Living in a small capital city comes with a couple of advantages: the combination of urban density and short distances is just one example. Another is that Bern is slow enough to skip some of the short-lived global hypes that pop up quickly and disappear as fast as they came in other cities all over the world. Only the lasting trends that actually improve urban life will eventually make it to Bern.
One of them just appeared a couple of years ago: co-working spaces. While in some parts of town the trend is controversial because some see it as spearheading gentrification of cheap neighborhoods, Effinger has found a place very close to the city center where for some reason most shops along the street have been empty for years. In this wasteland, the cozy café bar has become a little oasis. Though I am not an "Effian" who comes here to work on one of the desks on the mezzanine floor or in one of the rentable rooms, I often come here to have meetings over lunchtime. I love the creative atmosphere that lays in the air. And with a cappuccino in hand and a quiche on the table, working seems not so bad after all.
Find your way with 70 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Fähre Bodenacker is a ferry upstream the river Aare just outside Bern, where there's also a nice family restaurant, right in some beautiful nature...
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It is like home beyond home: perfectly suitable for burying yourself in a book, a good cup of tea or a relaxing evening beyond your four walls.
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The Veielihubel is a great place to have a quick recharge on a busy day and relish the quiet, the sun or the view – whatever you need at the time.
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And unlike other vintage stores, everything is curated by the team of The New New Bern themselves. Their handpicked selection is hip, urban and always in style. There will definitely be no holes in the clothes.
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If you think the octagonal building – the first gas tank in the city – is already spectacular from the outside, wait till you see what is inside.
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This is not your casual flower shop. You could easily miss the stairs that lead to the cellar, where they create the most beautiful bouquets of Bern...
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They have finger-licking-good desserts and great coffee. I order an apple pie – oh, but let me tell you, it is no ordinary apple pie, it is apple heaven.
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"Kellerkino" Bern is a basement cinema with a familial atmosphere. Founded in 1970, it was first independent cinema in the country. Talk about underground!
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"Monbijoupark" is a green oasis in the middle of the city of Bern - you can come here very easily by public transport or on foot!
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In addition to falafel, there is a flatbread with halloumi, makali (grilled vegetables) or shawarma (chicken), as well as tabbouleh and hummus.
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In the Zweiblatt Concept Store, you will find many different things. From colorful socks and trendy clothing to jewelry, mugs and drinking bottles.
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