Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Bern

Bern , Switzerland

Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Bern

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About this experience

Begin your tour in Bern at the BearPark, where you can watch bears roam their natural riverside enclosure while learning about their care and history. From there, cross the Nydeggbrucke, a bridge offering views of the Aare River and the Old Town, as you make your way into the heart of the city.

Stroll along Kramgasse, a historic street lined with arcades, shops, and fountains, leading to the Zytglogge, Bern’s medieval clock tower with its iconic astronomical clock and hourly performances. Continue to the Berner Munster, where you can climb the tallest cathedral tower in Switzerland for panoramic views. Conclude your visit at the Parliament Building, the seat of Swiss government, with opportunities to explore its history and significance through guided tours.

Available options

Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Bern

What's included

Professional tour guide

2-hour walking tour

Detailed itinerary

The BearPark in Bern is home to bears that roam within a spacious, natural enclosure near the Aare River. You can observe the bears' daily activities and learn about their care and history through informational displays. The park connects to Bern's Old Town, making it an accessible stop for those exploring the city.

The Nydeggbrücke in Bern spans the Aare River, linking the Nydegg area to the Old Town. This bridge provides views of the BearPark and the surrounding cityscape. It serves as a key route for pedestrians and vehicles traveling between different parts of the city.

Stop 3

The Berner Münster in Bern is a Gothic cathedral located in the Old Town. Its tower is the tallest in Switzerland, offering panoramic views of the city and the Alps. The interior features intricate stonework and stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.

Kramgasse in Bern is a historic street in the Old Town, lined with arcades and fountains. It is known for its shops, restaurants, and landmarks, including the Zytglogge clock tower. The street is a central part of Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage area.

Stop 5

The Zytglogge in Bern is a medieval clock tower located in the Old Town. It features an astronomical clock with moving figures that perform on the hour. You can learn about its history and mechanism through guided tours.

Stop 6

The Parliament Building in Bern is the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council. It stands near the Aare River and is open to visitors through guided tours, offering insights into Swiss politics and history. The building is surrounded by a public square often used for events and markets.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

2 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 1.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You will find your guide in front of the Bear Park.

About Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene. With its charming arcades, picturesque fountains, and stunning views of the Alps, Bern offers a unique blend of history, nature, and modern Swiss life.

Top Attractions

Old Town of Bern

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring medieval architecture, arcades, and charming streets.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore

Bear Park (BärenPark)

A park along the Aare River where Bern's famous bears live in a natural habitat.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Bern Cathedral (Münster)

A stunning Gothic cathedral with a tower offering panoramic views of the city.

Architecture 1-2 hours CHF 7 for tower climb

Swiss Parliament Building (Bundeshaus)

The seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly, featuring impressive architecture and guided tours.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (guided tours may require booking)

Einstein Museum

A museum dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern, showcasing his life and work.

Museum 1-2 hours CHF 12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rösti

A crispy potato pancake, often served as a side dish or main course with various toppings.

Dish Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a pot over a portable stove, dipped with bread.

Dish Contains dairy, gluten (bread)

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served with Rösti.

Dish Contains dairy, meat

Bernese Platte

A hearty meat platter featuring various cuts of pork, sausages, and other accompaniments.

Dish Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Popular Activities

Paragliding in Interlaken Hiking in the Alps Skiing in the nearby ski resorts Boat trips on the Aare River Visiting the Rosengarten Enjoying a spa day Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to January

Summer offers pleasant weather and outdoor activities, while winter brings festive markets and skiing opportunities. Both seasons see higher tourist volumes.

15-25°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter) 59-77°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Bern is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, always be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Bern Airport • 7 km from city center
Zurich Airport • 120 km from city center

By train

Bern Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Bern Bahnhof

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and frequent service with easy-to-use ticket system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Bern, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Altstadt) Länggasse Bümpliz

Day trips

Thun

30 km from Bern • Half day to full day

A charming medieval town with a beautiful castle, scenic lake, and historic old town.

Interlaken

45 km from Bern • Full day to overnight

A popular adventure sports hub nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by the Alps.

Gruyères

60 km from Bern • Half day to full day

A picturesque medieval town known for its cheese, chocolate, and the famous HR Giger Museum.

Festivals

Berner Buskers Festival • June Christmas Markets • December Gurtenfestival • July

Pro tips

Use the Bernmobil app for real-time public transport information
Visit the Clock Tower for a unique experience and panoramic views
Explore the city's hidden courtyards and passages for a glimpse into its medieval past
Try local specialties like Rösti and fondue at traditional restaurants
Take a boat trip on the Aare River for stunning views of the city