Old Town Walk (Self Guided), Bern

The Old City of Bern fascinates and excites with its well-preserved medieval structures that have remained unchained through the centuries. Amble through the quaint Old Town, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site that is framed by the Aare River. From here, there are spectacular views of the Alps.

Within the Old Town are equally spectacular sights, such as the old limestone buildings, Renaissance fountains with colorful figurines and medieval arcades. A lot of construction work took place here after the Middle Ages, and during these years many patrician houses and public monuments were added to the cityscape. Today, you can find structures dating from several periods, including the 15th and 16th centuries. One of the many highlights is the Cathedral of Bern (Das Berner Münster). This is the largest ecclesiastical building in Switzerland, a late-Gothic edifice that dates back to the early 15th century.

Another main attraction is the six kilometers of arcades that are home to plenty of shops and restaurants. Forming the centerpiece of Bern Old Town is the Kramgasse. In previous times, this alley was once Bern's busiest trade route for marketers and shopkeepers. Today, it is a lively shopping avenue that also boasts a line of Baroque facades.