Bern Old Town - Private Historic Walking Tour

Bern , Switzerland

Bern Old Town - Private Historic Walking Tour

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About this experience

Indulge in a classic tour which will take you on a journey across several centuries in the UNESCO world heritage site of the Bern Old Town. Important highlights include the Bern Cathedral, the Kornhaus and the 15th century Clock Tower.

Available options

Bern Old Town - Private Historic Walking Tour

What's included

Official tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Start your tour at the Käfigturm, a tower designed in Baroque style which was rebuilt between 1641 to 1644. This site had been used to interrogate criminals in the past, however, it is now a meeting place for the Polit-Forum where political discussions are held.

Stop 2 Pass by

Spanning about 300 meters in length in the Old town of Bern, you will walk by the Bundeshaus or the Federal house, which is one of the most important buildings in the country. The government and parliament are housed here. From here, you will continue on to the square known as Theaterplatz where you will come across the Hôtel de Musique.

Stop 3 Pass by

Picture yourself at the 13th century clock tower known as the Zytglogge. It was also used as a city gate and is now a very famous attraction. It features a 15th century astronomical clock, wooden beams and stone walls which will take you back in time. You will be astonished when it is time for it to strike.

The next stop of the tour will be the Kornhaus (Granary) which has served various purposes over 300 years, the perfect place to test your photography skills. The Kornhaus features two restaurants and a library. As you continue, you will come across Chindlifresserbrunnen, a painted stone fountain by the Sculptor Hans Gieng from the 16th century. There are many speculations about what it depicts. You will continue walking in the Medieval center of Bern and walk by the Einstein House on the Kramgasse street.

Known as the Berner Münster, you will visit the Cathedral of Bern, the tallest amongst all in Switzerland. The construction took place between 1421 and 1893 spanning more than 400 years. It features a tower which stands about 100 meters tall. Here, you will get to see masterpieces of art. The Cathedral also features the largest bell in Switzerland.

The final stop of the tour will be at the Church known as the Nydeggkirche. It was built between 1341 and 1346. You will admire the Neo-gothic architecture. The Church replaced the old fortress and has been in service for more than 400 years.

What's not included

Entrance Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU EN IT FR ES

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the Anna Seiler fountain on the east side of the tower Käfigturm, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.

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