Switzerland is a rugged, adventurous, and truly mesmerising nation in Central Europe that hosts many rivers, towns, and the lofty Alps. The capital city of Switzerland is Bern, its amazing attractions can be found in its city’s medieval districts.
The nation is renowned for its trekking trails and mountain ranges. Switzerland does not lack in attractions, even though it may seem far less in size in comparison to other European nations and is sometimes neglected when choosing a destination. You must visit it at least once in your lifetime, whether it is the breathtaking mountain scenery, the heart-pounding sports, or the mouthwatering cuisine.
If in case you have not chosen a location to enjoy winter yet. Look nowhere else. Even though snowboarding and skiing are ideal in Switzerland, there is always a tonne of other options. Here is a little something unique.
Why not camp in a barn to appreciate Swiss essence? This experience may be found on 200 farms across the nation. Kids will have the opportunity of a lifetime to snuggle with some incredibly adorable domesticated animals, nearly making them forget about all their fears, making it a particularly wonderful experience.
Of course, the pets are delighted to spend a few nights in their cabins with humans. You will get to experience a tranquil, rustic aspect of Switzerland which you surely won’t soon forget.
Just looking at the pristine freshwater bodies and snow-capped mountain ranges might make you drool. What precisely do you comprehend about Switzerland? This tiny nation, which is tucked away in the middle of Europe, has a vibrant but neutral past.
If you are moving there, why not learn a little more about the glistening alpine country. In case you are visiting here for the first time, have a look at what to Bring to Switzerland in summer or Winter.
Switzerland is among the tallest altitude nations in Europe since the Alps encircle a large portion of the nation. There are exactly 208 peaks in Switzerland that have been discovered and rise higher than 3,000 meters in totality. The only downfall is that Switzerland has no shoreline since it is fully landlocked. Rather, Germany, France, Austria, Italy, and Liechtenstein form its five external borders.
Nevertheless, the weather in southern Switzerland is primarily warm and humid. The Italian shore is therefore not far from the Swiss border if you require some last-minute strong winds if you go backpacking and want more information from the locals, have a small chat with any one of them as the swiss citizens here will offer all the help you may need.
The capital of Switzerland holds a lot of swiss history that you will be amazed to explore. If you are contemplating a move, explore Switzerland a good place to live?
Although the swiss constitution does not mention the same. Many foreign visitors are shocked to learn that Bern is Switzerland’s “capital” when they arrive. Let’s find out more about the capital city of Switzerland.
Bern – The De Facto Capital, Official Capital, and the Federal City
Bern is a stunning, serene city with wonderful attractions and accommodations. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its magnificent historic city and extraordinarily lengthy antiquity.
Many tourists overlook the capital city of Switzerland because they believe Zurich to be the nation’s capital when it is Bern. It has been rated as being one of the top 10 finest living standard cities on the planet. Although it has a repute for being little, it is Switzerland’s fourth-largest city.
On a mountain near the Aare River, the historic town was built in the twelfth century. Sandstone granite was used to build various structures over time, including some arches which date back to the fifteenth century, basins from the 1600s, and noble homes from the late 1700s.
Even in the present, where you would still find Baroque designs, Gothic cathedrals, and cobbled streets, it demonstrates ongoing development. The powerful medieval motif will make you feel as though you are the main character of a fairy tale as soon as you enter.
Numerous free activities are available in the city, such as swimming without any cost in the Aare River, which is open to the public or you can also ascend the church. Out from the central railway station, you may ride bicycles for free across Old Town thanks to Bern Roll.
The issue of a country’s capital resurfaced with the establishment of Switzerland’s federal union in the year 1848. A vast majority of the new central parliament’s senators chose Bern over Lucerne and Zurich on November 28, 1848. Recognizing the value of moderation, the lawmakers were careful not to overvalue Zurich, which was recognized as the country’s economic powerhouse.
Gradually expanding its dominance through the conquest of neighbouring lands, the capital city of Switzerland eventually emerged as an autonomous state that joined the Swiss Confederacy in 1353 and quickly rose to the top.
The largely wood-built city of Bern was destroyed by fire in 1405, and it was then reconstructed in sandstone. The centre (Old Bern) has remained mostly untouched from that period, despite the outlying metropolis having undergone significant modernization.
What to do in the Capital City of Switzerland?
Many people are astounded by Bern’s backdrop on the very first occasion they arrive. The Aare River flows through a canyon on three edges, while the Swiss capital is situated on a sandstone cliff.
The capital city of Switzerland is connected to the higher terrain on the bay side as well as to the more recent areas of the city by high-level crossings. The wealth of Bern’s residents in the periods of 1700s and 1800s is reflected in the businesses and homes, which include street-level galleries and towering rooftops.
And because the old town has been so well maintained and has been incorporated into modern life, UNESCO designated it a Heritage Site. The Summertime and Winters Jazz Festivals, the Gurten Festival, and the Buskers Festival, which takes place in mid-July, are just a few of the year-round cultural festivals in Bern.
Top Things to do in The Capital City of Switzerland
Tourists can enjoy StreetSide touring at the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower with performing characters, as well as the city’s many galleries and theatres, which cater to a variety of themes. A few of the top things to do in the capital city of Switzerland are:
1. Wander in Botanical Garden
It is worthwhile to visit the stunning botanical garden. Even those who don’t think they are fascinated by flowers and plants will be impressed. There are various small areas throughout the region. With a particular emphasis on Swiss flora, the Alpinum concentrates on alpine environments that are home to highland species from Asia, Europe, and North America.
A fascinating exhibit on critically endangered is also present. Three other structures encompass the botany and climates of the deserts, the tropics, and the subtropics. The Palm House is intriguing because it emphasizes tropical flora that produces foods like coconuts, bananas, and caffeine. The Botanical Garden can promise you a trip across the globe in time-lapse.
This paradise in the heart of the city leads tourists into the Alps, then provides a better sight of the Palm, Mediterranean, cactus, wildflowers, and grassland flora then entice them to continue exploring.
Different patterns, smells, and hues of the Botanical Garden are a treat to the eyes. Numerous medicinal herbs and hundreds of other plant species from all across the world have made this place their home, whether it is in the open area or in the 6 domes that guests can enter in the heart of the area.
2. Stroll Through Old Town
The Bern Old Town more so than justifies its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient town, which is perched on a hill and maintains almost all of its medieval charm yet, is flanked by the gorgeous blue shores of the Aare River on 3 edges.
The pavements that round the cobblestone streets are enclosed arches that extend for kilometres. Stores, cafes, bookshops, and cafes are located on the lower floors of the towers, while residences are located on the top floors.
Several of the top attractions and activities to do are situated in this historic neighbourhood, including several Aare bridges, municipal fountains, historic monuments, towers, and the renowned Clock Tower. A few evenings can be gladly spent by just taking strolls in the ancient town.
The old town includes all of the historically significant urban buildings from the 1200s to the 1400s centuries and also 19th-century improvements like well-preserved piers and big public sculptures. As a result, it still has all the necessary components to convey its outstanding universal significance.
Even though preservation efforts for the Old City in the early 20th century were primarily focused on the exterior presentation of the structures (brick buildings, rooftops), a large percentage of the heritage homes from various eras have kept their original interior frameworks, and the ultimate ancient layout has been preserved. The city centre currently exhibits both vibrant and modern urban activities and good condition preservation of the monuments.
3. Tour the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum, a section of the University of Bern, was established in the year 1832 and has approximately more than 200 recreations, along with a 200-year-old Barry, a conserved St. Bernard dog that was rescued. Even though the figurines are somewhat antiquated, they are nonetheless remarkable.
Observing how galleries were built in the middle of the eighteenth century is enlightening. Both the remains from The Big Bone Show and even a few of the conserved big games are amazing. The Treasures of the Earth exhibit, which features Alpine gold, meteorite, and enormous gemstones, is not to be missed.
The entomology and evolutionary exhibitions are very instructive for people of all ages. It is an Einstein Museum with an enormous collection of artefacts from the Stone Age to the present day related to anthropology and archaeology, reaching more than 50,000 exhibits.
The earliest exhibition in the capital city of Switzerland has achieved fame recently through hosting intriguing concept displays, including the most recent one, “Apocalypse – End Without End.” The widely infamous rescue dog Barry, a St. Bernard who just had an extensive exhibition devoted to him, is among the museum’s most well-known displays.
Another feature is the enormous Planggenstock gems that are now always on exhibit. If you want to visit somewhere with your kids or family, the NMBE is a community museum that offers a variety of events for families and kids.
Additionally, it conducts extraordinary events for locals and tourists alike, including “The bar of dead animals,” which is a segment of the “Help, it lives!” tv series. The gallery’s historical exhibits of domestic and exotic animals, which are uncommon in Europe, are what give it its distinguished global reputation.
4. Visit the Main Market of the Capital City of Switzerland
The following lovely excursion is a must to add to your roster of the best things to explore in the capital city of Switzerland. You will reach Bern’s central market in only five minutes as you continue to stroll down the Nydeggbrucke footbridge.
The areas of the old town are as such that every place you visit will be interconnected in some way. Bus services and subway lines are used to identify the major street. Watch out for buses or trams approaching from behind to stay safe, because of the congested pedestrian paths here, which are frequently invaded by vendors on the sidewalk. As a result, you might occasionally need to cross the major street.
Do not however worry; walking is still quite easy everywhere. When it comes to the stores, every conceivable variety is available. Everything from suede and craft goods to pricey and branded items, handbags, wallets, jewellery, Swiss cutlery, and others.
You can discover both, the things that you need daily and things that might catch a tourist’s eye. On this route, there are occasionally fast food joints, food outlets, and chain restaurants. The architecture on both sides is distinctly European. And in between, there are also lovely water fountains, another hallmark of the lovely capital city of Switzerland.
5. Swim in the Aare River
The Aare River, a stunning stream of blue waters with clear, sparkling waters, is inextricably linked to Bern and has influenced both the city’s culture and its surroundings.
Although the riverside is beautiful all year round and a lovely area to meander along as a new layer of snow covers the city, it comes alive in the summertime. The Aare is where the residents go swimming as soon as the climate warms.
Along the river’s shores are also several open swimming pools, notably the well-known Marzili aquatic complex, which has several swimming pools and stunning views of the Capitol Building. In the Aare, kayaking and rafting are both popular activities you can take part in, and from the river, there is a lot to view.
A common alternative is to take the tram to Thun and then float down the river till you return to Bern if you are not prepared for a big challenge like the Uttiger Schwelle cascades.
The Nydeggbrücke footbridge, Bern’s most well-known and cherished bridge that links the ancient as well as the urban sections of the city and provides fairy-tale vistas over red roofs, is the ideal place to go for sights of the Aare.
A few other things you can explore are the federal parliament building, the Swiss plateau, the Swiss Alps, Swiss cantons, lake Geneva, and many more.
A Few Mind-Blowing Facts About the Capital City of Switzerland
- The capital city of Switzerland is referred to as the “city of fountains” by locals. The majority of the city’s well over 100 fountains are rooted in the vintage old town. Many of the fountains date back several decades, but they are still in full working order. The majority of Bern’s fountains provide drinkable, water for free.
- The Zytglogge is arguably Bern’s most well-known monument. Since its initial erection, this early 1300s clock tower has functioned as a watch tower, cultural monument, bell tower, and monastery. The Zytglogge is now only a clock tower, but you may take a tour and view the workings of the system inside.
- During his time in Bern, Albert Einstein resided in a flat that is now an exhibit. The flat on the second level has furnishings and accents from the 19th century and is in good condition. A complete excursion of Bern must include a visit to Einsteinhaus, ranked amongst the most well-loved tourist destinations in the city.
- Bern Minster, Switzerland’s largest church, is located in the city of Bern. While work on the cathedral’s building started in the early 1500s, it was not until the late nineteenth century that the tower’s structure was fully finished. It is a gothic-style church with a 100.6-meter-tall bell tower, and it offers the best spectacular views in the city.
- The capital city of Switzerland is home to the oldest exhibition in Switzerland. One of the top museums in the nation, the “Bern Museum of Fine Arts” was established in the late nineteenth century. The exhibition is without a doubt one of Bern’s top attractions, housing items from the Medieval Era, a display of Pablo Picasso’s artwork, and many more wonderful displays. This place is loved by the Swiss population who love to explore history.
- Bears are well-known in Bern. The city was supposedly called after a bear. The city’s pioneer, the Duke of Zähringen, is said to have sworn to title it after the first creature he came upon while hunting. That was revealed to have been a bear, and as a result, Bern was founded, also, Bern was regarded as an Italian city. The Bärengraben, the most famous city garden in Bern, is home to the named inhabitants.
- The renowned Toblerone chocolate creator, Theodor Tobler, was based in Bern. Toblerone was the very first milk chocolate with nuts and syrup to ever receive an intellectual property right when he registered the name in 1909. In addition, it is currently among the most well-known and loved Swiss sweets.
- The FIFA World Cup finals in the year 1954 were held in Bern, and it is still regarded as one of the best football games in World Cup history. Several scholars even assert that the result of the game had a long-lasting influence on Germany’s and Hungary’s subsequent histories. While Hungary was the clear favourite and thought would win, West Germany triumphed, and in Germany, the game is frequently referred to as the Miracle of Bern.
- A few of the strangest sculptures you will ever see are located in Bern. The Kindlifresserbrunnen is a sculpture that shows a monster devouring kids from a sack. It is unsettling, unsightly, and one of Switzerland’s most recognizable sights.
- German, particularly Bernese German, an Alemannic Swiss language, is the primary language of Bern. Around 10% of the inhabitants also speak French and Italian.
Food in The Capital City of Switzerland
And of course, how can you forget the most important things that make your heart happy? It is the food. A few of the things you must try are: the classic swiss cheese called Berner Alpkäse comes out from Bernese Oberland. Every summer season, full-fat fresh cow’s milk is used to make this cheesy cheese, which is flavoured with Alpine herbal ingredients that the cattle graze on. The typical ageing period is between 6 and 18 months before usage.
Another dish is the Traditional Swiss rösti that comes from Bern is called Berner rösti. The combination of chopped bacon and roughly shredded potatoes sets this style of rösti apart from traditional rösti. It is cooked with boiling bacon, butter, potato, salt, and pepper.
The Traditional Swiss festive food called Berner Platte seems to be from Bern. A sizable plate of various types of sauerkraut, beef, organ meats, potato, and bean sprouts make up this dish.
A Message to Take Away
Indeed, the mention of Switzerland makes everyone happy. Every time you would hear or see the term Switzerland, you must impulsively picture all of those beautiful landscapes, posh jewels, and decadent chocolate mousse. You may not be aware of it, but this European country is about more than just these terms.
Listed above is all the information you may need about the capital city of Switzerland, a worth visit. The official capital city designated by the Swiss confederation and the federal council packs a lot given its comparatively small size.