bernese Council decided to demolish the 400-year-old tower and rebuild it larger on the same spot. This new tower served as a prison for two centuries. In 1897, a new prison was built and the inmates were transferred there, turning the tower into an archive for the Canton of Bern.
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2. The Bear Pit (Bärengraben)
Located near the old town, this pit is home to brown bears, the emblems of the city of Bern.
Since 1513, Bern has kept bears in the city, in memory of the Battle of Novara where the Bernese brought back a live bear as a war trophy. The bear is a symbol of Bern, appearing on the city's coat of arms. According to legend, the city's founder, Berthold V of Zähringen, fought a bear around 1191.
Today, it is still possible to see bears in Bern. Until 2009 they lived in a pit, but they have since been moved to a more spacious park next to the pit, offering a better setting for these emblematic animals.
3. Bern Cathedral (Berner Münster)
Climb the 344 steps for a stunning view of the city and the surrounding Alps. It is the tallest bell tower in Switzerland, rising to 100 metres.
Bern Cathedral, also known as the Berner Münster, is the largest religious building in Switzerland. Its construction began in 1421 and stretched over several centuries, which explains the combination of Gothic and neo-Gothic architectural styles.
The main portal is adorned with a depiction of the Last Judgement, one of the most important works of Swiss Gothic art. Remember also to visit the Cathedral garden.
4. The Federal Palace (Bundeshaus)
Discover the seat of the Swiss government and Parliament on the Bundesplatz, with its impressive halls and ornate dome. The Federal Palace, also known as the Bundeshaus, is located in the heart of Bern.
Inside, discover majestic rooms such as the National Council Hall and the Council of States Hall, adorned with frescoes and marble. You can admire the central dome, decorated with mosaics and frescoes depicting Swiss history and culture. It rises to 64 metres, offering a most impressive view.
Remember to enjoy the view from the Federal Terrace, located behind the Palace.
NB: Another monument to see if you come to visit Bern in 1 day, the town hall, the Rathaus.
5. The Rosengarten in Bern
Stroll through this rose garden with its panoramic view. It is a magnificent public garden on a hill overlooking the old town. This garden, home to more than 200 varieties of roses as well as other flowers and plants, is above all an essential place of relaxation and beauty.
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6. The Bern Historical Museum (Bernisches Historisches Museum)
On the Helvetiaplatz, explore the history of Bern and its cultural treasures, with a section dedicated to Albert Einstein. He lived in Bern from 1903 to 1905. You will see his personal belongings, documents and explanations of his revolutionary work. The Bern Historical Museum houses an important collection of art, crafts and ethnographic objects from various cultures around the world. It is the second largest historical museum in Switzerland
7. The Einstein House
The Einstein House is a museum located in the apartment where Albert Einstein lived from 1903 to 1905. Note that during his stay in Bern, Einstein developed some of his most famous theories, including the theory of special relativity.
During this visit, you discover the authentic setting where Einstein lived with his family, furnished as it was at the time. Note that the museum offers films and animations that explain Einstein's theories and their impact on science in an accessible way.
8. The Zentrum Paul Klee
Admire the works of Paul Klee in this museum dedicated to the artist, one of the most important painters of the 20th century. Located on the outskirts of the city, the museum is an architectural masterpiece designed by Renzo Piano.
This museum houses the largest collection of Klee's works, with more than 4,000 paintings, drawings and watercolours. You will notice that the building itself is a true work of art. We love its undulating shapes and bright spaces.
9. The Old Town and Bern's Arcades for shopping
Admire the historic buildings, fountains such as the Justice Fountain, and charming shops. Stroll along the medieval arcades, home to many cafés and galleries, for a unique shopping experience.
10. The Botanical Garden of Bern
Last but not least of our must-sees for "Visit Bern in 1 day", the botanical garden. Perfect for a relaxing escape in the heart of the city. This park is home to a great variety of plants, tropical greenhouses and an impressive diversity of local and international flora.
Where to eat in Bern during this day?
- Eat at the Altes Tramdepot: Enjoy a delicious meal overlooking the bear pit and the old town.
- Dine at Restaurant Bay: Savour a gourmet meal in an elegant setting, ideal for a special evening.
Remember also to try Bern's local speciality: Kambly Bretzeli. Emmental biscuits over 100 years old that have become the Bernese speciality!
Other things to see in Bern if you have more time
If you have more time to visit Bern, Switzerland, here are a few other places to discover:
The Museum of Fine Arts (Kunstmuseum)
The Bern Museum of Fine Arts, or Kunstmuseum, is one of the oldest art museums in Switzerland. It houses a vast collection ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, with works by masters such as Paul Klee, Pablo Picasso and Ferdinand Hodler. The temporary and permanent exhibitions offer a rich artistic diversity, making this museum a must for art lovers.
The St. Beatus Caves
Located a few kilometres from Bern, the St. Beatus Caves are a natural cave offering a fascinating underground excursion. Visitors can explore the lit caverns, admire the impressive rock formations and discover the local legends associated with Saint Beatus. This outing is perfect for lovers of geology and adventure.
The Old Town of Thun
A short distance from Bern, the town of Thun has a charming old town with cobbled streets, historic houses and covered bridges. Thun's medieval castle, perched on a hill, offers a panoramic view of the town and Lake Thun. Thun is an ideal destination for a day trip, combining history and natural beauty.
The Dählhölzli Park for visiting Bern with the family
Perfect for visiting Bern with children, the Dählhölzli Park is a zoo that houses a great variety of animals, from local to exotic species. The park also has playgrounds and picnic areas, offering a fun and educational day for the whole family. The park's trails make for a pleasant walk along the River Aare.
What to see in Bern and the surrounding area? Here are more ideas of places to visit in case:
- the Bern Minster of St. Vincent
- the Rosengarten for its panoramic view
- the Gurten for its green space
- the Zentrum Paul Klee art museum
- the Witches' Trail at Schwarzsee for a hike
- see Lake Burgäschi and go rowing
- the Hohwacht observation tower
- explore the splendid Napf valley
