It is one of the most modern stadiums in Switzerland. It opened in 2005 and has a capacity of 32,000, making it the second largest stadium in the country. It has hosted UEFA Euro 2008 matches, hockey matches and many concerts. In 2006, the Young Boys’ museum was created on the grounds of the stadium and was the first in the history of Swiss football to be built by a club.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO STADION WANKDORF
*** BUS: 2, 6, 123, 182, 336, 544
*** TRAIN: S21, S30
BERN: THE CAPITAL – A FAIRY TALE!
It is one of the greenest capitals in Europe. Its medieval architecture and the fact that it is a vibrant center of culture have declared it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every alley is a story. Wander the streets that Albert Einstein walked and visit the attractions that are within walking distance of each other. The old town and its narrow streets are dreamy and reminiscent of something from a fairy tale.
Currency: Swiss Franc
Calling Code: +41
Nearest airports from city center: Bern Airport (17km), Basel (101km), Zurich (126km), Geneva Airport (157km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** UNESCO-ALTSTADT VON BERN and ZYTGLOGGE (Bim Zytglogge 1, 3011 Bern)
Your city tour starts here! The old town is the trademark of Bern and you have to go around it all. The landmark Zytglogge medieval tower built in 1220 is medieval and is a clock with golden figures, huge dial and is visited by thousands every day.
*** BERNER MUNSTER (Münsterplatz. 1, 3000 Bern)
The first stone was laid in 1421 and the medieval church was completed in 1893. It is over 100 meters high and the church, built of sandstone, rises impressively above the old town. Enjoy the interior of the temple and the wonderful sculptures.
*** BARENGRABEN (Grosser Muristalden 6, 3006 Bern)
Bears have a traditional connection with the city, as urban legend has it that Bern’s name came from the bear. Specifically, in 1191 Duke Berchtold V killed a bear and that’s how he decided to give the name to the city! Visit the park and see this wonderful creature up close, with the possibility to feed it.
*** EINSTEINHAUS (Kramgasse 49, 3011 Bern)
From 1903 to 1905 Albert Einstein lived here on the second floor, together with his wife and their son. Visit the famous German physicist’s former residence and see his personal items, manuscripts and more.
*** BERNISCHES HISTORISCHES MUSEUM (Helvetiaplatz 5, 3005 Bern)
See over 500 thousand objects dating from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Flemish tapestries of the 15th century and exhibits from the Middle Ages, Celtic, Roman times.
*** MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS BERN (Hodlerstrasse 8, 3011 Bern)
It is the oldest art museum in Switzerland that includes works from the Gothic era to the present day and includes over 4,000 paintings and sculptures and 50,000 drawings, prints, photographs, videos and films.
*** NATURHISTORISCHES MUSEUM BERN (Bernastrasse 15, 3005 Bern)
Enjoy exhibitions of dinosaurs, domestic, wild and exotic animals. See interesting plants and minerals over two centuries old. The indigenous exhibitions are also impressive!
*** BUNDESHAUS (Bundesplatz 3, 3003 Bern)
It houses the Swiss Federal Assembly (legislature) and the Federal Council and was built in 1902. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Switzerland.
*** NYDEGGKIRCHE (Nydeggasse, 3011 Bern)
It was opened in 1346. Where the church stands today was Nydegg Castle 800 years ago. It is in an impressive spot and deserves your attention not only in terms of beauty, but also because of its history.
*** RATHAUS (Rathausplatz 2, 3011 Bern)
The building is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It began to be built in the early 15th century and is an impressive building. You deserve to do your tour inside the town hall.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Worth a walk to the Universität Bern Botanical Garden.
*** The city has several museums. If you have time visit Museum of Communication, Klingende Sammlung and Zentrum Paul Klee.
*** Nydegg Bridge is a landmark of the city and much photographed. Do not miss it.
*** If you want a relaxing walk, then visit Grosse Schanze.
*** Bern has many sculpted statues in the streets. You will see Pfeiferbrunnen, Mosesbrunnen, Vennerbrunnen, Simsonbrunnen, Schützenbrunnen and Kindlifresserbrunnen.
FOOD AND DRINK
The cuisine of Switzerland is a combination of northern Italian with German and French! The soups are incredibly tasty, you will find asparagus in all versions and of course if you don’t eat authentic chocolates, then you will have made a huge mistake. The cheese fondue is a must for anyone visiting the city, which is combined with herbs, vegetables, mushrooms and bread. Be sure to try the Berner Platte which is a variety of meats, sausages and salamis. Traditional delicacies are also meitschibei and Berner rosti.
WHERE TO STAY
It is a city for full wallets and consequently hotels do not come cheap. If you search you can find hotels in your budget in the city center, but more outside the center.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** If you want to feel like kids again, then visit Ropetech Rope Park Bern for outdoor activities.
*** Zoo Bern is a good case to spend your time.
*** Bernaqua | Erlebnisbad | Fitness | Wellness includes everything to relax and have a good time.
*** The Old Town is ideal for your shopping. You will find many shops to buy whatever you want.
*** Westside Shopping Mall, Wankdorf Shopping Mall and Waaghaus Passage.
*** The two main shopping streets are Kramgasse and Gerechtigkeitsgasse.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot, by bike or by tram.
CITIES NEAR BERN
Major cities close to Bern are Basel (99km), Lausanne (109km), Luzern (110km), Zurich (126km), Sion (156km), Geneva (159km) and Freiburg im Breisgau (163km).
