Visiting Bundeshaus In Bern: What To See Inside and Outside
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When it comes to architecture, Bern—for sure—is Switzerland’s most beautiful city.
Its historic city center, a UNESCO heritage site, is filled with gorgeous buildings and picturesque streets that evoke a sense of time travel. The design and construction of the city’s medieval architecture impressed me. A lot.
The skyline of the Old City of Bern that is perched on a hilly peninsula overlooking the turquoise Aare River? It seems to say: take a photo of me. Visit the Rose Garden, its viewpoint, during sundown, and you’ll witness the scene.
Amidst the panorama, three brightly lit landmarks should quickly catch your eye: the Bern Cathedral, Zytglogge, and Bundeshaus, also known as the Federal Palace of Switzerland. Today, we’ll talk about the latter.
Good to know
Bundeshaus — this 60-meter tall neoclassical building in the western part of Bern’s Old City is an amazing place, worth a quick visit whether you’re planning a two-day stay in the city, a one-day journey, or just a half-day trip.
Outside Bundeshaus
When you arrive at Bundesplatz or Federal Square, where Bundeshaus is, I bet you’ll be even more surprised because more beautiful things await you there.
For example, there is the Swiss National Bank. It is the building is to the east of Bundesplatz which also boasts marvelous architecture.
Depending on the season or weather, you may also find delightful scenes of children playing at the water fountains in the middle of the square. If you plan a short visit to Bern, a quick stop and sightseeing in Bundesplatz might be enough.
However, do not stop there.
I suggest you explore more of the Bundeshaus, especially if you love architecture, enjoy photography, or like seeing beautiful views. It shouldn’t take you longer than 30 minutes to discover the best parts of Bundeshaus from the outside.
Parts of the Bundeshaus
Inside Bundeshaus (Tour Summary)
A glimpse to the interiors of Bundeshaus
As far as I know, you cannot wander and explore the building alone.
It is only possible if you join a guided tour offered by the parliament’s office. The guided tours are only available when the parliament is not in session.
Once again, the nice thing about the tour is that you can join for free! The visitor’s entrance is located on Bundesterrasse.
The tour is a 60-minute educational tour, providing insights into Switzerland’s history, politics, and culture.
Look at the links at the end of this post for the schedule and other visiting information. I suggest joining the Parliament Building tour, especially if you’re curious and into architecture like me.
Should you decide to visit the Bundeshaus and want to discover more of its architecture, purpose, and history, but find there are no available tours inside the Bundeshaus, your alternative is to hire a guide to have everything explained to you. You can also ask the guide to tour you around other parts of Bern, not only the Bundeshaus.
Did you know you can already find some interesting things at the visitor’s entrance? The domed hall is jaw-dropping!
The most interesting item I found at the visitor’s entrance are the:
- exact copy of Switzerland’s original Federal constitution (1848) and the
- first original map of Switzerland behind the reception desk.
As far as I know, the map dates back to the 19th century and has a scale of 1:100,000.
When you enter the Dome Hall, you’ll immediately see the 24-ton monument of the three confederates. It depicts the mythical alliance that formed the first Swiss Confederacy.
It is only the first of many fascinating symbolisms inside the Domed Hall. In front of the mythical alliance monument, four statues of mercenaries stand. They symbolize the four language regions of Switzerland.
More interesting objects await, like the glass dome and the images detailing it.
To maintain an element of surprise, I’ll refrain from detailing them all. But, again, I recommend you join the tour because you’ll also visit the Council of States Chamber and the National Council Chamber.
You might find these interesting!
More Information
That’s all I can share with you about the Bundeshaus. If you want to learn more about the Bundeshaus, this is where you can find facts and important information to use when visiting the landmark.
- Numerical facts about Bern
- Facts about Bundeshaus
- General visiting information/contact for Parliament Building tours
- FAQs Parliament Building tours
Plan Your Trip Now
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In addition to the Bundeshaus and what I’ve already mentioned, there are more interesting landmarks to be found in other beautiful cities in Switzerland.
Take Lucerne for example, it’s home to the Chapel Bridge, the most iconic bridge in all of Switzerland. Lucerne also boasts the Jesuit Church, arguably the most stunning Baroque church in Switzerland. Be sure to check them out, especially if you’re on an architecture tour of Switzerland.
If adventure and nature are more your style, the Jungfrau Region is a must-visit! Lastly, if you’re wondering how to explore Bern, Lucerne, and the Jungfrau Region in an extended weekend trip or a week-long journey, consider following a 4-day or 6-day Switzerland itinerary.
