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Bern

Bern is the de facto capital of Switzerland, known as the 'federal city' and home to around 146,000 residents. As the fifth-most populous city in Switzerland, Bern offers a blend of political importance, historic charm, and Alpine culture.

Quick facts

Population
128,848 (city)
Currency
Swiss franc (CHF)
Language
French, Swiss German, Italian, Romansh
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Local time now
07:16:59

Hotels in Bern

Bern offers a range of accommodation options to suit all visitors. From historic properties like Goldener Schlüssel and Belle Epoque to established hotels such as Nydeck, Hotel Bern, and Bellevue Palace, you'll find places to stay throughout Switzerland's charming capital city. See all hotels →

Airports in Bern

Bern is served by several airports and airfields in the region. Flughafen Bern-Belp is the primary airport serving the capital, while other options including Flugplatz Biel-Kappelen, Flugplatz Thun, Aérodrome de Bellechasse, and Flughafen Grenchen provide additional air transport connectivity to the wider Bernese area. See all airports →

Car Hire in Bern

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Hertz
388 m from centre
MonkeyRent.ch
1.2 km from centre
Europcar
1.4 km from centre
Avis
1.5 km from centre

Things to Do in Bern

Bern offers visitors a wealth of cultural and historic attractions to explore. From the iconic Rathaus and charming fountains like Lenbrunnen to the Einsteinhaus and Klingendes Museum Bern, the city combines medieval architecture with world-class museums and unique experiences. See all things to do →

Restaurants in Bern

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Swimming Pools in Bern

Bern offers several swimming pool facilities for residents and visitors. Options include venues such as Kinderbecken, Sole, and other local swimming facilities throughout the city. See all swimming pools →

Badweiher
4.6 km from centre
Kinderbecken
5.8 km from centre
Lehrschwimmbecken Hinterkappelen
5.9 km from centre

Spas in Bern

We're still gathering spas listings for Bern — check back soon.

Nightlife in Bern

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Bars in Bern

Bern's bar scene offers diverse venues for an evening out. From casual spots to lively gathering places, establishments like Marta, Erzbierschof Krone, JUL, eniline, and Lirum Larum provide options for locals and visitors alike. See all bars →

Cafes in Bern

Bern offers a variety of cafes where visitors and locals alike can enjoy refreshments and relax. Popular options include Rathaus Bar, Blue Cat, Einstein, Qué Rico Bistro, and Café Alpin, each offering their own unique atmosphere and menu. See all cafes →

Rathaus Bar
30 m from centre
Blue Cat
73 m from centre
Einstein
183 m from centre

Shopping in Bern

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Nature & Wildlife in Bern

Bern offers visitors a range of natural spaces and outdoor areas to explore. From the scenic Münsterplattform to the green expanses of Schüttepark, the city provides opportunities to connect with nature while enjoying views across its historic landscape. See all nature & wildlife →

Terrasse von Wattenwyl-Haus
161 m from centre
Terrasse Erlacherhof
189 m from centre
Münsterplattform
190 m from centre
Stiftsterrasse
212 m from centre
Schüttepark
318 m from centre
Bärenpark
536 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Bern experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cool with occasional snow, while summers are mild and pleasant. Spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures ideal for exploring the city.

Interesting Facts About Bern — Weird & Wonderful

  • Bern is officially referred to as the 'federal city' rather than a traditional capital, reflecting Switzerland's unique political structure.
  • With a population of about 146,000, Bern is the fifth-most populous city in Switzerland, smaller than Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lausanne.
  • The Bern agglomeration encompasses 36 municipalities, creating a larger metropolitan area beyond the city proper.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Bern

early October
shnit International Shortfilmfestival
An annual international short film festival held in Bern.
second week of November
Queersicht
An annual gay and lesbian film festival held in Bern.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bern

What currency is used in Bern?

Bern, being in Switzerland, uses the Swiss franc (CHF) as its currency.

What language is spoken in Bern?

German is the primary language spoken in Bern and the surrounding region.

How many people live in Bern?

Bern has a population of about 146,000 people, making it the fifth-most populous city in Switzerland.

What is Bern's role in Switzerland?

Bern is the de facto capital of Switzerland and is officially known as the 'federal city'.

What region of Europe is Bern in?

Bern is located in central Switzerland in Europe.

Map of Bern

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