On first sight, Bern's Käfigturm (cage tower) is just the less attractive sister of the grand Zytglogge a bit further down the road. But while the famous clock tower is only accessible by guided tours, the cage tower is open for the public and free to enter. Sometimes I come here just to enjoy the view onto the busy cobblestone main street down there in the canyon of medieval houses.
But the cage tower (yes, it was once the city prison) is much more than a fancy viewpoint. It actually is an information bureau for everyone interested in the Swiss political system with regular discussions about current policy issues and sometimes very interesting exhibitions (in German, French and English) shown on the top floor. So if you are interested in figuring out why the Swiss are voting about banning minarets, six weeks of holidays, how many horns a cow is supposed to have and why bicycles should be mentioned in the constitution - you're at the right spot!
Marktgasse 67
CHF
free
313102060
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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