Bern

Welcome to Voyage Owl’s walking tour of Bern, the charming capital of Switzerland and a city steeped in history, culture, and political significance. Set along the banks of the Aare River and framed by the majestic Alps, Bern is a city that perfectly balances the old and the new. It has been the political heart of Switzerland since it became the federal capital in 1848, but its history dates back to 1191, when it was founded by Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen. Bern’s medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautifully preserved maze of cobbled streets, covered arcades, and grand sandstone buildings that tell the story of a city rich in history and tradition.

Bern’s name is said to come from the word for “bear” (Bär in German), as Duke Berchtold is believed to have named the city after the first animal he encountered on a hunt. The bear remains a symbol of Bern to this day, with representations of the animal found throughout the city. However, Bern is also a city of innovation and intellect—home to the Swiss Parliament and famous for being the place where Albert Einstein developed his theory of relativity.

This walking tour will take you through Bern’s most important landmarks, from its medieval clock tower to its elegant federal buildings. We will explore its historical roots, its role in Swiss politics, and the modern culture that makes Bern a dynamic and fascinating destination. Let’s begin in the heart of Bern’s old town at the iconic Zytglogge, the city’s famous clock tower.

### 1. Zytglogge: The Timekeeper of Bern

Our journey starts at the Zytglogge, Bern’s famous medieval clock tower and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Built in the early 13th century as a gate tower for the city’s original western wall, the Zytglogge has stood watch over Bern for over 800 years. It has served various purposes throughout its history, from being a guard tower to a women’s prison, but it is best known for its astronomical clock, which has been delighting visitors since 1530.

As you stand in front of the tower, take a moment to appreciate the intricate clock face, which shows not only the time but also the day, date, and astrological signs. Every hour on the hour, the clock springs to life with an elaborate mechanical show featuring dancing bears, a crowing rooster, and a jester who rings the bells. This spectacle has drawn tourists for centuries and remains one of the most charming features of the old town.

The Zytglogge is not just a clock—it’s a symbol of Bern’s medieval heritage and its long-standing importance as a center of Swiss commerce and politics. In the Middle Ages, Bern was one of the largest and most prosperous cities in Switzerland, and the Zytglogge was at the heart of its bustling trade routes.

You can book a guided tour of the Zytglogge to learn more about the tower’s history and mechanics. The tour takes you behind the scenes of the clock’s inner workings and offers a chance to climb to the top for stunning views over the old town.

From the Zytglogge, we’ll take a leisurely walk through Bern’s Kramgasse, a historic street lined with beautiful medieval buildings and covered arcades.

### 2. Kramgasse: The Heart of Bern’s Medieval Old Town

Kramgasse is one of the most important streets in Bern’s old town, and walking along it is like stepping back in time. This picturesque, cobbled street is lined with medieval houses that have been carefully preserved over the centuries. The covered arcades, or Lauben, are a unique feature of Bern’s old town and stretch for over 6 kilometers, making it one of the longest covered shopping promenades in Europe. The arcades were originally designed to protect merchants and shoppers from the elements, and they continue to offer shelter to this day.

As you walk down Kramgasse, notice the fountains that dot the street. These beautifully decorated fountains date back to the 16th century and each features a different theme. One of the most famous is the Kindlifresserbrunnen, or the Ogre Fountain, which depicts a terrifying ogre devouring a child. While the fountain’s meaning is unclear, it has become one of the most iconic landmarks in Bern. Another noteworthy fountain is the Zähringer Fountain, which honors the city’s founder, Duke Berchtold V.

Kramgasse is also home to one of Bern’s most famous former residents: Albert Einstein. At Kramgasse 49, you’ll find the Einstein House, where the famed physicist lived from 1903 to 1905 while working at the Swiss Patent Office. It was during this time that Einstein developed his groundbreaking theory of relativity, which would forever change our understanding of physics. The apartment has been converted into a museum, offering a glimpse into Einstein’s life in Bern and his remarkable contributions to science.

After exploring the Einstein House, stop by one of the charming cafés along Kramgasse for a coffee and a slice of Züpfe, a traditional Swiss braided bread. The old town’s arcades are filled with cozy cafés, perfect for taking a break and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic street.

From Kramgasse, we’ll head toward Bern’s Federal Palace, the seat of the Swiss government and one of the most important political buildings in the country.

### 3. Federal Palace (Bundeshaus): The Political Heart of Switzerland

Our next stop is the Federal Palace, or Bundeshaus, the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council. This grand building, located at the edge of Bern’s old town, is the center of Swiss politics and has been the official home of the country’s federal government since 1902. Designed by architect Hans Wilhelm Auer, the Bundeshaus is a striking example of neo-Renaissance architecture, with its imposing dome, elegant arches, and detailed carvings.

As you approach the Bundeshaus, you’ll notice the Federal Square (Bundesplatz) in front of the building. This open plaza is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike. In the summer, the square is filled with fountains that dance in choreographed patterns, and in the winter, it transforms into a festive ice-skating rink. The square is also the site of political rallies, public events, and outdoor markets, making it a vibrant part of life in Bern.

The interior of the Federal Palace is equally impressive, with its grand halls and chambers where the Swiss Parliament meets to discuss and debate the country’s laws. The building’s interior is adorned with murals, sculptures, and stained glass windows that depict scenes from Swiss history and celebrate the country’s values of democracy, neutrality, and federalism.

Visitors can book a guided tour of the Bundeshaus, which includes access to the Parliamentary Chamber and the opportunity to learn more about the Swiss political system. If you’re visiting when Parliament is in session, you may even have the chance to watch a live debate.

After exploring the political center of Switzerland, we’ll continue our tour with a visit to Bern’s Bear Park, a symbol of the city and a beloved attraction.

### 4. Bear Park: A Living Symbol of Bern

No visit to Bern would be complete without seeing the city’s famous bears. Located just outside the old town, the Bear Park (BärenPark) is home to a family of brown bears, the animal that has been a symbol of Bern since its founding. According to legend, Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen vowed to name the city after the first animal he encountered on a hunting trip, which turned out to be a bear. Since then, the bear has been the city’s emblem, and the Bear Park continues to honor this tradition.

The Bear Park is a spacious, naturalistic enclosure that allows the bears to roam freely along the banks of the Aare River. Visitors can observe the bears swimming, playing, and foraging in their habitat, which is designed to mimic the wild. The park is an important symbol of Bern’s connection to nature and its commitment to wildlife conservation.

Adjacent to the Bear Park is the Old Bear Pit (Bärengraben), which was the bears’ home for nearly 200 years before the new park was built in 2009. The Old Bear Pit is still accessible to visitors and serves as a historical reminder of how the bears were once kept. Today, the Bear Park offers a much more natural and humane environment for the animals, reflecting modern attitudes toward animal care.

After visiting the Bear Park, take a walk along the scenic Aare River, which offers stunning views of Bern’s old town and the surrounding hills. The riverside paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

From the Bear Park, we’ll make our way to Rosengarten, a beautiful rose garden that offers one of the best panoramic views of the city.

### 5. Rosengarten: A Tranquil Oasis with Stunning Views

Our next stop is Rosengarten, a beautiful park located on a hill overlooking the old town. The Rosengarten was originally a cemetery but was transformed into a public garden in 1913. Today, it is one of Bern’s most popular green spaces, known

for its breathtaking views of the city and its collection of over 200 varieties of roses.

As you walk through the garden, you’ll be surrounded by the fragrant blooms of roses, irises, and rhododendrons, all carefully arranged in manicured beds. The Rosengarten is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a tranquil place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The highlight of the Rosengarten is its panoramic view of Bern’s old town, with its distinctive red-roofed buildings, the spire of Bern Minster, and the meandering Aare River. This viewpoint is particularly stunning at sunset, when the warm light bathes the city in a golden glow. It’s the perfect spot for taking photos or simply enjoying the beauty of Bern from above.

Enjoy a meal or a drink at the Rosengarten Restaurant, which offers outdoor seating with fantastic views of the city. The restaurant serves traditional Swiss dishes, as well as international cuisine, making it a great place to relax and savor the flavors of Bern.

After enjoying the serenity of the Rosengarten, we’ll head back into the old town to visit the magnificent Bern Minster, the tallest cathedral in Switzerland.

### 6. Bern Minster: The Gothic Masterpiece of Bern

Our next stop is the Bern Minster (Berner Münster), the largest and most important religious building in Switzerland. This stunning Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline of Bern and has been a symbol of the city’s spiritual and cultural life for over five centuries. Construction of the Minster began in 1421 and continued for several hundred years, with the final completion of its towering spire in 1893.

As you approach the Bern Minster, take a moment to admire the intricate details of its Gothic façade, particularly the Last Judgment scene carved above the main portal. This sculpture depicts the separation of the blessed from the damned and is one of the most detailed and dramatic depictions of the Last Judgment in Switzerland. Inside, the Minster’s soaring vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and carved wooden choir stalls create a sense of awe and reverence.

One of the highlights of the Bern Minster is its bell tower, which, at 100 meters, is the tallest church tower in Switzerland. Visitors can climb the 312 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city, the Aare River, and the distant Alps. On a clear day, the view from the tower is nothing short of spectacular, offering a breathtaking vista of Bern’s red-tiled rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

After exploring the Minster, take a walk through the nearby Münsterplattform, a terrace behind the cathedral that offers a peaceful park with views over the Aare River. The Münsterplattform is a popular spot for locals to relax, and it’s a great place to enjoy a picnic or simply take in the view.

From the Bern Minster, we’ll continue our exploration of the old town with a visit to Käfigturm, another of Bern’s iconic clock towers, and then head toward Gurten Hill for a scenic finale.

### 7. Käfigturm: A Tower of History and Justice

The Käfigturm is one of Bern’s most important historical landmarks and serves as a reminder of the city’s medieval past. Built in 1256 as a gate tower in Bern’s second city wall, the Käfigturm originally served as part of the city’s fortifications. In later centuries, it was used as a prison, and its name—Käfigturm (Cage Tower)—reflects this grim aspect of its history.

Today, the Käfigturm is a historical monument and exhibition space that hosts events related to politics, history, and culture. The tower’s clock, like the Zytglogge, is an important feature, and its striking mechanism has been keeping time for the people of Bern for centuries.

Visitors can explore temporary exhibitions at the Käfigturm, which often focus on Swiss political history and contemporary issues. It’s a great place to gain insight into Switzerland’s direct democracy and political culture.

Our final destination will take us outside the old town to Gurten Hill, a popular local spot for outdoor activities and panoramic views.

### 8. Gurten Hill: Nature, Views, and Outdoor Fun

To conclude our walking tour of Bern, we’ll head to Gurten Hill, a beautiful parkland area just a short funicular ride from the city center. Known for its stunning views over Bern and the Alps, Gurten Hill is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy hiking, picnicking, and outdoor activities.

The Gurtenbahn, a historic funicular, will take you to the top of the hill, where you’ll find expansive meadows, walking trails, and a viewing tower that offers breathtaking panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, as well as the city of Bern nestled in the valley below.

For families, Gurten Hill offers plenty of activities, including a playground, a mini-train for children, and in winter, sledging and skiing. For those looking to relax, the Gurten Kulm Restaurant offers delicious Swiss cuisine with a view.

Gurten Hill is also a popular spot for cultural events, including the annual Gurtenfestival, a music festival that attracts international artists. If you’re visiting in the summer, check the event schedule to see if there are any concerts or performances happening during your stay.

### Conclusion: Bern, A City of Timeless Charm and Modern Dynamism

As we conclude our extended walking tour of Bern, you will have experienced the full spectrum of the city’s rich history, from its medieval clock towers and Gothic cathedrals to its role as the political heart of Switzerland. Whether marveling at the views from Rosengarten, learning about Einstein’s time in the city, or enjoying the natural beauty of Gurten Hill, Bern offers an enchanting blend of past and present.

Bern’s charm lies in its ability to combine the old with the new, the political with the cultural, and the urban with the natural. It’s a city that invites visitors to slow down and appreciate its elegant architecture, scenic views, and vibrant public spaces. Take your time to explore more of Bern’s hidden corners, perhaps with a walk along the Aare River or a visit to one of the city’s many museums.

Whether you’re here for a day or a week, Bern is a city that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

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