Although not the largest in Switzerland, third after Zurich and Geneva, the city of Bern has a lot to offer. Here you’ll find the old town districts and long arcades, all well preserved. If you’re into history and ancient things, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site is worthy of being put on your wish list. So, are you ready to meet the Swiss capital? Sit back and relax, because we will take you to see some of the best hotels in Bern Switzerland also those near train station!
Where to Stay in Bern
If you’re planning to visit Switzerland and seeing some of the country’s best, Bern is a great choice. With roots dating back to the 12th century, the capital is blessed with natural beauty and history. However, since the city’ is known to be very expensive, you might have a hard time finding hotels in Bern Switzerland that fit your budget. But don’t worry, because we’ll help you with that here.
But first, let’s decide where to stay. If you’re interested in well-preserved history, the Altstadt is a great option. This old town district houses many relics from the Middle Ages, such as the Zytglogge, one of the world’s most beautiful clocks. With a comprehensive transport system, it’s also within easy reach of all of Switzerland and the rest of Europe. Those looking for hotels in Bern Switzerland near train station, this is also the ideal place.
Prefer a local experience? Lorraine will be great. A 30-minute walk from the Altstadt, this area has some must-see sights such as Lorraine Bad, a public swimming pool by the river, and the Botanic Garden. For your culinary desires, multiple restaurants are scattered around this neighborhood. This is probably one of the reasons why Bern is one of the small towns in Switzerland worth visiting. From history to culinary, they have it all!
For family vacations, Bern has Kirchenfled. Located south of Altsdat, this neighborhood is crammed with important museums, such as the Kunsthalle and History Museum. There’s also Tierpark Bern, a historic zoo with an aquarium and bear exhibits. It will be one of the best holidays ever because there are so many interesting things to do in Bern!
Haven’t decided yet? Our curated list of the hotels in Bern Switzerland below might help you a bit. Let’s check it out.
Ibis budget Bern Expo
11
If you’re planning to come to Bern for a convention or are interested in learning the sports side of the city, the ibis budget Bern Expo would be a great choice. As its name suggests, this hotel is directly opposite the Bern Exhibition Center, while Wankdrofstadion is only about 200 meters away. For those who want to have some fun in the city center, you only need to travel about 1.05 miles.
The rooms at the ibis budget Bern Expo come with standard amenities such as a flat-screen TV with cable TV and a private bathroom. As with most hotels in Bern Switzerland, internet connection is available via WiFi and can be accessed in all areas. For breakfast, while the hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, you can order hot or cold food at the snack bar. It doesn’t matter if you’re starving at even the most ridiculous hours, they’ll be ready to serve you as this bar is open 24 hours a day!
If you want to head downtown, there’s The Guisanplatz Tram Stop nearby. Just one tram ride from here, you’ll be in the heart of Bern in no time. You can visit some of the city’s top attractions, including the Kunstmuseum or the Museum of Art, a massive building that houses more than 51,000 collections of paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and films. It’s a must for all art enthusiasts while in Switzerland.
Hotel National Bern
10
Among all the hotels in Bern Switzerland near train station, this one is quite recommended as they provide a free pass for local public transportation. As for location, Hotel National Bern is right in the heart of the city and only a five-minute walk from the main train station. For those who choose to ride the tram, The Hirschengraben stop is right in front of this two-stars accommodation.
Speaking of facilities, the rooms at the Hotel National Bern are traditionally furnished. A work desk is available for those who want to stay productive during the holidays. However, please note that not all rooms have a TV, so you may want to contact the local staff first to ask about this. No need to worry about missing the latest trends on the internet, because just like most hotels in Bern Switzerland, WiFi can be accessed for free throughout the property.
For breakfast, the hotel has an on-site restaurant that serves buffet menus every morning. But if you’re in the mood for something else, they also provide continental dishes as well as a traditional Swiss breakfast with handmade jams. Highly recommended for those looking for authentic Helvetian flavors.
Local attractions such as Munster Cathedral, Kornhaus, and Bern Clock Tower can be found within less than a mile from the hotel. But if you’re interested in learning more about the life of one of the world’s geniuses, come to the Einsteinhaus. Located on Kramgasse, 0.62 miles from the hotel, Albert Einstein’s former residence contains several documents that were written directly by the scientist while working on his famous theory of relativity.
The Bristol
9
If there’s one thing that makes Bern stand out among other European cities, it’s their well-preserved history. In the capital of Switzerland, you’ll find many arcades, old buildings, and magnificent squares. And there’s no better way to experience it all to the fullest than to stay at The Bristol. That’s because the hotel provides free bicycles for guests who wish to explore the old town district of Bern. That’s pretty cool!
Like most hotels in Bern Switzerland, this four-star accommodation also has an ideal location. It’s only a two-minute walk from the Swiss Parliament, 50 meters from The Barenplatz bus stop, and 4.97 miles to Belp Airport. The Bristol is also great for those looking for hotels in Bern Switzerland near train station, as it’s only a five-minute walk from Bern Main Train Station.
You’ll find that the rooms at The Bristol are all elegantly decorated. Standard amenities such as cable TV, coffee/tea maker, and a bathroom with hairdryer are all provided. A side note for tobacco enthusiasts, all rooms here are smoke-free. If you want a little time to relax, the hotel has provided a designated smoking area.
The Bristol is located on Schauplatzgasse, one of the main streets in the old town district of Bern which is also part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Its history dates back to 1347, at a time when the street was known as Schoulanzgasse, after a local noble family. Apart from the Bern parliament building, here you’ll find several historical buildings such as the French Church Bern, the Korn Haus, and the Bern Clock Tower, all of which are less than a mile away from the hotel.
Kreuz Bern Modern City Hotel
8
If city walking is your go-to activity while on vacation, this is one of the hotels in Bern Switzerland near train station worth considering. Standing tall in the heart of the old city district, the Kreuz Bern Modern City Hotel is just a five-minute walk from the nearest train station. Meanwhile, some of the city’s best landmarks, such as the Bear Plaza, Federal Palace of Switzerland, and the Zytgloggeturm Clock Tower, are just a two-minute walk away.
Just like most hotels in Bern Switzerland, the rooms here come with standard amenities such as a flat-screen TV, private bathroom with bath/shower and hairdryer, telephone, and free WiFi. For those who bring valuables, you’ll be relieved to know that the hotel has provided an in-room safe.
Stopping by the Barenhofli Restaurant for breakfast is highly recommended, as they provide rich menus every day. You’ll find Bern-style dishes, fruit cocktails, and a variety of desserts here. Our advice, take this opportunity to taste opfuchuechli, apple donuts that have been a mainstay of Swiss snacks for centuries.
When it comes to leisure facilities, this hotel isn’t inferior to other luxury accommodations in Bern. There’s a fitness center for those who need to stay in shape during their vacation. If you want to relax a bit after boring hours on a flight, we highly recommend coming and trying the hotel’s infrared sauna.
Ibis Style Bern City
7
Here comes another hotel which can be an ideal base for those who want to explore the old city of Bern. Located on Zieglerstrasse street, the ibis Styles Bern City is only a 20-minute walk to the UNESCO Cultural Heritage site. This three-star accommodation is also great for those in need of hotels in Bern Switzerland near the train station, as it is only a 15-minute walk to Bahnhof Bern, one of the city’s main public transport hubs.
Nothing too special about the amenities here. Just like most hotels in Bern Switzerland, you’ll get a room with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a safe, and a bathroom. Meanwhile, the hotel did not specify about the availability of breakfast, but it looks like you can enjoy a buffet menu or order Continental dishes here. As for business travelers, there’s a dedicated internet workstation, complete with printer facilities. All hotel guests can use it free of charge, without any additional costs.
Historical sites such as the French Church Bern, Kornhaus, and Munster Cathedral are only less than a mile from the hotel. But one that we recommend is of course Zytglogge. This medieval tower landmark dates back to the 13th century. Before becoming the tourist magnet it is today, this 800-year-old building used to function as a watchtower, and even a prison! Make sure you don’t miss it when you travel to Bern.
Hotel La Pergola
6
As the name implies, Hotel La Pergola is surrounded by beautiful gardens. If you’re looking for a place to stay near downtown Bern, but want a peaceful atmosphere at the same time, this is it. Whether for pleasure or business, this three-star accommodation is ready to give you a warm and friendly welcome.
The rooms at La Pergola are arguably simple, but we liked the fact that they were all nicely furnished. And just like most hotels in Bern Switzerland, you’ll get standard amenities such as a soft bed, chairs, TV, large windows, and a work desk. Regarding internet connection, there’s a WiFi network available free of charge throughout the property. If you need anything else, feel free to contact the local staff. Quoting from their official page, all hotel teams know ‘Bern very well and will be happy to respond to your individual wishes’.
Reaching La Pergola won’t be difficult because the booking confirmation can be used as a free pass for public transportation, including from Bern Airport. Meanwhile, if you want to explore the surroundings, the nearest bus stop is only 100 meters away. There’s also the Bern Main Train Station, which can be found within 0.62 miles. But if you’re not sure where to go, we suggest signing up for the Best Introduction Tour of Bern with a Local. This two-hour tour will let you enjoy the charm and colors of the Swiss capital. From the old town of Kramgasse to the clock tower Zytglogge, you’ll see it all.
Novotel Bern Expo
5
If you happen to attend an event at the BERNEXPO exhibition center, this is the right place to stay. Novotel Bern Expo is only 300 meters from the 441,320 sq ft complex and close to the Stade de Suisse and the Paul Klee Zentrum institute. No matter what time you arrive in Bern, they’ll be ready to provide the best service at the 24-hour front desk.
There’s not a single room at the Novotel Bern Expo that isn’t equipped with air conditioning. They also come with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. You can keep all your shirts and pants tidy, as the hotel provides a wardrobe. As for breakfast, the hotel’s on-site restaurant serves continental dishes each morning.
Business travelers will be glad to know that the hotel provides a dedicated business center. Productivity facilities such as printers, fax machines, and the internet are all free to use at no additional cost. For those who want to hold a meeting, Novotel Bern Expo has six meeting rooms with state-of-the-art equipment support.
Some of the points of interest that we recommend around here include Wankdorfstadion, PostFinance Arena, and most notably, Bern Cathedral. Known locally as Berner Munster, this gothic-style church began construction in 1421. Standing at 330 feet, it’s the highest cathedral in Switzerland and part of the Cultural Property of National Significance.
Goldener Schlussel
4
Discover the charms of the past, as the Goldener Schlussel is the oldest hotel in Bern’s old town. It’s conveniently located on Rathausgasse, one of the most picturesque streets around. Some of the city’s greatest landmarks, including the Zytlglogge tower, are just meters away. If you want to know more about the historical part of Bern, this is the place.
All rooms at Goldener Schlussel are non-smoking and come with a parquet floor, desk, cable TV, and bathroom with a hairdryer. You’ll find minimal décor with a small touch of art, looking simple yet effective. Just like most hotels in Bern Switzerland, you’ll get free WiFi access in all areas.
Opening your day with breakfast in a restaurant is a great idea. They usually serve refined Swiss dishes, as well as several continental menus. Enjoy your meal sitting on the terrace on the street, surrounded by the dazzling old vibes of a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
Once you’re ready, pack a bottle of water and start rocking your way as there’s a lot to see around here. Apart from the Bern Clock Tower we mentioned earlier, favorite destinations such as the Einsteinhaus, Munster Cathedral, and the French Church Bern are only 0.12 miles from the hotel. We ourselves highly recommend visiting the Kornhaus. This former rice granary is one of the tourist magnets in the old city and now functions as a cultural center as well as a restaurant.
Hotel Savoy
3
Located in the old town of Bern, the modern and elegant Hotel Savoy is a welcome addition to this less cosmopolitan part of Switzerland. The location is quite ideal, close to several shopping streets and within walking distance of the main station. As with most hotels in Bern Switzerland, WiFi access is available free of charge in all areas.
Staying at the Savoy Hotel is equivalent to getting a fully packed room. Apart from the modern design, you’ll also get a soft bed with memory foam pillows, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, air conditioning, and a telephone with voice mail. Need to stay productive during the holidays? There’s a work desk with HDMI connectivity. Leave your room worry-free, as a laptop safe is also available. For those who need an extra boost in the morning, a minibar and Nespresso machine will be ready to provide your daily dose of caffeine.
A 20-minute drive from Belp Airport, Hotel Savoy offers easy access to some of the best restaurants and the main sights of Bern. Places such as French Church Bern, House of Parliament Bern, Kornhaus, and Bern Clock Tower are all just 0.31 miles away. If you’re interested in visiting one of the oldest bridges in Bern, we recommend going directly to the Lower Gate Bridge, also known locally as Untertrobrucke. With roots dating back to the 19th century, this impressive structure is also a heritage site of national significance.
Hotel Allegro Bern
2
If you come to Bern purely for fun and to spend all your fortunes, look no further than Hotel Allegro Bern! This superior four-star accommodation has it all, from fine dining restaurants, super comfortable terraces, bars, to casinos. Even better, their rooms are decorated with distinctive features and feature gorgeous views of the Bern and the Swiss Alps.
For your culinary desires, there’s Yu Restaurant which serves more than 30 special Asian menus at their famous Asian Dream Buffet. However, if oriental delights aren’t for you, we recommend going straight to Giardino’s Restaurant that has some of the best Italian food around. In addition, their setting is great and the service is excellent.
Meanwhile, for those who just want to relax, there’s the Allegro Bar with some signature drinks and a chilling atmosphere. Enjoy your favorite cocktail overlooking the pond, while mingling with some of the local staff. All of them are friendly and will be happy to tell you what to taste or see around here.
For a little relaxation after a long flight, the hotel’s spa area is here to help. You can even get massage services. But if you just want to just stay in shape while on vacation, stop by the gym with a cardio machine. As with all hotels in Bern Switzerland, it is open all day and can be accessed free of charge by guests.
Hotel Waldhorn
1
Located in Waldhoheweg, Hotel Waldhorn promises a serene atmosphere from the residential area, without being too far from all the activities. The nearest tram stop is just a few steps away, making it easy for those who want to go to the shopping area, BEAexpo, or see the sights around the old town. Better yet, once check-in you’ll get a free pass for local public transportation and it will be valid throughout your stay. Sweet!
Standard amenities such as a soft bed, desk, TV, sofa, and private bathroom are available in all Waldhorn Hotel rooms. At a fair price, it’s one of the best lodging solutions for both business and pleasure travel. Plus they also have friendly service, making you feel at home while in the capital of Switzerland.
Buffet breakfast is available downstairs from half-past seven to ten in the morning. However, if you have an early schedule, the hotel can provide it in advance. For your daily dose of caffeine, there’s a self-service machine for making coffee, espresso, cappuccino, or latte macchiato. If you’re fluent in German, something we definitely don’t, the latest edition of the local newspaper is available every morning.
As with most hotels in Bern Switzerland, Hotel Waldhorn is close to some of the city’s top destinations. Places such as the Untertorbrucke, Kornhaus, Einsteinhaus, and the Bern Clock Tower are all less than a mile away from here. However, if you prefer to admire the natural surroundings, we recommend visiting Bear Pit aka Barengraben. Only 0.62 miles away, here you can sit back and relax or enjoy your lunch while admiring the view along the Aar River.
Recommended Restaurants/Bars in Bern:
- Terrasse & Casa – What’s better than Italian delicacy? Enjoy it while lounging in front of the beautiful Aare River! This restaurant has comfortable sofa seating, perfect for having some good time with friends or loved ones. If you’re looking for a place to dine with a country style home while in Switzerland, this is it.
- Moment – One of the best in the old town of Bern, this eatery serves seasonal menus to satisfy your appetite. We recommend coming for dinner because they have innovative dishes like venison with dumplings and apricot with hay and lavender. Get yourself one of the most fulfilling culinary experiences in Switzerland, by enjoying your meal on the sidewalks.
- Kornhauskeller – Enjoy a dining experience in one of the most exotic old buildings in the old town of Bern. This restaurant occupies a former granary with a history dating back three centuries and serves some of the best Mediterranean dishes around. Feel free to bring your kids, because they also provide children’s menus here.
Recommended Activities in Bern:
- Bern: Guided City Introduction Walk – Don’t miss any of the major sites in the Swiss capital. Get some of the best insights from your professional guides on how to spend your time in Bern. For two hours, you’ll be invited to learn many fun facts about Helvetia’s third-largest city.
- Bern Old City Walking Tour – See for yourself why the old town of Bern is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Check out some of the stunning medieval buildings in the city’s oldest district. Keep going until the end of the tour and you’ll have the chance to see the skyline from the top of the Cathedral of Bern.
- Discover Art in Bern with a Local – See Bern’s artistic side on this one and a half hour tour. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, you’ll be taken to visit several locations that are significant to the development of the city’s arts and culture. Departing from the Kunstmuseum, the journey continues on to Helvetiaplatz, Loebegge, and ends with a visit to a street art exhibition on Lorrainestrasse.
