City tour for the blind and visually-impaired

History you can truly grasp – in every sense of the word. This specially designed city tour caters to the needs of blind and visually impaired guests and provides a rich, multisensory experience in the heart of Bern.

The concept: instead of sight, the focus is on sound, smell and touch. Certified guides – trained in collaboration with the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired – lead the group along an accessible route to key sights in the city. Tactile city maps with braille labelling help participants navigate and understand the spatial layout.

The content mirrors the classic UNESCO Old City tour: from the founding of Bern and its medieval buildings to contemporary architectural features, the city’s history is conveyed in an engaging and accessible way.

Stops along the route include Bern Cathedral, the “Zytglogge” (Clock Tower) with its famous figurine show, the Town Hall and the characteristic arcades. The tour invites participants to explore the heart of the federal city – acoustically, haptically and atmospherically.