Winter in Bern

Not a fan of queuing at the ski lift but eager to get moving in the snow? Then the numerous cross-country skiing trails in the region of Bern are just the thing for you. Whether you’re a beginner or the next Dario Cologna or Nadine Fähndrich, there’s a suitable trail for everybody in the Gantrisch Nature Park, the Emmental or the Oberaargau. And do you want to know the best thing about cross-country skiing? The meditative movements give you enough time to take in the breathtaking mountain scenery. And if you need a break in between, you’re sure to find a chalet with a warm soup or a bench with a view to catch your breath.

A snowshoe hike is ideal if you want to enjoy the magical romance of winter in peace. Put on your snowshoes and immediately immerse yourself in the winter landscapes around Bern. Snow-covered fir trees, untouched snowy ridges and captivating views are waiting for you just an hour or so outside of the capital. We know where the most beautiful tours are and have compiled a highlight list for solo snowshoers or groups. And can you think of anything better than a tasty fondue in a cosy chalet after your excursion?

Sunshine is somewhat scarce in winter. We recommend going on one of the many winter walks in and around Bern to top up your vitamin D levels. If you venture outside of the villages and towns to stretch your legs in the enchanting winter landscapes, you will quickly reach hidden scenic points with breathtaking views. And here’s an insider tip if you need a change of pace after walking uphill: on some of these walks, you can ride a sledge to get back home – now, isn’t that twice the fun?

The “Spooky Bern” city tour is a hair-raising stroll through Bern’s underworld and ghost stories. After all, the medieval streets in Bern’s old town are fertile ground for scary stories and grisly secrets. Encounters with witches, mysterious dark figures and forever banished spirits await you. The walk leads past the locations of terrible crimes, the street corners and narrow alleys silent witnesses to gruesome events and mysterious legends. The tour expertly combines myths and horror stories with historical occurrences, surely sending a shiver down many people’s spines.

According to the bank Zürcher Kantonalbank’s statistics, Bern is one of the quietest larger cities in Switzerland. We want to celebrate Bern’s cosiness and start off the new year in a relaxed manner. The wellness possibilities in the city and region are just as extensive as you might expect, ranging from a traditional oriental bathing ritual in a hammm to the largest natural brine bath in Switzerland with salt water in Schönbühl to various activities in the Bernaqua water park Swim and sauna your way through a wide range of facilities.

There’s nothing better than getting comfortable over brunch when it’s cold and wet outside. And boy, are you spoilt for choice when it comes to hearty breakfasts in the city or region of Bern: How about a restaurant under the arcades? Or maybe a visit to a permaculture farm in the Gantrisch Nature Park? Or would you prefer the vegetarian and partly vegan offerings at the Kulturschür on the Gurten? Want our opinion? We particularly enjoy the cosy atmosphere at the theatre restaurant Vierte Wand.

If you have kids, rainy days can sometimes seem to last forever. Here are our favourite recommendations for places and activities in Bern that will help you make the most of those days, from bouncy castle heaven and creative workshops to indoor playgrounds and water parks. And they’re fun for the parents to, we promise!