Three friends stroll through Bern's old town, laughing, enjoying their ice cream and the warm sunshine. The historical backdrop with the Zytglogge tower and waving flags lends the scene a cheerful, lively summer atmosphere in the centre of Bern.

Welcome to Bern

Dipping into one of Bern’s free outdoor pools, enjoying a gelato from one of the excellent gelaterias, or going for a hike in the scenic Gantrisch Nature Park – the possibilities for excursions and experiences in the region of Bern are practically endless.

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Two friends sit at the edge of the water in the Marzili pool, laughing and sharing a relaxed conversation, while the magnificent Federal Palace towers above them. A picture of summertime carefreeness and togetherness in Bern.

Top recommendations

Current and cool: here are our top recommendations for everything that’s going on in Bern at the moment. We’ve got offers and highlights to suit every taste.

The picture shows a public performance by dancers positioned in synchronised poses on yellow platforms in the Rose Garden in Bern. The dancers wear uniform, earth-coloured costumes and are obviously performing a well-choreographed sequence. In the foreground, two spectators - an elderly couple with rucksacks - watch the performance. The tranquil pond in front of them reflects the scene, emphasised by the green of the surrounding trees and bushes. This idyllic, almost surreal setting creates an enchanted atmosphere that captures both the tranquillity of the location and the dynamism of the performance.

10 Bernese highlights in July

A group of friends are enjoying a cheerful afternoon on a sunny restaurant terrace by the river. Laughter and good humour fill the air as they raise their glasses in convivial company. The idyllic backdrop of green nature and water enhances the relaxed and warm atmosphere.

Summer in Bern

A group of cheerful people and a dog swim and float on an inflatable boat on a river, against the backdrop of an impressive urban backdrop, conveying a sense of freedom and summer fun.

The River Aare

A group of friends are relaxing on a blanket at the Schwarzwasser natural bathing spot, right on the riverbank. The idyllic landscape, the clear water and the cheerful atmosphere convey a sense of light-heartedness, relaxation and carefree summer days in the countryside.

Bern: a natural oasis

Two women stroll through a blooming rose garden, one smiling and pointing to something in the distance. The atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed, surrounded by colourful flowers and bright sunshine. It seems like a carefree moment in nature.

72 hours in Bern

The photo shows a small, inviting farm shop on the Sagenroute Gantrisch, with people chatting in front of it. Two e-bikes are parked in front of it, while one person holds a shopping bag. The sign above the entrance and the boards next to the door indicate that local products are sold here. The scene is infused with a sense of community and the simplicity of country life, emphasised by the sunny atmosphere and the relaxed body language of the people.

Sustainability in Bern

The picture captures the festive atmosphere of a concert during the Bernese Summer of Culture in Elfenau. An orchestra in elegant black clothing plays on a brightly lit stage, surrounded by a fascinated audience. The audience, visibly absorbed by the music, applaud enthusiastically in a historic hall that exudes an ambience of culture and history. The warm lighting emphasises the intimacy and festive atmosphere of this special moment.

Culture in Bern

Enjoy a fresh beer with friends on the terrace of the Old Tram Depot in Bern, with a magnificent view of the old town and Bern Cathedral. A perfect place to relax and chat.

Beer Capital

Woman enjoying a drink and city view from a bridge, with historic buildings and a castle in the background under a bright sky.

CHF 14.90 per person

Highlight audio tour

Discover the highlights of Bern’s Old Town at your own pace: this digital audio tour brings the UNESCO World Heritage Site to life.

Top Events

Event overview

Want to check out upcoming events in Bern? Here’s everything you need to know about the region’s top events, from the “Zibelemärit” (Onion Market) to the Gurtenfestival to the Slowup.

What to do in Bern

Sporting activities, cultural events, fun for the whole family or a shopping tour with friends: Bern is overflowing with sights and activities for every taste

The old town of Bern shines in the golden light of the setting sun. Autumnal colours and soft shadows conjure up a picturesque and peaceful atmosphere that radiates calm and warmth. A magical moment of tranquillity.

Bern's old town shines in festive splendour: flags line the arcades, people stroll along the cobblestones and the "Zytglogge" is enthroned in the centre. A picture full of history, vibrancy and proud tradition.

Bern’s Old City

The picture captures the majestic appearance of Bern Cathedral, bathed in the radiant light of the morning sun that illuminates the historic street.

The picture shows the detailed, vivid portal of Bern Cathedral, which tells stories carved in stone, a silent witness to Z's faith and craftsmanship.

Bernese Minster

The historic street leads to the Zytglogge, Bern's famous clock tower, surrounded by strolling people and architecture that radiates a lively and timeless elegance.

Three people stroll along a cobbled street in Bern. The Zytglogge tower can be seen in the background, surrounded by Swiss flags and blooming flowers.

Zytglogge (Clock Tower)

The Bundeshaus towers majestically over the almost empty Bundesplatz. In the clear morning light, the scene appears calm and dignified, as if the city is taking a quiet breath full of meaning.

The picture shows the Swiss National Council chamber in its full splendour. The curved rows of seats, filled with concentrated members of parliament, reflect the dynamism and seriousness of political discussions. The atmosphere is formal, yet characterised by commitment.

Parliament Building and Parliament Square

Museum of Communication

The picture shows a clear view of Bern with its historic city centre, church towers and rivers, framed by lively greenery under a wide blue sky, exuding a peaceful, picturesque atmosphere.

The Gurten, Bern’s Local Mountain

Three puffins stand close together on a wooden beam, surrounded by delicate flowers and grasses, two of them almost touching, a picture of sociable bird life.

Two visitors are fascinated by the animals in Bern Zoo, Dählhölzli + BärenPark, surrounded by lush greenery, which conveys a feeling of discovery and closeness to nature.

Bern Animal Park, Dählhölzli + BearPark

The Bernisches Historisches Museum in Bern presents itself in majestic tranquillity, embedded in greenery, as a guardian of the stories and treasures of the past, a place full of knowledge and cultural grandeur.

The picture shows a detailed model of a historic pile-dwelling village in a museum. The carefully designed scene conveys a calm, educational atmosphere and invites viewers to immerse themselves in the past and discover everyday life in earlier times.

Bern History Museum

In the tropical greenhouse of the Bern Botanical Gardens, a young family marvels at the exotic world of plants. The children look up with wide eyes, while their parents show them the wonders of nature with a smile - a moment full of curiosity and security.

The photo shows two people taking a walk through the Botanical Gardens in Bern.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Bern

The picture shows the façade of the Alpine Museum in Bern. The building has a modern and simple design, with large windows and clear, geometric architecture. The words "ALPINES MUSEUM" are written above the entrance, while a large banner with the words "ALPS" is displayed on the left-hand side. The "les alps" restaurant is visible at the bottom. The façade combines neutral colours with a light shade of pink. Small flags can be seen on the roof, giving the building a lively touch. The scene conveys a professional and inviting impression.

The picture shows a group of people in a dark room looking at screens. Some are sitting on purple-coloured wooden benches, while others are standing or walking past. One person is wearing headphones and looking intently at a screen with subtitles. The screens show scenes from everyday working life, including a building site and a kitchen. A movement track of a person walking past creates a dynamic effect. The atmosphere is concentrated and immersive, as if the visitors are taking part in an interactive exhibition.

ALPS Swiss Alpine Museum

The Käfigturm in Bern rises proudly under a blue sky, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling market stalls. The scene exudes a lively, cheerful atmosphere as people stroll relaxed through the alleyways.

Spitalgasse leads dynamically towards the Käfigturm, framed by proud flags. Between shops, passers-by and traffic, a lively city feeling full of movement and urban energy is created.

Käfigturm (Prison Tower)

This picture shows a group of tourists on a guided tour through the streets of Bern. A woman in a red dress fills her water bottle at a fountain while the other participants and the guide listen or watch. Swiss flags and the Zytglogge clock are visible in the background.

Bern, city of fountains

A relaxed get-together on a terrace at sunset. People are chatting animatedly with wine in hand. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly and sociable against a stylish backdrop in Bern.

Business in Bern

Your event will be a success story with the Bern Convention Bureau

From the right hotel and the right location to an attractive supporting programme: the Bern Convention Bureau will help you organise your congress, seminar or event.

Bern as a business destination offers ideal conditions for events, meetings, congresses, trade fairs and incentives. Genuine experiences speak louder than any argument. That is why we let our clients do the talking. In testimonials and references, they share their experiences in Bern.

Discover the region of Bern

Visit whenever you want: in the height of summer, in the depths of winter, in torrential rain or in the blistering heat – Bern always has an adventure or relaxing activity in store for you, no matter the weather.