Should You Visit Bern?

Is Bern worth visiting?

This city is a good place to visit for one to three days. 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.

Bern, Switzerland

Reasons to Visit Bern

Museums
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.

Historical Sights
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.

Shopping
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.

Food
The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Nightlife
There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

Authenticity
Bern has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Bern worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Bern is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 21°C (70°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 27°C (80°F).

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the historic old town, and the nightlife scene.

Is Bern worth visiting in the Autumn?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F).

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Bern, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to admire the wonderful scenery, admire the historic sights, and browse the museums.

Is Bern worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Bern. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Bern can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 3°C (37°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, sample the delicious cuisine, and browse around the old town. Also, you'll be able to dance the night away.

Is Bern worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Bern. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 11°C (52°F).

The city this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience shopping, the museums and landmarks, and the beautiful scenery. Also, you can experience the historic old town and the nightlife.

Related

What is Bern most famous for?

Bern is most famous for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory. The city is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. It is also known for its great food and nightlife. It is often described as historic, charming, beautiful, and cultural.

What is the most famous sight in Bern?

The most popular sight in Bern is The Zytglogge Clock Tower. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Bern on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Zytglogge Clock Tower and other attractions here.

How touristy is Bern? Is it a popular city to visit?

Bern is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Fribourg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
• Thun Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
• Private Tour of Bern - Sightseeing, Food & Culture with a local: $167
• Gruyères Medieval Town, Cheese Factory and Maison Cailler Tour from Bern: $293
• Bern Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $60
• Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-4 Hour Walking Tour of Bern: $232
• Bern Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
• Bern : Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide (Private tour): $59

How long should I spend in Bern?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Bern is one to three days. Since Bern has activities such as museums, historical sights, and shopping, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Bern? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Bern?.