Bern in 3 Days: Old Town, Art & Culture!

Discover the picturesque charm of Bern, Switzerland's capital city.

17 June 2023

Bern is the capital of Switzerland and a beautiful destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the charming Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. The city also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums and galleries.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Hotel: Check in at Hotel Bristol, a cozy and charming hotel that reflects the city's traditional architecture.
  • Stroll through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and soak up the medieval atmosphere.
  • Visit the Berner Münster, a majestic cathedral that dominates the skyline of Bern since the 15th century.
  • Head to the Zytglogge, a clock tower that showcases intricate mechanical figures that perform each hour.
  • Stop by the markets selling fresh produce, cheeses, and meats, like the popular Café Fédéral.
  • Proceed to the Käfigturm, an old clock tower turned into an art gallery and exhibition space.
Day 2

Nature and Art

  • Take a short trip to the Gurten, a hill on the outskirts of the city, to enjoy a panoramic view of Bern and the Swiss Alps.
  • Walk around the Botanical Gardens to discover local flora and fauna, and appreciate sculptures amidst the greenery.
  • Check out the Paul Klee Museum, showcasing the collection of the renowned Swiss artist, where his surreal and colorful works shine.
  • Satisfy your taste buds with chicken from the popular restaurant Altenbergstube or try traditional raclette cheese at the Altes Tramdepot.
  • After lunch, enjoy the afternoon at the Wankdorf Center, a massive shopping mall with local and international brands.
Day 3

Swiss Culture

  • Visit the Parliament Building where national decisions and discussions are made and understand the Swiss political system.
  • Take a guided tour of the Einstein Museum, dedicated to the famous physicist, who lived in the city in the early 1900s.
  • Wander around the Matte district, a trendy and hipster area known for its vintage shops, street art, and cozy cafés.
  • Taste Swiss chocolate at the Läderach Chocolatier or visit the Funky Chocolate Club to make your own.
  • Have dinner at the Alpenblick, an elegant restaurant serving Swiss classics such as schnitzel and rosti.
  • No need for a summary paragraph. Enjoy the alpine charm and scenic beauty of Bern!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bern by plane is to fly into Bern Airport. From the airport, you can take the Bernmobil Bus No. 160 to the city center.

Car

The best way to get to Bern by car is to take the A1 motorway. The journey from Zurich takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. There are also several parking options in Bern's city center.

Train

The best way to get to Bern by train is to take a direct train from Zurich to Bern. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and arrives at Bern Central Station.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Bern, you can take a boat ride on the Aare River from neighboring towns such as Thun or Interlaken and enjoy the scenic journey to Bern's Old Town.

Bus

The best way to get to Bern by bus is to take the Flixbus from major cities in Europe to Bern Bus Station. The station is located in the city center and is easily accessible by foot or public transportation.

Destination

Bern

Nestled between towering mountains and rolling hills lies the picturesque city of Bern, one of the few places where you can enjoy chocolate, cheese, and cowbells all in one day.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Discovering Bern's Charm: A 2-Day Adventure

A trip to Bern, Switzerland as a tourist offers a chance to explore the historic old town, enjoy the picturesque scenery and indulge in cheese and chocolate. The city's medieval center named as a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases the Gothic architecture, the go-to spots are Bern's iconic bear park and the rose garden which offers panoramic views of the city. Lastly, shopping enthusiasts can head souvenirs and explore Switzerland's famous watchmaking industry.

Bern: Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

A trip to Bern, Switzerland on a limited budget is possible, but requires careful planning. Accommodation options include hostels or budget hotels, and food can be found at markets and local eateries. There are also many free and low-cost activities, such as exploring the historic Old Town, visiting museums, and hiking in nearby nature reserves.

Discover the Best of Bern in 5 Days

As a tourist visiting Bern, Switzerland, you can explore the historic Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy views of the River Aare. You can also visit famous attractions in the city, such as the Bern Cathedral, the Swiss Alpine Museum, and the Zentrum Paul Klee Museum. Additionally, you can sample local Swiss cuisine and enjoy some of the best Swiss chocolate at various cafes and restaurants.

2 Days of Adventure: Budget Travels to Bern

A trip to Bern, Switzerland on a limited budget can be an enjoyable and affordable experience. Famous for its beautiful old town, Bern offers plenty of free attractions like the historic Clock Tower, the Rose Garden, and the Bear Pit. Staying in budget accommodation and eating at local markets can save you money while still experiencing the city's rich culture and history.