How to Plan Your Walking from Bern Station to Zytglogge
Bern main station is the perfect starting point for your Swiss adventure. Finding your way to the historic center is very simple. This guide explains the best route for walking from Bern station to Zytglogge. You will enjoy beautiful views and historic sites along the way.
Starting Your Journey at Bern Station
Exit the station toward the city center. Follow the signs clearly marked for the Old City. The main exit leads you directly to Bahnhofplatz. You will see many trams and buses waiting here.
Look for the Church of the Holy Ghost across the square. This baroque building marks the official start of the historic area. Walk straight past the church toward the main shopping streets. The path is flat and very easy for all travelers.
Look for the covered stone walkways on both sides of the street. These protect you from rain or hot summer sun. They make Bern Old City walking routes comfortable in any weather. Keep your eyes on the beautiful cobblestone streets ahead.
Walking Through Spitalgasse and Marktgasse
Spitalgasse is the first major street you will enter. It is a busy pedestrian zone filled with modern shops. Trams run frequently down the center of the road. Please watch for them as you cross the street.
Watch for the Pfeiferbrunnen fountain on your right side. This colorful statue was built back in 1545. It is one of many historic fountains in the city. Each fountain tells a unique story about Bernese history.
Continue walking until you reach the large Prison Tower. This tower is known locally as the Käfigturm. It once served as a main gate for the city. This area features some of the best medieval streets in Bern Old City center.
Discovering the Famous Bernese Arcades
Bern features six kilometers of covered shopping arcades. Local people call these stone walkways the Lauben. They offer great shelter during your 2026 visit. You can walk the entire route without getting wet.
Explore the small shops tucked under these ancient stone arches. You will find luxury boutiques and traditional Swiss cafes here. The atmosphere feels like stepping back into the middle ages. It is a very relaxing way to explore.
Walking from Bern station to Zytglogge is best done under these arches. You can avoid the crowds on the main road. Look for the unique cellar shops located below the pavement. These spaces house interesting bars and local craft stores.
Arriving at the Zytglogge Clock Tower
💡 Pro Tip: Book your Bern adventures in advance through Viator for the best deals!
The Zytglogge stands tall at the end of Marktgasse. This landmark is the most famous monument in the city. It was built in the early 13th century. It originally served as a gate for the western wall.
Aim to arrive four minutes before the hour strikes. The mechanical figures start their famous show at that time. You will see a parade of bears and a jester. This event is free for everyone to watch.
This clock served as the master time for all of Bern. You can learn more with how to walk Bern Old City UNESCO guides. The tower also offers guided tours of the interior. These tours allow you to see the complex gears inside.
Essential Tips for Your 2026 Walk
⭐ Recommendation: Don't miss out on amazing Bern tours - book now!
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the historic cobblestone paths. The total distance is only about 800 meters. Most visitors finish the walk in fifteen minutes. Allow more time if you want to shop.
Check the tram schedules if you are feeling tired. Lines 6, 7, 8, and 9 all travel this route. A short ticket costs about 2.50 CHF in 2026. Trams run every few minutes throughout the day.
Visit early in the morning for the best photo opportunities. The morning light hits the golden clock face perfectly. You will also avoid the largest tourist groups. Discover more paths with scenic walks in Bern 2026 updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
⭐ Recommendation: Don't miss out on amazing Bern tours - book now!
How long is the walk from Bern station to Zytglogge?
The walk is approximately 800 meters long. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes at a steady pace. Most people take longer to enjoy the historic fountains and shops along the way.
Is the walking route to Zytglogge wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the route is mostly flat and accessible for wheelchairs. The main streets use smooth stones in many areas. However, some side alleys may have older, uneven cobblestones that are harder to navigate.
What time does the Zytglogge clock show start?
The mechanical figures begin their movement every hour. The show starts exactly four minutes before the hour strikes. It is best to arrive five minutes early to find a good viewing spot.
Walking from Bern station to Zytglogge is an essential Swiss experience. The route is short, easy, and full of historic charm. Plan your 2026 trip to arrive just before the hour. Enjoy the magic of this medieval city on foot today.