24 hours in Bern | Swiss Charm and History

I have a pretty busy life, so sometimes, all I have are 24 hours and I´ve made it my mission to get the most out of every single one of my quick trips. This Bern guide is part of a whole section in my profile, so if you feel any resemblance to me, this is just for you!

Because I understand everyone is different and has different budgets, I´m putting more than one option for every meal (including a vegan one), so you can decide what fits best for you. 

Breakfast

Budget friendly: 

Repair-Cafe Bern

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Located in the Old Town, Café Bern offers a selection of hearty Swiss breakfasts at reasonable prices. Enjoy a fresh croissant or a traditional Rösti with a strong coffee while soaking in the historic atmosphere.

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Medium budget: 

zum Zähringer

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A cozy spot with a charming ambiance, Zähringer serves a delicious Swiss breakfast spread including locally-sourced cheeses and cured meats, paired with fresh bread and pastries.

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High-end: 

Klösterli Weincafe

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For a luxurious start to your day, Klösterli Weidli offers a refined breakfast experience with gourmet options such as smoked salmon, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked bread, all in a picturesque setting.

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Vegan: 

Friedrich Kaffeehaus

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Kaffeehaus Bern offers a delightful range of vegan breakfast options, including vibrant smoothie bowls, hearty avocado toast, and fresh fruit salads. With its cozy and modern atmosphere, it’s a great place to start your day with a nutritious and tasty meal.

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Time to wander

Zytglogge

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The Zytglogge is Bern’s iconic medieval clock tower, famous for its astronomical clock and the animated figures that perform at the top of the hour. Dating back to the 13th century, it’s a central piece of Bern’s heritage and offers a glimpse into the city’s history. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of Bern’s Old Town.

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Bear Pit

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Bear Park offers a spacious and naturalistic environment for Bern’s bears. Located along the Aare River, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and to observe these majestic creatures in a setting that mimics their natural habitat. The park also provides great views of the river and the city.

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Lunch

Budget friendly: 

Altes Tramdepot Brauerei Restaurant

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Located by the Aare River, Altes Tramdepot offers a casual dining experience with traditional Swiss dishes like bratwurst and Rösti, paired with craft beers brewed on-site.

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Medium budget: 

Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar

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This stylish restaurant is set in a historic cellar and serves a refined selection of Swiss and international dishes, including fresh salads and hearty main courses.

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High-end: 

Restaurant Rosengarten

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For a high-end lunch, Restaurant Rosengarten offers a sophisticated menu with seasonal ingredients and stunning views of the city. Try their tasting menu for a gourmet experience.

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Vegan: 

tibits Bern Gurtengasse

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Tibits offers a wide range of vegan and vegetarian dishes in a buffet-style setting. The food is fresh, flavourful, and perfect for a healthy, satisfying lunch.

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Belly full, let´s go 

Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum

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This museum is a treasure trove of Swiss history, featuring exhibits from the medieval period to contemporary times. Highlights include the collection of Bernese artifacts, the Einstein Museum, and interactive displays that make history come alive. It’s a great place to understand the city’s rich heritage.

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Rosengarten Bern

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Located on a hill overlooking the Old Town, the Rosengarten offers stunning panoramic views of Bern and its medieval architecture. It's a beautiful spot to relax, take photos, and enjoy the well-tended rose varieties.

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Einstein House

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Part of the Bern Historical Museum, the Einstein Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern for a significant period. The museum features personal artefacts, original manuscripts, and interactive exhibits that highlight Einstein’s contributions to science.

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Coffee time 

Budget friendly: 

Caffè Bar Sattler

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This hidden gem offers quality coffee at affordable prices, along with a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. It's a perfect place to stop for a quick espresso or a cappuccino, and they often have fresh pastries to accompany your drink. The café has a mix of locals and students, adding to its casual, down-to-earth vibe, and it’s located conveniently near the old town.

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Medium budget: 

Café Kairo

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Café Kairo offers a stylish and comfortable setting with a selection of high-quality coffee and pastries. Its contemporary atmosphere and attention to detail make it a great spot to enjoy a refined coffee experience and a light snack.

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High-end: 

Adrianos Bar & Café

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Adriano's Bar & Café is one of Bern’s most sophisticated coffee spots, known for its expertly crafted espresso and chic atmosphere. With a menu featuring gourmet coffee, artisanal pastries, and decadent desserts, it’s the perfect place for a luxurious afternoon break in the heart of the city.

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Vegan: 

Äss-Bar Bern

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Äss-Bar Bern offers a unique and sustainable approach to coffee with a variety of vegan milk options and plant-based pastries. They specialize in reducing food waste by serving delicious day-old baked goods, making it a great eco-conscious choice for a quick coffee break without compromising on taste or quality. The café has a relaxed vibe, perfect for vegan travellers.

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Let´s do some more walking

Bundesplatz

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The Bundesplatz is the center of Bern’s political life and features impressive architecture, including the Federal Palace. The square is a great place to observe local life, watch street performers, or simply enjoy the grand surroundings.

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Dinner

Budget friendly: 

Schweizerhof-Passage

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A classic choice for traditional Swiss fare at affordable prices. Enjoy hearty dishes like fondue or raclette in a cozy setting.

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Medium budget: 

Volver BarTapasCafé

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Volver offers a cozy, artsy ambiance with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Known for its eclectic tapas, this spot combines Swiss ingredients with Spanish flair, creating dishes that are both flavorful and creative. The laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxed evening out, and the menu offers a variety of shareable plates with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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High-end: 

Bernerhof

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For an upscale dining experience, Restaurant Bernerhof offers exquisite Swiss and French cuisine. The elegant setting and exceptional service make it a memorable dining choice.

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Vegan: 

Süder

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Restaurant Süder is a gem for vegan dining in Bern, offering a creative menu that changes with the seasons. With an emphasis on fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients, their plant-based dishes are full of vibrant flavors. The rustic, warm interior adds to the charm, making it a great spot for a cozy and satisfying vegan dinner.

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Before you go 

AAREBAR BERN

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The river offers stunning views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful evening stroll or to simply sit and enjoy the serene environment.

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Tips and tricks 

1. Explore the Old Town: Bern’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming streets and hidden gems. Take time to wander and discover quaint shops and cafes.

2. Use Public Transport: Bern’s public transport system is efficient and well-connected. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel.

3. Visit the Bear Park Early: bears are more active in the morning, so visiting early provides the best chance to see them at their most lively.

4. Try Local Specialties: don’t miss out on trying Swiss specialties like fondue, Rösti, and local chocolates.

5. Check the Calendar: Bern hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. Check the local calendar to see if there’s something interesting happening during your visit.