A couple stand in Bern's rose garden, surrounded by the delicate beauty of the cherry blossoms, and look out over the historic old town with its characteristic cathedral. The moment is filled with romance and tranquillity as the two enjoy the picturesque view and the warm rays of spring sunshine together.

Bern in the springtime

The days are getting longer and warmer and nature is coming out of hibernation – time to go outside! We’re celebrating the spring and Bernese joie de vivre with different outdoor activities.

Win a prize

Outdoor activities

Now that temperatures are rising and the days are getting longer, we can’t wait to get back to our favourite outdoor activities. Watch nature come back to life on a walk or hike in the Bern region and enjoy the stunning views. Or hop on an e-bike and explore the area on one of the ten beautiful Highlight Routes!

Save the dates! Every day in April, you have the chance to win a prize from the Emmentaler Frühlingskalender. Good luck!

Bern is awakening

The time has come for flora and fauna to come out of hibernation. We hear birds chirp, see snowdrops pop up everywhere, and watch the bears at Bern’s BearPark come out of their winter dens. With a bit of luck, you can witness the magic of the cherry blossoms in Bern’s Rosengarten. Or head to the Emmental, where we recommend taking a hike and letting your gaze wander over the vibrant yellow rapeseed fields.

A family enjoys a picnic with a view of picturesque Bern in spring, a scene full of warmth and family cosiness.

Bern for Families

The photo shows a group of children and an accompanying adult exploring an interactive station in the Gäggersteg Nature Park Gantrisch.

Outdoor Family Adventures

The picture shows the Halen playground surrounded by green nature: a father and his daughter discover a wooden xylophone together and hit the bars with a stick. The scene radiates curiosity, solidarity and playful joy - a harmonious moment outdoors.

The best Playgrounds in Bern

Speaking of the Rosengarten: It doesn’t only offer beautiful blossoms and a breathtaking view over the federal city, but also a fun playground for the little visitors.

Hiking in the Bern region

Time to put away your winter sports equipment and get out your backpack and hiking boots! In our opinion, there’s almost nothing better than a hike to explore the region’s beautiful and diverse landscape. We’ve got the Alpine foothills in the Gantrisch Nature Park, the picturesque rolling hills of the Emmental and the Oberaargau, the historic town of Laupen – take your pick. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, we recommend an excursion to the Oberaargau, where you’ll find a suspension bridge with a view.

The great outdoors await

The picture shows two hikers on a sunny path in the Gantrisch Nature Park. The snow-capped mountains rise majestically before them, while the warm morning sun bathes the landscape in a golden light. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful, filled with the freedom and adventure of nature. The vastness of the valley and the imposing peaks in the background convey a sense of awe and inner peace as hikers enjoy the trail in this impressive landscape.

Before you go, make sure you check the difficulty level of your hiking route and that your equipment is adequate.

If you prefer to take it a bit slower, you can still enjoy Bern’s landscapes and panoramas on a relaxed stroll.

The picture shows two people walking on a path next to a calm, clear pond in Burgdorf. They are surrounded by lush greenery and the calm presence of nature, creating a relaxed and restful atmosphere. The reflection of the vegetation on the surface of the water adds an extra layer of tranquillity and beauty to the scene.

The most beautiful walks in Bern

In the early evening hours, a viewing tower rises up on the Frienisberg long-distance viewing route, surrounded by a forest over which the sun sets gently, creating an atmosphere of peace and wonder.

The Best Views in the Bern Region

A couple stand in an intimate embrace, lost in the sight of the blossoming cherry trees with a breathtaking view of historic Bern in the background.

Best views in the city of Bern

Our Favourite Themed Trails in Bern

A peaceful autumn morning in Bern: the Nydegg Bridge spans the tranquil River Aare, framed by colourful trees and the striking church tower, all bathed in the soft light of the rising sun.

Green Aare Walk

The Mutzbach Falls, captured in a beautiful photo. The masses of water cascade down powerfully here, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and a hint of sunlight breaking through the canopy of leaves, giving the water an almost magical glow.

Adventure trail Mutzbachfall

Cycling in spring

Cycling – be it battery or muscle powered – perfectly combines exploring the region’s varied landscapes, discovering charming places along the way, getting active and enjoying the moment. The icing on the cake: the pleasant spring temperatures that let you enjoy the ride to the fullest. Discover the beauty of Bern on the ten Highlight Routes for e-bikes and on diverse cycling trails.

The picture shows three cyclists crossing a narrow bridge with a river rushing underneath. The sun is shining and nature seems peaceful. The mood is adventurous and free, while the cyclists enjoy the idyllic landscape.

Discover Bern by Bike

A family enjoys a bike ride through a sparse forest. Surrounded by green foliage and the soft light falling through the trees, they cycle along a curved gravel path embraced by nature. It is an image of togetherness and harmony with nature.

Kid-Friendly Bike Rides

The ideal companion on every bike ride – and in general – is the bike-themed “Velööle” t-shirt and -socks from our web shop. Get yours now!

Community Challenge – Spring in Pictures

Show us what spring in Bern looks like to you. With a bit of luck, your photo will become our 2027 campaign visual.

Delicate purple crocus with bright yellow stamens against a soft green background. The macro shot looks calm, fresh and hopeful - a silent harbinger of spring.

Peaceful pond in the Emmental, surrounded by meadows and forest. The setting sun breaks through the clouds and is reflected in the water - a peaceful, warm evening atmosphere.

Dark, bare branches stand out against a blue sky, with rolling hills and snow-covered Alps behind them. The mood is calm, clear and full of expectation - spring on the verge of awakening.

Blossoming magnolia branches in front of a historic Bernese façade in the warm evening light. The scene appears calm, elegant and spring-like - a golden awakening of the city.

Bern Minster rises up in the warm evening light, framed by soft cherry blossoms. The scene appears calm, poetic and golden - an atmospheric spring moment.

View from the Kursaal of Bern's old town and Kornhausbrücke bridge, Bern Minster and the mountains in the background.

Cherry blossom tree in the evening with Bern Minster in the background

Swan in front of the Federal Palace in Bern on Dalmaziquai

A bumblebee on cherry blossoms in Bern's rose garden

View of Bern's old town and the cathedral with cherry blossoms in the foreground

How can I take part?
Post your most beautiful spring photo on Instagram by 1 May 2026. Tag @ilove_bern and include the hashtag #bernerwacht in your caption. Whether it’s a family, nature or animal photo – the important thing is that it was taken in the region of Bern (City of Bern, Gantrisch Nature Park, Laupen, Emmental or Oberaargau).
What can I win?
The winning photo will appear on the homepage of the 2027 spring campaign on bern.com and as a large poster in the window of the Tourist Information at Bern railway station – of course with your name credited. The three best photos will also receive an exclusive “Bärn Päckli” (Bern Package).
How is the winning photo selected?
We review the submitted photos on Instagram every week and make a pre-selection. If your photo is shortlisted, we will contact you directly with all the information and publish it on our website. From three finalist photos, the Instagram community will then vote for the winning image.
What should I be aware of?
By taking part, you grant Bern Welcome a free, non-exclusive, unlimited right in terms of time and place to use, reproduce and publish the submitted photos, in full or in part, for communication and marketing purposes across all online and offline channels. Copyright remains with you. No remuneration will be paid.

Springtime events

Looking for more inspiration? There are many more events in Bern this spring. Take a look at our event calendar.

Zwei Frauen betrachten fröhlich blühende Blumen an einem Marktstand auf dem Bundesplatz in Bern. Im Hintergrund steht das Bundeshaus im warmen Morgenlicht, umgeben von bunten Marktzelten. Die Szene vermittelt urbanes Lebensgefühl, Nahbarkeit und die genussvolle Seite der Stadt.

Bleisure in Bern

Short distances, the closeness of nature and a wide range of venues make the city the perfect destination for your next bleisure trip.

Culture

April weather? Culture is always an option! The region’s many excellent museums have inspiring, interesting, educational, exciting exhibitions. If you’ve come down with a case of spring fever, we recommend taking a look at our list of romantic date ideas. If not, there are also lots of tips and recommendations for solo travellers in the federal city.

In a dark room, visitors stand in front of a monumental circular projection of the Battle of Murten. The detailed panorama completely surrounds them and draws them into the action. The atmosphere is haunting, thought-provoking and characterised by historical impact.

Bern’s Museums

Two people are sitting on a sunny terrace enjoying drinks and snacks. The woman laughs while the man gesticulates. The Federal Palace, trees and a bridge can be seen in the background. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly and full of summer joy.

Inspiration for romantic dates in Bern

The picture shows a person walking through the autumnal landscape of Elfenau in Bern. The sun bathes the hills and forests in warm light, while peace and serenity characterise the mood. A moment of connection with nature and inner contemplation.

Bern for one: our recommendations for solo outings

“Dr Franzos” (The Frenchman) guided city tour

In our opinion, you can never go wrong with a guided city tour – especially in the spring, when the city comes back to life. For history buffs, we highly recommend the guided city tour “Dr Franzos” (The Frenchman), during which soldier Jean Roch Cognet takes participants on a journey back in time. Travel to Bern in the 18^th century, when the city was occupied by French soldiers after losing the famous Battle of Grauholz. This tour is no dry lesson in history, on the contrary: Peppered with amusing, thought-provoking and extraordinary facts and anecdotes, the 1.5 hours will pass far too quickly.

Napoleon in Bern

The picture shows a young man in historical military uniform in front of a fountain. His gaze is thoughtful and proud as he casually holds a sabre blade, as if he is in a quiet reflection on the past.

Regional shopping

Asparagus season is just around the corner! Visit Bern’s farmer’s markets or one of the many charming farm shops in the region to buy fresh, local, sustainable ingredients for your next “Znacht” (supper). And while you’re there, make sure you sneak a peek of the beautiful Emmental farmhouse gardens!

Speaking of sustainability: Did you know that the water in all our fountains is drinkable? Fill up the stylish new City Bottle Bern, made from sugar cane, and stay hydrated while exploring the city!

The picture shows a smiling elderly couple holding fresh strawberries and vegetables in a farm shop, surrounded by an atmosphere of rural simplicity and joie de vivre.

The most beautiful farm shops in Bern

The picture shows two young women smiling as they stroll through a market in a historic alleyway. Surrounded by fresh baked goods and colourful market stalls, the scene conveys a friendly, relaxed and lively atmosphere.

Bern’s farmer’s markets

The picture shows two women standing in front of a hat shop in a busy arcade and looking through the shop window. One of them is pointing at a hat and seems interested. The atmosphere is relaxed and cheerful, they are enjoying exploring the shops together and the relaxed moments of strolling around.

Bernese Treasures

The picture shows two women examining ceramic crockery in a shop. They are smiling and appear relaxed as they hold the various cups and bowls in their hands. The atmosphere is cosy and relaxed, characterised by curiosity and the joy of browsing through beautiful things.

Great Reasons for Shopping in Bern’s Old City

Food and drink

Auf dem Bild sind zwei Personen beim Brunchen zu sehen. Der Tisch ist reichlich gedeckt und beispielhaft für einen reichhaltigen Brunch.

Fancy a hearty brunch?

Discover our favourite places for “Zmörgele” (breakfast) in Bern now!

Im Restaurant Zent sitzt eine Familie an einem Holztisch und genießt gemeinsam eine Mahlzeit. Die warme, lichtdurchflutete Atmosphäre, das viele Grün und die liebevolle Interaktion zwischen Eltern und Kindern schaffen ein Gefühl von Geborgenheit und Lebensfreude.

From play areas to kids’ menus

Bern’s best family-friendly cafés and restaurants

Accommodations

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly room in a cosy Emmental hotel, a glamorous suite in the heart of Bern’s old town, or a stylish accommodation in a trendy neighbourhood: Bern offers everything your heart desires. And in many hotels, children stay for free. Speaking of free: If you spend one or more nights in Bern, you receive a Bern-Ticket. It allows you to use public transport for free in the entire city of Bern – including the Gurten and Marzili funiculars and the Matte elevator!