Bern was made a free imperial city in 1218 and, in 1353, it joined the Swiss Confederacy, becoming one of its eight early cantons. Since then, Bern became a large city-state and a prominent actor of Swiss history by pursuing a policy of sovereign territorial expansion.
Bern is Switzerland’s capital city and can be found in the west of the country on the River Aare. The city is a popular excursion destination, thanks to the many sights it offers, and its old town in particular.
Welcome to Bern: Discover top attractions, events, restaurants and travel tips in Switzerland’s charming federal city and its region.
Bern, city, capital of Switzerland and of Bern canton, in the west-central part of the country. It lies along a narrow loop of the Aare River. After a devastating fire ravaged the wood-built town in 1405, Bern was rebuilt with sandstone. Learn more about Bern in this article.
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Bern. Self Guided City Escape Game in Bern. Find the secret exit! These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveler reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location. 1. Old City.
Planning a visit to Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, and wondering what there’s to see and do in Bern, or whether it’s worth a trip? In this guide, we share the best things to do in Bern and some tips for your visit.
17 Top Sights & Best Things to Do in Bern, Switzerland (+Map & Tips)
City of Bern The City of Bern is the political centre of Switzerland. It is well-known for its high quality of life, good cultural offering and tourist attractions. Bern is also home to international organisations and enterprises. It has gained itself a reputation as a place of research and science.