Trip info
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On foot, by public transport
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2-8 hours
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English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tamil -
Easy
Overview
Your expert local city guide will show you the city’s best parts, including hidden secrets you can’t find easily on your own. On this walking tour will be able to see a lot of sightseeing points within a short timeframe. Apart from explaining the sightseeing points your guide can provide insight into the history and culture of the city and the country in general. The focus of this tour is to see the city like a local. However, this private tour can be customised according to your wishes. Sightseeing points to visit can be agreed upon in advance or discussed when meeting up.
Highlights
- Explore plenty of hidden secrets and feel like a local
- See the main sightseeing places such as the Minster & the Parliament Square
- Explore hidden secrets such as the fountains of Bern
- Tour run by legal tour operator from Switzerland
Itinerary
Bern’s Old City has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983, renowned for its remarkably preserved medieval architecture, unique arcaded walkways (Lauben), and numerous historical fountains. It offers a charming atmosphere perfect for exploring.
Admission: Free
The Parliament Building (Bundeshaus) and Parliament Square (Bundesplatz) represent the heart of Switzerland’s Democracy. The impressive Parliament Building is where the Swiss Federal Assembly meets, and the square outside is famous for its fountain with 26 water jets, representing the Swiss cantons.
Admission: Exterior/Square free; interior tours may be available with prior booking
The Bernese Minster is the highest church spire in all of Switzerland and one of the most important landmarks of the capital. This impressive Gothic cathedral features beautiful portals, intricate sculptures, and stunning stained-glass windows, offering a profound cultural experience.
Admission: Church interior generally free; tower climb has a fee
The Münsterterrasse (Minster Terrace) is a beautiful park-like area adjacent to the Bernese Minster. It offers breathtaking panoramic views over the winding Aare River and the distant Alps, providing a popular spot for relaxation and scenic photos.
Admission: Free
The Zytglogge (Clock Tower) is an iconic medieval clock tower that was once a city gate. Now, it attracts spectators from all over the world who gather to witness its intricate astronomical clock put on a fascinating mechanical show just before the top of each hour.
Admission: Exterior show free; interior tours typically paid
The BärenPark (Bern Bear Park), an expanded and more natural version of the traditional Bern bear pit, is an attraction that is known far beyond the borders of Switzerland. It provides a spacious, riverfront habitat for bears, which are the heraldic animals of Bern, allowing visitors to observe them in a semi-natural setting.
Admission: Free
The Rosengarten (Rose Garden) is a true mecca for flower lovers, boasting around 250 varieties of roses, irises, and rhododendrons. Beyond its botanical beauty, this elevated park offers stunning panoramic views of Bern’s Old City, the Aare River, and the surrounding landscape.
Admission: Free
Freibad Marzili is widely regarded as the most beautiful riverside pool in Switzerland. Located directly on the Aare River, it offers a unique and refreshing swimming experience with stunning views of the Parliament Building and the surrounding old town. (Seasonal operation).
Admission: Entry fee, seasonal
The Fountains of Bern are distinctive landmarks scattered throughout the Old City. Characterized by colourful figures, skillfully crafted pillars, and detailed decorations, these Renaissance fountains serve as both historical art pieces and practical water sources. (e.g., Zähringerbrunnen, Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen).
Time to visit: Variable (seen while walking through the Old City)
Admission: Free
Ländtetor is a minuscule historical site, often unknown by most tourists, representing the location of Bern’s ancient river port. This site, restored with federal and local resources, offers a glimpse into Bern’s past as a trade hub along the Aare River.
Admission: Free
The Von Wattewyl House is considered by some to be perhaps the most important place for Swiss policy-making, representing a significant historic patrician house connected to Bern’s political past and influential families. (Note: Primarily an administrative building, interior access typically not public).
Time to visit: N/A (Exterior viewing, or brief mention during guided tour)
Admission: Generally not publicly accessible interior
The Weltpostdenkmal (Universal Post Monument) is a symbolic monument commemorating the founding of the Universal Postal Union in Bern. It features allegorical figures representing the global communication and collaboration facilitated by postal services.
Admission: Free
The Dreifaltigkeitskirche (Church of the Holy Trinity) is the oldest Catholic church in the region of Bern. This historically significant religious landmark showcases impressive architecture and is an active place of worship.
Admission: N/A (Generally free entry; donations are welcome)
In the past, the Käfigturm (Prison Tower) was where criminals were interrogated and locked up. Today, this prominent medieval tower serves as a space for political discussions, exhibitions, and events, symbolizing freedom of expression in modern Bern.
Admission: Exterior free; events may have fees
The Französische Kirche (French Church) is the oldest sacred building in the capital and attracts fans of architecture, art, and culture alike. This serene Gothic church, dating back to the 13th century, offers a quiet retreat and a glimpse into Bern’s Protestant history.
Admission: N/A (Generally free entry; donations are welcome)
The Botanical Garden of the University of Bern thrills the hearts of plant lovers and is popular among both nature enthusiasts and those who simply want to unwind in a peaceful setting. It features diverse plant collections from various climates, including alpine gardens and tropical greenhouses.
Admission: Free
An incredibly diverse animal world can be found at the Bern Animal Park Dählhölzli, located along the Aare River. This zoo focuses on European and local fauna, offering spacious enclosures and a natural environment for its inhabitants.
Admission: Ticket required
Zentrum Paul Klee is a vibrant art and culture center designed by Renzo Piano, housing the world’s largest collection of works by artist Paul Klee. Events held here give free rein to participants’ creativity, making it a dynamic hub for contemporary art and cultural exploration.
Admission: Ticket required
Cost
Inclusions
- Tour guide (Swiss or expat)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Walking tour
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
- Tickets for public transport (not necessary as it is a walking tour)
- Tickets for attractions with entry fee such as museums
- Tips
Important information
- This tour will take place rain or shine.
- Please note that for very late bookings (1 day before the tour) we can’t always guarantee a tour guide that speaks your chosen language. If a guide in your language is not available we will give you an English-speaking guide instead. If you can’t accept an English speaking guide, please ask us first if a guide that speaks your language is available before you make the payment.
FAQs
Your guide can meet you wherever you need to be picked up. You can request a pickup point during the booking process. We may not be able to meet you at some locations which are far from the sightseeing points. In such a case, we will suggest you a more suitable meeting point.
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