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Budget Bliss: The Ultimate 3-Day Guide to Bern

Experience Swiss charm without breaking the bank in Bern.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Wander through the Old City's cobbled streets, admiring the medieval architecture and charming atmosphere.
• Visit the Zytglogge clock tower and catch its hourly performance of moving figures.
• Try the signature Swiss dish of cheese fondue at Aarbergerhof, where locals often dine.
• Walk to the Rose Garden for stunning views of the city and the Alps in the distance.
• End the night with drinks at Barbière, a cozy bar with a wide selection of local beers.
• Stay at: Ibis Budget Bern Expo, a modern and affordable hotel located just outside the Old City.

• Start the day at the Bernisches Historisches Museum, learning about Switzerland's history and culture.
• Check out the contemporary art at the Kunstmuseum Bern.
• Head to the Bärengraben to see Bern's most famous residents, the brown bears.
• Visit the Einsteinhaus, where the famous physicist lived during his Annus Mirabilis.
• Grab lunch at the food stalls at Bundesplatz, watching the bustling market atmosphere.
• Eat at: Altes Tramdepot, a brewery and restaurant with views of the Old City and tasty pub-style food.

• Take a train to Gurten, a nearby mountain with hiking trails and stunning views.
• Have a picnic lunch at the top of Gurten and soak in the fresh mountain air.
• Return to the city for some shopping at the markets along Kramgasse.
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with gelato from Tio Gelato they have over 70 flavors!
• End the trip with a farewell drink at OnTap, a quirky bar with an industrial-chic vibe.
• Stay at: Ibis Budget Bern Expo, for another night of comfortable and affordable accommodation.
• Bid adieu to Bern, feeling rejuvenated from its captivating mix of history, culture, and nature.