Bern, the charming Swiss capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, blends medieval magic with cultural flair. Think cobbled streets, red rooftops, arcades, and whimsical clock towers. If you're hotel-hunting, Altstadt is your go-to for boutique stays and elegant charm—perfect for sightseeing lovers. For budget-friendly yet stylish options, head to laid-back Stadtbach or Engeried, both just outside the centre but still close to the action. Whether it’s luxury, family-friendly, or affordable chic, Bern has you covered.
This is a city that feels like it was made for wandering. Start your day at the open-air markets in front of the Parliament building, where locals pick up fresh flowers and produce, then follow the scent of coffee to one of the many charming cafés or microbreweries nearby. As you stroll through the old town, you’ll spot a series of quirky 16th-century fountains—eleven in total—each telling a piece of Swiss folklore. The most unforgettable? The Kindlifresserbrunnen, or Ogre Fountain, where an ogre is caught mid-snack… on a bunch of children. It’s both bizarre and fascinating. And don’t miss Bear Park, a unique city highlight that’s exactly what it sounds like.
Being Switzerland’s cultural heart, Bern is packed with fantastic museums too. Whether you're drawn to the bold architecture of the Zentrum Paul Klee, want to explore the art collections in the Kunstmuseum, or prefer the fascinating stories in the historical and natural history museums, there’s something for everyone. Even kids can get hands-on at the Creaviva children’s museum. And if you’re curious about Einstein’s time in Bern, stop by his former apartment, now the cosy Einstein-Haus museum.