One Day In Bern Itinerary (Visit Landmarks & Scenic Spots)
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Let me give you a detailed Bern itinerary, should you decide to spend one day in this city. It’s focused on the architectural attractions and spots where you can admire the city’s architecture from different perspectives.

1st Destination: Bundeshaus
Let’s kick off the list of things to do in Bern for this one-day itinerary with the Bundeshaus or the Federal Palace of Switzerland. In my opinion, Bundeshaus is a key reason why anyone interested in history should visit Bern when in Switzerland. It’s the best place to learn about Switzerland’s history and politics, giving you a real look at how the Swiss Government operates.


2nd Destination: Käfigturm
Let’s say you arrive at Bern for the first time without any research beforehand; I think your first impression of Bern will make you believe that remarkable medieval buildings await you in the city.
Well, if that happened, what you have in mind is right. Because Bern’s important medieval structures are preserved together with the overall architecture of the old city. And whether you are from Bahnhof or Bundeshaus, the first notable medieval building (and the closest) you can see in Bern is Käfigturm. It is a 13th-century tower, now used to provide time to anyone passing by Bärenplatz, Spitalgasse, and Marktgasse.


3rd Destination: Marktgasse
I think there are three beautiful streets in Bern you shouldn’t miss on your one-day visit. They are Marktgasse, Kramgasse, and Junkerngasse.
Marktgasse, in particular, is a must-see as it offers not just one, but many photo opportunities along its length. It has arcades on both sides, is home to two of the most beautiful fountains, and the buildings in Marktgasse are adorned with stuccoes and beautiful symbolic figures. Essentially, Marktgasse is the main street of Innere Neustadt. You can find it behind Käfigturm if you are currently in the Aussere Neustadt or Barenplatz.


4th Destination: Kornhausplatz
The old city of Bern has several squares, but among them, Kornhausplatz is the one I find most interesting to explore. While wandering in Kornhausplatz, you’ll see a fascinating fountain and buildings with beautiful neoclassical architecture. Additionally, Zytglogge and its gorgeous western facade dominate the square.


5th Destination: Zytglogge
Among the beautiful landmarks in Bern, I find Zytglogge the most spectacular. Simply put, it is truly a spectacle! I believe it is also one of the highlights of visiting Bern. In fact, a trip to Bern would be incomplete without seeing Zytglogge. Like Käfigturm, Zytglogge is a clock tower that once served as Bern’s gate and defensive structure. It dates back to the 13th century, but its appearance today is not exactly as it was before. Nevertheless, Zytglogge remains a defensive architectural masterpiece, exhibiting elements of both gothic and baroque styles.


6th Destination: Kramgasse
If you’ve made it to Zytglogge, you’re now also in Kramgasse, which is one of the most picturesque streets in Bern. Kramgasse is the old city’s most historically significant street, as it was the center of urban life in Bern until the industrial revolution. Like Marktgasse, Kramgasse has beautiful fountains and arcades on both sides that are absolutely enticing to photograph. The late gothic facades of the houses on this street are the little gems you’ll find in Bern.


7th Destination: Einsteinhaus
The Einstein House (Einsteinhaus, Kramgasse No. 49) is a simple yet unique attraction in Bern, Switzerland. It is the apartment where Albert Einstein and his family lived from 1903 to 1905.
What’s special about Einstein’s house in Bern, aside from the fact that Einstein lived there, is the apartment itself. It is preserved in such a way that it can make you feel as if it’s the early 20th century and Einstein was there just yesterday. This is evident from the appearance and layout of the furniture, glassware, and photographs inside the apartment. As well as on the crib of Einstein’s baby, their sewing kit, his wife’s clothes, and more.


8th Destination: Rathaus
For architecture enthusiasts, a visit to Rathaus, the town hall of Bern, is also a must. Like the Bundeshaus, Rathaus is a politically significant landmark in Bern, adorned with symbolic architectural details—little gems to discover while wandering through Bern. The facade, decorated with the beautiful shields of Bern’s 26 former districts, indeed testifies to its importance.


The itinerary details for Rathaus are merged with the Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul’s. See the next section.
9th Destination: Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
When visiting a European city, one thing is certain: you will encounter several churches, not just one. Bern is no exception. The city is home to a number of churches, including the Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. As a Catholic, I’ve seen many churches in my lifetime. I can assure you that each one is unique in its appearance, despite some similarities. This holds true, but somehow the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is different, making it worth seeing even for a short while.



10th Destination: Bern Cathedral
Loving architecture and history, I find the Bern Cathedral to be the most worthwhile visit among all the tourist attractions in Bern. Here, unique artworks, stunning architecture, and scenic views await! If you’re fond of introspection, you’ll definitely appreciate the tranquility of the Bern Cathedral.
Dating back to the 15th century, the Bern Cathedral is the oldest church in Bern and, in my opinion, the most beautiful! Even before you reach the church, you will already get an idea of its beauty as you see its angelic spire, peeking above the buildings in the old city.


11th Destination: Bear Park and Bear Pit
One of the most interesting parks Bern is the Bear Park. Its a culturally significant place, offering a scenic views of the old town’s skyline. Culturally significant because bears live in the park. They are the animals that symbolize Bern, hence the city’s name. The relationship between the bears and Bern dates back to the city’s founding.
You might be thinking, ‘Is it dangerous to walk in a park where bears roam around?’ Of course not, the bears are in their enclosure (known as the Bear Pit). You are completely safe to visit the park and watch them.


12th Destination: Rose Garden
The Rose Garden is the ideal place to conclude your one-day trip to Bern. A visit to the Rose Garden is like receiving a recap of your entire day in Bern, as it offers an overlooking view of the old city. “That’s where I’ve been,” you’ll say!


Go Beyond Bern
If you’re in Bern, some of Switzerland’s most beautiful destinations are just an hour or less away. Thun, the gateway to the Bernese Oberland, and the Jungfrau Region, one of the top destinations in the Swiss Alps, are both an easy train ride away. Whether you’re staying in Bern or just passing through, these destinations are well worth adding to your plans. See for yourself how amazing they are!
For more ideas on where to go in Bern and Switzerland, check out the resources below to make the most of your trip.
Planning a trip? From great hotel deals to skip-the-line tickets and affordable eSim to cheap rentals, check out the travel resources I recommend and use for a smooth and memorable trip.
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Resources
So, that’s it! That’s my suggestion on how to spend a day in Bern in the best way possible. However, I should mention that this isn’t the only way to enjoy Bern. The city offers special tours, fun games, and relaxing activities that you might want to explore.
You also check my 2-day Bern itinerary for more ideas of what to do in Bern. And if you think that 1 day or 2 days are more than enough to see Bern, here’s my half-a-day Bern itinerary. Not sure how many days to visit Bern? Check my article How Long To Spend In Bern. I hope these posts help! 🙂
Here are the links to the official websites of the tourist attractions and landmarks featured in my one-day Bern itinerary.
- Bundeshaus visiting information
- Switzerland’s Political Forum (Käfigturm’s visiting information)
- Zytglogge tour information and schedule
- Einstein’s House visiting information
- Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul (official website)
- Bern Cathedral visiting information
- History of Bern and Bears

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