A 90-Minute Stroll Through the Old Town in Bern, Switzerland

Are you looking for a unique way to explore the lovely city of Bern, Switzerland? Or maybe you simply want to take a sightsseeing tour while learning a bit about its history? Either way, a 90-minute stroll through Bern’s old town is the perfect way to do it.

The old town’s narrow, winding cobbled streets, with centuries-old buildings, cafes and churches provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely and informative stroll. You will find yourself steeped in the past and in a permanent state of awe at the history unfolding around you. There’s no better way to truly appreciate what Bern has to offer than a leisurely stroll through time.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places and sights to see on your 90-minute tour. We’ll also provide a few very practical tips on how you can make sure to make the most of your experience. So, let’s get started!

Brief Overview of Bern’s Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Switzerland is a land of stunning natural beauty and rich in cultural and historical significance – nowhere more so than in its capital city of Bern. Perched on a sandstone ridge, surrounded by the Aare River, Bern is one of the most captivating cities in all of Europe. This city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are plenty of reasons why.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights that can be seen during your 90-minute stroll:

The Zytglogge – The Iconic Clock Tower

The first stop along your route is the iconic clock tower – the Zytglogge. This is an old astronomical clock tower located in the centre of Old Town. Constructed in the middle ages, it features an intricate astronomical clock which has been ticking away since 1530. The Zytglogge should be your first port of call as it provides a great starting point and gives visitors an initial sense of Bern’s history.

The Bundeshaus – Switzerland’s Federal Palace

The Bundeshaus is Switzerland’s Federal Palace, located atop the hill alongside the Zytglogge. This imposing building is home to the Swiss Parliament, making it monumental both in size and in importance. It has been declared a National Monument and as such, is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks.

The Gothic Munster Cathedral

The Gothic Munster Cathedral is your next stop. Built back in 1155, the cathedral towers above the city and is a crucial piece of Swiss heritage. The cathedral is comprised of two towers that were built in two different eras but are still united together by detailed medieval stonework and Gothic design. This cathedral marks another important stop on your tour so try to take a few moments to soak it all in.

The Nydeggbrücke – A True gem of a Bridge

The Nydeggbrücke (or “ny-dahg’ bridge) is one of the oldest and most elegant bridges in Bern. As you cross it, you will be treated to spectacular views of both the Aare River and the city beyond. The bridge itself dates back to 1231, making it one of Bern’s oldest surviving structures. The bridge is also home to several sculptures, some of which date back as far as 1683. Don’t miss this part of your tour – it’s not to be missed!

The Bears’ Cave – Bern’s Famous Symbol

No trip to Bern would be complete without taking a visit to its most famous symbol, The Bears’ Cave. This site is located beneath the Nydeggbrücke bridge and serves as both an animal reserve for local bears, as well as an iconic symbol for the city. This spot makes for an interesting detour on your tour, so make sure to take some time for photos!

A Few More Tips for Your Stroll Through Old Town

Here are some final tips to ensure that your tour is a success:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Remember, you are going to be on your feet for 90 minutes so wear shoes that you can walk in comfortably.
• Carry Sunscreen and Water: You don’t want to be caught out by unexpected weather so make sure to bring sunscreen or an umbrella just in case.
• Pack Lightly: You don’t want to be lugging around heavy bags while strolling through Old Town – so pack as lightly as possible.
• Visit on a Sunny Day: Try to plan for visiting on a clear day – this will ensure that you get the best views of the city.

So there you have it – your perfect guide for a 90-minute stroll through Bern’s Old Town! Now that you know what to expect and how to prepare for it, there is nothing stopping you from experiencing all that this beautiful Swiss city has to offer. Don’t forget to book your tour beforehand for convenience and for discounted prices – GetYourGuide has some really great tours with great reviews that come highly recommended! So grab your camera, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and some water and have an unforgettable time discovering Bern.