The picture shows people in wheelchairs and companions crossing a bridge, with a picturesque cityscape in the background. The atmosphere is relaxed and everyday, which emphasises the inclusive character of the place.

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Celebrate the cosy, colourful season and the Bernese «joie de vivre» with different indoor and outdoor activities. Bern offers a broad variety of cultural, culinary and active experiences. Time to come together and enjoy!

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9 Bernese Highlights in October

A dignified life means a dignified death. And as contrary as life and death are, both should be celebrated equally. This will not only be the centre of attention on Halloween, 31 October, with its ghouls and ghosts, but throughout the whole month in Bern. Our October highlights will let you explore what the end of a human life means as well as show you where to celebrate the resurrection of the old and familiar.

Our October highlights

The picture shows the Bundeshaus in Bern, Switzerland, during a night-time light show. The façade of the building is illuminated with artistic projections, including images of giraffes and other animals, creating a vivid and magical scene. A large crowd has gathered in front of the Federal Palace to admire the impressive light show and take photos of the projections. The event takes place in a festive atmosphere and emphasises the architectural beauty of the Bundeshaus by transforming it into a living work of art.

© Starlight Events

There are plenty more events in Bern – take a look at our event calendar.

The picture shows two hikers on a sunny path in the Gantrisch Nature Park. The snow-capped mountains rise majestically before them, while the warm morning sun bathes the landscape in a golden light. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful, filled with the freedom and adventure of nature. The vastness of the valley and the imposing peaks in the background convey a sense of awe and inner peace as hikers enjoy the trail in this impressive landscape.

The picture shows a modern, cosy coworking office. Three people are concentrating on their work at computers in a room full of plants and warm light. The atmosphere is relaxed, creative and collaborative. The furnishings are minimalist but inviting.

Our favourite co-working spaces

The picture shows visitors gathering in front of the "Berner Zeitfenster", an exhibition in Bern. The mood is characterised by curiosity and interest as people gaze at the historical exhibits. The historical surroundings add a fascinating atmosphere.

Bern’s Window of Time at Zytglogge (Clock Tower)

Kultur

Interested listeners on a city tour in the Mattequartier, Bern, with the historical backdrop and tower of Bern Cathedral in the background.

Visitors interactively explore a modern exhibition. The playful, creative atmosphere is palpable as they stroll between the exhibits and unusual installations. Curiosity and pleasure mingle in the space.

Bern’s Museums

The photo captures a lively, artistic scene in the old town of Bern. Various groups of people stand and sit together, surrounded by colourful, transparent art installations that float above their heads and form a kind of flowing roof. The people seem to be having relaxed conversations and enjoying the urban hustle and bustle in a relaxed atmosphere. The Federal Palace with its green dome can be seen in the background.

Culture in Bern

The charming regional museum Chüechlihus in Langnau, a traditional wooden house, presents itself hospitably with blossoming shutters under a bright blue sky.

Regional Museum Chüechlihus Langnau

The image shows a group of actors on a theatre stage, against an immersive backdrop of the roaring sea. The mixture of everyday and historical clothing creates a sense of timelessness and universal human experience.

Cultural venues in the city of Bern

The group stands in front of the magnificent backdrop of the Federal Palace in Bern. The guide, gesticulating animatedly, shares stories while the audience follows with a smile, visibly delighted and immersed in the cultural experience of their city.

The most popular city tours in Bern

An exuberant crowd celebrates under a shower of confetti, surrounded by warm light that radiates joy and euphoria.

Our Favourite Clubs in Bern

Indooraktivitäten

The picture shows the lively and warm atmosphere of the Kornhauskeller in Bern, where guests come together to enjoy their meal in a historically decorated hall with impressive frescoes and warm lighting.

The most beautiful vaulted cellars in Bern

The picture shows the picturesque Thun Castle, which towers majestically over the shore of a lake. The architecture of the castle with its characteristic towers and white colour stands out against the clear blue sky.

Bern’s Castles

In a warm, wood-panelled wellness area, a person relaxes on a lounger, their eyes closed, their expression peaceful. Gentle daylight shines in through the large window, offering a view of the relaxing atmosphere of the sauna in the background.

Wellness and Spa

The photo shows people relaxing in an outdoor whirlpool in the modern wellness area of the Holiday Inn Bern Westside. The architecture is contemporary with striking geometric shapes. The clear water and wood-panelled surroundings radiate calm and relaxation. The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful, with a touch of luxury and modernity.

Water Park Bernaqua

Eating and drinking

The picture shows a sociable scene in a stylish café. Two groups of friends are enjoying their drinks in a relaxed atmosphere, with the large windows providing natural light and emphasising the cosy atmosphere.

Our top places in Bern’s neighbourhoods

The photo shows a cheerful group of people in a bar, drinking and tasting beer together and chatting animatedly. The setting is warm and inviting, with natural light streaming through the windows creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere as they raise a glass and enjoy each other's company.

The Best Beer Places in Bern

The picture shows two people having brunch. The table is generously laid and exemplary for a lavish brunch.

Three friends sit smiling at a café table, enjoying drinks and lively conversation. Sunlight fills the room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Best Cafés in Bern’s Old City

The photo captures the relaxed atmosphere in the JUL Easy Café-Bar in Bern. A person sits engrossed in a book, surrounded by warm earth tones and soft lighting that creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The modern furnishings with art on the walls and neon lettering give the space a hip touch.

Bern’s Best Sustainable Eateries

Happy friends share a moment of enjoyment and laughter over a meal in the Swing Kitchen, surrounded by a cosy, green atmosphere.

Our Tips for Vegan Restaurants in the City of Bern

A cheerful group of friends sits on a sunny restaurant terrace by the river. They are laughing and enjoying their drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. The picturesque surroundings with the green river and lush nature reinforce the feeling of joy and community.

The most beautiful restaurant terraces in Bern

The photo shows the hustle and bustle in the lively Casino Bern restaurant, captured in soft light and an atmosphere full of murmuring voices and laughter, conveying a feeling of warmth and conviviality.

Top Acclaimed Restaurants in Bern

Inside BIMANO in Bern, people enjoy a break in a spacious and modernly designed hall. The industrial flair, combined with warm wooden elements and cosy seating areas, creates an inviting atmosphere for visitors to relax and chat between activities.

The best family-friendly cafés and restaurants in Bern

The picture shows a restaurant at dusk with guests sitting outside. A magnificent building can be seen in the background. The lighting of the restaurant and the blue hour create a calm and pleasant atmosphere, ideal for an outdoor dinner.

Our restaurant tips with traditional Swiss cuisine

The picture shows three women in a bar, laughing and clinking glasses in warm light. The relaxed and cheerful mood is infectious and invites you to join in the fun.

Our Top Bars in Bern’s Old City

The picture shows an appetising-looking Bernese "Ankezüpfe", which is served on a wooden board. The plait is baked to a golden brown colour and has the typical shiny surface and braided structure characteristic of a plait.

Culinary delights guaranteed: Bernese specialities to cook yourself

The picture shows a lively scene in the pop-up bar Lillys Libelle in Bern, with a view of the magnificent architecture of the city of Bern. People sit relaxed at small tables, surrounded by plants in baskets, and enjoy their conversations over a drink. The sunny weather and smiling faces convey an atmosphere of joy and lightness. It is a meeting place that invites you to linger, chat and enjoy the urban scenery in the company of friends.

The coolest pop-up bars in Bern

Three people stroll through a busy street in Bern, laughing with ice cream, past historic buildings and Swiss flags - a picture of carefree summer enjoyment.

Our favourite gelato shops in and around Bern

Natur

The picture shows three cyclists crossing a narrow bridge with a river rushing underneath. The sun is shining and nature seems peaceful. The mood is adventurous and free, while the cyclists enjoy the idyllic landscape.

Discover Bern by Bike

Three cyclists are travelling along a quiet country road on the legendary Gantrisch route, surrounded by wide fields that rise up to the blue sky. Majestic, snow-capped mountains rise up in the background. The group, led by a person in an orange shirt, moves in harmony with the peaceful landscape, leaving a trail of harmony and the joy of discovery along the way.

Cycling Tours Bern

The picture shows two people walking along a narrow, winding path. They can be seen from behind and are wearing casual clothes. The landscape is rural, with fields, trees and a mountain background. Yellow flowers and fences line the path. The sky is slightly overcast and the scene radiates tranquillity and closeness to nature.

The most beautiful walks in Bern

The picture offers a wonderful perspective from the Chuderhüsi viewing tower in Röthenbach, characterised by the natural wooden railings and roof construction. The view opens onto a wide panorama of rolling hills and forests bathed in the warm light of sunset. The sky is dramatic with cloud patterns and radiant colours, and in the distance the outlines of the mountains stand out, highlighting the majestic beauty of nature.

Our favourite sunset spots

The photo shows Gurten Park, nestled in lush greenery, with an elegant building at its centre. The mood is idyllic and tranquil, with a picturesque mountain backdrop that conveys an atmosphere of natural beauty and peace.

The Gurten, Bern’s Local Mountain

A peaceful autumn morning in Bern: the Nydegg Bridge spans the tranquil River Aare, framed by colourful trees and the striking church tower, all bathed in the soft light of the rising sun.

Green Aare Walk

In the early evening hours, a viewing tower rises up on the Frienisberg long-distance viewing route, surrounded by a forest over which the sun sets gently, creating an atmosphere of peace and wonder.

The Best Views in the Bern Region

A man with a sunny smile sits on the riverbank in the centre of Langenthal while talking to a woman in bright yellow. With her back to the viewer, they share a seemingly cheerful and light-hearted conversation.

Excursion along the water in Langenthal

Two women relax on the banks of the Emme, with Burgdorf Castle towering majestically in the background. The natural beauty of the place invites you to linger and creates an atmosphere of serenity and enjoyment.

Excursion along the water in Burgdorf

The picture shows the barbecue area in Neuenegg in the middle of a green meadow that spreads out under a blue sky and a light canopy of leaves. In the centre is a striking stone monument that seems to whisper stories from the past. Surrounded by rustic wooden benches and tables, the place offers an inviting backdrop for socialising outdoors.

The most beautiful fire pits and BBQ areas in Bern

The picture shows a family on a hike over the Gäggersteg in the Gantrisch Nature Park. The warm sun, the blossoming vegetation and the mighty mountains in the background lend the moment a sense of connection with nature.

Outdoor Family Adventures

Against the historic backdrop of the Bundesplatz in Bern, two women and a man enjoy themselves in the splashing water feature, their faces filled with joy. It is a lively, joyful moment in the centre of the city.

Excursion along the water in Bern

Sehenswürdigkeiten

The picture shows the Zytglogge, a landmark of the city of Bern in Switzerland. It is a medieval tower with a large clock that still works. A large Swiss flag flies in front of the tower and a few people can be seen on the street.

Zytglogge (Clock Tower)

A soft autumn light embraces the city of Bern, with the characteristic silhouette of the cathedral rising elegantly above the colourful trees and the calm Aare, conveying a sense of peace and timeless beauty.

The panorama of Bern shows the imposing cathedral, which rises against the picturesque backdrop of the Swiss Alps, in a moment of peaceful clarity.

Bernese Minster

Against the blue evening backdrop, the Federal Palace in Bern, framed by dancing fountains, offers a picture full of grandeur and peaceful elegance.

Parliament Building and Parliament Square

The picture shows Bern in the morning mist, while smoke rises from chimneys. The old town with its bridges and the snow-covered Alps behind it create a picturesque, peaceful atmosphere that radiates calm and serenity.

Bern's Old City

The picture shows visitors gathering in front of the "Berner Zeitfenster", an exhibition in Bern. The mood is characterised by curiosity and interest as people gaze at the historical exhibits. The historical surroundings add a fascinating atmosphere.

Bern’s Window of Time at Zytglogge (Clock Tower)

The aerial view shows the majestic Laupen Castle, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The robust walls and pointed towers radiate strength, while the peaceful panorama conveys a sense of timeless tranquillity and permanence.

Litte Town and Castle of Laupen

Three puffins stand close together on a wooden beam, surrounded by delicate flowers and grasses, two of them almost touching, a picture of sociable bird life.

Bern Animal Park, Dählhölzli + BearPark

The sunset bathes Burgdorf Castle and the surrounding town in golden colours, creating a peaceful, picturesque scene.

An Enchanting Castle in the City of Burgdorf

The picture shows the picturesque Thun Castle, which towers majestically over the shore of a lake. The architecture of the castle with its characteristic towers and white colour stands out against the clear blue sky.

Shopping

In this vibrant photograph, the warm connection between two friends takes centre stage as they enjoy the bustling atmosphere beneath Bern's historic arcades. Their easy laughter and exchanged glances capture a moment of genuine joy and connection as they stroll between unique shops and boutiques.

Bernese Treasures

In the picture, two smiling women stroll past market stalls set up in the open air in a street with historical flair. The scene is lively and inviting.

The image shows a person with a serious expression, seemingly lost in thought. Her artistic style is emphasised by the dynamic colours and striking pattern of the outfit, with the warm orange background colour conveying a sense of energy and creativity.

Our Favourite Bernese Designers

The picture shows a flea market. Various people are rummaging through a variety of items laid out on tables. There are books, crockery, pieces of jewellery and other curiosities. The shot is taken from an elevated perspective, which emphasises the lively and somewhat chaotic character of a flea market.

Bern’s Best Flea Markets

The picture shows a smiling elderly couple holding fresh strawberries and vegetables in a farm shop, surrounded by an atmosphere of rural simplicity and joie de vivre.

The most beautiful farm shops in Bern

In the photo, two women discover the treasures of an open-air clothes shop under the picturesque arcades in Bern's old town. The arch in the background creates an inviting atmosphere and lends the picture a certain depth. The relaxed mood and the pleasant tranquillity between the stalls reflect the cosy flair of shopping in this historic setting.

Great Reasons for Shopping in Bern’s Old City

Familie

The photo shows a group of children and an accompanying adult exploring an interactive station in the Gäggersteg Nature Park Gantrisch.

Our Favourite Themed Trails in Bern

The picture shows a family on a hike over the Gäggersteg in the Gantrisch Nature Park. The warm sun, the blossoming vegetation and the mighty mountains in the background lend the moment a sense of connection with nature.

Outdoor Family Adventures

A group of children listen with fascination to a city guide in a park in Bern. The bright eyes and attentive gazes testify to the wonder and curiosity of the children, who are learning through play in the sunshine.

City tour "City tour for children"

The picture shows a lively playground in Steinhölzli, a popular recreational area in Köniz, near Bern.

The best Playgrounds in Bern

Inside BIMANO in Bern, people enjoy a break in a spacious and modernly designed hall. The industrial flair, combined with warm wooden elements and cosy seating areas, creates an inviting atmosphere for visitors to relax and chat between activities.

The best family-friendly cafés and restaurants in Bern

A family enjoys a bike ride through a sparse forest. Surrounded by green foliage and the soft light falling through the trees, they cycle along a curved gravel path embraced by nature. It is an image of togetherness and harmony with nature.

Kid-Friendly Bike Rides

A mother reads a book entitled "BERN" to her two happy children, who are playing with cuddly toys in a cosy hotel room that radiates warmth and family happiness.

Hotel offer for families

Two people stand in the centre of a lush tropical house, surrounded by dense greenery. A ray of light breaks through the foliage and creates an atmosphere of discovery and wonder.

The Best Free Activities in Bern

The picture shows the barbecue area in Neuenegg in the middle of a green meadow that spreads out under a blue sky and a light canopy of leaves. In the centre is a striking stone monument that seems to whisper stories from the past. Surrounded by rustic wooden benches and tables, the place offers an inviting backdrop for socialising outdoors.

The most beautiful fire pits and BBQ areas in Bern

The picture shows the picturesque Thun Castle, which towers majestically over the shore of a lake. The architecture of the castle with its characteristic towers and white colour stands out against the clear blue sky.

Bern’s Castles

Barrierefrei

The picture shows people in wheelchairs exploring the bustling city centre with its historic architecture and Swiss flags. The atmosphere is lively and inclusive, with a sense of community and accessibility.

Barrier-Free Bern

Autumnal Bern glows in the sun, the Aare flows calmly beneath the iconic skyline framed by the red and gold leaves - a moment of picturesque peace and beauty.

City tours for the blind and visually-impaired

Three puffins stand close together on a wooden beam, surrounded by delicate flowers and grasses, two of them almost touching, a picture of sociable bird life.

Bern Animal Park, Dählhölzli + BearPark

The picture shows the outdoor ambience of the Altes Tramdepot restaurant at dusk. Warm lights shine over the terrace, where people sit and relax while chatting and eating. The atmosphere is cosy and inviting.

Restaurant Altes Tramdepot

A colourful, life-size giraffe sculpture stands in front of the imposing Stadttheater Bern. It provides a playful contrast to the classic architectural style of the theatre, which radiates elegance and tradition. With its colourful design, the giraffe brings cheerfulness and creativity to the scene, a symbol of the diversity and innovation that take place in this cultural centre.

Bühnen Bern (Bernese Stages)

The picture shows the sunny outdoor area of the Museum of Communication, where bright red chairs are scattered in a green garden. The quiet, relaxed place invites visitors to linger. In the background is an installation with a rotating neon sign.

Museum of Communication

Biererlebnisse

The photo shows a group of people sitting around a table in a bright room with windows, with the words "BRAUEREI" on a pane of glass in the background. They are obviously tasting different beers and engrossed in a sociable conversation. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and the group seems to be enjoying the moment together.

City tour "Bernese Beertour"

The photo shows two women following the Berner Biertour die Fübi edition; one is holding a bottle of beer and a programme booklet, while the other is smiling and looking directly into the camera. They are dressed in summery clothes and appear relaxed and interested. Another person, the city guide, can be seen in the foreground with his back to the camera.

City tour "(Guilty) Pleasure - served with an after-work beer"

The photo shows a cheerful group of people in a bar, drinking and tasting beer together and chatting animatedly. The setting is warm and inviting, with natural light streaming through the windows creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere as they raise a glass and enjoy each other's company.

The Best Beer Places in Bern

A range of freshly tapped beers is ready to be shared in convivial company, a symbol of friendship and enjoyment in a cosy brewery atmosphere.

Brewing beer together at the "Alten Tramdepot"

The picture shows a convivial group of people of different ages around a large cauldron hanging over an open fire. One man is presenting a picture while the others are relaxed, listening and holding drinks, suggesting a cosy atmosphere at an outdoor event.

Brewing at the castle

Traditions and customs

The image captures an intense moment of a wrestling match, with two men in the heat of battle, surrounded by an enthusiastic audience. Sawdust swirls around them, emphasising the dynamism and excitement of the sport.

Bernisch-Kantonales Schwingfest (Bern’s Cantonal Wrestling Festival)

The picture shows a traditional cattle drive in a picturesque rural area. Men and women lead lovingly decorated cows through a sunlit street. The atmosphere is festive and peaceful, filled with pride and a sense of community.

Alpine Cattle Descent – When the Summer in the Alps Comes to an End

The picture shows a group of football players and a coach hugging and cheering. It is the German national team at the "Miracle of Bern" after winning the final of the 1954 World Cup.

Das Wunder von Bern (The Miracle of Bern)

A colourful wreath of onions adorns the picture, artfully decorated with autumnal flowers, a symbol of the traditional Zibelemärit in Bern, the lively and warm atmosphere of the market in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Berner Zibelemärit (Onion Market)

Water activities

A group of cheerful people and a dog swim and float on an inflatable boat on a river, against the backdrop of an impressive urban backdrop, conveying a sense of freedom and summer fun.

The picture shows a summer scene in Bern with the Bundeshaus in the background. The lively Aare flows through lush greenery and people enjoy the water, creating a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere.

Floating Down the Aare River: Our Three Favorite Routes

A group of four friends carry their rubber dinghy out of the clear waters of the Aare together. Their summer clothes and life jackets, the laughter and the pleasant tiredness after a day on the river paint a picture full of friendship and leisure fun in the beautiful river landscape.

The Ultimate Aare Rafting Guide

A bright orange lifebuoy lies ready on the worn wooden jetty that juts out into the deep blue water. The sun caresses the water and the lifebuoy, which promises safety as a silent sentinel. A reassuring image that captures both the calm strength of the water and the promise of help and protection.

Two friends sit at the edge of the water in the Marzili pool, laughing and sharing a relaxed conversation, while the magnificent Federal Palace towers above them. A picture of summertime carefreeness and togetherness in Bern.

Bern’s outdoor swimming pools

The picture shows an energetic moment in an outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by a green landscape. Two teenagers perform impressive jumps from the diving tower while other bathers look on relaxed, creating a cheerful and exuberant summer atmosphere.

Outdoor Pools around Bern

An idyllic river landscape with an old stone bridge. Two people on a stand-up paddleboard enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the water, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.

The Prettiest Bathing Spots in Bern

A man with a sunny smile sits on the riverbank in the centre of Langenthal while talking to a woman in bright yellow. With her back to the viewer, they share a seemingly cheerful and light-hearted conversation.

Excursion along the water in Langenthal

Two women relax on the banks of the Emme, with Burgdorf Castle towering majestically in the background. The natural beauty of the place invites you to linger and creates an atmosphere of serenity and enjoyment.

Excursion along the water in Burgdorf

Against the historic backdrop of the Bundesplatz in Bern, two women and a man enjoy themselves in the splashing water feature, their faces filled with joy. It is a lively, joyful moment in the centre of the city.

Excursion along the water in Bern

Parks

The photo shows Gurten Park, nestled in lush greenery, with an elegant building at its centre. The mood is idyllic and tranquil, with a picturesque mountain backdrop that conveys an atmosphere of natural beauty and peace.

The Gurten, Bern’s Local Mountain

A soft autumn light embraces the city of Bern, with the characteristic silhouette of the cathedral rising elegantly above the colourful trees and the calm Aare, conveying a sense of peace and timeless beauty.

The photo shows two people taking a walk through the Botanical Gardens in Bern.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Bern

A sunrise over the picturesque landscape on the Bütschelegg in the Gantrisch Nature Park with mountains in the background, golden light floods the scene. In the foreground are trees with autumn leaves, and fields and forests stretch out in the valley.

Gantrisch Nature Park

A family experiences a moment of wonder and joy under blossoming cherry trees, with a view of historic Bern in the background.

Cherry Blossoms at the Rose Garden

Das Bild zeigt eine Person im Rollstuhl und eine stehende Person an einem Aufzug eines modernen Bahnhofs. Die Szene strahlt Inklusivität und Alltag aus, betont durch die kühle Architektur und das natürliche Tageslicht.

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