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Bern, the capital of Switzerland
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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. This historic Swiss city blends medieval charm with modern culture, making it a must-visit destination in the heart of Europe.

Photo: Flooffy (CC BY 2.0)

Quick facts

Population
Currency
Swiss franc (CHF)
Language
French, Swiss German, Italian, Romansh
Timezone
CEST (UTC+2)
Local time now
10:08:00

Hotels in Bern

Bern offers a range of hotel accommodation options for visitors exploring Switzerland's capital city. From established properties like Bellevue Palace and Hotel Bern to boutique choices such as Belle Epoque and Goldener Schlüssel, there are hotels to suit different preferences and budgets throughout the city. See all hotels →

Airports in Bern

Bern is served by several airports and airfields in the surrounding region. Flughafen Bern-Belp is the primary airport serving the city, while additional regional options include Flugplatz Biel-Kappelen, Flugplatz Thun, Aérodrome de Bellechasse, and Flughafen Grenchen, providing convenient air access to the area. See all airports →

Car Hire in Bern

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

Things to Do in Bern

Bern offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions to explore. From the iconic Rathaus and historic Einsteinhaus to beautiful fountains like the Lenbrunnen and unique venues such as the Klingendes Museum Bern, there is plenty to discover in Switzerland's capital city. See all things to do →

Rathaus
33 m from centre
Lenbrunnen
72 m from centre
Bubenbergtor
185 m from centre
Einsteinhaus
189 m from centre
Klingendes Museum Bern
227 m from centre
Erlach-Denkmal
318 m from centre

Restaurants in Bern

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

Swimming Pools in Bern

Bern offers a variety of swimming facilities for visitors and residents alike. Options include Kinderbecken, Sole, and other pools throughout the city, providing access to swimming and water recreation for all ages. See all swimming pools →

Kinderbecken
5.8 km from centre
Lehrschwimmbecken Hinterkappelen
5.9 km from centre
Sole
6.0 km from centre

Spas in Bern

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

Nightlife in Bern

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

Bars in Bern

Bern's bar scene offers diverse venues for evening entertainment and social gatherings. Whether you're looking for a casual drink or a night out, establishments like Marta, Erzbierschof Krone, JUL, eniline, and Lirum Larum are among the options available throughout the city. See all bars →

Cafes in Bern

Bern offers a variety of cafes where locals and visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments. From established venues like Rathaus Bar and Einstein to more casual spots such as Blue Cat, Qué Rico Bistro, and Café Alpin, there are options to suit different tastes and atmospheres. See all cafes →

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

Shopping in Bern

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

Nature & Wildlife in Bern

Bern offers visitors several natural spaces to enjoy the outdoors. From scenic terraces like Münsterplattform and Stiftsterrasse to parks such as Schüttepark, the city provides opportunities to experience nature within its historic setting. 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 cold and often snowy, while summers are mild and pleasant. Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures ideal for exploring the city's attractions.

Interesting Facts About Bern — Weird & Wonderful

  • Bern is the fifth-most populous city in Switzerland, yet serves as the de facto capital and federal city.
  • The Bern agglomeration encompasses 36 municipalities with a combined population of over 406,000.
  • The metropolitan area surrounding Bern had a population of 660,000 in 2000, making it a significant urban centre in Switzerland.

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 is the population of Bern?

Bern has a population of about 146,000 people, making it the fifth-most populous city in Switzerland. The broader Bern agglomeration includes 36 municipalities with a combined population of 406,900.

Is Bern the capital of Switzerland?

Bern is the de facto capital of Switzerland and is officially referred to as the federal city. It is the fifth-largest city by population in the country.

What currency is used in Bern?

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency.

What language is spoken in Bern?

The primary language spoken in Bern is German, specifically the Swiss German dialect.

What region is Bern in?

Bern is located in the central part of Switzerland in the continent of Europe.

Map of Bern

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