Top reasons to visit Bern
- UNESCO World Heritage Old Town: Explore Bern's charming Old Town, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Rich Cultural Experiences: Discover local art galleries, the Bern Historical Museum, and the stunning Bern Cathedral for a taste of the city's cultural heritage.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy skiing nearby or bike rides through picturesque streets, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Diverse Accommodations: Find a range of lodging options, from cozy apartments to comfortable hotels, catering to all traveler needs.
- Vibrant Shopping and Dining: Experience the lively shopping mall center and a variety of restaurants for a taste of urban life.
Find great hotels in Bern
Bern offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from comfortable hotels to cozy apartments, catering to various traveler needs. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, ideal facilities for business travel, or a family-friendly environment, you'll discover top hotels that provide excellent services. Explore hotel reviews to find the perfect spot for your stay in this charming Swiss capital.
- Hotel Savoy Bern: This 4-star hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and welcoming experience. Located in the heart of Bern, Hotel Savoy offers a pet-friendly environment, ideal for those who want to bring their furry companions along. The hotel features essential amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay while maintaining convenience for pet owners. Guests can enjoy a blend of modern comfort and classic style, making it a distinguished option for your visit.
- NH Bern The Bristol: With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, NH Bern The Bristol is a fantastic 4-star option for families and adventure seekers alike. Nestled in the city center, this hotel provides easy access to local attractions and adventure sports, including hiking and biking options onsite. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities designed for children, such as a first aid kit for peace of mind. The hotel’s vibrant atmosphere and convenient location make it an excellent base for exploring Bern.
- Stay KooooK Bern City – Online Check In: This budget-friendly accommodation has garnered a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, making it a reliable choice for travelers on a budget. Stay KooooK Bern City offers various sports and recreational activities, including nearby bicycle rentals for those looking to explore the area. Guests can unwind with entertainment options like books or venture nearby to discover museums, a zoo, and historical districts. The online check-in feature adds an extra layer of convenience to your stay.
Where to stay in Bern
Bern, the Swiss capital, offers a captivating blend of history and modernity. Explore the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Venture into the surrounding region for stunning outdoor adventures and picturesque landscapes. Whether you seek romantic spots or family-friendly activities, Bern’s central location makes it easy to experience nearby attractions, ensuring a memorable vacation filled with diverse vibes and experiences.
- Innere Stadt: Nestled in the heart of Bern, Innere Stadt captivates visitors with its charming village atmosphere and scenic beauty. The area experiences a moderate influx of travelers, especially from June to August, attracted by its outdoor activities and romantic ambiance. Here, you can explore a vibrant public market, enjoy the views from the nearby lake, and take part in winter sports at local ski fields. The picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, especially around the town neighborhood and event conference venues, where you can soak in the local culture.
- Old City of Bern: The Old City of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers an enchanting blend of history and adventure. With a similar seasonal visitor pattern, it sees a peak in summer months, drawing those eager to experience its outdoor offerings and breathtaking scenery. The neighborhood is home to captivating landmarks, including majestic mountains and serene lakes. Enjoy shopping at the local mall center, or indulge in thrilling ski activities during winter. The Old City’s cobblestone streets are perfect for exploration, leading you to discover hidden gems and vibrant local life.
- Mattenhof-Weissenbühl: This charming village, Mattenhof-Weissenbühl, is perfect for families and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Like the other neighborhoods, it enjoys a moderate flow of visitors, peaking in the summer months. Here, you can enjoy outdoor activities while being close to entertainment facilities like theaters and ski areas. The area is known for its tranquil lakes and event conference venues, making it a versatile destination for relaxation or engagement. With its friendly atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, Mattenhof-Weissenbühl is a fantastic base for exploring Bern's nearby attractions.
Things to do in and around Bern
Shopping
In Bern, check out the charming shops in the Old Town for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Westside Shopping Center, boasting a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. For local flair, visit the Bern Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Recreation
In Bern, the Hotel Bellevue Palace offers a tranquil spa experience with luxurious treatments and stunning views of the city. For a unique relaxation option, visit the Spa at the Kulm Hotel, featuring wellness pools and saunas nestled in a serene environment, ideal for rejuvenating your mind and body.
Adventure
At ROPETECH GmbH Seilpark Bern, experience the thrill of ziplining through treetops on an exciting ropes course. For a scenic adventure, take the Zweisimmen Gondola, located 45km from Bern, offering stunning views for families. The Stockhorn Cableway, 32km away, provides a breathtaking ride surrounded by nature.
Nightlife
In Bern, enjoy the lively atmosphere at Les Trois Rois, where you can sip cocktails in a chic setting. For a more relaxed vibe, check out the turn-of-the-century charm at the Kornhauskeller, offering a unique dining experience. Dance the night away at Club Bonsoir, a favorite among locals.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bern
To save money on your trip to Bern, visit during the off-peak months of January to March for lower hotel rates. Take advantage of free attractions like Berner Munster and Gurten. Use public transport options such as trams and buses, or rent a bike for an economical way to explore the city. Book your hotel about a month in advance to secure better prices, and consider package deals on Expedia for additional savings. Lastly, Saturday is the cheapest day to stay, while Sunday tends to be more expensive.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Bern are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Bern about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Bern is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Bern is Sunday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Bern with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
Find the best attractions in Bern
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Explore stunning attractions like the Bern Cathedral and the Bern Historical Museum, or visit local art museums and historic government buildings. Whether you're looking for family-friendly experiences or adventurous outings, Bern offers a rich blend of activities that cater to every type of traveler. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and vibrant culture of this charming city.
- Federal Palace: The Federal Palace serves as the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and the Federal Council. This historic government building showcases stunning architecture and rich cultural vibes, allowing visitors to appreciate Switzerland's political history and its modern governance.
- Berner Munster: As the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, Berner Munster features breathtaking Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Bern, making it a culturally enriching experience steeped in history.
- Bern Rose Garden: This beautiful flower garden boasts over 200 varieties of roses, providing a serene outdoor space perfect for leisurely strolls. It's an ideal spot for families to enjoy nature while taking in stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Bern
Flying into Bern, Switzerland, can be done via three major airports. Zürich Airport (ZRH) is 101km away, with luxury options like the Zurich Marriott Hotel and The Dolder Grand, both 8km from the airport. Geneva Airport (GVA-Cointrin Intl.) is 130km away, featuring the InterContinental Geneve by IHG, just 2km from the airport, along with the Mandarin Oriental and The Woodward, both 3km away. Lastly, Basel Airport (BSL-EuroAirport) is 72km from Bern, with accessible hotels like Mercure Bale Mulhouse Aeroport and Hotel Villa K, both within 3km. Each airport offers convenient transportation options to nearby hotels and Bern itself.