Bern-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Bern’s Historic Center

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day at the iconic Bärenplatz, a bustling square in the heart of Old Town.
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower and one of Bern’s most famous landmarks. Take a close-up look at its intricate carvings and learn about its history.

Afternoon

  • 11:00 AM: Head to the Kurhaus am Bärenplatz, a beautiful Renaissance-style building that now houses various shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Schweizerhof, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine. Try their famous fondue or raclette!
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Bernisches Historisches Museum (Bern History Museum) to learn about the city’s rich history and see exhibits on everything from prehistoric times to modern-day Bern.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Aare River, which flows through the heart of the city.
  • 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Café Restaurant Sternen, a charming spot with outdoor seating and delicious Swiss cuisine.

Day 2: Discover Bern’s Surroundings

Morning

  • 9:30 AM: Take a short tram ride to the nearby Tierpark Bern, a beautiful zoo that’s home to over 200 animals from around the world.
  • 11:30 AM: Visit the Rose Garden (Rosengarten), a stunning botanical garden with over 10,000 roses on display.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Café Kursaal, a cozy spot with outdoor seating and a great selection of sandwiches and salads.
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the charming neighborhood of Bümplisau, known for its historic houses, quaint shops, and picturesque streets.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Sternen (yes, the same one from Day 1!), which serves delicious Swiss cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • 8:30 PM: Take a romantic stroll along the Aare River and enjoy the city’s evening lights.

Where to Stay

For a comfortable stay in Bern, consider the following options:

  • Hotel Sternen, located in the heart of Old Town
  • Hotel Bärengraben, a cozy hotel with a lovely garden
  • Airbnb apartments, available throughout the city for a more homey feel

Getting Around

Bern is easily accessible by public transportation, including trams and buses. You can also walk or bike through the city.

  • Tram: The tram network covers most areas of the city.
  • Bus: Buses connect to outlying neighborhoods and suburbs.
  • Walking: Explore Bern’s charming streets on foot.
  • Biking: Rent a bike and ride along the Aare River or through the surrounding countryside.

Tips & Essentials

  • Language: German is the primary language spoken in Bern, but many locals speak some English.
  • Currency: Swiss Francs (CHF) are the local currency.
  • Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip, as Bern can be quite chilly in the spring and summer.
  • Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and follow basic safety precautions.

Other Attractions

If you have time to explore more, consider visiting:

  • The Gurten Hill, a popular spot for hiking and taking in panoramic views of the city
  • The Schönburg Museum, a museum showcasing art and artifacts from around the world
  • The Kursaal Bern, an elegant concert hall with stunning acoustics