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A group of cheerful people and a dog swim and float on an inflatable boat on a river, against the backdrop of an impressive urban backdrop, conveying a sense of freedom and summer fun.

Aare

Who needs the sea? When the weather warms up, Bern locals love to splash around in the open-air swimming pools or spend the summer swimming, rafting and surfing in the Aare river.

A bright orange lifebuoy lies ready on the worn wooden jetty that juts out into the deep blue water. The sun caresses the water and the lifebuoy, which promises safety as a silent sentinel. A reassuring image that captures both the calm strength of the water and the promise of help and protection.
Aare you safe?
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7 Mistakes to Avoid when Swimming in a River

It’s important to have a healthy amount of respect for the Aare and inform yourself about the possible risks beforehand. Swimming in the Aare is recommended for experienced swimmers only. The Swiss Lifesaving Society SLRG and the City of Bern provide (vitally) important tips for everyone who spends time in and on the Aare.

No Aare bag yet?

If you watch experienced rafters or swimmers, you’ll notice that most of them have a colorful dry bag slung over their shoulder. The waterproof bag keeps clothes and valuables dry if they happen to land in the river. The “Marzilian” Aare bag – available in orange and lavender – is not only practical but also quite stylish. We especially like its extra compartment for valuables, as well as the printed map of the Aare Loop with all the points where you can access and exit the river. It’s available for 45 Francs in the Bern.com online shop or at the Tourist Information at Bern main station.

Grab the deal

aarebag collection 2023
Two friends sit at the edge of the water in the Marzili pool, laughing and sharing a relaxed conversation, while the magnificent Federal Palace towers above them. A picture of summertime carefreeness and togetherness in Bern.

Bern’s outdoor swimming pools

In summer, Bern locals practically grow fins and gills. And for good reason. Not only the glittering Aare river, but also a wide selection of municipal riverside swimming facilities beckon with cool water, secluded sunbathing areas and delicious snacks like chips and gelato. With riverside pools like the lively Wyler neighbourhood hotspot, the alternative-inspired Lorraine, and the iconic Marzili, swimming fun is high on the Bern summer to-do list – and it's free!

The picture shows a summer scene in Bern with the Bundeshaus in the background. The lively Aare flows through lush greenery and people enjoy the water, creating a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere.

Floating Down the Aare River: Our 3 Favorite Routes

Anybody want to cool off? Bern locals know there’s only one way to do it: Jump in the Aare! After all, a summer day in the capital wouldn’t be perfect without a plunge in their favorite river. We’ll tell you what you need to plan for and where floating down the Aare is a particularly rewarding experience.

We Bernese are experts when it comes to celebrating that special summer feeling – and the fact that our outdoor swimming pools don't even charge admission definitely helps.

The Ultimate Aare Rafting Guide

Summer in Bern is when locals indulge in their favorite pastime: rafting down the Aare. The Ultimate Aare Rafting Guide provides helpful information and fun facts that will be of use to newbies and experienced rafters alike. Read on for more about how to enjoy all the Aare has to offer this summer!

More info

The picture shows a group pulling their rubber dinghy onto the gravel bank after a trip on the River Aare. The relaxed atmosphere and the bright summer green of the trees reflect a perfect outdoor adventure, while the light-coloured gravel of the bank and the calm blue water create a picturesque scene.
© Bern Welcome

Aare map

Further important information for boaters and swimmers can be found on the SRLG Aare map at a glance.

  • SLRG Aare map

This picture shows a peaceful scene on the River Aare with the Altenbergsteg in the background, a pretty footbridge connecting the banks. In the foreground, yellow flowers gently draw attention to themselves and complement the lively green of the trees and water. It's easy to imagine strolling along here, enjoying nature and breathing in the fresh, clear air. A peaceful day in Bern, captured in a single, beautiful moment.
© Bern Welcome

Nature conservation

There’s nothing better on a hot summer’s day than to relax by or in the River Aare. But lots of people mean lots of garbage – and that’s turning into a problem for nature. This makes it all the more important for everyone to actively contribute to nature conservation, starting with correct waste disposal. Nature is not a waste bin!

Cans, glass bottles, plastic bottles and rubbish can be correctly disposed of in the large containers at the river exit at Marzili. Cigarette butts don’t belong in the grass or the water – a single one of them pollutes around 1,000 litres of Aare water. Unnecessary plastic waste can also be avoided when it comes to rubber boats: lightly damaged inflatable dinghies can be repaired with a patch, and there’s a designated container at Marzili for the heavily damaged ones.

Nature does not belong to us humans and it is important that we take care of the habitat of many animal species and do not disturb them.

A group of cheerful people and a dog swim and float on an inflatable boat on a river, against the backdrop of an impressive urban backdrop, conveying a sense of freedom and summer fun.

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Summer in Bern