Bern is the capital of Switzerland.
Bern is located in Switzerland, part of Europe. Find essential geography and continue exploring more places in the same country.
Source: GeoNames geographical database. Population figures can use different geographic boundaries and should be read together with “Figure applies to”.
Bern is Switzerland’s federal capital, set on a peninsula encircled by the River Aare. Arcades, sandstone façades and Alpine views define the old town.
Bern has a recorded population of 121,631. The figure applies to Bern. The source does not provide a reference year; the source data was last checked September 3, 2026.
Altstadt follows the peninsula from the station to Bear Park. Matte lies by the river, Kirchenfeld contains museums, and Marzili sits by the riverside baths.
Zytglogge, the Federal Palace, Münster, Bear Park and Einstein Museum are key stops. Rosengarten offers views over the old town.
Late spring to early autumn suits the river and walking. Winter is cold, but the old town has markets and easy access to mountain areas.
Trams and buses cover the city, and the centre is highly walkable. Trains provide fast links to other Swiss cities.
Bern has a recorded population of 121,631. The figure applies to Bern. The source does not provide a reference year; the source data was last checked September 3, 2026.
Bern is the capital of Switzerland.
Two days suit the old town, museums and river areas.
Yes. The Aare, Gurten and views towards the Alps bring nature close to the city.