1. Zytglogge (Clock Tower)

This medieval clock tower puts on a charming mechanical show every hour with dancing figurines and a golden rooster.
Insider Tip: Arrive 5 minutes before the hour and position yourself on the eastern side for the best view of the mechanisms; afterward, book the tower’s internal tour through the tourist office to see the 15th-century clockwork up close.

2. Bern Münster (Cathedral)

Switzerland’s tallest cathedral spire offers panoramic views after climbing 344 steps to the top.
Insider Tip: Visit late afternoon when the stained glass windows cast colorful patterns across the stone floor, and check for the hidden carving of a priest with devils in his beard on the main portal.

3. Bear Park (Bärenpark)

Home to Bern’s symbolic animals, this modern riverside habitat allows bears to roam across natural terraced landscapes.
Insider Tip: The bears are most active in early morning or before feeding time (around 2:30pm); visit the lower level viewing area where fewer tourists venture for remarkable close-up opportunities.

4. Einstein Museum and Historical Museum

Explore the life of Albert Einstein and his revolutionary theories in the city where he developed them.
Insider Tip: The lesser-visited basement contains Einstein’s original manuscript pages with calculations for his Theory of Relativity; ask staff to point out his personal annotations.

5. Rosengarten (Rose Garden)

This elevated park offers classic views of the Old Town peninsula with thousands of roses, iris, and rhododendrons.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded restaurant pavilion and instead pack a picnic to enjoy on the eastern edge benches where locals gather at sunset when the Old Town glows golden.

6. Bundeshaus (Federal Palace)

Switzerland’s parliament building features impressive domes, stained glass, and symbolic artwork.
Insider Tip: When parliament isn’t in session, free tours are available, but the real secret is the rooftop terrace access—just ask the security staff at the west entrance for directions.

7. Aare River Swimming

Join locals in floating down the turquoise Aare River, an essential Bernese summer experience.
Insider Tip: Enter at Eichholz and exit at Marzili using the metal stairways; wear water shoes for better grip and store belongings in the free waterproof bags available at information kiosks.

8. Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts)

Switzerland’s oldest art museum houses works from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces.
Insider Tip: Tuesday evenings offer free admission after 5pm and fewer crowds; head directly to the remarkable Hodler collection on the second floor, where the artist’s powerful Alpine landscapes capture Switzerland’s essence.

9. Old Town Arcades

Six kilometers of covered walkways (lauben) protect shoppers from rain and snow year-round.
Insider Tip: Explore the cellars beneath Kramgasse where small wooden doors lead to underground shops and bars; the wine cellar at number 33 offers free tastings of local wines every Thursday evening.

10. Paul Klee Center

Renzo Piano’s wavelike architectural masterpiece houses the world’s largest collection of works by Paul Klee.
Insider Tip: Take bus #12 to visit, but get off one stop early at “Schosshalde” for a spectacular approach walk along the sculpture path; inside, the children’s interactive area is equally entertaining for adults and rarely crowded.