Bern – a captivating capital
We are proud to welcome you to Bern, the capital of Switzerland, and conveniently located at the heart of the country with stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
About Bern
The city of Bern is the fourth largest city in Switzerland after Zurich, Geneva and Basel, and the capital of Switzerland. The city counts 142'493 residents and the around 420'000 people live in the larger area.
Bern’s historic town centre dates back to 1191. Thanks to its well-preserved architecture, the Old Town of Bern entered the UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list in 1983. The Old Town with its six kilometres of arcades offers shelter or shade to visitors strolling through the city. Important landmarks include the Clock Tower (Zytglogge), the Prison Tower (Käfigturm), sculptural fountains from the Renaissance, the Cathedral (Münster), and the well-maintained sandstone facades. Visitors can discover bars, cultural venues, and specialty shops in countless converted cellars.
The Old Town of Bern is encircled by the Aare river. But for Bern’s inhabitants this river is not just a stretch of water; it is also a place for summer recreational activities, like swimming and boating on the Aare. And since Bern was built on a peninsula, everything is close together and easy to reach by foot, tram, or bus.
Facts & Figures
- capital of Switzerland
- 141'493 residents
- 25% international residents
- 51.60 km²
- 542 m above sea level
Travel to Bern
Bern has no international airport. However, the city is easily accessible from all Swiss airports by train. These are the best options:
- Zürich Airport (Europe/world) train to Bern: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Geneva Airport (Europe/world) train to Bern: 2 hours
- Euro Airport Basel (Europe) bus / train to Bern: 1 hour 20 minutes
When you arrive at Bern train station, remember Bern is a relaxed place and you can take your time. Everything is close by and you can easily reach your hotel by foot. However, with your reservation confirmation you can also use the public transport (tram and bus) for free. This applies to the entire time of your stay in Bern!
Travel around Bern
If you want to explore Switzerland before or after the Annual Meeting, there are several interesting opportunities from Bern:
Bern and surroundings
Visit Interlaken set in a beautiful and impressive mountain landscape with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains and the world-famous Jungfraujoch. The attractive cities of Zurich, Geneva or Basel are ideal for a city break. All these destinations are no more than 1-2 hours by train. You can also take a Grand Tour of Switzerland.
For those in a hurry
You can take part in one of the many creative city tours in Bern or visit the Federal Palace. After the Annual Meeting, the Bern «Fasnacht» takes place - a typical Swiss traditional carnival. Other options include the famous cheese dairy in the Emmental and internationally renowned museums such as the Kunstmuseum and the Zentrum Paul Klee. You don’t need to book these in advance, which allows you to even do these if you decide spontaneously.
For travel lovers
You may consider taking an international train to some of the most interesting cities in the neighbouring countries of Switzerland. You can go by TGV to Paris, France (4 hours), or take the train to Milan, Italy (3.5 hours), Munich (5-6 hours) or Berlin (8.5 hours).
