Is one day enough to visit Bern?
Obviously, not. But a few hours are enough to capture the essence of this city so anchored to its origins.

The city is easily accessible by train, but I chose the car.

Before I arrived, I searched on internet for a parking in the city centre. Everyone online was recommending the Bahnhof Parking, although very expensive. I opted for hourly parking on the roadside, just before I got to the Bärenpark.

Bärenpark

And my tour started right there. What I think about the Bärenpark?

Although it is one of the most famous attractions of the city, I must admit that I did not particularly like it. Why? Because I’m not a lover of “enclosed”, even if protected, animals.

But, the bear was actually amazing. Never seen one so closed to me.

Taking a moment to enjoy the view from the terrace of the Altes Tramdepot Restaurant here is breathtaking.

And if you’d like to taste some local deliciousness or a fresh beer, this is the right place.

Fountains

Taking the bridge that connects you to the city, just a watchword: explore. Starting from the main street, any alley, any corner, will leave you something.

Numerous fountains still give the city of Bern its splendour. They are reminiscent of a Bern of heroes of the past and historical events.

Zytologgeturm

Following the main road, you will understand you are approaching the Zytologgeturm.

It is the landmark of the city of Bern: the Clock Tower.

On the hour, many people gather in front of it to watch the clock mechanism from the 16th century perform its unique spectacle.

Both facades contain large important clocks, the first one is the eastern clock face – an elegant black clock with golden roman numerals.

The second facade contains the famous astronomical clock which is now part of the Unesco world heritage sights.

Bärensplatz

Like every Saturday, the farmers’ market was on. The atmosphere of people living here is magical.

They spend their afternoon here, playing chess, strolling around and listening to street musicians.

Furthermore, there were some food trucks such as Jamaican and Mexican which sold delicious authentic food.

Bundeshaus

The Bundeshaus is situated just off the Bärensplatz.

his is the building that houses the  Swiss Federal Assembly and the Federal Council.

But the main attraction of the square where it is located has become the water games created by the 26 fountains that symbolise the Swiss cantons, directly in front of the Federal Palace.

This Federal Square is the beating heart of Bern. The events act as a catalyst for the public and attract guests.

Berner Münster

Coming back to the car, taking the side road allowed me to get out of the crowd of the Saturday afternoon and to find out other wonders.

The Cathedral was obviously one it. This is a beautifully architected gothic cathedral begun to be constructed in 1421 and completed in 1893, and the bell tower winds skywards up 254 steps that shouldn’t be attempted unless you’re in good physical health. Once you get to the top, though, you’re rewarded by immense views of the Bernese Oberland

It’s a spectacular monument and known as the tallest cathedral in the whole of Switzerland.

The most exceptional feature of this three-aisle, pillared basilica is the tympanum over the main portal, which depicts the Last Judgment and contains more than 200 figures.

You can also see mammoth 15th-century stained-glass windows in the chancel, but the most remarkable window, the Dance of Death, can be found in the Matter Chapel.

Right behind the cathedral is the Münstergarden, a small panoramic garden, a meeting place for young and old people.

I don’t know why, but I think I stopped for at least 15mins just to admire the groups of people playing bowls here.

Einstein House

Right back on the main road, I entered the Einstein House because it was mentioned everywhere online.

Honestly, there was luckily a special price (4.50chf instead of 6chf), because apart from a diving room and a museum made of simple words on the walls..anything more.

And ok, it’s fascinated knowing that he had been living there for 2 years, but I won’t really recommend it if you can spend your time in some other museums.

And what better way to end the day?
A good ice cream at La Golosa Gelateria!

A human being is part of a whole called by us the universe.   –  cit. Albert Einstein (& me)