🏞️ Bern: Switzerland’s Relaxed Capital

#centraleurope Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a city that feels more like a charming town than a bustling capital. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is filled with arcaded streets, medieval fountains, and sandstone buildings, all beautifully set along a curve of the Aare River. I loved walking under the 6 km of arcades — perfect for browsing boutiques, cafés, and traditional shops. The highlight is the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower with moving figurines that draw a small crowd every hour. The Federal Palace, home of Swiss politics, and the Bear Park, a nod to the city’s symbol, add to Bern’s unique character. In summer, locals swim in the fast-flowing Aare River — an unforgettable and very Swiss experience. Tips: Bern is walkable, but trams make exploring easy. Try local treats like Berner Rösti or Meringues with double cream from nearby Emmental. For the best views, climb to the Rose Garden (Rosengarten) overlooking the red rooftops and Alps in the distance. 📍 Location: Central Switzerland 🕒 Best Time to Visit: May–September for river swimming and outdoor cafés, December for Christmas markets #bern #switzerlandtravel #hiddenswitzerland #zytglogge #aareriver #traveleurope #swisscapital #unescoheritage #medievalcharm #bernviews#travel #citydaytours #couplestrip