
Bern
switzerland
About Bern
An alpine backdrop and medieval architecture characterise Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The city follows the curves of the Aare River, which you can wander along before going for a stroll through the cobbled streets of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Bern was once the home of Albert Einstein, and you can visit the museum now located at his house (aptly named Einsteinhaus), as well as spotting works by world-renowned artists at one of the many contemporary art galleries.
You can stay in a Bern hostel that's within the city's UNESCO World Heritage quarter or one in a listed building with views of the river. For a fresh glimpse of the city's past, choose a hostel that was once a hospital, sitting at the foot of Gurten mountain. Stream a film at a hostel that includes free Wi-Fi with your stay or opt for one that offers a free breakfast. Bern hostels with self-catering facilities mean you can cook dinner yourself and save your Swiss francs for souvenirs.
In the Altstadt neighbourhood (Bern's Old Town), you have the main sights within easy reach. It's surrounded by the Aare River on three sides, giving peaceful views all around. Here, you can explore the 6km stretch of shopping arcades and discover its beautiful old buildings. Kirchenfeld is a leafy district that has a tranquil vibe. Head here to check out the city's museums like the Bern Art Gallery (Kunsthalle Bern).
One of Bern's best-known sights is the Zytglogge clock tower, and people gather here on the hour to see the performance of its 16th-century mechanism. It sits in a gate tower that dates from the 13th century – the oldest monument in the city. Visit the Gothic Bern Cathedral to gaze up at its 100-metre high spire. For views, head over to the Rosengarten, a rose garden above the city. The Gurten mountain is just outside the city. You can hike up or take the train to the top, before braving the toboggan run back down. It also hosts a music festival every July, Gurtenfestival.
Bern has a small airport with a few international flights, while Zurich Airport is larger. Trains run from Zurich Airport to Bern Train Station every 30 minutes and the journey takes around an hour and a half. You can get to Bern by train from other major cities in Switzerland, including Geneva (just under an hour) and Basel (just over an hour). Get around town by hiring a bike or using the local trams or buses.
City Info
3 Hostels in Bern
Located in Bern
We are located at the foot of Bern's local mountain the Gurten, only seven minutes from the main station.

Located in Bern
Our location is unbeatable! Bern Backpackers is the most centrally located hostel in Bern. The histori
Located in Bern
Bern is the capital of Switzerland and is not only a political and diplomatic metropolis but also a very popular and much-visited destination, due to its central, geographical location
Bern is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Bern, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Bern has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Bern offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.
When visiting Bern, don't miss the opportunity to:
- Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
- Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
- Connect with other travelers at hostel events
- Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Bern