Laid-back and little, Bern is Switzerland’s federal city, functioning as the capital of a country that doesn’t officially have one. While Swiss politicians had their own reasons for basing the country’s parliament here, the surrounding landscapes probably helped the decision. Set within a crook of the startling-blue Aare River and flanked by mountains, Bern is a stunner, made more so by the medieval, UNESCO-listed Old City where visitors will find no shortage of things to do. Sights aside, the city also rewards visitors with a multicultural vibe where German, French, and English are widely spoken.
Unless you’re pairing a trip to Bern with a ski trip in the Swiss Alps, it’s worth visiting in the summer as there’s more to do. From late spring to early fall, you can tour the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and have a better chance of seeing Bern’s bears at the famous Bear Park. You can also experience the city’s swimming culture. Strong swimmers can float down the Aare, propelled by the river’s natural currents, while sun-seekers can bask at one of the outdoor swimming pools—most of which are free.
Most of Bern’s biggest tourist attractions are in the compact Old City. For this, you don’t need a car; it’s actually more annoying to have one, with limited parking and a somewhat confusing street layout. If you want to save your legs, the bus and tram system is easy to navigate—just buy your ticket at the automatic machines at each stop. Taxis are readily available, but they’re expensive even for short trips.
If you speak to a Bern local, you’ll likely hear about their favorite viewpoints: The city has many. Set against the peaks of the Bernese Oberland, Bern itself is a mishmash of sandstone buildings, red-tiled roofs, and historic fountains, all set against a blue-green river. It’s a sight to behold from high up. You can pay to go up the Bern Minster (Berner Münster) and the Zytglogge, or you can visit terraces or parks like the Bundeshausterrasse or the rose garden (Rosengarten) for free.
