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Bern: Switzerland’s Underrated Capital

When we hear Switzerland mentioned our minds are quick to race to the Swiss Alps, rolling snowy peaks and a holiday in a winter wonderland. The truth of the matter is that Switzerland has some of the most amazing natural scenery in all of Europe, be it the snowy Alps or the radiant green pastures stretching between some unique architecture and healthy, flowing blue rivers.

A great example of a classic Swiss town in a fantastic setting is Switzerland’s lesser-known capital city, Bern. Surrounded by stunning views of the Alps and the wide plains of Switzerland the central old town demands attention from any nearby tourist.

The entirety of the central area of Bern is surrounded by a winding Swiss river that has a typically stunning blue color as it comes directly from the Swiss mountains. This creates the feel that you are on some magical island that seems to encapsulate what Europe is all about with multiple languages flying through the air along cobbled streets and distinctly European buildings. Well maintained buildings  constructed centuries ago share the streets with modern sculptures and the latest additions to the city in the form of state of the art Swiss infrastructure in terms of business and transportation.

You can pick up a town map at the various tourist information offices located in and around the train station, bus station and entrances to the city. These maps have marked on them dozens of fantastic viewing spots around the city. Bern is by no means a large metropolis and you can spend a day getting some exercise and walking to each and every viewing spot, all of which offer some stunning scenery, looking out either over the town, the river or the surrounding countryside.

One thing to be wary of when visiting Bern, or indeed anywhere in Switzerland, is that the country has a rather well deserved reputation for being one of the most expensive places in Europe. Don’t be fooled by the exchange rate of the Swiss Frank, which initially seems more attractive than the exchange rate of the United Kingdom’s Pound Sterling or the Euro. Although you may be walking around with more Swiss Franks in your pocket you will certainly be spending a hell of a lot more every time you have to purchase anything whatsoever. Between food and accommodation costs it is the unfortunate truth that those of us on a backpacker budget can scarcely afford to spend more than a few days in Bern.

As the capital of the country there is ample transport between Bern and anywhere in Switzerland, often through the modern, comfortable and speedy rail network. If you are heading to the Alps or entering Switzerland from the south you may pass through Bern regardless. If this is the case I implore you to at least spend a day (the sunnier the better) wandering through the streets and enjoying what is, in my opinion, one of the most picturesque locations in all of Europe.