Preparing for Your Bern Historic Fountains Tour

Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage site with deep medieval roots. The city's fountains served as vital water sources for centuries. Today, they remain functional and provide clean drinking water to everyone. You can easily see them all on foot within two hours.

Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets in the Old City. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at each stop. Most fountains are located along the main streets of the lower town. This makes walking to the 11 Renaissance fountains very simple.

Start your journey at the Bärenplatz near the main train station. This central location offers easy access to public transport and local shops. You will find the first fountain just a few steps away. Check local weather forecasts before you begin your outdoor adventure.

Route for Walking to the 11 Renaissance Fountains

Begin at the Pfeiferbrunnen, which depicts a cheerful traveling bagpiper. Walk down Spitalgasse to find the Anna-Seiler-Brunnen near the Marktgasse. This statue honors the founder of the city's first hospital. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into the past.

Continue toward the Zytglogge clock tower to see the Schützenbrunnen. This marks the middle of your self-guided Bern fountain discovery walk route. The marksman figure stands proudly in his traditional armor and gear. Take a moment to admire the intricate details on the pillar.

Head further down the street to locate the Zahringerbrunnen near the clock. This fountain features a bear in full armor holding a banner. It honors the Duke who founded the city of Bern. The bear remains a symbol of the city to this day.

Follow the gentle slope toward the Nydegg Bridge for the final stops. You will pass the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen, representing the Lady of Justice. Her blindfold and scales are iconic symbols known around the world. The route is mostly downhill if you start from the station.

Famous Figures You Will See on Your Walk

The Kindlifresserbrunnen is perhaps the most famous statue in all of Bern. It depicts an ogre eating small children from a large sack. Many locals use this story to teach children to be well-behaved. You can learn more about the meaning of the Kindlifresserbrunnen fountain online.

Look for the Simsonbrunnen, which shows the biblical hero Samson wrestling a lion. This fountain represents strength and courage for the citizens of Bern. It is located in the Kramgasse, one of the prettiest streets. The bright colors were restored to match the original 16th-century style.

The Mosesbrunnen stands near the Bern Minster in the cathedral square. It shows Moses holding the Ten Commandments for all to see. This location offers a peaceful spot to rest during your walk. The surrounding architecture provides a stunning backdrop for your travel photos.

Each fountain has a large basin filled with fresh spring water. You will notice the water flowing from decorative spouts into the pool. These basins were once used for washing clothes and watering horses. Today, they add a refreshing atmosphere to the busy city streets.

Practical Tips for Your Bern Discovery Walk

The best time for walking to the 11 Renaissance fountains is early morning. You can avoid the large tour groups that arrive later in the day. The morning light also makes the colorful statues look vibrant and clear. Most shops in the Old City open around 9:00 AM.

All the water in these historic fountains is safe for drinking. You do not need to buy bottled water while exploring the city. Simply hold your bottle under the flowing spout for a cold drink. This is a great way to save money during your trip.

Consider visiting during the spring or summer months of 2026. The flowers around the basins are usually in full bloom during this time. Some fountains might be covered during the coldest weeks of winter. However, the statues remain visible even when the water is off.

Combine your fountain tour with a visit to the Zytglogge clock show. The mechanical figures perform every hour, four minutes before the hour strikes. This attraction is located right next to several of the famous fountains. It is a must-see event for every first-time visitor.