One good thing about Bern is that I can spend the afternoon in a noisy urban hipster bar or in the busy arcades downtown — and minutes later start a campfire in the woods, take a swim in the river or feed ducks at Wohlensee.
The latter is one of my favorite hideouts in summer. It is actually our beloved river, Aare, that slows down to become a very long lake because of a dam a couple of kilometers outside the city. The lake with its bays and beaches, its rural surroundings, and diverse wildlife is very popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts, especially stand-up paddlers (there are paddles and kayaks for rent).
Actually, I discovered the lake only a couple of years ago. Back then, a tiny food truck opened an ambitious little pop-up restaurant right under the gorgeous Wohleibrücke. Nowadays, the bar Bogen 17 is no longer a well-kept secret — it's quite a popular green oasis for day-trippers, locals, urban crowds, and nature lovers alike.
Depending on how long I want to stay, I take the bus (Lines 100, 101, 107 to Hinterkappelen from the upper floor of Bern main station) or the bicycle. The latter takes you on a phenomenal bicycle path from the Länggasse neighborhood through the forests downhill to the lake. The way back (the path to Köniz is recommended) is breathtaking - because it's beautiful, but also because it's uphill all the way.
Find your way with 72 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Fähre Bodenacker is a ferry upstream the river Aare just outside Bern, where there's also a nice family restaurant, right in some beautiful nature...
by
It is like home beyond home: perfectly suitable for burying yourself in a book, a good cup of tea or a relaxing evening beyond your four walls.
by
The Veielihubel is a great place to have a quick recharge on a busy day and relish the quiet, the sun or the view – whatever you need at the time.
by
And unlike other vintage stores, everything is curated by the team of The New New Bern themselves. Their handpicked selection is hip, urban and always in style. There will definitely be no holes in the clothes.
by
If you think the octagonal building – the first gas tank in the city – is already spectacular from the outside, wait till you see what is inside.
by
This is not your casual flower shop. You could easily miss the stairs that lead to the cellar, where they create the most beautiful bouquets of Bern...
by
They have finger-licking-good desserts and great coffee. I order an apple pie – oh, but let me tell you, it is no ordinary apple pie, it is apple heaven.
by
"Kellerkino" Bern is a basement cinema with a familial atmosphere. Founded in 1970, it was first independent cinema in the country. Talk about underground!
by
"Monbijoupark" is a green oasis in the middle of the city of Bern - you can come here very easily by public transport or on foot!
by
In the Zweiblatt Concept Store, you will find many different things. From colorful socks and trendy clothing to jewelry, mugs and drinking bottles.
by
In addition to falafel, there is a flatbread with halloumi, makali (grilled vegetables) or shawarma (chicken), as well as tabbouleh and hummus.
by
72 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 72 Insider Tips