One reason I like Bern as a city is its underground layer. There are literally hundreds of basement stores lined up along the old town boulevards, and you can spend days (and nights) just diving into these hidden worlds down there. You will find flower shops and theatres, nightclubs and record stores, hemp shops and bakeries, bars and barbershops. My favourite basement happens to be a cinema though. Kellerkino (basement cinema) is a tiny cave with a 1.6 meter high canvas and 36 red armchairs. Claustrophobics like me perhaps should take a look into that dungeon type of cinema before buying the ticket.
But once I sit in the comfy chair and the film lights up the hall, the basement cinema turns out to be a very cozy place with a kind of familial atmosphere. Founded in 1970, the Kellerkino was the first independent cinema in the country, and until today the programme consists of cinematic avant-garde gems that wouldn't be shown on the real big screens. So even film freaks like myself will find a raw diamond in this underground spot once in a while.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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...
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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.
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"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!
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In the Zweiblatt Concept Store, you will find many different things. From colorful socks and trendy clothing to jewelry, mugs and drinking bottles.
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In addition to falafel, there is a flatbread with halloumi, makali (grilled vegetables) or shawarma (chicken), as well as tabbouleh and hummus.
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Located in a posh residential area, kind of hidden behind trees and bushes, Egelsee is a calm piece of nature to unwind your mind and observe nature.
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The owner (from California) wanted to bring yummy, healthy Californian-Mexican soul food from back home to Switzerland. And let me tell you, he did!
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70 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 70 Insider Tips from our local Spotters