Old Town of Bern
Bern's UNESCO-listed Old Town enchants with its medieval charm, 6km of arcades, and the vibrant Aare River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
River fun and sunny strolls
Old Town of Bern
Best Time
River fun and sunny strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bern's UNESCO-listed Old Town enchants with its medieval charm, 6km of arcades, and the vibrant Aare River.
"A very beautiful old old town, like the whole city of Bern, you can walk, cycle, lots of small shops."
🚶♀️ Walk the Arcades
Explore Bern's unique covered walkways for shopping and shelter. Great for all weather!
🍺 Aare River Chill
Grab a drink and dip your feet in the Aare on a warm day. Pure bliss!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Zytglogge (Clock Tower)
Old Town
Witness the medieval astronomical clock's hourly show. A must-see marvel of engineering and artistry.
Bernese Arcades
Kramgasse and Marktgasse
Wander through Europe's longest covered shopping promenades, filled with boutiques and cafes.
Aare River Swim
Aare River
Join locals for a refreshing dip or float down the turquoise river on a hot summer day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arcades
Aare River Refreshment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
First time in Bern!
🚶♀️ Walk the Arcades
Explore Bern's unique covered walkways for shopping and shelter. Great for all weather!
🍺 Aare River Chill
Grab a drink and dip your feet in the Aare on a warm day. Pure bliss!
What is your favorite thing to do in Bern?
I’m new to Bern and…
🕰️ Clock Tower Show
Don't miss the Zytglogge's hourly spectacle. Arrive a few minutes early!
Traveling the Old Towns
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Arcades
Explore Bern's unique covered walkways for shopping and shelter. Great for all weather!
🍺 Aare River Chill
Grab a drink and dip your feet in the Aare on a warm day. Pure bliss!
🕰️ Clock Tower Show
Don't miss the Zytglogge's hourly spectacle. Arrive a few minutes early!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bern's Old Town for its beautiful, well-preserved medieval architecture and the unique charm of its extensive arcades. The Aare River is a highlight for its refreshing summer activities. While generally loved, some find it can be a bit quiet outside of peak tourist times.
"Nice place to walk!"
BasicReviews
"I enjoyed it"
bhartesh jain
"Super"
Russobalt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bern's Old Town is easily accessible. From Bern main station (Bern Bahnhof), it's a short walk. Trams and buses also stop frequently near the Old Town entrances. If arriving by car, parking garages are available outside the pedestrian zones.
Absolutely! The Old Town is best explored on foot. Its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets, especially the arcades, make it ideal for walking.
Cycling is permitted in Bern's Old Town, but be mindful of pedestrians, especially within the arcades. Many locals cycle along the Aare River paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Bern's Old Town is free. You can wander through its streets and arcades at your leisure.
The Old Town itself is always accessible. Individual shops and attractions within the Old Town have their own operating hours, typically from morning to early evening.
While walking around the Old Town is free, there might be a fee for guided tours of the Zytglogge clock tower itself. Check local listings for tour availability and prices.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way is to simply wander! Get lost in the arcades, admire the architecture, and soak in the atmosphere. Don't miss the Zytglogge show and a stroll along the Aare River.
Key sights include the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), the Parliament Building (Bundeshaus), Bern Cathedral (Münster), and the Bear Park (Bärenpark). The arcades themselves are a major attraction.
Yes, various guided tours are available, focusing on history, architecture, or specific themes. These can offer deeper insights into the city's rich past.
On warm days, locals swim, float, and relax by the Aare. You can buy a drink and enjoy the cool water. It's a very popular local pastime.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bern Old Town offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Swiss restaurants to international cuisine and cozy cafes tucked away in the arcades.
Look for Swiss specialties like fondue, raclette, Rösti, and Bernese platter. Many restaurants offer these traditional dishes.
Yes, numerous charming cafes are scattered throughout the Old Town, perfect for a coffee break and enjoying local pastries.
📸 📸 Photography
The Zytglogge, the view from the Rose Garden (Rosengarten) overlooking the Old Town, the Parliament Building, and the Aare River bends are all fantastic photo opportunities.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. For fewer crowds, aim for weekday mornings.
Photography rules may vary for guided tours inside the Zytglogge. It's best to check with your tour guide.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a leisurely stroll along the Aare River, where kids can safely dip their feet in the water on warmer days. Many cafes offer kid-friendly options, and the overall atmosphere of the Old Town is relaxed and welcoming. The compact nature of the Old Town makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and there are plenty of open squares for children to run around.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Aare or in one of the city's parks to save on dining costs. While many shops are high-end, window shopping is free! Look for local bakeries for affordable pastries and coffee. The Zytglogge clock tower show is also free to watch from the outside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bern's UNESCO Old Town
Key landmarks within the Old Town include the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower that puts on an animated show every hour, and the Bern Cathedral (Münster), a magnificent Gothic structure with a striking spire. The Parliament Building (Bundeshaus), overlooking the Aare River, is another significant landmark. The city's layout, with its winding cobblestone streets and the prominent river bend, offers a sense of timelessness. Visitors often describe the experience as stepping back in time, with every corner revealing a new historical detail or architectural gem.
Beyond the main attractions, the Old Town is a delight to explore at a leisurely pace. Discover hidden courtyards, browse independent boutiques, and enjoy the vibrant street life. The combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and a lively atmosphere makes Bern's Old Town a truly captivating destination.
The Aare River: Bern's Natural Playground
To enjoy the Aare, many people purchase a beer or drink from a riverside kiosk like the Tramdepot, find a spot along the bank, and then let the current carry them downstream. It's a quintessential Bernese summer experience, offering a perfect way to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the city. Safety is paramount, and swimmers are advised to be aware of the current and wear appropriate swimwear.
For those who prefer to stay dry, walking or cycling along the Aare's well-maintained paths offers stunning views of the Old Town and the surrounding landscape. The riverbanks are dotted with parks and recreational areas, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely afternoon.
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