My journey from Geneva to Bern Switzerland started on a drizzly afternoon. After arriving late past lunch, my mother decided to rest at our accommodation while I ventured out to explore despite the rain. Half a day in Bern’s Old Town turned out to be unexpectedly rewarding. Here’s my personal walking route and recommendations for experiencing Bern’s authentic charm.
1. Starting Point: Zytglogge Station
I took the tram from our accommodation to Bern’s Old Town, arriving at Zytglogge Station. The moment I stepped off, centuries-old buildings unfolded before me in an impressive display.
This was near the end of my European journey, having already seen architecture in Italy and France. I arrived without high expectations, yet Bern’s buildings offered something distinctly different. The structures felt genuinely ancient, exceeding my expectations with their remarkable preservation.
Bern’s Old Town holds UNESCO World Heritage status – not just individual buildings, but the entire district carries this prestigious designation.
2. Zytglogge Clock Tower
Right at Zytglogge Station stands one of Bern’s most iconic landmarks – the medieval Zytglogge Clock Tower. Built in the 13th century, this astronomical clock features moving figures that perform every hour on the hour.
I missed the hourly show since I wasn’t there at the right time, but the tower itself remains impressive even without the mechanical performance.
3. Kornhausbrücke Bridge Views
Bern’s Old Town sits on a peninsula surrounded by the Aare River. To enter the historic center, you must cross one of several bridges. The view from the tram crossing Kornhausbrücke was so stunning that I returned on foot for a closer look.
From the bridge, old buildings blend with mature trees to create Bern’s unique atmosphere. The sight of historic structures packed beneath the bridge offers an unusual and captivating perspective you won’t find elsewhere.
4. Swiss Federal Palace and National Bank
Next, I headed to the Swiss Federal Palace, the heart of Swiss politics housing the parliamentary headquarters where national and federal assemblies convene.
When parliament isn’t in session, guided tours of the interior are available by reservation. Behind the Federal Palace, you can apparently access viewpoints overlooking Bern’s scenic landscape – something I discovered too late to experience myself.
Across from the Federal Palace stands the Swiss National Bank headquarters. The impressive architecture caught my eye and made for excellent photos.
5. Exploring Bern’s Arcade Streets
Returning toward Zytglogge Clock Tower, I explored more of the Old Town. Bern’s distinctive covered arcades allow comfortable sightseeing even in rain – you can walk the entire district staying dry under the building overhangs.
The tightly packed historic buildings create Bern’s unique atmosphere. What particularly caught my attention were the underground shops. Bunker-like entrances with stairs lead down to shops and barbershops operating in cellar spaces.
6. Einstein House Museum
The Old Town includes Einstein House, where Albert Einstein lived from 1903 to 1905. Now operating as a museum, it offers insights into his life during his most productive years.
I didn’t visit inside, but if you’re interested in science history, I recommend adding it to your itinerary.
7. Bern Cathedral
Bern Cathedral stands as Switzerland’s tallest church. Walking through the Old Town, you’ll spot its soaring spire from various angles.
While I didn’t enter the interior, the exterior stone carvings proved remarkably detailed and worth extended observation.
8. Bear Park (Bärengraben)
Bear Park ranks among Bern’s most famous attractions. Located along the Aare River below the Old Town, it sits conveniently between the historic center and Rose Garden.
Due to rain, I took a bus directly to Rose Garden and missed Bear Park, but it remains a popular stop for most visitors.
9. Rose Garden Panoramic Views
Rose Garden offers Bern’s premier viewpoint, providing sweeping vistas of the entire Old Town. The combination of Kornhausbrücke Bridge and the historic district creates truly spectacular scenery.
The views impressed me so much that I returned on a clear day with my mother. Bright weather made the colors more vibrant and beautiful. My mother loved it too.
If you walked up from Bear Park, you’d follow the downhill path from here back to the Old Town.
10. Recommended Walking Route
Rose Garden, Bear Park, and Bern’s Old Town connect in a straight line. Here’s my suggested itinerary:
Start at the Old Town center, visit the Swiss Federal Palace, then return to explore Einstein House and Bern Cathedral. Walk to Bear Park for wildlife viewing, then climb to Rose Garden for panoramic views to cap off your tour.
If you prefer avoiding uphill walks, reverse the route by starting at Rose Garden and working downhill.
Final Thoughts
Bern served primarily as our accommodation base, but the Old Town’s beauty far exceeded expectations. The historic architecture combined with surrounding landscapes created a surprisingly satisfying experience.
If your Swiss itinerary allows time for Bern, I strongly recommend visiting. The medieval charm and practical walking routes make it an ideal half-day or full-day excursion worth adding to any Switzerland travel plan.
