Inspiration for romantic dates in Bern

After a long day of work, rest and me time are the basis for good health and balance. We should take this to heart and make sure we take care of ourselves – and each other! How about a spa date with relaxed conversation in a relaxing setting? There are plenty of wellness and spa places in and around Bern that provide the perfect opportunity for unwinding together. The Bernaqua adventure world, for example, offers fun slides as well as relaxation pools. Those who prefer a quieter setting will find an inviting bathing landscape at Solbad Schönbühl. Another (insider) tip: If you’re looking to pamper yourselves surrounded by lush nature, we recommend the Althaus farm, where you can get into the hot tub and enjoy the spectacular view of the rolling hills of the Bernese countryside.

Get active! In our opinion, the most important thing is to have fun together. How about a round of ping-pong on the Minster terrace? A game of chess or nine men's morris al fresco? Solving puzzles and riddles in an Escape Room? Create your first shared memories! And then celebrate your win and toast to your wits over drinks or beers afterwards. Choosing the perfect bar or the perfect café to take your crush can be hard, as there almost unlimited possibilities in the city of Bern. But worry not, the Bar Quartets is here to help. In this fun Bernese game, you compare the different places based on various categories (from the length of the bar to the price per pint). And the best thing about it: each bar has a special offer for players. Two pints of beer for the price of one, a slice of cake, or an entire charcuterie board. We all know that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach!

“I wett das du nach de Stärne griffsch, glich wie wiit entfärnt si si” (“I want you to reach for the stars, no matter how far away they are”): what Solothurn-based rapper Manillio sings in his song “Stärne” is also possible in Bern – if only figuratively. But is there anything more romantic than cuddling up, watching the sunset and then gazing up into the starry night sky together to look for the different constellations? Moved by the overwhelming vastness of the universe, words become unnecessary, and the heart starts to feel a deep, indescribable peace that only this moment can evoke. Tone down the cheesiness, you might think. But if you’ve ever tried it, you know it’s true! There are plenty of spots in and around Bern that offer a great view of the night sky. For stargazing in particular we recommend the Space Eye in the Gantrisch Nature Park and the observatory on the Gurten.

Tried and true: “Eis ga zieh” (going out for a drink) is the classic first date for a reason. Beer, Aperol Spritz, iced tea – your choice of drink says a lot about you and is a nice conversation starter to get to know each other. Cheers to a wonderful evening – and maybe the start of something special? Continue the evening with delicious food at one of Bern’s many excellent restaurants. There’s a perfect choice for every budget. How about the six-course menu at the restaurant Wein und Sein, complemented by a fine selection of wines? Or dinner at Moment, where only the three main ingredients are known before the meal? Who of you will find out what they’re serving? Get out of the house and into Bern’s bars and restaurants to wine and dine each other and talk about everything and anything.

If you’re running out of ideas for a cosy evening together, a trip to the cinema is a safe bet that will hardly ever let you down. A special treat is the Kellerkino with its unique atmosphere. It often shows interesting documentaries and movies with a focus on current issues and events. It is located in a vaulted cellar, so seats are limited. Reservations are best made via the phone, and the tickets are still paid for in cash here. “Mängisch hetme haut chli Theater” (“sometimes there’s a bit of drama”) – it can happen in any relationship. But not on your first date! The only drama you get there is one that you can actually enjoy: performed on a stage by professional actors. Bern has plenty of different options in store for theatre fans on their first date, from Bühnen Bern to Ono.

How might life have been way back in the olden days? A joint visit to one of Bern’s many castles will take you and your sweetheart on a journey back in time. In Burgdorf, you can combine your visit with an overnight stay in the castle's very own youth hostel. And maybe go on a guided tour of the castle museum in the morning. Laupen also has a wonderfully preserved castle, which played an important role in early Swiss history. But with all the medieval architecture and lessons in history, don’t forget why you’re visiting in the first place: to enjoy time with a special someone – and write your own story. 

Water, swimming, sunshine, gelato – no, we’re not talking about a vacation by the Mediterranean, this is what a summer afternoon by the Aare looks like. The beautiful river that flows around our city is a green oasis between Bern's lively centre and tranquil nature. The perfect place to get to know each other. Meet up for a barbecue at one of the many barbecue sites along the river or find a cosy picnic spot away from the hustle and bustle. If you prefer something more active, hop in the water for a swim or join the locals in their favourite summer pastime, “Aareböötle”, where you float down the river in an inflatable boat. When the sun sets and temperatures start to drop, head to one of the many “Beizli” (bistros) on the banks of the river for a relaxed sundowner or some shared fries.

Go on a shopping treasure hunt! Bern is full of thrift shops, flea markets and second-hand stores selling everything from antique furniture to books to trendy clothes. Whether in a large hall like the Bärner Brocki in the Lorraine neighbourhood or a small gem with curated pieces like the Kleines Bröckli, strolling through the aisles and over market squares makes for a wonderfully laid-back first date. Who knows, maybe you’ll even find a gem or two for your home – with an extra special memory attached to it. And there's certainly no shortage of things to talk about: who could the people in the oil painting be? Where could that colourful vase be from? What might have been kept in that ornate box? Or how about having a competition to see who can put together the better outfit on a smaller budget?

While it may not be very innovative, meeting up for drinks is a great way to get to know each other in a relaxed setting. Just hanging out, chatting, having fun – that’s what it’s all about! Be it a charming bar in Bern’s old town, a cosy café in one of the neighbourhoods, or a trendy rooftop bar with a view of the Alps: Bern has something for every taste. For dates, we recommend the Abflugbar. The cool bar in a historic vaulted cellar has exclusive drinks and comfy armchairs – perfect for cuddling. And if you’re looking for some entertainment or a good conversation starter, why not try a fun (card) game?

If you’re outdoorsy people, you’ll love what the Bern region has to offer: the Gantrisch Nature Park, the Bantiger, the Emmental – there are plenty of scenic places that are great for adventurous hikes or long, romantic walks with a gorgeous backdrop. Surrounded by lush nature, you’ll have time for just the two of you. Smell the blooming flowers in the meadows, feel the gently breeze coming from the hills, and lose all sense of time. Watch the sun set behind the mountains and see the alpine panorama in all its splendour. Enjoy the silence and marvel at the vastness of the sky and the beauty of the great outdoors. And if you see a shooting star, don’t forget to make a wish!

If you’d rather get active than gaze into each other’s eyes all day, you’re in the right place. The range of activities in the region leaves nothing to be desired. Long bike rides through the Bernese countryside, strapping on a pair of roller blades, or whizzing down the hill on a stand-up scooter – take your pick. And, most importantly: have fun! To strengthen mutual trust, we recommend a bouldering trip to Bimano or the O'Bloc indoor rock-climbing gym. Guaranteed to make for a unique first date! And if you end up flat on the mat instead of at the top of the rock, there's only one thing to do: share a laugh and plan the next adventure. Because as we know, it’s not the looks that count, but rather the fun you have and the moments you share. And there’s plenty of that in Bern!

Bern Animal Park, Dählhölzli is perfect for a relaxed first date. Its furry residents provide lots of conversation topics and funny moments to break the ice. Watch fleecy bison, playful otters, and majestic snow leopards and end your visit with an ice cream down by the river. Another great option are the different farms in the region – their cows, lamas and sheep are adorable and fun to watch. If you have a heart for rescues, you can pick up an animal from a shelter and take it for a walk. Spending time together with animals shows your caring side and creates lasting memories.