Bern is a natural first stop for most people flying in to Switzerland. It is the capital of the country. It is the perfect stepping stone for a weeklong tour of this beautiful nation. Over the years, the capiaol of of Switzerland has maintained that old town charm quite successfully. Even when other European capitals have slowly transformed into more modern cities Bern has stood out as an exception. So much so, that the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bern – my favorite attractions
High up on the gentle hills behind the old town, the Rose Garden remains one of the best destinations to get a panoramic view of Bern. It is also one of the best places in the whole of Europe to see roses. The Rose Garden has a total of 220 varieties of roses. Along with these, there are 200 types of irises and 28 different types of rhododendrons. The Rose Garden is a great place to make excellent images of the surrounding areas. If possible visit the area during the golden hour and make stunning photos.

Bern city at sunset time from the Rose Garden Order online a decorative print, license or download this image
The Bernisches Historisches Museum or more popularly called as the Einstein Museum, is a must visit destination in Bern. This attraction is one of the best places to visit if you are interested in the history and culture of the European continent. In fact, it contains some 500,000 objects of interes. Special attraction is the actual Einstein museum.
Bern – other things to do and see
If one of the reasons for an extended stay in the Swiss capital is to see gothic structures, you can’t miss the Bern Cathedral. Also known as the Bern Munster Cathedral of St. Vincent, it is the best specimen of late gothic structure in the city. Taking more than 450 years to complete, it also occupies the position as the largest and the most significant late medieval church in Switzerland.
Stretching nearly 6 kilometers, the covered and almost weather proof shopping promenade of the city is lovingly referred to as the Lauben by the locals. It is the largest of its kind in Europe and is a must visit for shopaholics.
Take a walk through the old town of Bern. This will give you beautiful views of the Swiss Alps. Flanked by the picturesque Aare River on one side this is a place cut out for you if you are a photographer.
Finally for having dining or for drink, I recommend the restaurant Schwellenmätteli especially for its location as it lies right on the bank of the Aare river.
Bern in few words
Bern is not just some destination on a weeklong tour of Switzerland. It is an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. You will take away golden memories of a city that is steeped in history and culture, and offers you an insight into the Swiss way of life.