Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Bern?
Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Bern?
Most visitors spend one to three days in Bern when visiting. The charming city offers so many things to see and explore, so you'll want to take full advantage of the limited time you have. Highlights include the museums and landmarks, the historic old town, the beautiful scenery, and the many shops.
Bern is the capital of Switzerland. It sits by the Aare River and it has a long history with plenty of medieval architecture. The city has a beautiful old town and many significant landmarks. Although many people don't stop in this nice city, for those who do, it makes a nice few days during Swiss holiday.
Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Bern? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is 3 days enough time in Bern?
Three days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Bern, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. Enjoy the chance to browse through museums, browse around the old town, admire the wonderful scenery, and find the best deals at the shops on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Bern as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding area.
How to spend 3 days in Bern
A number of fantastic museums and famous landmarks are found in Bern, so spend at least one full day exploring those that look the most appealing to you. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Bern Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour ($4)
- Self-Guided Tour of Bern's Fountains, Clocktowers, and Legends ($10)
Bern is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. This beautifully preserved historic city has charm, personality, and a lot to do.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Guided Walking Tour in Bern ($35)
- Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-4 Hour Walking Tour of Bern ($233)
- Bern Highlights Small-Group Walking Tour with a Local ($157)
Bern is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Guided Walking Tour in Bern ($35)
- Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-4 Hour Walking Tour of Bern ($233)
- Bern Highlights Small-Group Walking Tour with a Local ($157)
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.
The public transit in Bern is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. There are trams and buses that run around town.
Shopping in Bern is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.
Is 4 days enough time in Bern?
Four days is more than enough time to see everything that Bern has to offer. Many visitors prefer to spend one to three days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the museums and landmarks, the historic old town, the beautiful scenery, and the many shops at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.
Bern, Switzerland
How to spend 4 days in Bern
If you have more than 4 days in Bern, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the city has to offer.
Perhaps the most famous spot in Bern is the Zytglogge Clock Tower, so make sure you set aside some time to check it out. It might not be at the top of your list, but it's worth experiencing during your trip.
Is 5 days enough time in Bern?
Five days is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Bern. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. You could also use Bern as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.
How to spend 5 days in Bern
Having 5 days in Bern will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the city.
After you've explored most of Bern, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.
More Info
If you're looking for more information about Bern, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.
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