About Old City / Berner Altstadt

Berner Altstadt, or the Old City, is the centre of Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. This part of the city dates back to the 12th century and has fundamentally stayed the same since. The Old City is built on a narrow hill, surrounded by the Aare River on three sides. This little pocket of Bern is home to covered arcades, cellar shops, boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Wander the winding cobblestone streets to the Zytglogge, the focal point of the Old City. Visitors gather to watch the clock workings, and to hear the bells chime. The storyteller in you will be inspired by the Renaissance fountains along the alleys. Most depict sculptures of people and characters in Bern’s history, but the most famous is the Kindlifresserbrunnen, a folkloric giant who ate small children. Climb the steps of the Berner Münster to Switzerland’s tallest spire. Visit the Käfigturm, one of the Old City’s original towers, which features five early Baroque towers. Take in the sandstone façades. Great or small, the Berner Altstadt will move you.

Must See

  • The Clock Tower (Zytglogge).
  • The Prison Tower (Käfigturm).
  • The sculptural fountains from the Renaissance.
  • The Cathedral (Münster).
  • The well-kept sandstone facades. 
  • The Einstein House at Kramgasse 49.

How to reach

The old town is the area between the main station and the Bear Pits.
It's only about 10 minutes walk from the main station.
Tram line 9 stops to the nearby place and the fare will be around 3 CHF per person
One can get a free Bern Ticket if you book a hotel, an apartment, a hostel, or any other accommodation in Bern.

Tips

  • Aare River serves as a place for many activities like swimming, boating and many more.
  • Please check the weather forecast and visit on a clear day.
  • Visit the place with a guide to more about the history of the town.
  • A good place to roam around, so wear comfortable shoes.
  • Lots of nice places to eat and a good place for an evening stroll.
  • Plan your trip before visiting the place as there are lot many things to explore.
  • Don't forget to carry your camera to capture the amazing view.
  • If you are travelling in the summer season, make sure that you cover yourself well, carry an umbrella, hat, water, and sunglasses.
  • Beware of pickpocketers and keep your belongings safely.
  • If you are not taking a travelling guide with you, then you must carry a map to explore the area well.
  • Don't miss the local shops and the handmade goods in the 'basements' on the street.

Visit Time

Sunday:            Open 24 hours.

Monday:           Open 24 hours.

Tuesday:          Open 24 hours.

Wednesday:     Open 24 hours.

Thursday:         Open 24 hours.

Friday:              Open 24 hours.

Saturday:          Open 24 hours.

  

Time Icon

Waiting Time

None

 

Entrance Fee Icon

Entrance Fee

No

 

Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

2 hours

 

Weather Icon

Weather

Light Rain 8.12°C

 

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