10 Best Things to Do and See in Bern
Exploring Bern on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Bern, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Bern. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Bear Pit
The Bear Pit in Bern is one of the city’s most iconic sites, located on the banks of the Aare, not far from the historic center. This landscaped area lets visitors observe bears in an outdoor space designed for their well-being, with resting areas, water and natural terrain. Popular with visitors, it offers a pleasant view over Bern’s landscape and recalls the symbolic importance of the bear for the Swiss capital. It is an original stop, both tourist-friendly and family-friendly, and a true reflection of local identity.
2. St. Vincent’s Collegiate Church of Bern
St. Vincent's Collegiate Church of Bern is an iconic religious landmark in the historic center, admired for its Gothic architecture and commanding presence in the heart of the city. Visiting it, you can enjoy an elegant façade, bright and sober interior volumes, and the peaceful atmosphere of a still-active place of worship. Its location in Bern also makes it a great starting point for exploring nearby streets and squares while discovering remarkable heritage that reflects the history and identity of the Swiss capital.
3. Rosengarten Bern
Rosengarten Bern is a popular public garden in Bern, offering open views of the old town, the Aare bend and the Swiss capital’s rooftops. Visitors enjoy wide lawns, flower beds, colorful rose bushes and peaceful paths for a relaxing stroll. The site attracts nature lovers and anyone looking for a quiet viewpoint. It is also a perfect place to take a break, enjoy the scenery and admire Bern from a highly photogenic angle.
4. Zytglogge – Clock Tower
Zytglogge, or the Clock Tower, is one of Bern’s most iconic landmarks. In the Old Town, this historic tower draws visitors with its large astronomical clock and decorative mechanism visible from outside. A walk around the site reveals remarkable medieval architecture in the UNESCO-listed city center. Zytglogge is also a must-see landmark for exploring Bern’s lively streets, arcades and unique atmosphere.
5. Kleine Schanze
Kleine Schanze is a pleasant urban park in the heart of Bern, just a short walk from the station and the historic center. This small green space offers a peaceful break with shaded paths, neat lawns, and benches perfect for relaxing. On clear days, you can often enjoy beautiful views over the city and the Alps, along with a calm atmosphere appreciated by walkers, families, and visitors. It is an ideal place to pause between sightseeing stops in Switzerland’s capital.
6. Bernaqua | Water Park | Fitness | Wellness
Bernaqua in Bern is a large water park that combines fun, fitness and relaxation in one place. It features pools for swimming or unwinding, slides and play areas for the whole family, plus fitness and wellness facilities with sauna, baths and rest zones. In Switzerland, this modern complex appeals to thrill-seekers and to anyone looking for a relaxing break after a day in the city. It is an ideal address for mixing sport and relaxation.
7. Bern Historical Museum / Einstein Museum
The Bern Historical Museum, home to the Einstein Museum, offers a rich journey through the history of Bern and Switzerland. Discover varied collections of objects, artworks and documents tracing the evolution of societies, arts and traditions over the centuries. The Einstein section highlights the life and work of the famous scientist through an accessible, educational display. Housed in a remarkable building, the museum offers a cultural, scientific and historical visit, ideal for understanding Bern better.
8. Federal Square
Federal Square, in the heart of Bern, is one of the Swiss capital’s most iconic public spaces. Facing the Federal Palace, it offers a wide open esplanade where locals, visitors, and demonstrators cross paths in a well-kept, lively urban setting. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the official buildings, ground-level fountains, and an atmosphere that feels both institutional and welcoming. It is also a great place to take a break, observe Swiss political life, and explore the nearby historic center.
9. Gurten Green Park
Gurten Green Park in Bern is a large leisure area perched on Gurten Hill, with pleasant views over the city and the Alps on clear days. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, wide lawns for relaxing, playgrounds and family-friendly spaces. The site is popular for outdoor activities, its peaceful atmosphere and easy access from the city, making it an ideal escape for walking, picnicking or simply enjoying nature close to Bern city center.
10. Einstein House
Einstein House in Bern is an iconic address on Kramgasse in the heart of the old town. Visitors discover a site linked to Albert Einstein's life in the Swiss capital, presented in a sober historic setting closely tied to Bern's urban architecture. The appeal of the site lies as much in the scientist's memory as in the atmosphere of the house itself, set in a preserved historic district.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
