BruceSchinkel

Bern Walking Tour: The Best of Switzerland

36 comments

bern walking tour

Welcome! If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed . Meanwhile, be sure to download the Freedom Seeker's Passport , designed to help you transfor from Freedom Seeker to Digital CEO! Thanks for visiting! This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, visit my Affiliate Disclosure page

Hey, I know you! Welcome back! I hope you're enjoying the Freedom Seeker's Passport I sent you. If you missed it, grab your free download now. Are you struggling to create the Freedom Lifestyle you've been dreaming about? Click here to learn how we can work together to help get you where YOU want to be! This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, visit my Affiliate Disclosure page

The next time you are visiting Switzerland, I highly recommend you take some time to stay in its capital city, Bern.  While there, one of the best ways to see the city is by taking part in a Bern Walking Tour.  The old city of Bern, Switzerland is very walkable with many great sights.  There are daily paid walking tours offered at the train station, though advanced booking is recommended to ensure the guide speaks English.

Self Guided Walks

If touring the city at your own pace is more your speed, here is a great self guided Bern walking tour that my wife and I took when we visited this great city.  You will see all of the major places to visit in Bern, including the Clock Tower and Bear Park!

Bern Walking Tour

This city walking tour will take you through the beautiful old city of Bern, Switzerland.  It was adapted from a walking tour found in Rick Steves’ Switzerland , which i also highly recommend for your travels through Switzerland.  You will start the tour at the train station (or Bahnhof Bern, on the left side of the below map) and weave your way through the city, ending at Bear Park (or B ä renPark on the right side of the map).  Along the way you will find many of the gems that Bern has to offer!

bern walking tour

Get the Traveller's HandbookToday!

Your ultimate guide to smarter, easier travel ... FREE It's time to start checking off that bucketlist!

Success!! Check your email, and let's start checking off that bucketlist!

36 comments.

Linh

Definitely will visit all places you introduced! Thanks for the tour

Bruce Schinkel

You’re very welcome Linh; hope to see you on your travels!

Keith James

Walking tours are always fun. Switzerland is definitely on the bucket list. I’ll have to keep this one in mind. It looks beautiful!

Good to hear Keith! You’ll love Bern (and all of Switzerland!)

Sherri Brown

Wow!! I’ve never even thought about wanting to travel there until seeing this post. The pictures are gorgeous! Definitely a must read for anyone considering going there. Thanks for sharing!

I highly recommend it Sherri! I found that many people don’t think of Bern when they visit Switzerland, but it’s a beautiful place that really should be on everyone’s list

Dr. Lisa Thompson

This is absolutely GORGEOUS! I definitely have this on my places to visit!

Yes, Switzerland quickly became one of my favourite places after going there. Bern tends to fall under the radar for many people as we are usually familiar with Zurich or Geneva, but it is also a wonderful place to experience!

Julia Baxter

You really captured this well! Bern offered so much, including rich culture, fantastic restaurants, beautiful scenery and an unspoken professional quality.

Thanks Julia! Definitely worth the stop, though I wish we had spent even more time there (as usual)

Taiss

I really love walking around old cities. This place looks so cute and seems like there are a lot of things to see. (I can’t even try to pronounce these names, but they seem interesting!) I like that you can watch if Parliament is in session, but they also give free tours!

Yes, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved walking through the streets of Bern. It really was a great place to visit!

Carmen baguio

I love spending a pretty afternoon walking around an old city. This looks like a site-rich tour with lots of interesting architecture.

Yes, Bern is a very interesting city with lots of great pockets to explore!

Tracy

I enjoyed walking tour very much especially with a guide. I always try to join at least one walking tour in the country I visit cause I usually learn more about locals by joining such tour. 🙂

That’s so true Tracy, I enjoy them for exactly the same reason!

Iza c/o Fill My Passport

So glad to hear you enjoyed! Bern is a lovely city and definitely worth the visit

Meg

Totally neato tour! I love to wander around cities, people watch, and see the sites. Great suggestions!

with so many squares and meeting places, Bern is great for people-watching 🙂

wanderlust vegans

We like to do self guided walking tours whenever we visit a new city. It looks like there is a lot to see in Bern and would be a pretty full day walking around. Whenever we get to Bern next we’ll have to use your example.

Bern is a very walkable city, but yes it’ll quickly fill up your day if you stop and explore each location of the tour 🙂

Paula - Gone with the Wine

Switzerland is such a beautiful country and full of history. I love all the old buildings there and all the great stories. I have never been to Bern, but would certainly like to visit that city too. And what would be a better way to experience it than a walk tour.

I too love Switzerland! With so much to see and do, I often find that Bern is not usually at the top of mind for travellers, but it really is a great place to visit

Riely

Such a great detailed tour of Bern. If I ever do find myself there, i will not need a tour guide since you played it out so nicely. Switzerland has always been on my list of countries to see and so I hope to explore Bern one day soon. Such a rich history and beautiful buildings to explore.

I hope you’re able to explore Switzerland very soon as it’s a wonderful country, and Bern is a great place to add to your list

Saumya

This is a very informative post. Beautiful pictures and a good read. Thanks for sharing the information.

Thank you so much, I’m so pleased you enjoyed!

Kaitlynn

Bear Park was an amazing way to finish our walking tour … be warned, it’s easy to lose track of time and spend hours watching them 🙂

Kevin Michael tan

I love Switzerland! Hope to visit someday

-Kevin http://www.kevinmichaeltan.wordpress.com

Switzerland quickly became one of my absolute favourite places! Definitely make sure you visit soon 🙂

Patricia Chan

Thankyou so much Bruceschinkel for your introduction of Bern.I will follow your steps to explore Bern this coming August 2018

Amazing, please let me know how your tour goes! I really loved Bern 🙂

John Confidus

It looks really very beautiful! You inspired me! It’s great that you share your experience. I am a novice traveler, and for me your blog is an aid in planning my trip. Thanks!

Thank so much for the kind words John. If you make it to Bern, you’ll definitely have a great time, it’s such a lovely place!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badge

Pop in your info to receive even more ways to create an online income that travels with you!

SUCCESS! Thanks for subscribing!

Latest on instagram, bruceschinkel.

Bruce Schinkel

Blogger's JumpStart

The Essential FREE Guide to get your blog online quickly and securely, so you can grow your business TODAY!

Check for a confirmation email from me! Once you confirm it was you who submitted this form I'll immediately send you your Blogging JumpStart Guide!

bern walking tour map

Gift Guide for Smart Travelers

The FREE Gift Guide for Smarrt Travelers to help you find the perfect gift for your special someone TODAY!

Check for a confirmation email from me! Once you confirm it was you who submitted this form I'll immediately send you your Gift Guide for Smart Travelers!

google analytics introduction-dashboard

Google Analytics Dashboard Templates

Get these FREE Dashboard Templates to help you set up your Google Analytics reporting TODAY!

Check for a confirmation email from me! Once you confirm it was you who submitted this form I'll immediately send you your Google Analytics Dashboard Templates!

bern walking tour map

Google Analytics Campaign Tracker

Get these FREE Campaign TRacker to help you keep

track of all your campaigns TODAY!

Check for a confirmation email from me! Once you confirm it was you who submitted this form I'll immediately send you your Google Analytics Campaign Tracker!

unique-gifts

Unique Gift Ideas forHome Business Entrepreneurs

The FREE Gift Guide for Home Business Entrepreneurs to help you find the perfect gift for your special someone TODAY!

Check for a confirmation email from me! Once you confirm it was you who submitted this form I'll immediately send you your Gift Guide for Home Business Entrepreneurs!

Google analytics setup guide.

Get this FREE Setup Guide to put your

Google Analytics account to work for you TODAY!

Check for a confirmation email from me! Once you confirm it was you who submitted this form I'll immediately send you your Google Analytics Setup Guide!

Google analytics goal setting guide.

Get this FREE Goal Setting Guide to find the

True Value in your website TODAY!

Check for a confirmation email from me! Once you confirm it was you who submitted this form I'll immediately send you your Google Analytics Goal Setting Guide!

Pin it on pinterest.

Frommers logo default 2015

Travel Guide

  • Things to Do
  • Best Hotels
  • Things to See
  • Best Restaurants
  • Best Nightlife
  • Organized Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Planning a Trip
  • Active Pursuits

Powered booking

Walking Tours in Bern

Walking Tour: Bern's Altstadt

Start: Bahnhofplatz

Finish: Swiss Parliament

Time: 2 hours

Best Times: Anny sunny day

Worst Times: Rush hours, Monday through Friday from 8 to 9am and 5 to 6pm

Start at the city's commercial core, the

1. Bahnhofplatz

In 2007 and 2008, this square, or plaza, in front of the city's main railway station, witnessed a more thorough urban renewal (new underground parking, new pedestrian zones, new landscaping) than any other location within Bern. It's now one of the showcases of urban Switzerland.

Opening onto Bahnhofplatz is the:

2. Church of the Holy Ghost

Also called the Heiliggeistkirche, this church dates from 1729 and seems out of place in such a traffic-congested area.

From the church, head east up Spittalgasse, coming first to:

3. Bagpiper Fountain

The Pfeiferbrunnen, which depicts a bagpiper atop a column and capital, was erected around 1545, presumably by Hans Gieng. In 2007, the widely publicized cost of removing (temporarily) this statue from its pedestal, and its subsequent restoration, was 500,000F.

Directly east of the fountain, at Bärenplatz, is the:

4. Prison Gate

Called the Käfigturm, this gate dates from the 1200s. It now shelters a tiny museum devoted to the cultural and business life of the city.

Continue east along:

5. Marktgasse

This is the main street of Old Town, filled with fashionable shops and florists. Many of its buildings date from the 17th century.

The street leads into one of the principal squares of Altstadt:

6. Kornhausplatz

This square is the site of the Ogre Fountain, which is a representation of a carnival figure, with a pillar and capital erected about 1544. The Kornhaus, an old granary from the 1700s, also stands on the square; today it's a restaurant and wine cellar.

7. Café des Pyrénées 

The "nerve center" of Bern, Café des Pyrénées, Kornhausplatz (tel. 031/311-30-63 ), is frequented by international journalists and visitors drawn to its sidewalk terrace. This bistro cafe also attracts many expatriates. Stop in for a drink -- half a dozen types of Spanish brandy, for example -- or any of the sandwiches and pasta dishes. It's open Monday to Friday 9am to 12:30am and Saturday 8am to 5pm.

Also opening onto this square is the celebrated:

8. Clock Tower

Also called the Zytgloggeturm, the Clock Tower was the town's west gate from 1191 to 1250. Its chimes start pealing at 4 minutes before every hour. A picture postcard of this scene is the most popular souvenir of Bern.

Leaving Kornhausplatz, continue east along:

9. Kramgasse

A continuation of Marktgasse, this street contains many old houses with corner turrets and oriel windows.

Another major fountain standing on this street is the:

10. Zähringer Fountain

This fountain was a monument to the city founder, Berchtold von Zähringen. Here you can see the Bern bear, mascot of the city, along with the Zähringer coat of arms. The pillar, capital, and figure were erected in 1535 by Hans Hiltprand.

Continuing, at Kramgasse 49 you come to:

11. Albert Einstein's Home

In 1905 the famous physicist wrote his "theory of relativity" here.

The next fountain encountered on this same street is the:

12. Samson Fountain

This notable fountain is an allegory of strength, with a pillar and capital from 1527 and the figure from 1544.

Continue east along the street, which now changes its name to Gerechtigkeitsgasse. In the center of the street stands yet another famous fountain, the:

13. Justice Fountain

This fountain is an allegory of Justice, with worshiping subjects, including the pope, at her feet. The statue was erected in 1543.

Walk to the end of the street and continue across the river, crossing the Nydeggbrücke, until you reach Bern's most visited sight:

14. The Bear Pits

The Bärengraben is immediately on your right. The city of Bern is named after the bear (now its official mascot), and bears have resided in these pits since 1480.

Cross back over the bridge, and this time take the street to the left, heading west along Junkerngasse until you reach the:

15. Cathedral of St. Vincent

In Münsterplatz, the cathedral's first stone was laid in 1421, but building went on until 1573. From the tower, you'll get a panoramic view of Bern.

After leaving the cathedral, continue west along Münstergasse until you reach Theaterplatz, one of Altstadt's major squares. Continue west, following the same street, which has now changed its name to Amthausgasse. You'll then approach Bundesplatz, site of the:

16. Federal Palace

Also called the Bundeshaus (Swiss Parliament) and capped with a massive dome, it was inspired by the Italian Renaissance Cathedral in Florence. This is the seat of Swiss democracy and one of the nation's treasured symbols.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Frommer's EasyGuide to Amsterdam, Brussels and Bruges

  • All Regions
  • Australia & South Pacific
  • Caribbean & Atlantic
  • Central & South America
  • Middle East & Africa
  • North America
  • Washington, D.C.
  • San Francisco
  • New York City
  • Los Angeles
  • Arts & Culture
  • Beach & Water Sports
  • Local Experiences
  • Food & Drink
  • Outdoor & Adventure
  • National Parks
  • Winter Sports
  • Travelers with Disabilities
  • Family & Kids
  • All Slideshows
  • Hotel Deals
  • Car Rentals
  • Flight Alerts
  • Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
  • Cruise News
  • Entry Requirements & Customs
  • Car, Bus, Rail News
  • Money & Fees
  • Health, Insurance, Security
  • Packing & Luggage
  • -Arthur Frommer Online
  • -Passportable
  • Road Trip Guides
  • Alaska Made Easy
  • Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
  • Best of the Caribbean
  • Best of Mexico
  • Cruise Inspiration
  • Best Places to Go 2024

Unexpected Occurrence

The Ultimate Guide to One Day in Bern: Itinerary & Map

Bern is a stunning city in Switzerland that’s perfect for a day trip! Here’s the ultimate guide to one day in Bern.

I’ll be honest. I hadn’t given Bern a fair chance the first few times I’d visited. There are so many incredible places to visit in Switzerland, and I’d never considered Bern to be one of them! A while back, I had an appointment at the embassy in Bern, so I decided to spend the whole day there, and was I pleasantly surprised! Bern is a beautiful city with plenty to do and so much green space. It’s definitely worth a full day, whether you’re there for an appointment at your local embassy or just in the area! Here’s the ultimate guide to a Bern day trip – one of the best day trips in Swtizerland .

Aare River in Bern Switzerland: one of the best things if you have one day in Bern

One day in Bern Itinerary – Things to do in Bern!

It’s totally possible to see Bern in one day. This Bern itinerary has all of the city’s main attractions packed into one incredible day. From a morning near the river to an afternoon in the old town, you’ll get a great tour of the city following this itinerary.

Kleine Schanze

bern walking tour map

From the train station, head on over to Kleine Schanze. It takes roughly 10 minutes to stroll to this hillside park, and it’s absolutely worth a visit! There’s a gazebo at the top of the hill with sweeping views of the city and the river below. I’m a sucker for views over pretty cities, so this is the first of a few viewpoints you’ll see today.

If you have children, there’s a wonderful little playground near the park restaurant. It has spinning structures and a few slacklines, as well as a free little library stand.

bern walking tour map

The Bundesplatz & Bundeshaus

From Kleine Schanze, make your way left towards the Bern DMB (a funicular station) and then to the Bundesplatz. There are giant chess boards for you to play on, as well as free seats and tables to relax at. Again, there’s a great viewpoint over Bern and the Aare River to enjoy.

bern walking tour map

You can then visit the Bundeshaus, Bern’s parliament building. You can take a free guided tour of the building if you reserve a ticket online up to 3 days before your visit. There are 50 spaces for each timeslot and you will need to bring an ID or passport to enter. The tours are done in 4 languages with their times below. The tour lasts one hour.

You can book your tour here on the official website .

Walk down the Aare River

bern walking tour map

From the Parliament building, you can follow a walking trail down towards the Aare River. Walk up the river towards the public pools. A popular summer activity is floating down the Aare River, but there are also pools where the current won’t take you downstream. There’s tonnes of greenery and deck space there to lay out on if you aren’t in the mood to swim.

Even if it isn’t summertime, the river is beautiful to stroll by.

Bärengraben: Bern’s Bears

You can cross the river from the side of the river with the pool and walk back towards town on a walking trail that goes along the river and into the forest a bit. You’ll be heading towards the bärengraben, the park for the brown bears, Bern’s symbol!

bern walking tour map

The bears have a large area to roam around on the banks of the Aare, and they sometimes roam into the old bear pit where you can get a great view of them. They can otherwise be found hunting around for food or basking in the sun – they can be tricky to find in amongst the trees!

Rose Garden

bern walking tour map

From the bear enclosure, head up the hill towards the Rose Garden ( Rosengarten ). It’s a short but steep walk up, but you’ll have some of the best views of Bern to your left. Near the top of the hill, there’s a bench with a statue of Albert Einstein. It’s worth a short visit, as it’s an amazing viewpoint and the garden is quite beautiful. The rosengarten has lots of green space if you’re keen to stop and laze in the sun a bit or have a picnic in the park. There’s also a restaurant at the top of the hill, but I’ve recommended another restaurant below – our next stop!

Lunch at Tramdepot

bern walking tour map

Tram Depot is a small complex comprised a restaurant and an ice cream parlour. The restaurant is also a brewery, and you can see the huge vats and equipment right behind the bar. If it’s a nice day, I highly recommend sitting outside on a nice day! The restaurant serves both burgers and traditional Swiss food. There’s an artisanal ice cream parlour within tramdepot if you’d like to end your meal with a sweet treat.

Wander through the Old Town

bern walking tour map

If there’s one thing to do on your Bern day trip, it’s this! Bern’s old town is charming and there’s so much to see within this part of the city. From Tramdepot, walk down the bridge into the old town. You’ll get to Gerechtigkeitsgasse, a street with flags swaying in the wind and Bern’s famous arcades with sweet shops and restaurants. The compact layout of the old town is so well preserved from medieval times that it’s a UNESCO heritage site. Within the old town, there are a few things you shouldn’t miss!

Einstein House

bern walking tour map

Albert Einstein’s house in Bern is where he developed his famous theory of relativity. You can tour his house for a small fee (prices below!) and learn more about Einstein and his legacy. There’s also a cafe outside his house where you can rest with coffee and tea.

Einstein Haus Prices

Bern’s Fountains

bern walking tour map

Bern has amazing fountains all over the old town. They’re often pillars that served as a meeting point in medieval times, and they’re central to Bern’s identity and history. The fountains always stream fresh potable water if you need a drink or to fill up a water bottle.

One of the most famous fountains is Kindlifresserbrunnen, located in Kornhausplatz. This sixteenth century fountain shows a man who is eating babies!

The Zytglogge (Clock Tower)

bern walking tour map

This magnificent clock tower served as Bern’s guard tower, prison, and medieval center of urban life. The face is decorated with some of Bern’s central themes and has been telling time since 1530. You can go on a tour of the clock tower, which takes you behind the face and explains the history behind this famous landmark.

From 1 May to 31 October and 26 December – 31 December, tours run daily. All other times, the tour is only on Saturdays.

The tours begin at 14.15 and last one hour. It costs CHF 20.00 for adults, CHF 18.00 for students and seniors, and CHF 10.00 for children between 6 and 16 years old.

You can make a reservation for the tour here .

Bern’s Markets

Bern has some amazing markets year-round!

Year Round: The weekly market is in Waisenhausplatz on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Spring & Summer: The Fruit/Veg market is held in Bärenplatz the the Bundesplatz on Tuesday and Saturday mornings.

April: Don’t miss the geranium market at the end of April or the plant market in mid-April!

May: In mid-May, there’s a rare species market (for plants).

November: The onion market ( Zibelemärit ) comes to town the fourth Monday of November.

December: Christmas markets! Don’t miss Bern’s Christmas markets, held during Advent.

Looking for more nearby Christmas Markets? Here are the best Christmas markets in Alsace .

Bern in One Day: Map

How to get around Bern

Bern is an incredibly walkable city, but sometimes you just need a little break! Bern has a great public transport system that extensively covers the city and surrounding areas.

Bern Public Transport Tickets

You cannot buy tickets on board trams or busses. You can buy tickets from machines and the LIBERO shop at the main station. If you’re planning on using public transport extensively, I recommend buying a multiple journey card, which saves you a little money. With multiple journey cards, make sure to validate tickets at the ticket machines!

If you’re only going a short distance on public transport, there are short journey tickets that only cover 4 stops. These are cheaper than normal tickets and are worth purchasing if you’re just hopping on the tram or bus for a few minutes.

bern walking tour map

How to get to and from Bern

Trains are the easiest way to get to and from Bern. Bern’s main train station is located right in the center of the city.

You can get direct trains to Bern from most large Swiss cities. To get to Bern, it takes one hour from Basel, one hour from Zurich, and 2 hours from Geneva.

If you’re driving, it takes 1 hr and 10 minutes from Basel, 1hr 30 minutes from Zurich, and 1 hr 45 minutes from Geneva. You’ll drive on major motorways.

The closest airport is the Bern Airport, but it is quite small and services are limited. The most popular airports close to Bern are the Zurich Airport (all major carriers) and the Euroairport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (budget airlines).

Embassies in Bern

As Switzerland’s capital, there’s loads of foreign representation in the area. Here are some addresses for major embassies/consulates in Bern.

United States of America Sulgeneckstrasse 19 Phone: 013135277011

China Kalcheggweg 10 Phone: 031 351 45 93

India Kirchenfeldstrasse 28 Phone: 0041 31 350 11 30

Korea Kalcheggweg 38 Phone: 031 356 24 44

Like this post? Pin it!

bern walking tour map

Related posts

bern walking tour map

The Ultimate Guide to the Grütschalp to Mürren Hike: Stunning All Year!

bern walking tour map

9 Charming Fairytale Villages to Visit in Alsace, France

bern walking tour map

The Elie to Crail Coastal Walk Along the Fife Coastal Path

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Thank you for being so comprehensive with places, addresses, prices. I will be appreciating your research in March.

Hope you have so much fun in Bern!

bern walking tour map

WELCOME TO BERN

Discover bern through the eyes of a local guide.

Free Walk Switzerland does not take any liability for accidents, thefts or any other damage during the walk. © (copyright) by Free Walking Tours Switzerland (Free Walking Tours Switzerland is a non-profit organization registered as an association under Swiss law.) Impressum .

Highlights & Hidden Gems of Bern: Small Group Guided Walking Tour

bern walking tour map

  • Multilingual Professional Tour Guide
  • Guided Walking Tour of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Bern
  • Hotel Pickup and Drop
  • Bim Zytglogge 1, 3011 Bern, Switzerland Our Guide will meet you at Clock Tower - Zytglogge.
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
  • You'll start at Zytglogge Bim Zytglogge 1, 3011 Bern, Switzerland Our Guide will meet you at Clock Tower - Zytglogge. See address & details
  • 1 Käfigturm Stop: 15 minutes See details
  • 2 The Parliament Building Stop: 15 minutes See details
  • 3 Old City Stop: 30 minutes See details
  • 4 Clock Tower - Zytglogge Stop: 15 minutes See details
  • 5 Einstein House (Einsteinhaus) Stop: 15 minutes See details
  • 6 Cathedral of Bern Stop: 30 minutes See details
  • You'll return to the starting point

bern walking tour map

  • G3908YBanthonyb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Upcoming visit to Mauritius Do you have contact details so I can discuss a Private Tour in April 2024? We will be a group of 8 persons and looking for a personalised day tour. Read more Written September 13, 2023

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Passenger21090107135

Highlights & Hidden Gems of Bern: Small Group Guided Walking Tour provided by Yo Tours Bern

  • Dates and times

Self-Guided Walking Tours

bern walking tour map

Clocktower, rose garden, House of Parliament, Einstein House… You all know the main sights of the old city centre of Bern. But did you know that less than 5% of the population of Bern actually lives in the old centre? If you want to have an impression of how normal daily live in Bern really is you have to go outside the centre. That’s why we offer those Self-Guided Walking Tours, which lead you through some of those quarters.

bern walking tour map

Breitenrain

The north-district of Bern, the Breitenrain, is characterised by small shops and cafés, as well as beautiful houses and it’s proximity to the BERNEXPO area and the stadium of Bern (Stade de Suisse), where big sport events and concerts take place.

This walk guides you through this district. It shows where you can have a drink or enjoy a good ice-cream in summer, where you can warm-up in winter and it takes you through some of the nicest streets in the quarter. Additionally there are some optional walks to the rose garden and down to the river Aare, which can be combined with this walk.

Download the tour here:

Download

Kirchenfeld

With this walk you discover the Kirchenfeld district of Bern. It offers a great mix between nature and city because you’ll pass some of Bern’s museums (e.g. Einstein Museum), many beautiful old houses, the zoo of Bern and you’ll discover one of the forests of the city. The walk finishes with a long and nice promenade along the river. It's a great walk for summer time!

This walk leads you through the university-quarter of Bern. It covers some of the university buildings, the most popular street to hang around and have a drink after work or uni and of course some beautiful streets of the residential area of the quarter.

bern walking tour map

If you've done a tour, feel free to write a review on Tripadvisor !

Free Walk Switzerland

We are part of the Free Walk Switzerland network. Check out the other tours in Zurich, Lucerne, Basel, Lugano, Fribourg and Interlaken!

bern walking tour map

Save your favorites. No favorites saved yet.

  • Business Go to a different page To the business page Go to a different page
  • Internationals Go to a different page For staff of embassies, consulates, multilateral institutions and international organisations Go to a different page

UNESCO Stroll through the Old City

bern walking tour map

The little alleys, baroque buildings and important sights of the medieval city tell an exciting story. Find out about Bern’s history on the classic UNESCO tour of the Old City.

  • Book Public Tour
  • Book Public Combined Tour
  • Book Private Tour
  • https://moz.com/blog/meta-data-templates-123 --> Facebook
  • https://moz.com/blog/meta-data-templates-123 --> Twitter

Albert Einstein, Paul Klee and Friedrich Dürrenmatt all lived in Bern for a while and have walked beneath the arcades and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere on the Minster terrace.

Be it famous guests, locals or tourists from all over the world – Bern’s Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, fascinates everyone with its distinctive limestone buildings, charming alleys and impressive monuments. The guided tour takes participants to all the places that visitors from near and far love and gives them an interesting insight into Bern’s history.

Don’t forget to bring your own bottle to fill! Because there’s nothing better than sipping fresh fountain water while on the tour.

bern walking tour map

The 90-minute walk takes guests through the Old City, on cobbled streets, past hidden nooks and onto historical city squares. You will hear facts and anecdotes, funny and serious stories, information about the past and the present. From the Bernese Minster in the late Gothic style, the Parliament Building and the Kornhaus (Granary) with the “Chindlifresserbrunnen” (Ogre Fountain) to Käfigturm (Prison Tower) and Bern’s oldest city gate – there’s so much to discover. You’ll learn about Bern’s background and what defined and defines the medieval city.

This tour is entertaining, interesting and fun for locals and tourists alike. By the way: the programme can be personalized if you have special requests.

The UNESCO Stroll through the Old City is also available in combination with the Tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower).

Reservations  online or via phone at  +41 31 328 12 12 , or via e-mail: citytours@bern.com .

The combined tour consists of the UNESCO Stroll through the Old City at 11:00 am (Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays) or at 1:00 pm (Wednesdays and Sundays) and the tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) at 2:15 pm (Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays) or at 3:15 pm (Wednesdays and Sundays) and can be booked at a special price. 

Reservations  online  or via phone at +41 31 328 12 12, or via e-mail:  citytours@bern.com .

Tours that do not include the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) can be booked  online .

Tours including the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) can only be booked via phone at  +41 31 328 12 12  or via e-mail: citytours@bern.com .

City Tours Bern

Shopping in bern’s old town.

bern walking tour map

You might also like

bern walking tour map

Strawberry Tours

  • Español ( Spanish )
  • Français ( French )
  • Deutsch ( German )
  • Italiano ( Italian )
  • Português ( Portuguese (Portugal) )
  • Polski ( Polish )
  • Català ( Catalan )
  • Nederlands ( Dutch )

 alt=

Free Walking Tour Bern

Highlights of your trip.

bern walking tour map

Best Free Tours in Bern

Highlights of a free tour in bern, things to do in bern, free tours in more cities.

London Banner Small

Free Tours in Your Language

bern walking tour map

Free Tour - Bern

IMAGES

  1. Historic and Scenic Bern Switzerland Sightseeing Walking Tour Guide

    bern walking tour map

  2. Where to go in Bern

    bern walking tour map

  3. What to do in Bern

    bern walking tour map

  4. Bern Old Town Discovery Sightseeing Walking Tour Map and other ways to

    bern walking tour map

  5. Bern Printable Tourist Map

    bern walking tour map

  6. Bern in a day

    bern walking tour map

COMMENTS

  1. Bern walkingtour

    What's so special about Bern? We hardly know where to begin, but one of its best highlights is certainly the fact that the Old City is ideal for exploring on foot. We recommend the following route for your walking tour of the city: More information about the walking tour and the City Map, which shows the route, is available from the Tourist ...

  2. 5 Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bern, Switzerland + Maps

    Self-guided walking tours in Bern, Switzerland. Follow these 5 expert designed self-guided walking tours to explore the city on foot at your own pace. All Cities; ... Each walk comes with a detailed tour map as well as photos and background information for the featured attractions. The app's navigation functions guide you from one attraction to ...

  3. City Map

    The best way to explore Bern? Take your time and celebrate the good things in life. ... Our City Map includes a suggested route for a walking tour of the city. You can access the map for printing here along with further information on the most important stops during the tour: More info . Bern for families . Bern has so much to offer children! ...

  4. Bern Walking Tour: The Best of Switzerland • BruceSchinkel

    Bern Walking Tour. This city walking tour will take you through the beautiful old city of Bern, Switzerland. It was adapted from a walking tour found in Rick Steves' Switzerland, which i also highly recommend for your travels through Switzerland. You will start the tour at the train station (or Bahnhof Bern, on the left side of the below map ...

  5. Walking Tours in Bern

    Walking Tour: Bern's Altstadt. Start: Bahnhofplatz Finish: Swiss Parliament Time: 2 hours Best Times: Anny sunny day Worst Times: Rush hours, Monday through Friday from 8 to 9am and 5 to 6pm Start at the city's commercial core, the. 1. Bahnhofplatz. In 2007 and 2008, this square, or plaza, in front of the city's main railway station, witnessed a more thorough urban renewal (new underground ...

  6. The Ultimate Guide to One Day in Bern: Itinerary & Map

    From 1 May to 31 October and 26 December - 31 December, tours run daily. All other times, the tour is only on Saturdays. The tours begin at 14.15 and last one hour. It costs CHF 20.00 for adults, CHF 18.00 for students and seniors, and CHF 10.00 for children between 6 and 16 years old.

  7. Visit Bern with Free Walking Tour Bern

    WELCOME TO BERN Discover Bern through the eyes of a local guide. all tours

  8. Old Town Walk (Self Guided), Bern, Switzerland

    Old Town Walk Map. Create Your Own Self-Guided Walks in Bern. Guide Name: Old Town Walk Guide Location: Switzerland » Bern Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Discovery) Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles Author: naomi 1) Kramgasse, Simsonbrunnen. Image Courtesy of Nikater.

  9. Bern Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Bern

    Bern Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Bern. The de facto capital of Switzerland, Bern is commonly referred to by the Swiss as the "federal city". Built around a crook in the Aare River, it traces its origins back to the 12th century. According to the local legend, Berchtold V, Duke of Zähringen, founder of Bern, vowed to name the city ...

  10. Best of Bern in One Day

    Our walking tour through Switzerland's capital will take you over cobblestone streets and. You'll fall in love walking through the old city of Bern. Bordered by the crystal blue Aare river, the old city center is a UNESCO heritage site, home to beautiful sandstone buildings and long arcade walkways. ... Our walking tour map: the best way to see ...

  11. Bern

    The meeting and pickup information for the private walking tour of Bern can be found below: Meeting Point: The tour begins at Münsterplatz, located at Münsterpl., 3011 Bern, Switzerland.This is where you'll meet your licensed guide and start exploring the city's fascinating history and architectural gems.

  12. Bern: 90-Minute Stroll Through the Old Town

    Full description. On this 90-minute stroll through Bern's Old Town, your local guide will tell you about the city's 8 centuries of history. On rainy days, you can still enjoy this atmospheric area, as the arcades provide shelter. Admire the late Gothic Cathedral (Münster) with its stunning portal and rendering of the Last Judgment.

  13. Bern Old Town Loop, Bern, Switzerland

    Bern Old Town Loop. Head out on this 3.0-mile loop trail near Bern, Bern. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 17 min to complete. This is a very popular area for running and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.

  14. Highlights & Hidden Gems of Bern: Small Group Guided Walking Tour

    Explore Bern beyond the typical tourist spots and see the city through the eyes of a local and discover the numerous mesmerizing places Bern has to offer. from. $81.16. per adult (price varies by group size) Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay later Free cancellation. Ages 0-99, max of 12 per group. Duration: 2h.

  15. Highlights & Hidden Gems of Bern: Small Group Guided Walking Tour

    Discover the wonders of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Bern on this unforgettable guided tour. Uncover its hidden treasures, architecture, culture and unearth its rich history with stories. 1. Uncover the city's top attractions the Clock Tower, the Federal Palace, the Parliament Building, the Prison Tower, the Cathedral of Bern, and more with lots of wonderful stories about the city ...

  16. Self-Guided Walking Tours

    Kirchenfeld. With this walk you discover the Kirchenfeld district of Bern. It offers a great mix between nature and city because you'll pass some of Bern's museums (e.g. Einstein Museum), many beautiful old houses, the zoo of Bern and you'll discover one of the forests of the city. The walk finishes with a long and nice promenade along ...

  17. UNESCO Stroll through the Old City

    The little alleys, baroque buildings and important sights of the medieval city tell an exciting story. Find out about Bern's history on the classic UNESCO tour of the Old City. Albert Einstein, Paul Klee and Friedrich Dürrenmatt all lived in Bern for a while and have walked beneath the arcades and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere on the ...

  18. Bern Travel Guide Resources & Trip Planning Info by Rick Steves

    Stately but human, classy but fun, the Swiss capital is the most rewarding place to experience urban Switzerland. Window-shop along streets lined with cozy, covered arcades, and people-watch in the lively market square. Enjoy Bern's excellent museums, quaint-for-a-capital ambience, and delightful river scene. Its pointy towers, sandstone buildings, colorful fountains, and riverside setting ...

  19. Fountains and Statues Walking Tour (Self Guided), Bern

    Fountains and Statues Walking Tour Map. Create Your Own Self-Guided Walks in Bern. Guide Name: Fountains and Statues Walking Tour Guide Location: Switzerland » Bern (See other walking tours in Bern) Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing) # of Attractions: 10 Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s) Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles

  20. Bern Old City Walking Tour

    Scenic Spots: Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the Aare River and Berner Oberland mountains, offering picture-perfect moments throughout the tour. Route Map. As you embark on the Bern Old City Walking Tour, the route map will guide you through a captivating journey of UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic landmarks, and picturesque views ...

  21. The BEST Bern Walking tours 2024

    Our most recommended Bern Walking tours. 1. Zürich: City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit. Climb aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach and enjoy a scenic drive through the Zürichberg district with views of the city, the lake, and the Alps. See the highlights of Zürich, such as the castle-like National Museum, the ...

  22. THE BEST 10 Bern Walking Tours (w/Prices)

    Perfect for first-time visitors to Bern, this small-group walking tour will introduce you to many of the city's top attractions—as well as its hidden corners. Meet your guide in Bern's Old Town, and set off on foot. Learn about the city's history while you admire highlights like the Bern Cathedral, Bundesplatz (home to the Swiss ...

  23. Free Walking Tour Bern

    Once you have explored the Old Town with Bern Free Walking Tours, aim for the outskirts of the city. Art lovers should head to Zentrum Paul Klee. It exhibits works by Bern's own Klee alongside many other artists. If you are in the mood for hiking, catch the funicular up to Gurten and spend a day wandering around its lovely slopes.