Two days in Bern — that’s enough time to see the main sights without it turning into a gruelling marathon. Group the attractions by neighbourhood, allow for a bit of leeway in case of bad weather, and don’t plan any important tours straight after an overnight coach journey.
Check opening times, events, accessibility and tickets on the official tourism portal: these details change more often than the attractions themselves.
Day one: the historic centre
Start at the railway station and walk through the arcades to the Zytglogge, the cathedral and the terrace overlooking the Aare. Next, take a look at the Federal Palace from the outside and check the tour timetable separately.
Day two: museums and other neighbourhoods
On the second day, head to the Bear Park and the Rosengarten for panoramic views of the old town. If the weather is bad, swap the sightseeing route for the Einstein Museum or the Bern Historical Museum.
How to set a realistic pace
Plan one main paid attraction for half a day, and leave the rest of the time for streets, promenades and short stops. If a booking is required, factor in the journey time from your previous location. After a long journey, it’s better to scale back your itinerary than to rush through unfamiliar neighbourhoods.
Early or late arrival
Check in advance whether you can leave your luggage at your accommodation, and check the route from your exact drop-off point. Start your morning itinerary with open spaces, rather than a museum with fixed opening hours. For an evening arrival, save your transport timetable and the hotel’s contact details offline.
Transport and navigation
Download an offline map and mark the bus station, your accommodation and your return departure point. The city centre is often convenient for walking routes, but a remote museum or a hill may require transport. Compare single-journey and day tickets using the current fares from the local operator.
Budget and meals
Set aside a separate budget for transport, one or two paid attractions and any unexpected travel costs. For lunch, head away from the most touristy squares and check the menu before ordering. Water and a small snack will help you avoid having to change your route because of queues.
Preparing for a bus journey
Keep your ticket, passport, mobile phone and any necessary medication in your hand luggage. Allow plenty of time for your return journey: the name of the town is no substitute for the exact address and platform. Check out our tips on offline maps and preparing your mobile for a trip abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a city tourist card?
It isn’t automatically worth it. Work out exactly which museums and trips you’ll actually have time for, and check the terms and conditions on the official website.
What should I do if it rains?
Keep one museum alternative in mind, but don’t cram all your visits into a single day: you’ll still need to travel around the city between them.