Things to do in Bern
Discover the best attractions and experiences Bern has to offer
Historic Monuments
Bern's medieval core is a UNESCO-listed maze of towers, fountains and arcades.
Zytglogge
The medieval clock tower with an astronomical clock and moving figures; a symbol of Bern.
Berner Münster (Bern Cathedral)
A soaring Gothic cathedral offering grand interiors and city views from its tower.
Bundeshaus (Federal Palace)
The seat of Swiss federal parliament; guided tours reveal Swiss political life.
Museums
World-class collections span from ancient history to modern art.
Zentrum Paul Klee
A striking museum housing the world’s largest collection of Paul Klee’s works.
Bernisches Historisches Museum
Switzerland’s leading history museum with immersive exhibits and a modern extension.
Einsteinhaus
The former residence of Albert Einstein in Bern, with a small, focused exhibit.
Religious Monuments
Sacred spaces that attract visitors for their art and ambience.
Berner Münster (Bern Cathedral)
A monumental Gothic church with a striking spire and city views.
Nydeggkirche
A historic church overlooking Bern with a serene interior.
National & Theme Parks
Natural spaces and green escapes within easy reach of the city.
Gurten
Bern’s local mountain with forest trails and sweeping city views.
Rosengarten (Rose Garden)
A peaceful hillside park famed for its roses and skyline vistas.
Tierpark Dählhölzli
Bern’s riverside wildlife park with woodland trails.
Neighborhoods
Different districts reveal Bern’s character and charm.
Old Town (Altstadt)
A UNESCO-listed pedestrian zone with arcades, fountains and historic buildings.
Kirchenfeld
A leafy cultural district housing museums and government buildings.
Matte
Historic riverfront quarter with traditional charm and views.
Free Things to Do
Experience Bern without spending a cent.
Walk Bern’s Old Town and arcades
Stroll the medieval streets and shop-lined arcades at no cost.
Aare River stroll and bridges
Walk along the riverbanks and cross iconic bridges for city panoramas.
Rosengarten views
Picnic or simply enjoy the city vistas from the Rose Garden.
Gastronomy
Savor Swiss flavors and Bernese specialties.
Kornhauskeller
Historic vaulted hall serving Swiss classics in the heart of Bern.
Rathauskeller Bern
Atmospheric cellar restaurant beneath the town hall.
Zeughauskeller
Traditional Swiss cuisine in an impressive armory setting.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive with bars, clubs and live music.
Schlachthof Bern
A buzzing cultural venue with concerts, clubs and events.
Dampfzentrale Bern
Intimate riverside venue for innovative music and performances.
Konzert Theater Bern (KTB)
Main city venue for concerts and touring shows.
Entertainment
Shows, theatre and performances around the city.
Theater im Käfigturm
An intimate venue for plays and contemporary performances.
Konzert Theater Bern
Regular theatre and musical productions in the heart of Bern.
Shops and street performances in the Old Town
Seasonal street acts and pop-up entertainment in the historic streets.
Sports
Sports fans and active travelers can catch a game or hit the trails.
PostFinance Arena
Watch SC Bern hockey or public ice-skating events.
Gurten trails
Hiking and easy trails with panoramic city views.
Aare river activities
Kayaking or riverside strolls along Bern’s famous waterway.
Off the Track
Uncover lesser-known corners and quirky experiences.
Bärenpark Bern
A modern bear reserve offering close encounters with Bern’s symbols.
Käfigturm
Historic tower hosting exhibitions and events in a marvellous location.
Hidden courtyards of Bern
Explore sheltered courtyards tucked away in the Old Town.