Located along the Aare River, Bern is a charming and easily navigable city packed with things to do and see. The Essential Free Tour of Bern is the perfect introduction to the city, enabling visitors to absorb all of its beauty whilst diving into its long and extensive history and some of its best kept secrets. The tour will focus mainly on the UNESCO-designated Old City of Bern around Bundesplatz, Bern’s lively main square. Constructed in the 12th century, the Old City is an exceptional example of medieval town planning and undoubtedly enchants all visitors. Your guide will inform you of the city’s origins and of the mythology behind its name. Not far from here, guests will have the opportunity to see the incredible Federal Palace, home to the Swiss Parliament since 1902.

Bern is known as the "City of Fountains", with over 100 fountains in the Old City alone. Guests will have great fun spotting as many as possible along the Essential Free Tour. Some of the most notable (and intriguing!) include: The Fountain of Justice, The Child Eater Fountain, and the Zahringen Fountain. These fountains have been an important water source for the city since medieval times. As guests stroll through the old city, they will come across Bern’s emblematic clock tower, which has been keeping time for the city for over 800 years. It also has a 15th century astronomical clock! Guests will also find Albert Einstein’s House in the old city. This is the place where Einstein wrote the Annus Mirabilis papers that presented his groundbreaking Theory of Relativity and changed modern physics forever.

Along the way, tourists can find the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Bern. This gothic masterpiece is the tallest cathedral in Switzerland and has the largest bell! Eventually, the tour will arrive at the stunning riverside of the Lower Gate Bridge and Nydegg Bridge. Here you’ll be able to spend time taking some unforgettable photos. Across from the bridge is the famous Rose Garden and the surprising Bear Pit. This special place has been home to the bears that have given Bern its name since medieval times! It offers excellent views of Bern and is the perfect place to relax and rest your feet. During the course of the tour, please feel free to ask your guide as many questions as you like. Your guide will also give you plenty of tips!