Bern Traveler Essentials
- Safety rating
- 8.8/10
- Best time to visit
- May to September is mild and pleasant for strolling the arcades and riverside, with summer ideal for swimming in the Aare.
- Population
- 0.1M
Overview
Switzerland's understated capital wraps within a loop of the Aare River, its UNESCO old town famous for six kilometers of covered arcades, medieval clock tower, and resident bears. Where Einstein once lived, Bern blends sandstone elegance with a relaxed, riverside pace.
Getting around
Trams and buses serve the city, and the arcaded old town is highly walkable.
Local etiquette
Bernese have a famously unhurried pace; be patient, punctual for transport, and greet with a friendly 'Grüessech.'
Safety
Bern is very safe with low crime, needing only standard caution against pickpockets near the station. The old town is comfortable to explore at any hour.