Bern —
Switzerland's fairytale capital
We spent one night in Bern during our 2005 Interrail trip and it was like stepping into a storybook. The medieval Old City felt almost too perfect — narrow cobblestone streets beneath sandstone arcades, the iconic Zytglogge clock tower dominating the main square, the UNESCO World Heritage site atmosphere and the crystal-clear turquoise Aare River flowing past town bridges. Bern is calm, charming and utterly unlike the polished energy of Zurich (which came next on our trip). It's a place where wandering without a plan felt like the entire point.
Medieval streets and the Zytglogge
The first thing that strikes you about Bern is how intact the medieval Old City feels. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can understand why immediately. The sandstone arcades (Lauben) run along the main streets, providing shelter from rain and shade from the sun, and they're lined with small shops, cafes and galleries. The effect is like wandering through a series of covered outdoor rooms.
The Zytglogge is the unmissable centerpiece — a 13th-century clock tower with an astronomical dial, golden hood and mechanical figures that perform every hour. Crowds gather a few minutes before the hour to watch, and it never gets old, no matter how many times you see it. It's everything a fairytale clock tower should be.
Beyond the famous sights, Bern's real charm is in wandering. Find yourself in quiet squares with fountains, stumble upon churches and old buildings, cross bridges over the Aare River and simply move through a city that feels like it belongs in a different era. The pace is relaxed, the atmosphere is calm, and every corner seems photogenic.
13th-century clock tower with mechanical figures, golden hood and astronomical dial. It dominates the main square and performs every hour.
The medieval streets, arcades, fountains and buildings are virtually unchanged over centuries. It's preserved like an open-air museum.
Bern's symbol is the bear, and the park on the outskirts gives them space to roam. A pleasant walk from the Old City.
Turquoise, crystal-clear and lined with bridges. Swimming is popular in warmer months, and the river walks are beautiful any time.
Sandstone-roofed shopping streets called Lauben run throughout the Old City. Browsing small shops under medieval arches is half the experience.
Late Gothic cathedral with ornate architecture, a beautiful interior and views over the Old City from the bell tower.
Getting around Bern as an Interrailer
Walking is everything in Bern. The Old City is best explored on foot, and virtually all highlights are within easy walking distance. Comfortable shoes are essential because the cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be tough on feet.
Budget for food. Switzerland is expensive, and Bern reflects that. Supermarkets and train station snacks are your most economical options. Even a basic cafe lunch costs significantly more than in surrounding countries.
The Aare River is worth exploring. In warmer months, locals swim in it. Even if you don't, walking along the riverbanks and crossing the various bridges is one of Bern's great pleasures.
Bear Park is accessible. It's a pleasant 20-minute walk from the Old City along the river. If you're staying in Bern longer than a day, it's worth the journey.
The Bundeshaus (Parliament) can be visited. Even if you can't catch a session, the building itself is impressive and the views over the Old City from the steps are beautiful.
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Drive From Home — Bern
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GetYourGuide Bern tours and activities
Guided tours, walking routes, river activities and day trips from Bern — explore what's on offer:
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Part of our Swiss Interrail
🏙️ Zurich
Polished, cosmopolitan and completely different from Bern — Lake Zurich, trams and international energy.
🌉 Basel
Compact, colourful, on the Rhine. Our later return to Switzerland as a gateway to Alsace.
← Back to Switzerland
Full overview of our two Swiss trips and packing essentials for Interrailing.