Bern: A 90-Minute Stroll Through the Old Town

Are you planning a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland known for its old town and winding alleys? Are you looking for an activity that will give you an insight into the city’s history, culture, and architecture? If so, then a 90-minute stroll through the old town in Bern is exactly what you need.

In this blog post, we will explore why a 90-minute stroll through the old town in Bern is the perfect choice for those wanting to make the most of their visit to the city. We will look at the landmarks, attractions, and historical sites to visit, as well as places to eat and drink. Finally, we will give a few additional tips to make your stroll even more enjoyable and memorable. So, let’s get started!

Exploring Bern’s Old Town

The beauty of Bern’s old town lies in its winding alleys, cobblestone streets, fountains, and colorful buildings. This historic center of the city has been around since 1191 and has grown over the years to become an architectural marvel.

The best way to explore the old town is to rent a bicycle and take leisurely ride along its streets. Or you could take a guided tour if you wish to get more information about the sites you’re seeing. However, one of the best ways to experience the city is to take a 90-minute stroll through its narrow streets and alleys. You’ll find plenty of attractions along the way, some of which are listed below.

Top Attractions in Bern’s Old Town

The Zytglogge Clock Tower

The Zytglogge is one of the most recognized landmarks in Bern and is definitely worth a visit. The clock tower is located in the heart of Bern’s old town and its turret dates back to the 13th century. On the hour, a mechanical bear appears from a window below the clock face to turn the clock’s hands. It’s a sight worth seeing!

The Cathedral

No trip to Bern would be complete without visiting its stunning Gothic cathedral. The facade of the cathedral is decorated with sculptures of prominent figures in Swiss history, including enthrone Emperors, Reformer Huldrych Zwingli, and Nobel peace recipients Henry Dunant and Albert Schweitzer. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of artifacts, paintings and sculptures.

The Parliament Building

The Parliament Building is an impressive neo-Renaissance structure located along Kornhausplatz. The building’s impressive sandstone exterior is decorated with a number of allegorical figures, representing Justice, Mercy and Strength. Inside, you’ll find a senate chamber with stained glass windows and ornate decorations – a must see for all visitors!

The Rose Garden

For those who want a break from all the history and culture and breathe some fresh air in Bern’s old town, then the Rose Garden is the perfect spot. Located near Kornhausplatz, this beautiful park boasts colorful flower beds, trees, and lawns as well as magnificent views over the city.

Places to Eat and Drink in Bern

There are plenty of places to eat and drink in Bern’s old town, ranging from traditional Swiss restaurants serving local dishes to modern bars serving craft beers. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Kornhauskeller: Located inside an old granary, Kornhauskeller is one of the most popular restaurants in Bern. It serves traditional Swiss cuisine such as cheese fondue, rösti and rostbraten (fried beef).
• Barfüsserplatz: This square located next to Paradeplatz is one of the best spots for drinks in town. You’ll find a nice selection of bars offering craft beers, local wines, and signature cocktails.
• Ginger Restaurant & Bar: This stylish restaurant serves classic Swiss dishes with a modern twist in an industrial-style setting.
• Café des Alpes: Café des Alpes is one of the oldest cafés in Bern dating back to 1908. It offers simple but delicious fare such as salads and sandwiches as well as traditional Swiss pastries.

Additional Tips for Your 90-Minute Stroll Through Bern’s Old Town

We hope you find these suggestions useful but here are some additional tips that might make your visit even more enjoyable:

• Wear comfortable shoes: As you can imagine, exploring an old town on foot can be quite tiring. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes that have some grip as some pavements may be slippery.
• Wear sunscreen: Although Switzerland is known for being cold and rainy it can get quite sunny during summer months. Remember to bring sunscreen with you so you can stay protected from strong UV rays.
• Schedule your visit: To make the most of your time in Bern’s old town we recommend planning ahead so you can see as much as possible during your 90-minute stroll.

Conclusion

A 90-minute stroll through Bern’s old town offers an excellent opportunity to explore this stunning city and take in its rich history and culture. Make sure to stop by some of most impressive landmarks such as The Zytglogge Clock Tower, The Cathedral and The Parliament Building. Have a bite to eat or drink at some of the city’s most popular venues or why not just relax in the Rose Garden? Whichever activity you choose – you’re sure to have an incredible experience that you won’t forget any time soon!

If this sounds like something that interests you don’t forget you can book easily book a 90-minute stroll tour through Avid Travel and experience all the beauty that Bern has to offer. See Avid Travel’s offers here!