Weekend in Bern

Switzerland's tallest cathedral, built in stages from 1421. Free entry to the nave, where you can see the stunning Last Judgement portal and stained glass windows. Climbing the 344

Tip: Skip the tower if you're after views—the Rosengarten is free and better. Instead, sit in the cloister garden for peace. The small museum adjacent is free with donation requested.

The Swiss Parliament building with free access to the public gallery when parliament is in session (about four times a year). The rest of the year you can join guided tours for CHF

Tip: Check the parliamentary calendar online before visiting. Off-season, the self-guided audio tour costs CHF 5 but includes the dome—worth it for the architecture.

Historic bear enclosure on the banks of the Aare River, home to Bern's heraldic animals since the 16th century. The modern, spacious park lets bears roam freely on a hillside.

Tip: Visit at feeding time (usually 10am and 4pm) to see keepers interact with them. Go early to avoid crowds.

A terraced park with over 200 varieties of roses and a stunning panoramic view of Bern's old town, the Aare loop, and the Alps on clear days.

Tip: Bring a picnic and sit on the benches near the terrace. The restaurant adjacent serves decent coffee, but avoid peak lunch hours when it's packed.

Bern's iconic medieval clock tower, built in 1191. The free exterior show of mechanical figures every hour is world-famous, but the paid interior tour gives you access behind the clockwork.

Tip: Skip the interior tour unless you're obsessed with clock mechanisms—the free hourly show from the street is just as good. Arrive 5 minutes early for a good view.