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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 picturesque city ranks as Switzerland's fifth-largest by population and serves as the country's political heart.

Quick facts

Population
—
Currency
Swiss franc (CHF)
Language
French, Swiss German, Italian, Romansh
Timezone
CEST (UTC+2)
Local time now
21:31:12

Hotels in Bern

Bern offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit different travellers. From historic properties like Goldener Schlüssel and Belle Epoque to modern options such as Hotel Bern and Bellevue Palace, visitors can find suitable lodging throughout the Swiss capital. See all hotels →

Airports in Bern

Bern is served by several airports in the region. Flughafen Bern-Belp is the primary airport serving the city, while nearby alternatives include Flugplatz Biel-Kappelen, Flugplatz Thun, Aérodrome de Bellechasse, and Flughafen Grenchen, offering additional travel options in the surrounding 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 rich selection of attractions for visitors to explore, from historic architecture like the Rathaus and Bubenbergtor to unique cultural venues such as Einsteinhaus and Klingendes Museum Bern. The city's charming old town, decorated with iconic fountains like Lenbrunnen, provides endless opportunities for discovery and exploration. 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 pools and water facilities for residents and visitors. From dedicated swimming venues like Kinderbecken and Sole to specialized learning facilities, there are options available throughout the city for aquatic recreation and swim instruction. 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 a range of venues for locals and visitors alike. From established spots like Marta and Erzbierschof Krone to newer hotspots such as JUL, eniline, and Lirum Larum, there are options to suit different tastes and atmospheres throughout the city. See all bars →

Cafes in Bern

Bern offers a variety of cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments. From popular spots like Einstein and Blue Cat to cozy options such as Café Alpin and Qué Rico Bistro, there are plenty of choices for coffee, snacks, and casual dining throughout the city. 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 several natural spaces and outdoor areas to explore, from the Münsterplattform with its elevated views to green spaces like Schüttepark. The city's terraces, including Terrasse von Wattenwyl-Haus and Stiftsterrasse, provide scenic spots to enjoy the surrounding 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 continental climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold with snow, while summers are mild and pleasant. Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures ideal for exploring the city.

Interesting Facts About Bern — Weird & Wonderful

  • Bern is the de facto capital of Switzerland, referred to officially as the "federal city".
  • With a population of about 146,000, Bern is the fifth-most populous city in Switzerland.
  • The Bern metropolitan area includes 36 municipalities with a combined population of over 400,000.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Bern

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Bern

What is the population of Bern?

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

Is Bern the capital of Switzerland?

Bern is the de facto capital of Switzerland and is officially known as the "federal city" where the federal government is based.

What currency is used in Bern?

The Swiss Franc (CHF) is the official currency used in Bern and throughout Switzerland.

What language is spoken in Bern?

German is the primary language spoken in Bern, which is located in the German-speaking region of Switzerland.

What is the larger metropolitan area of Bern like?

The Bern agglomeration encompasses 36 municipalities with a population of approximately 406,900 people.

Map of Bern

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