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

Bern in Love: A Romantic 2-Day Getaway

Experience the picturesque city of Bern, Switzerland with your loved one on a romantic getaway. Stroll through the charming Old Town, admiring the historic architecture and quaint cafes. Indulge in delicious Swiss chocolates and wine, and take in the stunning views of the Aare River and the Bernese Alps from the Rose Garden.

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 Bliss: Bears, Fountains, and Fondue Fun!

A family trip to Bern, Switzerland promises a delightful experience with its scenic beauty and family-friendly attractions. Explore the historical Old Town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its well-preserved medieval architecture. Engage in interactive educational experiences at the Einstein Museum or the Bern Historical Museum, and enjoy leisurely walks along the Aare River to make unforgettable memories in this charming Swiss capital.

Budget Bliss: The Ultimate 3-Day Guide to Bern

Exploring Bern on a tight budget is still possible with numerous free activities such as visiting the historic Old Town, strolling through the Rosengarten park and admiring the street art in Matte district. Budget-friendly accommodation options include hostels and Airbnb rentals, and affordable meals can be found at local eateries and markets like the famous Berner Gourmet Market.