Bern’s Old Town, in the Inner City of Bern, lies on a hill and is surrounded by the Aare. Its historic townscape is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site: the medieval urban layout, sandstone buildings, arcades and fountains shape the character of the district. The original urban planning concept has been preserved despite the continuous renovation of the building fabric. The Old Town can therefore be explored not only through individual buildings, but also through its overall layout.
The Old Town between history and renewal
The six kilometres of arcades also provide a practical setting for sightseeing: they allow you to cross the UNESCO Old Town on foot and stay dry, even in the rain. Those interested in urban history can take in the medieval layout, sandstone buildings and fountains alongside the traditional urban planning concept. The ongoing renovation of the building fabric is also part of this history, without the original concept having been lost.
Guided tours, clockwork and the Minster
When visiting the Federal Palace, it is important to know how visits work. Outside parliamentary sessions, entry is only possible with a guided tour. During periods when Parliament is not in session, free guided tours are offered regularly; availability may vary depending on parliamentary sessions and scheduled works. Check the current tour conditions and availability before your visit.
Family tours of the Federal Palace are suitable for children aged 7 to 13. Check reservation requirements and availability in advance. This will help you plan your visit without assuming that a tour or a specific time slot will be available.
The Zytglogge, also known as the Clock Tower, was once a city gate. It is known for an astrolabe, an astronomical calendar clock, and a mechanism dating from 1530. On the hour, the tower puts on a figurine show featuring a procession of bears, a jester, a golden rooster and Chronos. The building brings together its former role in the city, its clock and its figurine show.
Bern Minster has the tallest church tower in Switzerland. A total of 294 figures on the main portal depict the Last Judgement. Guided tours give visitors the chance to experience the great church bells up close. If you would like the bells to be part of your visit, check the tour conditions in advance.
A break on the Minster Platform
The Minster Platform offers a different kind of experience from the historic buildings: its green spaces are ideal for picnics, playing and relaxing. The platform offers views of the Aare and the Alps. It is a way to combine a visit to the historic Old Town with a break in the green surroundings and views of the landscape.
Einstein House
The apartment in Einstein House is open to visitors and furnished in the style of the period. Check the current visiting conditions before your visit. Its period-style furnishings give the visit a clear focus, while the other sights in the Inner City centre on the townscape, clockwork, architecture or views.
Explore Bern without a car
Bern and the Inner City are easy to explore without a car. Distances are short, and an extensive tram and bus network connects major sights and excursion destinations. This gives you two ways to plan your trip: short journeys within the city and tram or bus connections to key destinations. The tours you would like to include may also affect your plans; check the relevant visiting conditions in advance for the Federal Palace and the Minster bells.
Einstein’s years in Bern
Albert Einstein lived in Bern from 1903 to 1905.
For the overall travel overview: Bern.
