In the heart of World Heritage Listed Old Bern it’s easy to forget that this grey-green cobbled fairytale city is the Swiss capital and not sleek, confident Zürich. Bern couldn’t be less similar, with its red roofs, four miles of atmospheric arcades, fountains, clock towers and cellar shops and bars, and this is where you’ll find the cultural heart of the country. If you’re here to get lost in a new city then the best places to stay in Bern can be found in the old heart of town. And while Switzerland is known for being fairly pricey, some of our Guru’s recommendations for the best places to stay in Bern are very affordable.
Bern also has a wonderful collection of open air markets held in front of the parliament building - these food and flower markets aren’t just for visitors - a collection of cafes, bars, restaurants and microbreweries to rival any great European capital, some beautiful parks and some wonderful architecture - including eleven fantastical 16th century fountains depicting characters from Swiss folklore. One of the most memorable is the Kindlifresserbrunnen, or the Ogre Fountain, which is an ogre eating children! You can see them all by strolling Marktgasse. Bern also has an unmissable Bear Park.
Where To Stay
- Altstadt, the Old City, is where you'll find most of Bern's sights and loveliest architecture. However, if you stay here expect to pay a fair premium for accommodation.
- Located a little further out from the centre on the banks of the river, Stadtbach is a little quieter and cheaper. Or alternatively, give Engeried (which is of a similar ilk) a try.
What Not To Miss
Part of being the cultural capital means having all the best museums, and Bern definitely doesn’t disappoint there:
- There’s the Centrum Paul Klee, Switzerland’s version of the Guggenheim, the Kuntmuseum, which is Switzerland’s oldest and most impressive fine arts museum,
- As well as the Historisches Museum, full of historic treasures, and the Naturhistorisches Museum
- Or perhaps head round the Schweizerisches Alpines Museum, which is all about Alpine mountaineering and cartography
- And then there’s a children's museum, the Kindermuseum Creaviva, which is full of hands on exhibits and opportunities for children to make their own art.
- There’s also the smaller museums, like the Einstein-Haus, converted from the humble apartment Einstein shared with his family while he was working at the patent office
- After heading to a museum (or two!) stop for a relaxing coffee in the lovely Bundesplatz, the city's main square.
Our gurus recommendations for the best places to stay in Bern are all centrally located and make an ideal base for exploring the city whether you're after top-notch luxury or a charming B&B.