Home Of The Zytglogge Clock Tower - Bern, Switzerland
Bern is the capital of Switzerland, and its Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that truly lives up to the designation. Stepping into the Altstadt feels like entering a remarkably well-preserved medieval town that is not only intact, but fully lived in.
Built mainly between the 12th and 15th centuries, the Old City is defined by sandstone buildings, narrow streets, and covered arcades—one of Europe’s longest continuous sheltered shopping promenades. The compact medieval core has remained largely intact, making the Old City an outstanding example of how a historic city can seamlessly incorporate modern life.
The Old City is home to Switzerland’s tallest cathedral, the Bern Minster, along with several other historic churches, bridges, and an impressive collection of Renaissance fountains. Scattered throughout the streets are eleven ornate fountains topped with colorful statues of knights, bears, and biblical figures, adding charm and narrative to the streetscape. The bear motif appears frequently, reflecting Bern’s symbol and founding legend. Historically, these fountains provided fresh drinking water and served as important gathering places for residents.
At the heart of the Old City stands the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower with an elaborate astronomical clock that continues to draw crowds each hour.
Despite its age, the Old City feels vibrantly alive. Cafes spill onto small squares, trams glide quietly through stone corridors, and daily life unfolds at an unhurried pace. Alongside centuries-old buildings, the seats of the federal, cantonal, and municipal governments remain actively housed within the Old City, reinforcing its role as both a historical and political center.
Overall, Bern’s Old City is not flashy or monumental. Instead, it is elegant, intimate, and timeless—offering a rare sense of continuity between past and present. A visit to Bern feels like a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and Swiss charm, all within a compact and walkable city.
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What you should know:
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted.
Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) are very common.
Locals are generally friendly but reserved – polite and helpful.
The two main official languages are German, but many people speak French and English.
The currency is the Swiss Franc (CFH).
Guests staying here receive a ‘Bern Ticket’ for free public transport throughout their stay.
Free parking is available outside the Old City area, otherwise there are four paid parking lots.
The Old Ciy is compact, so walking from one landmark to another takes just a few minutes.
You will need a valid passport and a power convertor if you are coming from the US.
There are many restaurant and food options.
Tipping is not expected but some people do round up.
For more information: Bern, Switzerland
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