Marzili Baths
Bern's iconic free outdoor pool complex on the Aare river, offering swimming, sunbathing, and stunning Federal Palace views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Marzili Baths
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bern's iconic free outdoor pool complex on the Aare river, offering swimming, sunbathing, and stunning Federal Palace views.
"A real gem for anyone looking to cool off in the summer, with a view of the Federal Palace."
🎯 Arrive Early!
Popular spot, especially on hot days. Get there early for a good lawn spot! :sun:
🌊 Aare River Safety
Only for experienced swimmers. Check currents and entry/exit points. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aare River Swim
Aare River access points
Experience Bern's iconic river swim, floating from Eichholz to Marzili. A true adventure!
Federal Palace Views
Poolside lawns
Relax on the sun-drenched lawns with stunning views of Bern's historic Federal Palace.
Kid-Friendly Pools
Designated pool areas
Enjoy child-friendly pools and a playground, perfect for families with younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Aare River
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early!
Popular spot, especially on hot days. Get there early for a good lawn spot! :sun:
🌊 Aare River Safety
Only for experienced swimmers. Check currents and entry/exit points. :warning:
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Spacious lawns are perfect for picnics. Bring snacks and drinks! :sandwich:
💰 Free Entry!
Enjoy this gem without an admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early!
Popular spot, especially on hot days. Get there early for a good lawn spot! :sun:
🌊 Aare River Safety
Only for experienced swimmers. Check currents and entry/exit points. :warning:
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Spacious lawns are perfect for picnics. Bring snacks and drinks! :sandwich:
💰 Free Entry!
Enjoy this gem without an admission fee. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Marzili Baths is a beloved free outdoor swimming complex in Bern, praised for its stunning location by the Aare river with views of the Federal Palace. Visitors love the spacious lawns, kid-friendly pools, and the unique experience of swimming in the river. However, it can get extremely crowded on hot days, so arriving early is essential.
"Fantastic facilities, great for sunbathing and swimming and right next to the Aare. Now with the benefit of the ‘lazy river’ entrance so you can float down the river and straight in. And the most unbelievable bit is it’s all free!!"
Andrew Getter
"The Marzili outdoor pool in Bern is a real gem for anyone looking to cool off in the summer 🌞. Its location right on the Aare, with a view of the Federal Palace, makes this outdoor pool unique. Entry is free, making the Marzili a popular meeting place for young and old.
The spacious lawns offer enough space to relax or enjoy a picnic 🧺🍫🍪. For the more active, there are swimming pools, but the highlight is definitely swimming in the Aare 🚣♂️ - a real adventure!
The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, there are food stalls with snacks 🍟and drinks 🍹 , and the sanitary facilities are clean and well maintained. The only downside: on hot days it can get quite crowded, but that's part of it.
Overall, the Marzili is a perfect place to enjoy summer days in Bern 🌅."
Markus Bacher
"Great access to the Aare as well as child friendly pools, great shaded grassy places to sit. surrounded by great views of the Federal Building. Is busy though so get there early"
John Daniels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marzili Baths is easily accessible by public transport in Bern. Tram lines 6, 7, 8, and 9 stop nearby at the 'Zytglogge' or 'Bern' station, followed by a short walk. It's also a pleasant walk from the city center along the Aare river.
Parking directly at Marzili Baths is limited. It's recommended to use public transport or park in one of the city's central parking garages and walk or take a tram.
Yes, it's a beautiful and easy walk from Bern's old town to Marzili Baths, taking about 15-20 minutes along the Aare river. It's a scenic route and a great way to start your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Entry to Marzili Baths is completely free! This makes it a very popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months.
Marzili Baths typically opens in May and stays open until September, weather permitting. Hours can vary, but it's generally open from morning until early evening. It's best to check the official Bern city website for the most up-to-date hours.
No, advance booking is not required as Marzili Baths is free to enter. However, due to its popularity, especially on hot days, arriving early is highly recommended to secure a good spot.
While there are designated entry and exit points for the Aare river swim, it's integrated with the Marzili Baths complex. You can access the river from various points within the grounds, including the 'lazy river' entrance mentioned by visitors.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Marzili Baths offers several swimming pools, spacious grassy lawns for sunbathing and picnicking, changing rooms, and clean sanitary facilities. There are also food stalls for snacks and drinks.
Absolutely! Marzili Baths has child-friendly pools and a playground, making it a great destination for families. The grassy areas are also perfect for kids to play on.
Yes, swimming in the Aare river is a highlight for many visitors. However, it's crucial to note that the Aare is a powerful river and is only recommended for experienced swimmers. Always be aware of the currents and designated entry/exit points.
The 'lazy river' entrance refers to a specific point where you can easily enter the Aare river and float downstream, often directly into the Marzili Baths area. It's a convenient way to experience the river.
Yes, there are food stalls offering snacks and drinks. Many visitors also choose to bring their own picnics to enjoy on the lawns, which is a popular and cost-effective option.
📸 📸 Photography
The views of the Federal Palace from the lawns are iconic. Capturing people enjoying the Aare river or the bustling atmosphere on a sunny day also makes for great shots. The contrast between the city architecture and the natural river is striking.
Yes, the Federal Palace provides a stunning backdrop to Marzili Baths. You can get excellent shots of the palace from the grassy areas, especially during golden hour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Aare river swim is an option, it's strictly for experienced swimmers. Stick to the designated pools for a safer and more enjoyable experience for the little ones. Packing picnic lunches and snacks is also a great idea, as it can be more economical and convenient for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider packing your own food and drinks for a picnic. While there are food stalls, bringing your own will significantly reduce your expenses. Utilize public transport to get there, as it's efficient and cost-effective in Bern. The free entry and self-catering options make Marzili Baths an excellent way to experience Bern's summer culture on a budget.
❤️ Couples
The stunning views of the Federal Palace create a romantic backdrop, especially during the late afternoon or early evening. It's a wonderful place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy each other's company in a beautiful urban setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Aare River
Many visitors find the Aare swim to be the highlight of their visit to Marzili Baths, describing it as a 'real adventure.' The 'lazy river' entrance makes it easier to get in and out, but safety should always be the top priority. The water temperature in early May can still be quite cold, as noted by a local, so consider this when planning your visit outside of peak summer.
While the pools at Marzili offer a more controlled swimming environment, the Aare provides an unparalleled connection to nature and the city's vibrant summer culture. It's a chance to cool off, relax, and experience Bern like a local.
Marzili Baths: A Free Urban Oasis
The facilities include multiple swimming pools catering to different needs, from leisurely dips to more active swimming. For families, the dedicated children's pools and playground are a significant draw, ensuring younger visitors have plenty to enjoy. The backdrop of the historic Federal Palace adds a unique charm, making it a picturesque spot to spend a summer day.
Despite its popularity and the potential for crowds on hot days, the general consensus is that the atmosphere remains relaxed and friendly. The availability of food stalls for snacks and drinks, along with clean sanitary facilities, adds to the convenience. It truly embodies the spirit of a vibrant urban oasis.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit