Bern

The city of Bern is the capital of Switzerland and lies in the Swiss Plateau within the canton of Bern west of the centre of Switzerland and is 20km (12 miles) north of the Alps. The landscape around Bern was formed by glaciers in the last Ice age.

For those of you that like hiking and climbing, the 2 mountains closest to Bern are the Gurten with a height of 858m (2814 ft) and the Bartiger with a height of 947m (3106 ft)

Bern is rich in culture and is able to offer something for everyone’s taste- there are numerous museums to visit such as the Museum of Arts. This museum displays works by Paul Klee, Picasso and Meret Oppenheim- there are over 3000 paintings to admire.

The Natural History Museum is fascinating for adults and children alike. Visit the Hall of Skeletons where you will find a number of skeletons on display, some of which are over 150 years old. The “Fins, Feet, Wings” exhibition explains the evolution of mammals over millions of years.

The Einstein House is definitely one not to be missed- the flat on the second floor of Kramgasse No. 49 was rented by Albert Einstein from 1903-1905- the flat has been restored to what it would have been like when the great man himself lived there.

There are any theatres that can be visited in Bern such as the Bern Theatre- not only has it a magnificent exterior but the interior is also worth seeing in its plushly decorated splendour.

After exploring the art and culture that Bern has to offer, why not visit the old part of the city that has managed to maintain its medieval character. The Old City is home to Switzerland’s tallest cathedral as well as other churches, bridges and its large collection of Renaissance fountains.

The Zytglogge is the landmark medieval clock tower in the old city and is one of the most recognisable symbols of Bern- in the Great Fire of 1405 the tower was completely burned out however over the centuries it was restored to today’s landmark.

It goes without saying that the landscape and scenery in Switzerland is simply breath-taking- make sure you wrap up warm in the autumn and winter months and enjoy a fantastic time in Bern!