Is the Rosengarten in Bern free to enter?

Yes, the Rosengarten is a public park and is completely free to enter at any time of day. This includes access to the rose gardens, the Einstein bench, and the main viewing platforms.

How long does it take to walk from the Bear Park to the Rosengarten?

The walk takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes of uphill walking. The distance is less than a kilometer, but the incline on the Aargauerstalden makes it a moderate climb.

Can I see real bears in Bern?

Yes, the BärenPark (Bear Park) is home to several brown bears that live in a large, naturalistic enclosure. They are usually active from spring through autumn, though they hibernate during the winter months.

Where is the Einstein Bench in Bern?

The Einstein Bench is located in the Rosengarten park, near the southern overlook. It features a bronze statue of Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern while developing his Theory of Relativity.

Is this walking route suitable for children?

Absolutely. The Bear Park is a major highlight for families, and the Rosengarten features a large, well-maintained playground and plenty of space to run.

What is the best time for photography at the Rosengarten?

The 'Golden Hour' just before sunset is the best time for photography. The sun sets behind the Old Town, illuminating the red roofs and the Bern Minster in a warm, golden light.

Can I take a bus to the top of the hill instead of walking?

Yes, if you prefer to skip the uphill climb, you can take Bus line 10 from the city center directly to the 'Rosengarten' stop at the top of the hill.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 15 min

Duration

6

Stops

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Tour

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a city defined by its relationship with the Aare River and its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. While the medieval streets are captivating, the true scale of this 'City of Fountains' is best appreciated from its surrounding ridges. This self-guided walk takes you on a scenic ascent from the riverbanks to the city’s most famous overlook: the Rosengarten. Along the way, you will transition from the spiritual heart of the Nydegg neighborhood to the natural habitats of the city's symbolic bears, before climbing the historic 'Stalden' roads that offer increasingly dramatic views of the city's red-tiled roofs. This walking route is designed for those who appreciate the intersection of photography and nature. Starting at the Nydeggkirche, you'll cross the bridge to see the BärenPark, where Bern’s famous brown bears roam in a riverside habitat. The route then challenges you with a moderate incline up the Grosser Muristalden and Aargauerstalden. These paths are more than just transit routes; they are vantage points that reveal the loop of the Aare River and the distant Bernese Alps on clear days. Your journey concludes in the tranquil expanse of the Rose Garden, home to hundreds of flower species and the most iconic panoramic view in the region. Whether you are looking for the perfect sunset shot or a peaceful morning stroll, this independent adventure allows you to experience Bern’s natural beauty and historic skyline without the constraints of a group schedule.

Highlights

Panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town
Up-close encounters at the modern BärenPark (Bear Park)
The Gothic architecture of the Nydeggkirche
Over 200 species of roses in the hilltop Rosengarten
The famous 'Einstein Bench' photo opportunity
Breathtaking views of the Aare River's loop

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Nydeggkirche

Begin your exploration at the Nydeggkirche, a site where Bern’s history literally began. This church stands on the ruins of the Nydegg Castle, built in the 12th century to protect the river crossing. The original castle was destroyed by the townspeople in the 1260s as the city expanded, and the church rose in its place. Take a moment to admire its slender spire and the way it anchors the lower end of the Old Town. This spot marks the transition from the dense medieval city to the open river valley. From here, you’ll cross the Nydeggbrücke, a high-arched bridge that offers your first elevated view of the emerald-colored Aare River below.

2

BearPark (BärenPark)

The bear has been the symbol of Bern since the 12th century, and the BärenPark is where that legend lives today. Gone is the cramped 'Bear Pit' of the past; today, the resident brown bears enjoy a 6,000-square-meter park that slopes down to the river. As you walk along the paths, you might see them foraging, climbing trees, or even taking a dip in the water. This area represents Bern's commitment to animal welfare and its deep-rooted traditions. It is a favorite spot for locals to gather, and it provides a unique naturalistic foreground for photos of the bridge you just crossed.

3

Grosser Muristalden

Leaving the river level, you begin your ascent via the Grosser Muristalden. The word 'Stalden' refers to a steep road, and this path has served travelers for centuries. As you climb, keep your camera ready. The elevation gain here provides a spectacular angle of the Nydeggkirche spire framed by the Aare. You are now entering the Beundenfeld neighborhood, a quieter side of the city. This stretch of the walk highlights the contrast between the urban density of the Old Town across the water and the lush, green slopes of the eastern bank.

4

Aargauerstalden

Continue your upward journey along the Aargauerstalden. This road was historically the main artery for those arriving in Bern from the north. While it is a paved thoroughfare, the wide sidewalks allow for a safe and scenic trek. Look back frequently; as you rise higher, the Bern Minster (Münster) begins to dominate the skyline. The perspective from here allows you to see the distinct layers of the city's architecture, from the riverside houses to the grand cathedrals. It is a short but steady climb that prepares you for the tranquility of the gardens ahead.

5

Restaurant Rosengarten

Just before entering the main garden, you’ll reach the Restaurant Rosengarten. This building serves as a social hub for the neighborhood, offering a terrace that boasts one of the most famous views in Switzerland. Even if you aren't stopping for a coffee, the area around the restaurant is a prime photography spot. It serves as a gateway between the effort of the climb and the relaxation of the park. From this height, you can see the Aare River make its horseshoe bend around the city, a natural defense that helped Bern remain unconquered for centuries.

6

Rosengarten Bern

You have reached the summit of your walk. The Rosengarten is not just a park; it is a botanical sanctuary with over 220 types of roses, 200 varieties of irises, and 28 species of rhododendrons. Originally a cemetery until 1913, it was transformed into a public park and now offers the definitive panoramic view of Bern. Find the 'Einstein Bench'—a bronze statue of the physicist who lived in Bern during his most productive years—and take a seat. From here, the entire UNESCO World Heritage site is laid out before you. It is the perfect place to linger, enjoy the floral scents, and capture the ultimate photo of your Bernese adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Rosengarten route is widely considered the best for views as it climbs the ridge overlooking the Old Town. This self-guided walk offers a 360-degree panorama of the Aare River and the city's UNESCO-listed skyline.