What is the best walking tour Bern offers for street art?

The Lorraine district is the city's premier destination for urban art. This self-guided route specifically focuses on the Reitschule and the surrounding alleys where the city's most significant murals are located.

Is the Lorraine neighborhood safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Lorraine is a safe, residential, and creative neighborhood. While the Reitschule area can look gritty due to the graffiti, it is a well-used community space; however, it is liveliest on weekend nights.

Can I see street art in Bern for free?

Absolutely. Street art in Lorraine is a public gallery accessible to everyone at no cost. This walking route highlights the best free murals in the city.

Is this Bern walking route family-friendly?

Yes, the walk is largely through parks and residential streets. Children usually enjoy the colorful graffiti at the Reitschule and the open spaces in Lorrainepark.

What is the best time of day for this neighborhood stroll?

Afternoon is ideal. You'll catch the local cafes in full swing, the sunlight hits the Aare river beautifully from the bridge, and the colors of the street art are most vibrant.

Where does the Lorraine walking route start?

The walk begins at the Lorrainebrücke, which is easily reachable by Bus 20 or a short 10-minute walk from the Bern main railway station.

Are there places to eat along the Lorraine route?

Yes, Lorrainestrasse is famous for its local eateries. 'wartsaal' is a highlight, but you will find numerous independent bakeries and bistros throughout the walk.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step away from the medieval sandstone arcades of the Old Town and discover Bern's most vibrant and alternative soul. This neighborhood stroll takes you into Lorraine, a district that has transformed from a working-class quarter into a hub of creativity, activism, and local life. Unlike the polished tourist tracks, this route offers a raw and authentic look at how modern Bernese residents live, work, and create. You will begin by crossing the high-altitude Lorrainebrücke, offering one of the most dramatic views of the Aare river before diving into the colorful, graffiti-covered world of the Reitschule. As you explore independently, you will see how street art serves as a living canvas for the city's social movements. Because the art here is constantly evolving, every walk offers a slightly different visual experience. Beyond the murals, the route leads you through hidden green spaces like Lorrainepark and along the bustling Lorrainestrasse, where independent boutiques and community-focused cafes define the local atmosphere. This isn't just a sightseeing trip; it is an immersion into a community that prides itself on its independent spirit. Whether you are interested in urban development, the history of alternative culture in Switzerland, or simply looking for the best local coffee spots, this self-guided adventure provides the context you need to appreciate Bern's creative edge. The walk concludes near the cultural landmark of Cinema REX, perfectly positioned for you to continue your evening at a local bistro or head back toward the central station. This walking tour Bern residents would recommend is the perfect way to see the city through a local lens, focusing on the grit and glamour of the Lorraine district. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Panoramic views of the Aare River from the Lorrainebrücke

The vibrant, ever-changing street art at Kulturzentrum Reitschule

The relaxed local atmosphere of Lorrainepark

Architectural charm and independent boutiques of Lorrainestrasse

The historical and cultural significance of Cinema REX

Insider insights into Bern's alternative and activist history

Tour Stops (6)

Lorrainebrücke

Start your journey on the Lorrainebrücke, a high-arched bridge that acts as the gateway between the historic center and the alternative Lorraine district. As you walk across, take a moment to look down at the turquoise waters of the Aare. This bridge, completed in 1930, replaced an older iron structure and offers one of the most iconic vantage points in the city. To your left, you can see the Kursaal and the distant Alps on a clear day, while to your right, the dense greenery of the riverbanks hints at the nature-loving lifestyle of Bern’s residents. This bridge symbolizes the transition from the formal, administrative capital to the gritty, creative neighborhood you are about to explore.

Kulturzentrum Reitschule

Welcome to the Reitschule, perhaps the most debated and culturally significant building in modern Bern. Originally a former riding school, this massive complex was occupied by activists in the 1980s and has since become an autonomous cultural center. Note that the street art and murals here change almost weekly; what you see today is a temporary reflection of current social and political themes. The Reitschule hosts everything from cinema and theater to concerts and political debates. While its graffiti-laden exterior may seem chaotic, it is a vital organ of Bern's democratic and artistic expression. Respect the space as a living community center while you admire the sprawling urban gallery.

Lorrainepark

Take a breath of fresh air in Lorrainepark, a cherished green lung for the neighborhood. This park serves as a community backyard where locals gather for picnics, slacklining, or simply to escape the urban heat. The park reflects the neighborhood's commitment to public space and social cohesion. In the summer, you might see people heading down from here toward the river for a swim—a quintessential Bernese pastime. It’s a great spot to observe the 'Lokalmatadoren' (local heroes) of the district. The atmosphere here is a stark contrast to the gritty energy of the Reitschule, showing the diverse faces of the Lorraine district.

wartsaal | brunch & burger restaurant

Located in the heart of the district, 'wartsaal' (meaning waiting room) is more than just a place to eat; it’s a cultural hub. The name pays homage to the neighborhood’s industrial and railway proximity. This spot is famous among locals for its commitment to regional products and its role as a meeting point for artists and thinkers. While the menu is seasonal, the vibe is consistently welcoming and intellectual. It represents the 'gentle gentrification' of Lorraine—where new culinary trends meet the area's long-standing alternative roots. It is a perfect example of how the neighborhood maintains its soul while evolving with the times.

Lorrainestrasse

Stroll down Lorrainestrasse, the main artery of the neighborhood. This street is lined with 19th-century workers' housing that has been beautifully preserved and repurposed. Look up to see the intricate facades and small balconies. As you walk, you’ll pass organic grocery stores, specialty bookshops, and small ateliers. The street art here is more subtle than at the Reitschule, often hidden in doorways or on side walls. This street captures the essence of the 'Lorraine vibe': a mix of family-friendly residential life, student energy, and a fierce pride in local, independent commerce. It’s the best place to feel the true pulse of the district away from the main tourist sights.

Cinema REX Bern

Your walk concludes at Cinema REX, a bastion of Bernese film culture. This isn't your average multiplex; the REX is an arthouse cinema that has survived decades of change in the film industry. The building itself is a piece of history, and the programming often focuses on independent, international, and documentary films that you won't find elsewhere. It serves as a bridge between the Lorraine neighborhood and the city center's cultural institutions. From here, you are just a short walk back to the main train station or the Kornhausplatz, making it the perfect spot to end your exploration and perhaps catch a film or a drink in their stylish bar.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full route takes approximately 90 to 120 minutes depending on how long you linger at the street art stops. The distance is roughly 2.5 kilometers of easy, flat walking.