Hotels in Bern

Bern: Federal Capital on the Aare Loop

Bern has served as Switzerland's federal capital since 1848, sitting on a sandstone peninsula where the Aare river makes a tight westward loop. The Zytglogge clock tower, built around 1220, marks the medieval core, and more than 6 kilometres of covered arcades — the Lauben — line the streets of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. The Bundeshaus (Federal Palace), completed in 1902, stands at the western edge of the peninsula and dominates the city's political identity.

Where to Stay

Hotels cluster in three practical zones. The Old Town places guests within walking distance of the Zytglogge, the Münster cathedral, and the Bear Park on the riverbank. Länggasse, northwest of the Old Town, is a quieter residential quarter near the University of Bern and the Paul Klee Centre — the Renzo Piano-designed museum housing over 4,000 Klee works, located 4 km east of the centre. Breitenrain, north across the railway lines, offers mid-range options closer to the main station, Bern Hauptbahnhof.

Practical Tips

• Getting around: Bern's tram and bus network covers the Old Town perimeter; the compact medieval core is best explored on foot.
• Airport access: Bern Airport (BRN) handles select European routes; Zurich Airport is 130 km northeast with frequent direct rail connections to Bern Hauptbahnhof (roughly 60 minutes).
• Season: Summer temperatures average 24 °C; the Onion Market (Zibelemärit) in November draws visitors from across the region.
• Language: German is the primary language; Swiss Standard German and Bernese dialect are both common.