Best Scenic Walks in Bern 2026 Old City

The Old City of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage site that rewards every curious traveler on foot. You should start your journey at the main station and walk toward the famous Zytglogge clock tower. This route takes you through six kilometers of covered arcades that protect you from rain or sun. These stone walkways are among the longest covered shopping promenades in all of Europe today.

As you explore the Bern Old City walking routes, look for the intricate details on the medieval buildings. Many houses feature colorful flags and historic signs that tell stories of ancient guilds and local families. The cobblestone streets are mostly car-free, making it very safe for pedestrians to wander and take photos. You will find many small boutiques and basement cafes tucked away in the limestone foundations.

Walking through the lower part of the city reveals the true charm of the medieval layout. The streets narrow as you approach the Nydegg Church, which sits at the very tip of the peninsula. You can see the river from several lookout points located behind the historic houses on the south side. These paths offer a quiet escape from the busier shopping areas near the upper city center.

Plan to spend at least two hours for a thorough walk through these historic medieval streets. The terrain is mostly flat, but the cobblestones can be slippery when wet during the autumn months. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip to ensure you can enjoy the entire loop without any foot pain. The evening light creates a magical atmosphere against the yellow sandstone walls of the old buildings.

• Start at the Bahnhofplatz for easy navigation.
• Visit the Zytglogge four minutes before the hour.
• Explore the Kramgasse for the best arcade views.
• Check out the Münster terrace for a quick rest.

Relaxing Trails Along the Aare River

The Aare River flows around the city center in a tight loop of bright turquoise water. Walking along the riverbanks is a favorite activity for locals during the warm summer months in 2026. You can find easy walks along the Aare River that connect the various city districts. These paths are mostly flat and follow the natural curves of the water through lush green forests.

One popular route starts at the Marzili public baths and heads south toward the Eichholz nature reserve. This path is wide and paved, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll with friends or family. You will see many locals floating down the river in colorful rafts during the peak of summer. The sound of the rushing water provides a peaceful soundtrack for your morning or afternoon exercise.

The Matte district offers a more industrial but equally scenic riverside experience for history lovers. This area was once the heart of Bern's trade and features unique architecture right on the water. You can walk across several wooden bridges that offer great views of the city's impressive stone fortifications. Many small parks along the way provide benches where you can sit and watch the ducks swim.

Walking the full loop around the city peninsula takes approximately ninety minutes at a steady pace. You will pass under several massive bridges that connect the different levels of the city high above. These structures provide cool shade on hot days and unique perspectives for your travel photography. Keep an eye out for the small public fountains where you can refill your water bottle for free.

In the winter, these riverside paths remain open and are often cleared of snow for safe walking. The bare trees allow for better views of the Old City walls rising above the river valley. It is a quiet time to visit when the crowds are smaller and the air is crisp. Always check the weather forecast before heading out for a long walk near the water.

Panoramic Views from the Rosengarten

The Rosengarten is widely considered the most beautiful park in Bern for its incredible floral displays. It sits on a hill overlooking the entire Old City and the river loop far below. To reach the park, you must walk up a steep path from the Bear Park area. This short climb is worth the effort for the best sunset views at Rosengarten Bern you will find.

Once you reach the top, you are greeted by over two hundred varieties of blooming roses. The park also features a large pond, many benches, and a wide lawn for relaxing on sunny days. You can walk along the gravel paths that wind through the different garden sections and flower beds. The scent of the flowers is especially strong during the late spring and early summer months.

The main terrace of the Rosengarten offers a perfect view of the Bern Münster cathedral spire. You can see the snowy peaks of the Bernese Oberland mountains in the distance on clear days. This is the most popular spot in the city for taking panoramic photos of the red rooftops. Many visitors bring a book or a picnic to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere high above the traffic.

There is a high-quality restaurant located within the park that serves local Swiss dishes and coffee. It features large windows and an outdoor seating area that shares the same spectacular city views. You can enjoy a meal here after your walk while watching the sun go down over the city. The park remains open until late at night, making it a great spot for evening strolls.

Hiking the Gurten Mountain Summit

Gurten is the local mountain of Bern and offers a fantastic escape into nature just minutes away. You can reach the base of the mountain by taking a short tram ride from the center. Many active travelers choose to skip the funicular and learn how to walk up Gurten Bern instead. The hiking trails are well-marked and lead you through beautiful meadows and shaded forest sections.

The hike to the summit takes about forty to sixty minutes depending on your fitness level. You will gain several hundred meters in elevation, so expect a moderate workout for your legs. The paths are wide and safe, making them suitable for older children and casual hikers alike. Along the way, you will see grazing cows and traditional Swiss farmhouses with colorful flower boxes.

At the top, you will find a large park area with observation towers and play areas for kids. The 360-degree view includes the city of Bern, the Jura mountains, and the high Alpine peaks. There are several loop trails around the summit that are mostly flat and very easy to navigate. These paths offer different perspectives of the surrounding countryside and the distant snowy mountains.

Gurten is a popular destination all year round for locals who want to enjoy the fresh mountain air. In the winter, some of the walking paths are transformed into small sledding runs for families. The mountain also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year 2026 that attract many visitors. Be sure to check the local event calendar before you plan your hiking trip to the summit.

Exploring Historic Fountains and Alleys

Bern is famous for its eleven Renaissance fountains that date back to the middle of the sixteenth century. Each fountain features a colorful statue that represents a specific historical figure or a moral lesson. You can follow a self-guided Bern fountain discovery walk to see them all in one afternoon. These fountains still provide fresh, drinkable mountain water for everyone walking through the city streets.

The most famous fountain is the Kindlifresserbrunnen, which depicts an ogre eating small children. While it looks a bit scary, it is a fascinating piece of local folklore and history. Most of these fountains are located in the middle of the main streets in the Old City. Walking between them allows you to see the best-preserved parts of the medieval town center.

Beyond the main streets, Bern is full of narrow limestone alleys that lead to hidden courtyards. These small passages often connect the upper streets with the lower residential areas near the river. Exploring these alleys is like going on a treasure hunt for beautiful doors and secret gardens. You will find that the city feels much larger when you step off the main tourist paths.

Many of these historic alleys are quite steep and feature stone stairs that can be uneven. Take your time and watch your step as you navigate these charming shortcuts through the city. You might discover a small art gallery or a tiny craft shop hidden away from the crowds. These quiet corners provide a peaceful contrast to the busy market streets near the clock tower.

1. Start at the Pfeiferbrunnen near the Spitalgasse.
2. Follow the Marktgasse to see the Anna Seiler fountain.
3. Look for the Justice fountain near the lower end of town.
4. End your tour at the Moses fountain by the cathedral.

Riverfront Paths Near the Bear Park

The Bear Park is one of the most iconic attractions in Bern and a great starting point for walks. The bears live in a large, modern enclosure that slopes down toward the banks of the Aare. You can enjoy walking through the Bern Bear Park on elevated wooden paths. These walkways offer excellent views of the bears as they climb trees or swim in their pool.

From the Bear Park, a beautiful riverfront path leads you along the water toward the eastern suburbs. This route is very popular for morning jogs and afternoon walks because it is away from traffic. The path is lined with tall trees that provide plenty of shade during the summer heat. You will pass several historic buildings and small boat docks along this scenic riverside stretch.

The walk from the Bear Park to the Nydeggbrücke bridge provides some of the best photo angles. You can look back at the Old City and see how the houses are built into the cliffs. The bridge itself is an impressive stone structure that offers a high-altitude view of the river valley. Many people stop here to take selfies with the cathedral and the river in the background.

These paths are fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making them a top choice for all visitors. You will find several spots where you can walk right down to the water's edge. Some areas have small pebble beaches where you can dip your feet in the cold Alpine water. It is a refreshing way to end a long day of sightseeing in the Swiss capital.