Bern 5 Day Itinerary

Bern, Switzerland: 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Explore the Old Town & Zytglogge Tower

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty Swiss breakfast at Café Schober, a traditional café with a cozy atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bern’s Old Town. Visit the iconic Zytglogge Tower, the symbol of Bern. Don’t forget to check out the Bear Pits (Bärenpark) where the city’s mascots reside.
  • Evening: Savor local Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Schwellenmätteli, known for its traditional Swiss dishes and great atmosphere.

Day 2 - Bernese Alps & Interlaken

  • Morning: Take a train to Interlaken (approx. 1 hour). Enjoy the stunning views of the Bernese Alps. You can opt for a scenic train ride on the Jungfrau Railway or a thrilling adventure with paragliding, skydiving, or canyoning.
  • Afternoon: Return to Bern and relax at the Aquaparc Bern, a popular water park offering fun for all ages.
  • Evening: Dine at Kornhauskeller, one of the oldest restaurants in Switzerland, serving regional Swiss cuisine.

Day 3 - Swiss Parliament Building & Rosengart Collection

  • Morning: Visit the Swiss Parliament Building to learn about the political landscape of Switzerland. The guided tours are informative and enjoyable.
  • Afternoon: Discover the Rosengart Collection, a private collection of artworks spanning from the 14th to the 20th century, including works by Picasso, Monet, and Matisse.
  • Evening: Have dinner at Restaurant Rathausbräu, housed in a historic building and offering traditional Swiss dishes paired with local beers.

Day 4 - Bern Minerveum & Aare River

  • Morning: Explore the Museum of Religious Art, Bern Minerveum. This museum offers an in-depth look at religious art and artifacts from various cultures and time periods.
  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk along the Aare River, enjoying its crystal-clear waters and the lush greenery surrounding it. You can even rent a kayak or paddleboat for some fun on the water!
  • Evening: Dine at Restaurant Kornhaus, known for its innovative cuisine using local, seasonal ingredients.

Day 5 - Shopping & Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last morning in Bern exploring the city’s vibrant shopping scene. Don’t miss Brunnholfplatz, where you can find a variety of shops selling local products, antiques, and artisanal food.
  • Afternoon: Check out of your accommodation and prepare for your departure. If time allows, visit the Kunstmuseum Bern to catch one last glimpse of some incredible artworks.

Transportation: Bern’s public transportation system is efficient and easy to navigate. A BernTicket offers unlimited travel on all city buses, trams, and the suburban railway within the city limits for a day or multiple days. Tickets can be purchased at any SBB station or from the driver if you plan on traveling by bus or tram.

Accommodation: Some popular accommodation options include Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & The Spa, Bellevue Palace Bern – Hotel & Restaurant, and Hotel Gurten. Choose one that best suits your preferences and budget.

Tips:

  1. Swiss francs (CHF) are the official currency in Switzerland.
  2. Always remember to respect local customs and traditions, especially when it comes to interacting with the city’s bears.
  3. Try Swiss specialties like raclette, fondue, and chocolate during your visit!
  4. Bern is a walkable city, but consider using public transportation for longer distances or hilly areas.
  5. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Enjoy your trip to beautiful Bern, Switzerland!