Bern Old Town
The medieval capital of Switzerland - a UNESCO old town of arcaded sandstone streets, painted fountains and a famous clock tower, wrapped in a bend of the river Aare.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, has one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe, a UNESCO gem wrapped in a loop of the emerald river Aare. Six kilometres of covered stone arcades line its streets, painted Renaissance fountains punctuate them, and the Zytglogge clock tower puts on a mechanical show on the hour, all in a warm sandstone that glows in the light.
What you actually see
- The arcaded streets - the kilometres of covered stone arcades.
- The Zytglogge - the medieval clock tower with its mechanical figures.
- The painted fountains - the Renaissance fountains along the streets.
- The Aare and the views - the river loop and the terrace over the old town.
When to go
Spring to autumn for the best weather; in summer locals float down the fast, cold Aare through the city, a famous Bernese pastime. The old town is compact and walkable in a day.
Honest expectations
It is the low-key, genteel capital rather than a big-hitter, and quieter than Zurich or Lucerne, which is part of its charm. It is small and seen in a day. Switzerland is expensive. The Aare river swim is only for strong swimmers, as the current is fast and cold.
Nearby
The Bernese Oberland and its peaks are within reach; the lakes of Thun and Brienz are close.
What to pack for Bern Old Town
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
