Visiting Bern
Even though it feels relatively small for a European capital with fewer than 150,000 residents, Bern serves as the seat of the Swiss federal government. Nestled right against the Aar river, the city preserves deep historical roots, notably its old town, which holds Unesco World Heritage status. Positioned just a short distance from the Alps and the sweeping Gantrisch Nature Park, Bern offers a prime location packed with points of interest whenever you travel through Switzerland.
The elegant old town of Bern
Most of the narrow streets and the six kilometres of covered arcades making up Bern's old town date back to the 14th century. The cityscape features sandstone architecture, such as the Bern Minster, a church reformed since 1528 whose construction began in 1421, detailed with Gothic stonework. The main portal stands out clearly, carved by Erhart Kung with 294 figurines portraying scenes and figures from the Last Judgment. Climb the 312 steps of the bell tower for a sweeping view over the rooftops and the distant Alpine backdrop.
Another major landmark in Bern is the expansive Bundesplatz, featuring 26 water jets, one for each of the cantons that make up Switzerland. This public square sits directly in front of the Federal Palace, the seat of Swiss political power topped with distinctive green domes. Strolling through the downtown streets, you will likely cross paths with the Zytglogge, or Clock Tower. Four minutes before every hour, mechanical figures including a bear, a golden rooster, a jester, and Chronos come to life across its facade.
Top sights in Bern
If you enjoy gardens and green spaces, head straight to the Bern Rose Garden. Beyond its hundreds of varieties of roses and irises, this elevated park offers clear vantage points looking down over the city. The garden sits directly above the famous Bear Park, honoring the city's symbolic animal. Traveling with family or children, drop by the Dählhölzli zoo park to see animals like leopards, wolves, and puffins.
On the cultural side, Bern delivers strong options. The Paul Klee Center occupies an undulating contemporary building designed by Renzo Piano. The Art Museum displays notable works by renowned artists and has welcomed visitors since 1879. Finally, you can dive into the life and mind of one of history's most famous physicists at the Einstein House, located within an apartment he lived in during his time in the city.
When to go?
Any season works well for a trip to Bern. Consider timing your visit for the fourth Monday of November, when the city hosts a massive onion market, an unusual local event celebrating the vegetable in every imaginable form.
How to get there?
The most practical way to reach the Swiss capital from the US is flying into Zurich or Geneva, then taking a direct train to Bern, with direct rail links also available from Lausanne.
I was pleasantly surprised by Bern. After having a negative first impression while driving around the city on the highway, I finally discovered that the Swiss capital is home to a remarkable city center! Wander from the Bernisches Historisches Museum to the Bundesplatz, passing by the Clock Tower, and then finish with a striking view of the Aare from the Nydeggbrücke.