Best of Bern: Walking Tour of Old Town with Expert Guide

Overview

Bern is one of the most beautiful and least known capitals in Europe, and this tour is designed to get you the best of it, even if you only have one day. You will visit the must-see places: medieval cobblestone streets declared UNESCO Heritage, 16th century fountains, the most famous astronomical clock in Switzerland and the corners where the history of an entire nation took shape. In two hours you will meet: Why is Bern the de facto capital of Switzerland and what does that mean? The story behind the bear as a symbol of the city -How does the Zytglogge work?, the astronomical clock from the 13th century Bern's connection with Albert Einstein How was the Swiss Confederation formed and why does it matter until today? It’s the perfect tour if it’s your first time in town, if you only have a few hours or if you want to understand Switzerland beyond the postcards.

Parts of this description were translated automatically by Viator.

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Parliament Building

   15 min

   Start the tour in front of the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus), learn how Switzerland’s unique system of direct democracy works, why Swiss citizens vote four times a year and admire the most important symbols in front of parliament.

2. 2

   Kafigturm (Prison Tower)

   10 min

   In front of the Käfigturm, in the Bärenplatz you will feel the real rhythm of Bern. This space has been for centuries a meeting point, trade and local life. Between stories of markets and tradition, you will discover why the bear became the soul of the city

3. 3

   Stop 3

   15 min

   Walk the lively Marktgasse, one of the most emblematic streets in Bern’s old town, declared a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site in 1983. Under its historic portals, you will discover how this road has been for centuries the center of commerce and daily life. Between decorated fountains and medieval buildings, you will know stories, symbols and the importance of fountains.

4. 4

   Child Eater Fountain (Kindlifresserbrunnen)

   15 min

   Discover the most mysterious monument in Bern: a 16th century fountain with a figure devouring children. Discover the darkest legends surrounding this disturbing monument and why it continues to shock visitors today.

5. 5

   Clock Tower - Zytglogge

   20 min

   Learn about the most iconic monument in Bern: the astronomical clock tower and learn all about one of the oldest mechanisms in the city. Learn about its history as a city gate, prison and wait for the spectacle of mechanical figures

6. 6

   Einstein House (Einsteinhaus)

   10 min

   Discover where Albert Einstein lived and why his stay in the city becomes so relevant to world history.

7. 7

   Berner Munster

   15 min

   Admire Berner Münster, Switzerland’s tallest Gothic cathedral, and take a close look at its impressive portal full of symbolism and discover how religious changes transformed not only this city, but an entire country.

8. 8

   Erlacherhof

   20 minAdmission not included

   Meet the Erlacherhof, one of the most representative palaces in Bern, I tell you a story of power, ambition and transformation. Here lived the elites who controlled the city as a real aristocracy until everything changed. Discover how this building became a symbol of exclusivity and part of the democratic government that defines today’s Switzerland.

9. 9

   Barenpark

   15 min

   Discover why bears have been the symbol of Bern since the 12th century, learn all about their current life and admire Nydegg Bridge and the emerald green waters of the River Aare.

Meeting point and pickup

Good to know

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Travelers with very reduced mobility (cobblestones along the entire route)

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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