Bern

Bern is Switzerland's de facto capital and a compact, walkable city wrapped by a bend in the turquoise Aare River. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is famous for roughly 6 km of sandstone arcades, medieval fountains and a skyline dominated by the Münster cathedral spire.

Founded in 1191 by Duke Berthold V of Zähringen, Bern grew from a fortified trading settlement into a political centre. Key landmarks include the Zytglogge clock tower with its animated figures, the late-Gothic Bern Minster, the Federal Palace where the Swiss government meets, and the Bear Park, which keeps the city's heraldic animal beside the river.

Different neighbourhoods give the capital distinct moods. The arcaded Old Town and Matte district sit along the Aare, while Kirchenfeld holds major museums such as the Zentrum Paul Klee, Kunstmuseum Bern and the Bern Historical Museum. Länggasse and Breitenrain-Lorraine are more residential and local, with cafés, markets and independent shops.

As the seat of the federal government, Bern hosts embassies, public institutions and international organisations, alongside a strong watchmaking and technology sector. Its calendar includes the Zibelemärit onion market, summer swimming in the Aare, the Gurten Festival and seasonal Christmas markets, while traditional dishes such as Berner Platte sit alongside contemporary restaurants and cafés.

Bern matters for both leisure and business travellers because it combines UNESCO heritage, efficient rail connections and a central location. It is a relaxed base for exploring the Bernese Oberland and a practical destination for government, diplomacy and corporate meetings.