With its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and the sparkling Aare River winding through the city, Bern in Switzerland combines history and natural beauty in a way few places can.
Medieval cobbled streets and riverside charm combine to create a city unlike any other, and one you can explore the entirety of in just one day. Even better, it’s just over an hour from the UK, making it perfect for a quick weekend escape.
Be sure to try Swiss chocolate, fondue, or a local pastry while wandering the city streets or for warmer weather, make sure to pack your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters of the Aare.
Bern’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets lined with colorful, gabled buildings opening onto hidden squares and ornate fountains.
Beneath the arcades, you’ll find boutiques, bakeries, and cafés galore. Restaurants here can be expensive so for a cost saving option, head to the Manora department store where the top floor boasts a cafe with rooftop seating for incredible views across the skyline.
For the best Swiss chocolate, check out Läderach on Marktgasse where slabs are laid out by the dozen and you can purchase your sweet treat by weight.
As you wander the streets, make sure to check out the iconic Zytglogge tower which marks the passage of time with its whimsical astronomical clock; just before each hour, a bear, jester, and other figures spring into life in an animated display.
And on a clear day, climb the 100-metre spire of the cathedral to see all the way to the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains in the Alps.
The Aare River is one of Bern’s true gems, offering a surprising escape into nature. In the warmer months, locals and visitors alike flock to the riverside beaches to swim, sunbathe, or float downstream.
If you fancy a dip, head to Marzilibad, an area with easy access to the river and an open-air pool, or Lorrainebad, but be sure to follow local guidance as the currents are strong so you need to plan in advance where you’re getting in and out.
After you dry off, head to the city’s bridges for stunning views of the medieval skyline reflected in the water, and make sure to stop for a drink and a bite to eat at Restaurant Terrasse Schwellenmätteli for uninterrupted views of the river and the old town.
Take a walk along the riverbank where you’ll find quiet spots perfect for a picnic, and head towards the 5,000 sq m Bear Park where brown bears, a nod to the city’s symbol, can be viewed free of charge.
From there, take a short but steep walk to the statue of Albert Einstein in the Rose Garden, which boasts some of the best views of the city.
Art lovers can explore the Zentrum Paul Klee or the Kunstmuseum, and throughout the year, Bern hosts festivals and markets that celebrate local traditions and crafts.
Bern is just a short journey from the UK, with regular flights into Zurich and Basel, which are less than an hour by train, making it easy to enjoy a weekend getaway without the hassle of long travel.
Spring and summer are ideal for exploring the river and outdoor spaces, while autumn and winter highlight the city’s cosy charm with festive markets and seasonal events.
Don’t miss trying Swiss specialities like Berner Platte or a classic chocolate treat while wandering the streets.
Whether you’re strolling through the Old Town, floating on the river, or discovering hidden cafés, Bern feels like a fairytale waiting to be explored.
