Travel Dates: September 2023
Things to do in Bern:
Bern Minster (Cathedral of Bern) – I recommend visiting the church to do the spiral staircase climb, which offers beautiful views of the city. The admission fee is 5 CHF per person, and the ascent takes approximately 6 minutes to reach the top. You’ll need to purchase tickets at the gift shop first, where they will also provide 2 CHF to use a small locker to store items larger than a purse (upon retrieving your belongings, the locker will refund the 2 CHF which you will need to return). Remember to keep the ticket as you will need to present it to the staff member at the top of the staircase.
Bärengraben (Bern bear pit) – A nice, quick stop where you can see grizzly bears up-close. The bear pit is located on the edge of the Aare river, along with a staircase and elevator that takes you down by the river.
Rosengarten Bern – A rose garden on the top of a hill that’s a bit of a steep 8 minute walk from Bärengraben. However, you also get wonderful views of the city from here so it’s worth the “hike.”
Exploring Bern Old Town provides a captivating glimpse into the heart of the city. Here are some noteworthy sites you shouldn’t miss during your stroll:
- Zytglogge – the iconic clock tower, renowned for its beautiful design
- Münsterplattform – a charming park behind the Cathedral of Bern offering picturesque views of the river
- Einsteinhaus Bern – a tourist stop where you can step into the very space where Albert Einstein resided while developing his groundbreaking Theory of Relativity
Where to eat in Bern:
Restaurant Rosengarten – Situated at Rosengarten, this restaurant offers a chance for scenic views of the city, although securing a table with such views might require some luck. The food was fine, although on the pricier end.
Altes Tramdepot Brauerei Restaurant – Located by the bear pit, this restaurant serves excellent rösti (a Swiss dish that’s like a potato pancake or latkes). While I recommend this spot, be aware that tipping is expected here.
Fugu Nydegg – Japanese & Thai food that has good pineapple & shrimp fried rice.
Pizzeria Ristorante Molino – Italian food that wasn’t really anything special. On a Saturday evening, there was a harpist playing outside in the plaza which was nice.
Ängelibeck – I highly recommend the delicious Portuguese egg tart at this cafe.
Confiserie Eichenberger – If you want to try another pastry shop, this place has a good Schoggiweggli (bread with chocolate chunks).
Where to stay in Bern:
Hotel City am Bahnhof – The hotel is conveniently located right across the street from the train station and bus hub. Although a bit dingy, it’s an affordable choice in the city center, and is great for budget-conscious travelers. Our room was facing the main street and we were worried about noise, but surprisingly it wasn’t loud (other than a Saturday night where music was blasting in the distance).
What you need to know/Other tips for visiting Bern:
Local Transport Card: Upon check-in, most hotels provide a free local transport card, accessed via a QR code. This card grants access to local buses (confirm location coverage with the hotel) during your stay. Switzerland operates on an honor system for bus rides, although fines apply if caught without a ticket or the transport card.
Buying Tickets: Public transportation tickets can be purchased at the train station, online through SBB (Swiss Federal Railways), or via the Omio app (an European transportation app). Several ticket options include:
- Supersaver Pass: Tickets purchased far in advance for specific travel date and time. Tickets cannot be refunded or changed.
- Swiss Travel Pass: Offers unlimited rides for consecutive days (options are for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days). Includes free museum access, discounts on excursions like Harder Kulm, and more.
- Swiss Travel Pass Flex: Similar to the Swiss Travel Pass but allows non-consecutive travel days.
- Half Fare Travelcard: Allows purchases of all tickets at half price.
Compare prices between Omio and SBB, factoring in your routes. Depending on your travel frequency, Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Travelcard might save you money. Individual tickets might be cheaper if your train usage is limited.
Train Travel: At the train stations, there will always be a timetable that will show you the train time and usually all the stops on that train, along with the platform number. All trains have a 1st and 2nd class seating–look for a “1” or “2” on the train door, and sit based on your booking. There are bathrooms on the trains, and some even have a restaurant on board.
Tipping Etiquette: Tipping isn’t obligatory in Switzerland, but some restaurants may request tips. It’s not a common practice, so feel free to use your discretion.
Globe Trotter 