bern zytglogge tour

Discover the Zytglogge Clock Tower in Bern’s Historic Heart

Located in the heart of Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town , the Zyteglogge is a must-see attraction. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Swiss capital and definitely worth spending some time seeing if you are in town.

The Zytglogge actually means “time bell” in the local dialect (Bärndütsch – Bernese German) and once you see the bell ring, you will understand why. The Zytglogge is more than just a clock and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

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Architectural Details of the Zytglogge

The Zytglogge is a very distinct 23-meter-high tower that stands in the heart of downtown Bern. It has marked the passing of town for centuries and is even said to have inspired Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity.

It features a unique combination of both Gothic and Baroque architecture, which has evolved over the centuries.

The Astronomical Clock

The current astronomical clock was installed in 153 and actually replaced replacing an older, less sophisticated clock. The clock mechanism was designed by Kaspar Brunner, a Swiss clockmaker and is quite the work of art

The astronomical clock face features a plethora of clocks all wound around one another on the face. The various clocks and timekeeping devices include:

• Hours and minutes (including 24-hour time – 2 x 12 hours)
• Day of the week
• Lunar calendar
• Zodiac calendar
• A Planisphere (day, dawn, dusk)
• A Calendar Dial

But let’s not forget that on top of all of this runs an intricate clockwork that also moves a series of figures across the elaborate facade.

The Moving Figures

The moving figures on the Zytglogge’s astronomical clock are one of the highlights of any visit to the clock. They represent various aspects of time and serve as an entertaining spectacle every hour for onlookers. The four main moving figures are:

• Chronos : The god of time holds a scepter and an hourglass and symbolizes the continuous passage of time. He rotates the hourglass each hour and strikes the bell with his wooden scepter.
• The Rooster : Represents the herald of a new day, just as it does in real life. The Rooster crows three times: once before the hourly chimes, once during, and once after.
• The Jester : Symbolizing the fleeting nature of time, he sits just below Chronos. As the clock strikes the hour, the Jester rings two small bells in each hand, reminding us how important it is to enjoy each moment.
• The Golden Knight : Represents both civic pride and chivalry. He can be seen marching in a circle as the clock chimes. It is said that this figure exemplifies the values and virtues of Bernese citizens.
• A Parade of Bears: The bear is the symbol of Bern, so it is no surprise that at the bottom of the animated area is a parade of bears that begins every procession.

Right between the giant clock face and the astronomical clock is a large frieze worth looking at. It features a mix of Greek & Roman pagan gods including Jupiter, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars, Venus, and Mercury.

If you look in detail you will also notice that only the female gods have faces.

The Western Facade

The western face of Zytglogge is also adorned with a giant clock and decorated with a fresco titled “beginning of time. This mural illustrates Adam and Even in paradise being evicted by an angel while the devil is hovering menacingly in the background.

The Zytglogge Archway Paintings

Something a lot of people miss when visiting the Clock Tower is the paintings in the archway underneath. There are two on each side, each representing a particular part of the history of Bern.

The paintings were painted by Gotthard Ringgli and left to right above depict the following

• The granting of the hand vest by Emperor Friederich II
• The bear hunt in Nydegg (The apparent reason Bern is strongly associated with bears)
• Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen commissions Cuno von Bubenberg to build the town of Bern
• The building of Bern

When Should You Visit The Zytglogge?

You should visit the Zytglogge at least 5 minutes before the hour because of how the timing of the clock and moving figures operates.

Although the Zytglogge strikes every hour, the moving characters start their performance 4 minutes before the actual hour. So, to be sure you don’t miss anything, be there early, especially in summer and weekends when the crowds in front of the clock tower can be quite big.

The Zytglogge clock strikes every hour with a series of chimes and animations involving the four moving figures mentioned above.

The process begins a few minutes before the hour, as the Rooster starts to flap its wings and crow. When the hour arrives, Chronos inverts his hourglass and strikes the bell, while the Jester simultaneously rings his bells, usually too early, as is typical of such a fool. The Rooster crows again during the chimes, and the Golden Knight marches in a circle.

After the clock finishes ringing, the Rooster crows one final time, marking the end of the hourly spectacle.

The Zytglogge’s Rich History

No one knows the exact date, however, the Zytglogge was originally constructed between 1218-1220 as part of the city’s western gate and fortifications.

It has had a variety of functions over the centuries from its initial role as a gate to a women’s prison, and a guard tower, to its final role as a clock tower and archive.

In 1405 the tower was almost completely destroyed during a fire and had to undergo significant reconstruction. Early in the 15th century, the first simple clock was installed along with the first large bell that gave the Zyteglogge its time – “the Time Bell”.

Further restoration projects have been undertaken in 1527-1530, which was when the more elaborate current astronomical clock was added. Further repainting of the clock was carried out between 1607-1610 by Gotthard Ringgli and Kaspar Haldenstein who added the intricate detail in the clockfaces we see on both sides of the tower today.

There was a further repainting of the face in 1890, but people disliked the Rococo style and it was replaced in 1929.

Zytglogge Tours

One of the best ways to experience the true depth and intricacy of the Zytglogge is through a unique tour . Not only do you get to learn all about the history, inner workings and movements of the clock tower, you also get to go inside and see how it all works. You will also get a unique view from the top of this Bern landmark, something not everyone gets to do!

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Visiting Zytglogge in Bern (Expectations, Viewpoints, Tips)

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In every beautiful city in Europe, there’s always one iconic landmark that makes the city easily recognizable. In Lucerne , it’s the Chapel Bridge . In Salzburg , it’s the Hohensalzburg Fortress . In Innsbruck , it’s the Golden Roof . In Bern, it’s the Zytglogge .

This is the Swiss capital’s most recognizable and one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city . What makes it even more interesting is that it’s a giant automaton, an astronomical clock, and simply a work of art . It’s an amazing landmark! Anyone visiting Bern, whether it’s just a quick half-day visit , a one-day tour , or a 2-day stay , should make Zytglogge their priority.

The landmark is very photogenic, too, especially when viewed from Kramgasse , one of Bern’s picture-perfect viewing spots . If you’re a photographer, you can be more creative with your shot — include both Zytglogge and Bern’s cute fountains in the picture! Curious about Zytglogge’s details ? Let me give you a glimpse and share some interesting facts I discovered about it. I’ll also give you some tips for your visit.

As an engineer and wanderer, I’m fascinated by this giant mechanism from the middle ages. It makes me wonder about the ingenuity of the medieval craftsmen. They were able to make spectacular things move and work using just basic science. But then again, Zytglogge is more than just a medieval mechanical masterpiece. For wanderers, it is a gem in Switzerland. With the details that you can see from it, this clock tower is sure to satisfy your wanderlust as you stumble upon it while wandering in the old town!

Getting to Zytglogge should not be a problem. It’s conveniently located in the heart of Bern’s old city, specifically at the west end of Kramgasse, the main street of the old city. You’ll surely find it without much trouble!

If you’re outside the old city, consider using public transportation. Tram #9 and buses #10 and #12 can take you to Zytglogge quickly. The clock tower even has its own stop, just a few steps away. And suppose you’re already exploring within the old city. In that case, you might not need to use public transportation to get to Zytglogge. My estimate is that you can reach Zytglogge within 10 minutes from anywhere in Bern’s old city. However, you can reduce the walking time by taking trams and buses.

Lastly, Zytglogge is at the center of the tourist attractions in the old city of Bern. To give you a better idea, here is the location of Zytglogge relative to different landmarks in the old city:

• It’s located southeast of the Bern Museum of Fine Arts. (8-minute walk)
• Northeast of the Federal Palace. (4-minute walk)
• Northwest of Bern Cathedral. (4-minute walk)
• West of Einstein House. (2-minute walk)

What To See In Zytgloggle

Zytglogge features two intriguing facades. However, I believe you’ll spend more time at the east facade, which faces Kramgasse. Approach the east facade of Zytglogge to clearly see its beautiful elements:

• Giant Clock — This is the largest element on the east facade of Zytglogge. Its elegant appearance, with golden hands and a face painted in white and black, catches the eye even from the far end of Kramgasse.
• Astronomical Clock — This is one of the most vibrant astronomical clocks I’ve ever seen. Located just below the giant clock, Zytglogge’s astronomical clock can display the current zodiac sign, day of the week, and hour of the day. Interestingly, it also features a planisphere, which indicates whether it’s night, dawn, or daylight.
• Frieze — Situated between the giant clock and the astronomical clock, the frieze depicts Greek/Roman pagan gods, including Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Venus, and Mercury. It’s intriguing that the male gods are faceless while the female gods are not.
• Bellwork — Located next to the astronomical clock, the bellwork is the most spectacular part of Zytglogge. It features figures of Chronos, a jester, and bears (the symbol of Bern). I’ll tell you more about it later!

The western facade of Zytglogge also features a giant clock, but this one is adorned with a fresco titled “Beginning of Time.” The mural depicts an angel banishing Adam and Eve from Paradise, with the devil lurking behind them.

As you may notice, Zytglogge has a small arch on its lower part. I can compare the arch to a time portal that allows you to glimpse into different scenes in Bern during the Middle Ages or Renaissance. Walk through it, and you might find four pieces of art or paintings placed on the upper portion of the arch. They’re the small yet surprising things you can discover while exploring Bern. I believe these paintings narrate the important events or characters in Bern’s history.

Here are two of them:

When To See Zytglogge

One of the mistakes you could make when in Bern is visiting Zytglogge at the wrong time ! Zytglogge looks impressive all the time with its large clocks and murals, but it can be even more breathtaking. So, when should you visit Zytglogge? You should get to Zytglogge 5 minutes before the hour. A minute after you get there, you’ll see the mechanical human and animal figures of Zytglogge move and put on a mini-show that lasts for 4 minutes .

I recommend you arrive early, especially during the peak season, to choose the best spot in Kramgasse to watch Zytglogge. You can expect to be among a crowd during that time. At exactly 4 minutes before the hour , the tower’s rooster figure will crow, signaling the start of Zytglogge’s spectacle . The bears beneath Chronos will then begin their procession. You’ll see the jester ringing the smaller bells. At this point, I believe you’ll also wonder how it’s possible.

Don’t get me wrong, of course, there’s a mechanism inside. But the synchronization and design of the clock—it’s incredible . The mini-show concludes when Chronos flips the hourglass and swings his scepter, indicating the exact hour. At this point, you will also hear the bell at the top of the tower ring.

Best Views of Zytglogge

Admiring Zytglogge’s large clocks, murals, and paintings can be one of your most memorable experiences in Bern, especially if you’re the wanderish type of traveler like me. By appreciating its appearance and watching its spectacle, your imagination is transported back centuries into the past. But that’s not all! You’ll also uncover pieces of Bern’s history and culture.

Although it’s great to see Zytglogge up close, you should also try viewing it from different locations. Zytglogge’s appearance, location, and size perfectly blend with other buildings in Bern’s old city. Trust me, the scene where you can see Zytglogge with other buildings in Bern will inspire you to take photos! It’s like something out of a fairytale. There are three places in Bern to view and photograph Zytglogge: Kramgasse, Marktgasse, and Bern Cathedral .

Kramgasse is the main street of the old city of Bern, situated east of Zytglogge. If you’re currently in Bern and can see Zytglogge’s astronomical clock, then you’re in Kramgasse. It’s the most popular place to photograph Zytglogge.

In Kramgasse, you can see the uniform arcaded buildings lining the street, creating beautiful proportions and leading lines toward Zytglogge. Kramgasse offers a few additional ways to photograph Zytglogge. You can use the colorful water fountains (Zahringerbrunnen and Simsonbrunnen) and include them in the frame for a more creative shot.

Marktgasse is the street west of Zytglogge. It connects Zytglogge with the newer defensive clock tower in Bern, Kafigturm. From Marktgasse, you should see the west facade of Zytglogge with the fresco “Beginning of Time.”

The view in Marktgasse looks very similar to that in Kramgasse. Both sides of the streets have arcaded buildings and houses, which look picturesque with Zytglogge at the center. Marktgasse also has a fountain (Schützenbrunnen) that you can include in your shot when photographing Zytglogge.

Bern Cathedral is the place to go if you want to see Zytglogge from a unique perspective that is not commonly seen by most tourists. You can climb the spire of Bern Cathedral to see Zytglogge along with the rest of the panoramic old-world cityscape of Bern’s UNESCO heritage site.

Zytglogge will appear small from the spire of Bern Cathedral (as they’re not very close to each other). So, you might want to bring a high-powered camera or smartphone with a strong zoom feature to photograph Zytglogge.

Tour Inside Zytgloggle

For history enthusiasts and curious travelers like me, I bet you’ll also enjoy seeing what’s inside Zytglogge. If you do, I have good news: you can go inside Zytglogge. However, there’s a catch: you can only go inside with a tour. During a tour, you can expect the following:

• Learn the history of Zytglogge . During the tour, you might also be impressed with Zytglogge when the tour guide mentions it is more than 800 years old and has served several other purposes.
• See the mechanism that powers the clock on the first floor.
• View the astronomical calendar clock (the Astrolabium).
• Discover how these clocks work . As an engineer, I’m quite fascinated by how the creators designed the mechanism. The clock’s mechanism is powered by a stone that can make Zytglogge work for 24 hours if raised to a certain level. Yes, Zytglogge harnesses and utilizes potential energy and gravity to work! Also, the mechanism has a pendulum that looks like a mini wrecking ball synchronized with the clock’s ticking every second.
• See the panoramic views of the Bern UNESCO heritage site on the 6th floor . The tower is 54.5 meters or 179 feet tall; expect around 100 stairs to climb. It may sound tiring, but it’s worth it! (The view from Bern Cathedral is better)
• Feel like it’s the olden days . The masonry walls and the old wooden trusses inside Zytglogge will definitely send your imagination back to medieval times.

You can learn more about the Tour in Zytglogge here . Alternatively, if you want to be guided to different places of interest in Bern (not only Zytglogge) in the way you prefer, you should check out this customizable guided tour . It’s a private tour with a local, who can also give you insider tips about the city. It’s worth considering if you don’t have time to prepare for your trip. Just tell your guide where you want to go, and he/she will take care of the rest.

More Information About Zytglogge

That concludes my post about Zytglogge. If you’re interested in learning more about this landmark, please check the links below.

• Zytglogge (Official website of Bern)
• Dates and other facts (Wikipedia)

If you’re planning a visit to Bern soon to explore the Zytglogge and other attractions, and you’re still in search of accommodations, might I suggest using my partner’s hotel search and booking platform ? They provide some of the most competitive hotel deals in Europe, and their map browser feature makes it a breeze to find a hotel in a location that suits you best. Please be aware that this is an affiliate link. This means that I may earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you , when you book through this platform. Your booking would be a wonderful way to support me in creating more content like this. I truly appreciate your help and thank you for your support!

Did you know that Zytglogge isn’t the only clock tower in Switzerland that’s part of a medieval fortification? Another is Zytturm in Lucerne . It’s part of the Musegg Wall — an impressive landmark that’s unique in all of Switzerland. The wall boasts 9 towers and measures approximately 900 meters long! You’ve got to check it out when you visit Lucerne and take a walking tour of its old town .

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Clock Tower - Zytglogge

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Bern: Zytglogge - Tour through the Clock Tower

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• Multiple languages
• Visit the Zytglogge in the old city of Bern and learn more about the impressive tower from the 1300s
• Discover the first Western city gate and enjoy an incredible view of everything from the city to the Alps
• Admire the golden inner workings of the clock and see an incredible puppet show

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• Bern, Bern, Switzerland

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• Zytglogge (Clock Tower) on the side near the Kramgasse, Bern

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• Sun, Apr 28 $23
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• Activity duration is 1 hour 1h 1h

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What you can expect

Conceived in the 1300s, the clock tower is one of the remainders of Bern's first city walls. For over 600 years, the clock has struck on the hour. Inside, time seems to stand still and cool solitude awaits.

The reliable ticks of the Middle Age technology impart a steadiness to visitors. Approximately 130 steps to the top of the spiral staircase lead you to a lookout platform. From here, see the roofs of the old city and maybe even the Alps.

Visit the clockwork with your guide and follow the puppet show step by step until the famous rooster crows.

• Zytglogge (Tour de l'Horloge) côté Kramgasse

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Zytglogge (Clock Tower)

Built in 1191 as the western gate to the then-smaller city, Bern's Clock Tower is as old as Bern itself.

The tower dominates the central city with its steep copper spire; its astronomical clock workings were added in 1530, about the time of the Reformation. From the 16th-19th centuries this was the authoritative clock in Bern; all clocks were set according to this one. At five minutes before each hour visitors gather before the clock to watch its nearly 500-year-old workings perform.

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10 Reasons To Visit The Beautiful UNESCO-Listed Town Of Bern, Switzerland

• Bern is a captivating city with a well-preserved medieval old town, picturesque parks, and riverside paths. It offers an abundance of cultural attractions, including beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• The Zytglogge clock tower and bear pits are iconic sights in Bern. Visitors can explore the historic old town on foot or take guided walking tours for a fee.
• Bern Cathedral is the tallest cathedral in Switzerland and features stunning Gothic architecture. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views. The city also has excellent museums, a bear park, and diverse shopping and dining options.

Set along the picturesque Aare River, Bern is one of Switzerland's most captivating cities. As the country's capital, it has a well-preserved medieval old town surrounded by scenic parks and riverside paths. Within the historic center are narrow winding streets lined with colorful houses and shops. Iconic sights include the Zytglogge clock tower and bear pits commemorating the city's long tradition with these animals.

Bern entices visitors with its abundance of cultural attractions, including many of the world's most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit . The immense Gothic cathedral draws many impressed onlookers to its arched windows and high ceilings. Art lovers can explore works by Paul Klee at the dedicated museum. History buffs will find engaging exhibits at museums exploring Bern's over 750-year history. Natural beauty also abounds with lush botanical gardens and trails along the river, providing peaceful relaxation.

All of these are reasons to visit Bern - but there are many more. Here's why tourists should consider visiting this stunning UNESCO-listed town, from the top attractions in Bern to its best activities.

Travelers Can Explore The Historic Old Town Of Bern

The historic old town of Bern is located right in the city center, surrounded by the river Aare on three sides. It has been preserved remarkably well since the 13th century.

This medieval town is UNESCO-listed and has twisting alleys lined with colorful houses and stores, and visitors will come across various Renaissance fountains, bridges, churches, and outdoor cafes at every turn. Don't miss the Zytglogge clock tower and bear pits, either.

• Free to explore on foot
• Guided walking tours available for CHF 25-35

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Tourists Can Enjoy Stunning Views Of Bern From The Zytglogge Clock Tower

Dominating the scenic marketplace is the Zytglogge, an intricate astronomical clock dating back to the early 16th century. Its mechanized figures come to life every hour on the hour with chimes, processions, and drum beats.

One of the oldest buildings in the town, the clock tower also served as a prison. Now a civic memorial, the tower also offers panoramic views of the Old Town from its viewing platform, making it one of many incredible UNESCO sites to visit around the world .

• Clock performances every hour
• Tower viewing platform entry CHF 4

Visitors Can Admire The Tallest Cathedral In Switzerland: Bern Cathedral

A Swiss reformed cathedral, the construction of Bern Cathedral began in 1421, and it remains a stunning example of late Gothic architecture today. A cultural property of national significance, Switzerland's tallest cathedral features a rose window with ceilings featuring paintings.

For awe-inspiring views of Bern, climb the 344 steps to the top of its tower. Don't miss the historical organs and the stained glass, either. Bern Minster is one of the oldest UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Switzerland.

• Cathedral entry is free
• Tower entry is CHF 6

People Can See Brown Bears In Bear Park

A visit to the Bärengraben or Bear Pit is one of the best things to do in Bern, Switzerland. It allows visitors to see the city's symbol, the brown bears, in a natural habitat with trees and rocks along the Aare River.

Interpretive trails help travelers learn about the bears and their behaviors. The park has housed bears since polar bears were gifted to the city in 1513.

• Park entry is free
• Guided bearkeeper tours available from CHF 12

Visit the bear park in the morning or evening when the bears are more active.

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Visitors Can Tour Young Albert Einstein's House In Bern

From 1903 to 1905, a young Albert Einstein lived in an apartment on the Kramgasse 49 in Bern’s Old Town. It was here that he wrote the majority of his theory of special relativity, one of the pillars of modern physics, for which he received the Nobel Prize.

The flat has been restored to look how it did during Einstein’s time there.

• Entry to the house is CHF 6
• Guided tours available for CHF 140 for groups of up to 15 people

The Museums In Bern Are Excellent

Bern has a variety of excellent museums covering history, art, and more.

The Zentrum Paul Klee houses works by famous artists and offers unique architecture. The Historical Museum shares the city's 750-year history. Rosengarten Botanical Garden's greenhouse contains 10,000 rose plants. The Natural History Museum includes a bear exhibit.

• Most museums charge CHF 15-20 entry
• Combination tickets available for discounted access

Rosengarten Botanical Garden would be a great place to visit in the spring when the roses are in bloom.

The Aare River Runs Through Bern

Flowing through the city, the Aare River is 288 288 kilometers long and is the longest to run throughout Switzerland. It is a place for relaxation with its parks, paths, and activities.

Couples and families enjoy strolling along its banks or relaxing with picnics in the surrounding green spaces on sunny days. In summer, wanderers will see locals swimming in designated areas or canoeing and riding small boats.

• Riverfront parks and paths are free to access and enjoy
• Canoe rentals from CHF 25/hour

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There Are Over 100 Fountains In Bern - Earning It The Nickname "The City Of Fountains"

Bern truly lives up to its nickname as the 'City of Fountains' with over 100 decorating its streets. Many of the fountains date back centuries and were originally used to provide fresh drinking water to residents before modern plumbing.

One of the oldest and most ornate is the Pfeiferbrunnen fountain, located in the Spitalgasse 21 in Bern - it is from the 16th century. Another iconic fountain in Bern is the Kindlifresserbrunnen, which features a statue of a wild man eating a child, based on a legend from Swiss history.

• No fees to view or enjoy any public fountains throughout the city
• Photographing fountains is permitted and encouraged

The Shopping And Dining In Bern Is Diverse

From chocolates to watches, the shopping streets of Bern, like Kramgasse and Marktgasse, are filled with stores to pick up souvenirs. For a bite, stop at one of the many bakeries, delicatessens, or cozy cafe restaurants serving Swiss specialties. Local favorites include Käsesuppe cheese soup, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes veal in cream sauce, and Aarefish fished from local rivers.

Incredible places in Switzerland , like Bern, are known for their food, as well as their beautiful scenery, stunning mountains, and charming towns.

• Shopping price ranges depend on the shop
• Restaurant meals from CHF 15-40 per person

Bern Offers Effortless Accessibility And Public Transportation (And To Other Destinations In Switzerland, Too)

Located in the heart of Switzerland, Bern is an excellent hub for exploring more destinations. It has efficient rail and bus connections to reach other cities like Lucerne, Zurich, and Interlaken within an hour or two.

Güterbahnhof station is a major hub served by intercity and international trains. The city itself is also very pedestrian friendly, with most attractions in the lovely riverside Old Town.

• Swiss Travel Pass provides unlimited rail travel
• Buses and trams within the city included in the Swiss Travel Pass

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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.

• Book Public Tour
• Book Public Combined Tour
• Book Private Tour
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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.

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.

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