A cheerful group of friends sits on a sunny restaurant terrace by the river. They are laughing and enjoying their drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. The picturesque surroundings with the green river and lush nature reinforce the feeling of joy and community.

Summer in Bern

Things are heating up in Bern this summer: We’re letting the region’s refreshing experiences go straight to our heads. Feeling inspired to join us? Discover our top tips and start planning your own summer adventure. Because in Bern, the holiday vibes start right on your doorstep.

Summery activities

Blue skies, sunshine, and good vibes – summer in Bern is all about the outdoors. Whether it’s cooling off in one of the city’s free lidos, relaxing at one of the many scenic natural swimming spots across the region, exploring on an e-bike, or soaking up the buzz at this year’s football highlight: the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.

Cooling off

Is there anything better on a hot day than jumping in the cool water? How about a swim in one of Switzerland’s most beautiful outdoor pools, complete with a spectacular view of the Parliament Building? Or cooling off at a secluded natural bathing spot in the Gantrisch Nature Park, the Emmental valley, the Oberaargau region, or the quaint town of Laupen? The destination Bern has all kinds of refreshing activities in store for you this summer.

Aare you in love yet?

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.

The River Aare

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 Three Favorite Routes

A relaxed group sits and stands on the pebble beach of the River Aare after a boat trip. They enjoy the sun and the fresh air while the empty rubber dinghy lies beside them, witness to their latest adventure on the water. In the background, the river draws a natural border through the lush green of the riparian forest.

Our favourite rafting routes on the River Aare

The couple smiles as they prepare to launch their dinghy into the cool waters of the Aare. Their excited expressions and the vibrant colours of the boat against the clear water reflect a spirit full of anticipation and the pure pleasure of spending time together in nature.

Aareböötle: how to prepare for boating on the River Aare

Aare you safe? A question everyone heading into or onto the River Aare should ask, whether you’re rafting, wild swimming or paddleboarding. Your safety comes first. Here are the most important safety tips.

Cooling down in front of the Parliament Building

The water feature on the Bundesplatz (Parliament Square) is made up of 26 fountains which represent Switzerland’s 26 cantons. The water seemingly shoots directly out of the stone slabs, up to seven meters into the air – sometimes following a certain rhythm, sometimes completely at random. Children frolic in the fountains, shrieking with joy, and adults and even dogs refresh themselves in the cool water on hot days. Next to them, young people sit on the ground in smaller and larger groups, picnicking, discussing, or practicing a dance performance. Watching this does make you wonder: you couldn’t imagine seeing such a spectacle in front of other seats of government – in front of the White House, for example, or the Elysée Palace.

Discover it now

People enjoy the sunny day in front of the Federal Palace in Bern, while children play happily between the bubbling fountains - a picture of summer happiness.

Free outdoor pools in Bern

During the summer months, the people of Bern turn into a nation of water rats (i.e., enthusiastic swimmers). And for good reason: not only the sparkling Aare, but a whole selection of municipal bathing areas beckon with their cool water, cosy sunbathing meadows and treats from fries to ice cream. From the lively neighbourhood swimming pool Wyler to the alternative-style Lorrainebad to the famous Marzili: a fun swimming experience stands at the top of the list during Bern’s summer. And the best part: it’s free!

Hop in

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.

Our “Marzilian” swim kit, including an Aarebag and a microfibre towel, is the ultimate summer sidekick for hot days by the water.

The River Aare is not the only way to cool down. Bern’s family-friendly wild swimming spots and lidos are ideal for a refreshing dip. Don’t wanna get wet? Swap your swimsuit for something cooler underground and explore a vaulted cellar or wander through one of the region’s castles.

An idyllic river landscape with an old stone bridge. Two people on a stand-up paddleboard enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the water, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.

The prettiest bathing spots in Bern

The picture shows an energetic moment in an outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by a green landscape. Two teenagers perform impressive jumps from the diving tower while other bathers look on relaxed, creating a cheerful and exuberant summer atmosphere.

Outdoor Pools around Bern

The picture shows the lively and warm atmosphere of the Kornhauskeller in Bern, where guests come together to enjoy their meal in a historically decorated hall with impressive frescoes and warm lighting.

The most beautiful vaulted cellars in Bern

The picture shows a medieval castle rising out of the fog. The castle has several towers with pointed roofs. Mountains can be seen in the background, which are also partially hidden in the fog. The atmosphere is mystical and calm.

Bern’s castles

A beaming Lia Wälti holds a football in her hand on a football pitch in a stadium. The scene conveys joy, energy and passion for sport, with a lively and motivating atmosphere.

Get moving this summer

Longer days, warmer nights – summer’s perfect for getting active. And this year, one sport takes centre stage: football! In July, the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 is coming to Bern. Not a die-hard footie fan? No worries. There’s plenty to get your heart rate up. From e-biking and scenic walks to family-friendly adventures in the great outdoors: this summer, Bern gets moving.

UEFA Women’s Euro

In summer 2025, Europe’s top women footballers will battle it out right here in Bern and across Switzerland. Catch a match at the iconic Wankdorf Stadium, join a public viewing across the city, or soak up the atmosphere in the buzzing fan zone on Bundesplatz (Parliament Square): Women’s football is taking over and everyone is invited.

Discover the “Tales of the Gantrisch” Route

990 metres of elevation over 50 kilometres – the new “Tales of the Gantrisch” Route 333 isn’t for the faint-hearted. If the route itself and the “Tales of the Gantrisch” challenge starting in mid-June aren’t reason enough to hop back on your bike and cruise through the stunning scenery of the Gantrisch Nature Park, we don’t know what is. Stop at all five interactive stations along the way and you’ll be automatically entered into a prize draw. Solve the riddles at each stop to boost your chances and multiply your odds of winning some truly epic prizes.

To the “Tales of the Gantrisch” route More bike routes

The picture shows two people listening to an audio tour of the "Gantrisch Legend Route" through headphones. The woman in the yellow mackintosh is laughing, while the man is smiling. The mood is cheerful and relaxed, full of anticipation for the adventure ahead.

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

Outdoor Family Adventures

Against the historic backdrop of the Bundesplatz in Bern, two women and a man enjoy themselves in the splashing water feature, their faces filled with joy. It is a lively, joyful moment in the centre of the city.

Excursion along the water in Bern

A man with a sunny smile sits on the riverbank in the centre of Langenthal while talking to a woman in bright yellow. With her back to the viewer, they share a seemingly cheerful and light-hearted conversation.

Excursion along the water in Langenthal

Two women relax on the banks of the Emme, with Burgdorf Castle towering majestically in the background. The natural beauty of the place invites you to linger and creates an atmosphere of serenity and enjoyment.

Excursion along the water in Burgdorf

Make the most of a long weekend: 15 August, the Feast of the Assumption, is a public holiday in many Catholic cantons. A perfect excuse for a long weekend in Bern.

Das Bild zeigt einen Blick durch ein Fenster auf eine Gruppe von Menschen, die an einem Tisch in einem gemütlich beleuchteten Raum sitzen und zu interagieren scheinen, möglicherweise bei einem Meeting oder geselligen Beisammensein.

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

And speaking of strong women: Bern’s legacy goes far beyond the football pitch. The city tour “From Midwife to Federal Councillor” celebrates women who shaped Swiss history long before the Women’s Euro rolled into town. Fancy something cooler? Bern’s museums are full of fascinating exhibitions – and deliciously air-conditioned. And best of all? Every Saturday in August, admission is free.

During a city tour in Bern's Matte district, interested visitors stand on a cobblestone square in front of historic houses and a mural.

City tour “From the midwife to the first female Federal Councillor”

Visitors interactively explore a modern exhibition. The playful, creative atmosphere is palpable as they stroll between the exhibits and unusual installations. Curiosity and pleasure mingle in the space.

Bern’s Museums

The image shows a group of actors on a theatre stage, against an immersive backdrop of the roaring sea. The mixture of everyday and historical clothing creates a sense of timelessness and universal human experience.

Cultural venues in the city of Bern

Cool off with a curious museum visit: from July to September, the Alps Swiss Alpine Museum hosts “Blubbb. The Finds of Aare Diver Dave”. The exhibition showcases the most surprising finds retrieved by local river diver Dave.

Food and drink

Drei Freunde geniessen bei warmem Abendlicht entspannte Drinks auf einer Rooftop-Bar mit Blick über die Stadt. Die Stimmung ist heiter und ungezwungen – Gelächter liegt in der Luft, der Moment fühlt sich leicht und sommerlich frei an.

Bern’s pop-up bars

Pop-up bars are a summer staple in Bern, and we’re obsessed. There’s nothing like sipping an ice-cold beer or iced tea beneath a parasol at one of the city’s most creative spots.

Das Bild zeigt ein älteres Päärchen, dass an einem Wintertag bei einem Picknickplatz pause macht. Die Aussicht ist etwas vernebelt aber trotzdem weitsichtig.

Best barbecue spots in Bern

Whether you’re with the whole family or a group of mates, nothing beats a good Cervelat (a beloved Swiss sausage) or grilled cheese over an open flame. Here’s where we think barbecues are the best.

From fruity ice creams and local craft beers to shady riverside terraces and child-friendly eateries – Bern’s food scene serves up summer on a plate.

The most beautiful restaurant terraces in Bern

Three people stroll through a busy street in Bern, laughing with ice cream, past historic buildings and Swiss flags - a picture of carefree summer enjoyment.

Our favourite gelato shops in and around Bern

Enjoy a fresh beer with friends on the terrace of the Old Tram Depot in Bern, with a magnificent view of the old town and Bern Cathedral. A perfect place to relax and chat.

Beer Capital

In the Zent restaurant, a family sits at a wooden table and enjoys a meal together. The warm, light-flooded atmosphere, the abundance of greenery and the loving interaction between parents and children create a feeling of security and joie de vivre.

The best family-friendly cafés and restaurants in Bern

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!