Who needs the sea? The cool, deep-blue, clean water of the river, which winds its way into the capital city from the Bernese Alps, offers the ideal refreshment on hot summer days. Whether it’s swimming, river surfing, rafting, stand-up paddling, tubing, walking or grilling that floats your boat, the Aare is the beating heart of summer life for the people of Bern.
The people of Bern and the Aare river have a very special love affair. How about a quick dip in the cool water with your colleagues in your lunch break? Or a walk through the Old Town in your bikini with your raft in tow? These are part of everyday life for Bern’s residents. It is even rumored that you used to be able to spot bikinis and swim shorts hung out to dry on the Federal Councilors’ balconies. A dip in the Aare is also a true Bernese experience for visitors to the city!
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Floating Down the Aare River: Our Three Favorite RoutesAnybody want to cool off? Bern locals know there’s only one way to do it: Jump in the Aare! After all, a summer day in the capital wouldn’t be perfect without a plunge in their favorite river. We’ll tell you what you need to plan for and where floating down the Aare is a particularly rewarding experience.Floating Down the Aare River: Our Three Favorite RoutesMore -
The (Aquaphobic’s) Guide to Enjoying the Aare River – our top 12 tipsStrolling along, savouring an ice cream, and embracing culture – in Bern, you don’t need to be a water lover to fully enjoy the Aare. These are our 12 tips for experiencing the true "Bern way of life" on the banks of our favourite river.The (Aquaphobic’s) Guide to Enjoying the Aare River – our top 12 tipsMore
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Bern’s Four Riverside PoolsAs soon as the water temperature of the Aare rises above 15°C, Bern locals begin to get antsy because they know the swimming season is almost open. Aare, here we come!Bern’s Four Riverside PoolsMore -
Small Talk Ahoy! 13 Fun Facts and Tales About the Aare RiverHow do the fish get into the Lorraine pool, and how many bridges cross the Aare river? Why do the Bernese walk at a certain pace and who sings the Aare song? Here are 13 facts about our favorite river so you will be brimming with insider knowledge on your next trip to the Aare.Small Talk Ahoy! 13 Fun Facts and Tales About the Aare RiverMore
Not a fan of the water? No problem! There is something to whet everyone’s appetite all along the Aare. This is where the leisurely Bernese atmosphere is celebrated, whether you are sitting around an open fire in Eichholz, sunbathing in the famous Marzili pool or feasting on ice cream from Gelateria di Berna.
Aare
12
53.6
°
Swimming pools
| Freibad Lorraine |
|
17 62.6 ° |
|---|---|---|
| Freibad Marzili |
|
21 69.8 ° |
| Freibad Weyermannshaus |
|
15 59 ° |
| Freibad Wyler |
|
22 71.6 ° |
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Aare Map
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Safety Note
It’s important to have a healthy amount of respect for the Aare and inform yourself about the possible risks beforehand. Swimming in the Aare is recommended for experienced swimmers only. The Swiss Lifesaving Society SLRG and the city of Bern provide (vitally) important tips for everyone who spends time in and on the Aare.
Bern locals are happy to assist with uncertainties and questions about entry and exit points as well as tips for an unforgettable float down the Aare.
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Conservation
The floodplains along the Aare river are particularly sensitive ecosystems. As a result, almost the entire river landscape between Thun and Bern is protected. We ask all those who stay around or on the Aare river to respect nature, not to leave any rubbish or disturb the animals unnecessarily.
Our Favorite Spots along the Aare
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MarziliBelow the Parliament Building and on the banks of the Aare river lies the famous Marzili, an outdoor swimming facility. The pools, lawns and direct access to the river make it one of Bern’s most popular summer hotspots.Aareswimming, Bern for Families, AttractionsMarziliMore -
River beach EichholzThe Eichholz camping site on the outskirts of Bern is right on the Aare: campers can come straight out of their tents and the river beach is just a few steps away.Aareswimming, Bern for Families, Bern for freeRiver beach EichholzMore -
Lorraine BadThe Lorraine Bad is a perfect starting point to go swimming in the Aare from the northern side of Bern’s Old Town.Aareswimming, Bern for Families, Bern for freeLorraine BadMore -
Restaurant SchwellenmätteliWith its large wall of windows, the Lounge looks out upon the currents of the Aare and the tree-lined gravel courtyard.RestaurantsRestaurant SchwellenmätteliMore -
Restaurant Altes TramdepotThe restaurant with its integrated brewery is located right next to the BearPark and offers a fantastic view of Bern's Old Town and the Aare river.Restaurants, Typisch BernRestaurant Altes TramdepotMore -
Restaurant Casa NovoThis Mediterranean gourmet restaurant (14 Gault Millau points), with its tapas bar and a terrace on the Aare river, serves market-fresh, seasonal cuisine.RestaurantsRestaurant Casa NovoMore -
Tierpark-Restaurant DählhölzliHearty dishes made from regional ingredients straight from the market, interpreted in a surprisingly different, contemporary style – these are the hallmarks of Dählhölzli.Restaurants, CafésTierpark-Restaurant DählhölzliMore -
Restaurant DampfzentraleThe industrial charm of this old power plant and its unique location directly along the Aare provide an unparalleled atmosphere – and not just in the summer.RestaurantsRestaurant DampfzentraleMore