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Top 10 attractions in Bern

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UNESCO - Bern Old Town
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Swiss Plateau

UNESCO - Bern Old Town

6.8
4.7/5
139 reviews
UNESCO - Bern Old Town is the historic heart of Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The entire district sits on a high plateau surrounded on three sides by the Aare River. Most of the early wooden houses here were destroyed by fire, after which they were rebuilt with sandstone. The continuous red-tiled roofs and sandstone buildings remain in use today, and the medieval street layout has largely remained unchanged. The main street is paved with cobblestones. Heading east along Justice Street, the ground floors of the old houses on both sides are connected by arcades that stretch for several km, housing watch shops, antique stores, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants. Scattered along the center of the street are over 100 fountains, including the Fountain of Justice, the Zähringen Fountain featuring an armored knight with a bear, and the Child Eater Fountain (Kindlifresserbrunnen), each with its own story. The Zytglogge astronomical clock mechanism at the western end is still in operation today. On the hour, the jester rings the bell, the bears parade in a circle, and the gilded figures strike the time—a scene that has been playing out for centuries as crowds look up from below the tower. You can climb the narrow stairs inside the Gothic cathedral near the river to reach the platform, where you can overlook the layers of red tiles and the bend of the Aare River. The Rose Garden on the high ground across the river is also a great spot to look back at the panoramic view.Bern · 222m from downtown
Rose Garden
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Swiss Plateau

Rose Garden

5.5
4.3/5
66 reviews
Rose Garden is situated on the high slope opposite the Bern Old Town, right next to BearPark. It was formerly the old cemetery of the Old Town and was converted into a park in the early 20th century. Hundreds of varieties of roses and irises are planted here, along with rhododendrons and other flowering trees and shrubs. In summer, roses bloom in succession, and in spring, Japanese cherry blossoms are in full bloom, offering different floral scenery depending on the season. In addition to flowers, it also features a water lily pond with a fountain, open lawns, and a pavilion with a reading garden. It is famous for its view overlooking the Old Town and the bend of the Aare River. The spire of the Cathedral of Bern and the layered red-tiled roofs are all in full view, and on clear days, you can even see the snow-capped mountains in the distance. The Einstein Bench is a favorite photo spot for many visitors. There is a restaurant inside, where you can dine on the terrace while enjoying the panoramic view of the Old Town.Bern · 1.2 km from downtown
Parliament Building

Parliament Building

3.9
4.4/5
50 reviews
The Federal Parliament Building, built in 1848, is the seat of the Swiss government and stands on the banks of the River Aare. Ordinary tourists can sign up for a guided tour of the Parliament Building and gain insight into the more than 100-year history of the federal capital. The Federal Parliament Building has high beams and green dome exterior, exuding Italian Renaissance style. The interior is also richly decorated, with statues of the Swiss founding fathers, and a large chandelier composed of 214 light bulbs against the stained glass dome is very eye-catching. The square in front of the building is a place for locals to meet and relax, with beautiful fountains and wonderful light shows in summer, and a huge ice rink in winter. In addition, a variety of events are held here, as well as the classic Bern market (onion market) and the Christmas market.Bern · 153m from downtown
Town of Spiez
Selected for Best Things to Do in Switzerland

Town of Spiez

7
4.8/5
111 reviews
Town of Spiez is situated on the southern shore of Lake Thun in the Bernese Highlands of Switzerland, nestled in a bay enclosed by two lush, wooded peninsulas. Vineyards on the hillsides stretch down to the lake, a medieval castle stands by the shore, and the Niesen peak on the opposite bank connects to the Bernese Alps. The castle, vineyards, blue lake, and snow-capped mountains framed together create a classic scene in many travelers' photos. The core view here is Spiez Castle and the adjacent Romanesque castle church. The tower was built right by the water and now houses a museum, where the Knight's Hall and period room furnishings tell the history of the local noble families, and the church still preserves Romanesque frescoes. A viewpoint overlooking the entire bay is located by the road above the castle. The hillside vineyards are a rare wine-growing region in the Bernese Highlands, cultivating varieties such as Pinot Noir and Riesling-Sylvaner, and the loop around the bay is easy to walk with expansive views. In summer, you can also swim by the lake, look back at the castle from the water, or take a Lake Thun cruise into the bay for a different perspective.Spiez · 33.9 km from Bern
Lake Thun
No. 4 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Switzerland

Lake Thun

7
4.6/5
202 reviews
Lake Thun is located on the Bernese Oberland between Thun and Interlaken. The lake is deep blue and crystal clear, and there are not only beautiful views of the Alps around the lake, but also traditional Swiss wooden villages. The summer resort Lake Thun is a local summer family holiday resort. There are many holiday houses along the coast, and you can see many people swimming, playing in the water or cycling and hiking, which is very lively. In addition, it is also popular with sailing enthusiasts for its very good breeze. A boat cruise is the best way to experience Lake Thun, starting from the pier next to Interlaken West Station, roaming west through the narrow waterway, and soon looking back at the magnificent scenery of the Jungfrau region. The cruise ships will stop at several stops along the lake, especially the famous town of Spiez. The end of the cruise is the medieval city of Thun on the west bank of the lake. The whole route takes about 2 hours one way. Cycling around the lake Many Swiss people love to ride bicycles along Lake Thun. Although there are more than 50 kilometers of roads around the lake, it is very exhausting, but the scenery along the way will be very enjoyable. Of course, you can also choose to ride one of the distances, and I believe you will have a good experience. Hiking in the mountains around Lake Thun is a great place to go on foot, and there is something special about the panoramic views of Lake Thun from tops such as the Niederhorn.Sigriswil · 35.1 km from Bern
Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe

9.7
4.8/5
1.3k reviews
△ Ascend to 3,454 m above sea level and enjoy a 3‑hour visit at the Jungfraujoch “Top of Europe”. △ Stopovers and spectacular views, including glacier plateaus, the Sphinx viewing terrace, Snow Fun Park, Ice Palace, and a 360° cinematic experience. There are usually three starting points: Interlaken East, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen. i.Interlaken:A lively town with convenient transportation and dining options, often chosen by tourists. ii.Grindelwald:Offers unbeatable scenery and charming slopes, with high playability. It is closer to Jungfrau and also offers outdoor activities at First Mountain, making it a popular choice among young people. iii.Lauterbrunnen:A beautiful valley and waterfall town. △ Climb the Jungfraujoch! Drive to the charming town of Interlaken and immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery along the way. Admire the legendary Jungfraujoch in Switzerland, which was blessed by angels. △ Take your trip on the train, and enjoy the scenery along the way. △ A must-visit photo spot with the Swiss flag.On the glacier platform with amazing views, you will experience snow and ice 365 days a year, guaranteed. △ Facilities: excellent restaurants (Crystal, Bollywood, Aletsch Self‑Service), Lindt Chocolate Heaven, and immersive exhibitions like Alpine Sensation.Fieschertal · 60.4 km from Bern
Gurten

Gurten

3.3
3.0/5
17 reviews
Gurten is 864 m above sea level and boasts beautiful natural scenery. Since opening as a park in 1999, it has attracted visitors from all over. It features various walking paths and leisure facilities, and frequently hosts diverse cultural events. On clear days, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Allgäu Alps. Panoramic views Take the cable car to the top of Gurten, view the panorama of Bern from the observation tower, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Bernese Alps, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Entertainment The tree-lined park features extensive leisure facilities, including a children's play area, a miniature railway, and barbecue areas. Various themed events are held throughout the seasons. In summer (July), the Gurten Festival takes place, featuring many international artists. When there is enough snow in winter, the toboggan run opens, turning the area into a winter wonderland.Koniz · 3.2 km from Bern
First
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Bernese Highlands

First

8.8
4.6/5
97 reviews
Located on a hill to the northeast of Grindelwald, First is one of the main ski resorts in the Jungfrau region and a viewpoint for enjoying the beauty of the glaciers rooted in the canyon, and the mountain scenery along the way is the same Picturesque. Hike to see the mountain scenery There are many walking trails around First, which can go from one high point to the next. Here you will see the mountain scenery of 4,000 meters above sea level and the translucent Tianchi Lake, and the lush mountain grasslands also amaze mountaineers and walkers. FirstFlieger Zipline There is a well-known FirstFlieger zipline project near the first aerial cable car station. This downhill chair allows four people to glide in the air along the ropeway at the same time, the whole journey is 800 meters, and the speed is as high as 84 kilometers per hour. This experience is safe and exciting for all ages. In addition, friends who like to ride can also choose to explore the mountains by bicycle.Grindelwald · 56.3 km from Bern
Botanical Garden of University of Bern

Botanical Garden of University of Bern

3
5.0/5
3 reviews
Bern · 552m from downtown
Prison Tower

Prison Tower

2.9
3.9/5
26 reviews
From the railway station to the east along the Soupital Road, the first thing that catches your eye is the thick prison tower. After the expansion of the urban area in 1250, it has become the city gate to the west of the old town of Bernier. Since it was originally used as a prison, it was called the Prison Tower, and now it is the location where various exhibitions are held.Bern · 62m from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Bern

Featured Cultural experiences in Bern

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Swiss travel pass - official agent/includes transportation in 90 cities/500+ museums/cruise/postal bus/10% off outlet coupon/train pass
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4.9/5
· 984 reviews· 19.9k booked
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Bern Highlights Audio Tour: Medieval Charms
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Neuchatel Highlights Audio Tour: Historic Gems
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Bern self-guided audio walking tour (8 stops, approx. 2 hrs)
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Duration: 2 hrs
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Berne BearPark + Cathedral + Old Town + Natural History Museum [Flexible Itinerary]
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Bern Audio Tour: Timeless Towers and Tales of the Old City
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Duration: 1 hr
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Featured Food & drink in Bern

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Chocolate tour in Bern with chocolate tasting
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Duration: 2 hrs
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Gruyères Village, Cheese & Chocolate Day Tour from Bern
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 8.5 hrs
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Chocolate and liquor fun in Bern with tasting
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Duration: 2.5 hrs
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Bern: Chocolate Tasting Tour
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5.0/5
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Chillon Castle + Lac des Joncs + Lavaux Vinorama
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Duration: 10.3 hrs
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FromMYR 753.99

Featured Outdoor experiences in Bern

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From Zurich/Lucerne: Berne Capital and Countryside Day-Trip
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4.8/5
· 9 reviews
Duration: 9.5–10.5 hrs
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Murrenbachfall + Schilthorn 1-Day Tour [Adjustable Itinerary]
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Riffelsee + Gornergrat + Aletsch Glacier + Matterhorn Glacier [Flexible Itinerary]
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Grindelwald First: Roundtrip Gondola to Cliff Walk from Grindelwald
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Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe 1-day tour [comfortable bus/professional multilingual guide/includes 10% discount coupon for the outlet]
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4.8/5
· 499 reviews· 382 booked
Duration: 12.6 hrs
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Switzerland Mount Pilatus + Lucerne 1-day tour|Includes Dragon Cable Car + Rack Railway + Cruise
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 6.5 hrs
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What travelers say about Bern

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莲子99February 24, 2021
5.0
It is a very exquisite place with well-preserved buildings. From the rose garden, it is a harmonious scene. Churches and other landmarks are dotted among them. Whether you are going to the market to check in or walking slowly, it is very leisurely.

UNESCO - Bern Old Town

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Su0725January 7, 2023
4.0
it’s best place to view the old town. also you can walk down for few minutes and it’s connected to the old town by a bridge. I heard there is a 🐻 park but I didn’t go

Rose Garden

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旅の径July 28, 2020
4.0
The Swiss Federal Parliament Building is a must-visit tourist attraction in Bern. It gives people the impression of being grand and friendly to the people. atmosphere. The 64-meter-tall building, with its copper-green dome and square building, is thick, solid and majestic. The square in front of the building is wide and open, unlike many European squares that are miniaturized and closed. From the terrace at the back of the building, you can view the Alps, the Aare River and the rows of red-roofed Old Town. Close to the people. Except on certain days, the Capitol Building is open to the public free of charge. You can see rows of primary and secondary school students receiving patriotic education, and groups of tourists admiring the art-like building. The building square is often used as a parking lot or a vegetable market, without any sense of inconsistency.

Parliament Building

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NachtischNovember 27, 2024
5.0
The town of Spiez on Lake Thun is an absolutely charming place to visit. It is backed by mountains, faces vineyards and, most magnificently, is crowned by a splendid castle. The Niederhorn mountain range above the lake stretches all the way to the Bernese Alps, creating a magnificent panorama. The mild climate and bright sunshine make it an ideal starting point for exploring the many famous tourist attractions in the Bernese Oberland or Valais. Spiez Castle is a highlight here, as is the castle gardens. From the castle, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the lake and the surrounding area. Likewise, a detour to the castle church is worthwhile. There are many hiking and cycling trails around Spiez. In addition, the neighboring cities of Thun and Interlaken are also great for day trips. Last but not least, the Bernese Oberland is easily accessible from Spiez.

Town of Spiez

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横竖是二温小迪November 9, 2024
4.0
We first took a train from Interlaken to Spez, and then took a boat from Spez to Thun. Lake Thunersee is known as God's left eye. I personally think it is a little worse than Lake Brienz, God's right eye. Lake Thun is greener, while Brienz is bluer. Of course, Lake Thun is also very beautiful, especially with the buildings and natural scenery on both sides. If you take a boat, it is free with a Swiss pass. However, there are few seats in the second-class cabin, and it is a bit cold to sit outside. It is recommended to wear more clothes. From Thun back to Interlaken, we chose to take the bus, and we can see different beautiful scenery along the way.

Lake Thun

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Hossain Hoq ProhorSeptember 11, 2026
5.0
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is one of Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain destinations, offering an unforgettable experience high in the Swiss Alps. Surrounded by magnificent snow-covered peaks, vast glaciers, and breathtaking alpine scenery, the journey to the summit is an adventure itself. The panoramic views from the top are truly mesmerizing, especially on a clear day when the mountains seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Walking through the snowy landscape feels like entering a winter wonderland. The impressive Aletsch Glacier adds even more beauty to the experience. Jungfraujoch is a must-visit destination for travelers who love mountains, snow, photography, and extraordinary natural landscapes.

Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe

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quqkyAugust 23, 2019
3.0
This mountain, located on the outskirts of Bern, is only 860 meters above sea level. You can walk there or take a small train. Once you reach the top of the mountain, the view is very good. Not only can you see the old town of Bern, but you can also see the snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Gurten

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Anonymous userSeptember 29, 2026
5.0
Purchased package tickets including attractions must be exchanged for paper tickets at the manual counter before use. Package tickets must be purchased at the foot of the mountain; tickets for attractions on the mountain are not sold at the designated areas.

First

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amyli88March 13, 2023
5.0
Beautiful, natural and clean environment, considerate and meticulous service

Botanical Garden of University of Bern

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fooler0809October 10, 2020
4.0
A beautiful tower with a spire that you can see as soon as you exit the station. The design is quite unique, with arcs that taper off. There is a small clock on the top of the tower with a red dial, which is quite conspicuous.

Prison Tower

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Bern?

Don't miss these attractions in Bern: UNESCO - Bern Old Town, Rose Garden, and Parliament Building. If you like Cultural experiences, try Swiss travel pass - official agent/includes transportation in 90 cities/500+ museums/cruise/postal bus/10% off outlet coupon/train pass. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Chocolate tour in Bern with chocolate tasting.

You can give Chocolate tour in Bern with chocolate tasting and Gruyères Village, Cheese & Chocolate Day Tour from Bern a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

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