The Aare River subtly embraces the Swiss capital, giving us that dazzling image so often seen on postcards and in photographs, and making it easy to understand why Bern is considered breathtakingly beautiful.
We see this as we take our first steps through its medieval streets or climb to any of its viewpoints. However, after spending a few hours exploring its charms, we realize that this beauty goes beyond aesthetics: the kindness of its people, the lively atmosphere on its terraces, and its rich gastronomy add to the many reasons why any trip to Switzerland, no matter the time of year, should include Bern on the itinerary.
© Bildagentur-onlineBern Historic Center: towers, fountains, and bears
Our route begins at the epicenter of everything: its old town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite having to be almost entirely rebuilt in the 15th century after a serious fire, it demands to be explored from top to bottom.
Admire the details of the Clock Tower, Zytglogge, from the outside and then step inside on a guided tour. Wait patiently for the hour to strike to enjoy the performance of this masterpiece of mechanical engineering. Medieval puppets dance to the rhythm of the bells, accompanied by a dancing bear, a jester, and a rooster, in a show worth watching from beginning to end.
© Jose A. Bernat BaceteThe arcades that line the sandstone buildings and red-roofed houses are home to local businesses, from theaters and cafés to shops and restaurants, which catch our attention as we make our way along the main street, Kramgasse. Along the way, we find 11 of the 100 drinking fountains scattered throughout the city.
We then reach Münstergasse and the Cathedral of St. Vinzenz, whose Gothic architecture charms at first sight. It features the tallest church tower in Switzerland, at 328 feet, offering views of the snow-covered Alpine peaks on the horizon. Its main portal is also worth admiring, where master craftsmen carved a striking scene of the Last Judgment.
© Jose A. Bernat BaceteBack at street level, harmony, order, and beauty accompany us as we walk toward the green area by the Aare, where several bears still live: BärenPark. For the Bernese people, the bear embodies strength and protection and is an important part of the city’s identity. The story behind it? It is said that Duke Berthold V of Zähringen promised to name the city after the first animal he hunted in the area, and a bear (Bär in German) was the chosen one. Bär eventually became Bern. Since then, its silhouette has appeared on the coat of arms and flag of the Swiss capital.
© Mats SilvanThen we head up the path to the hill where the Rosengarten (Rose Garden) is located, one of the most romantic corners of the city. With views of the Bern skyline surrounded by the bend of the river, the garden’s flowerbeds overflow with roses, with up to 220 different varieties, along with other species that add color to the landscape. It’s a view to admire while recharging at the garden’s own restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Swiss cuisine.
© hans_engbers / 500pxCreative Bern: From Einstein to Contemporary Art
If something defines Bern, besides its beauty, it is that it is a lively, university-driven, and creative city. Here, Parliament coexists with contemporary cafés, and when the warm weather arrives, locals even jump into the Aare for a swim, as if it were the most sophisticated urban beach in Europe.
One of history’s greatest geniuses also called Bern home: Albert Einstein. He lived in the city for several years while working at the Bern patent office and developed some of his most important theories of physics, including the theory of relativity, from his own home, which is now a museum. On the ground floor of the building, there is a lovely café where you can enjoy a delicious Swiss treat.
When it comes to museums, don’t miss the Zentrum Paul Klee, just a 20-minute ride away on bus number 12. This avant-garde building designed by Renzo Piano has been welcoming visitors since 2005 with exhibitions featuring some of the artist’s most notable works. Its collection includes up to 4,000 pieces, while the surrounding gardens offer a pleasant place for a walk. The structure itself resembles three enormous waves of steel and glass that blend almost completely into the landscape.
© Eric DubostThe most sophisticated Bern
Returning to the city center, the sensory experience continues through food. The selection of restaurants is vast. For an elegant lunch or dinner, head to Casino Bern Restaurant. Located in a Baroque-style building, the restaurant features a menu by Chef Bill Stooss inspired by French haute cuisine.
For something more informal, try Schwellenmätteli, nestled along the river and reached by crossing the large bridge near Parliament.
If you’re in the mood for shopping, explore Münstergasse and its surrounding streets. Souvenir shops sit alongside local designer boutiques and unique businesses. Highlights include:
- Romance Living: A boutique that also features specialty coffee and tasty cocktails.
- Eniline: A singular spot where custom-made suits alternate with Chester sofas and a bar serving Swiss beer and whisky.
This glimpse of Bern’s more unexpected side confirms that while it may be a medieval city, it is also sophisticated, seductive, and full of surprises.
