Bern-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Old Town

  • Arrival: Arrive at Bern Airport (BRN) or take a train to Bern Hauptbahnhof
  • Accommodation: Check-in at Hotel Bärengraben or Hotel Metropole, both located in the heart of the old town
  • Lunch: Visit the local market on Kramgasse and try some traditional Swiss cuisine at restaurant Schuh ( reservation recommended)
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Visit the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower
    • Walk along the Aare River and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Adelshofen, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy atmosphere
  • Things to know:
    • Bern has a unique charm, with many narrow streets and historic buildings
    • Be prepared for some steep hills and cobblestone streets
    • Try the local specialty, birchermüesli (Swiss oatmeal)

Day 2: Museums and Culture

  • Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Café Restaurant Bärengraben
  • Morning:
    • Visit the Kunstmuseum Bern, one of Switzerland’s most important art museums
    • Explore the collection of modern and contemporary art at the Kunsthalle Bern
  • Lunch: Take a break and try some lunch at restaurant Ristorante La Terrazza, known for its Italian cuisine
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Swiss Alpine Museum, which showcases the country’s rich mountaineering history
    • Attend a performance or concert at the Theater Bern, one of the most important theaters in Switzerland
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Restaurant Schuh ( reservation recommended)
  • Things to know:
    • The Kunstmuseum Bern is closed on Mondays
    • Be sure to book tickets for the Swiss Alpine Museum and Theater Bern in advance
    • Try some traditional Swiss fondue or raclette at a local restaurant

Day 3: Nature and Outdoors

  • Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Café Restaurant Zähringen
  • Morning:
    • Take a short tram ride to the nearby Länggasse district and visit the beautiful Rosengarten park
    • Rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside or take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River
  • Lunch: Try some lunch at restaurant Restaurant Zähringen, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the nearby Rose Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens in Switzerland
    • Take a hike to the nearby Grindelwald or Jungfraujoch mountains ( book tickets and transportation in advance)
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Restaurant Alpenruh, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy atmosphere
  • Things to know:
    • Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking
    • Try some local specialties like Älplermagronen (alpine macaroni) or Zürigeschnätzchen (Zurich-style dumplings)
    • Don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat for outdoor activities

Day 4: Day Trip to Thun

  • Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Café Restaurant Bärengraben
  • Morning:
    • Take a short train ride to Thun, a picturesque town on Lake Thun ( ticket prices vary depending on time of year)
    • Visit the Schloss Thun, a beautiful castle that now serves as a museum and art gallery
    • Explore the charming old town and enjoy lunch at one of the many local restaurants
  • Afternoon:
    • Take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Thun ( book tickets in advance)
    • Visit the nearby Gsteigwiler, a historic village with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Restaurant Schlosshotel, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy atmosphere
  • Things to know:
    • Be sure to check train schedules in advance as they may vary depending on time of year
    • Try some local specialties like Thun-style sausage or Älplermagronen (alpine macaroni)
    • Don’t forget your camera for the beautiful scenery and picturesque villages

Day 5: Shopping and Market

  • Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Café Restaurant Bärengraben
  • Morning:
    • Visit the bustling Bahnhofplatz, a shopping district near the train station
    • Explore the many local boutiques and souvenir shops selling traditional Swiss goods
  • Lunch: Try some lunch at restaurant Restaurant Schuh ( reservation recommended)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the weekly market on Kramgasse, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts
    • Take a stroll along the Aare River and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Restaurant Alpenruh, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy atmosphere
  • Things to know:
    • Be sure to check market days in advance as they may vary depending on time of year
    • Try some local specialties like Bircherbrot (Swiss bread) or Münchner Brötchen ( Munich-style bread)
    • Don’t forget your shopping list for souvenirs and gifts

Day 6: Relaxation Day

  • Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Café Restaurant Zähringen
  • Morning:
    • Take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains
    • Visit the nearby Rosengarten park for some relaxation and picnicking
  • Lunch: Try some lunch at restaurant Restaurant Zähringen, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine
  • Afternoon:
    • Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or spa treatment at one of Bern’s many wellness centers ( book appointments in advance)
    • Take a leisurely bike ride through the surrounding countryside
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Restaurant Schuh ( reservation recommended)
  • Things to know:
    • Be sure to book massages and spa treatments in advance as they may be popular among tourists
    • Try some local specialties like Älplermagronen (alpine macaroni) or Zürigeschnätzchen (Zurich-style dumplings)
    • Don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat for outdoor activities

Day 7: Departure

  • Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Café Restaurant Bärengraben
  • Morning:
    • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
    • Take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains
  • Lunch: Try some lunch at restaurant Restaurant Schuh ( reservation recommended)
  • Afternoon:
    • Depart for Bern Airport (BRN) or take a train to your next destination
  • Tips and things to know:
    • Be sure to pack all belongings and check out of accommodation before departing
    • Try to avoid peak travel times during rush hour
    • Don’t forget to bring some Swiss francs for last-minute purchases

Useful Information

  • Getting Around: Bern has a convenient public transportation system, including trams and buses. You can purchase tickets at machines or through the SBB app.
  • Language: German is the official language of Switzerland, but many locals speak English. Try to learn some basic Swiss phrases like “Grüezi” (hello) and “Danke” (thank you).
  • Currency: The Swiss franc is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
  • Weather: Bern has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Bärengraben: A cozy hotel in the heart of the old town, with comfortable rooms and traditional Swiss cuisine.
  • Hotel Metropole: A luxurious hotel near the train station, with modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Schuh: Known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie.
  • Restaurant Alpenruh: A popular spot for traditional Swiss cuisine and live music, with a cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes.
  • Ristorante La Terrazza: An Italian restaurant in the heart of the old town, serving delicious pasta dishes and pizza.

Tips

  • Try local specialties: Don’t miss out on trying some traditional Swiss dishes like fondue or raclette.
  • Be prepared for hills: Bern is a hilly city, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for long walks.
  • Reservations recommended: Be sure to book reservations in advance for popular restaurants and attractions.