What is the best walking tour Bern offers for foodies?

A self-guided stroll through the UNESCO Old Town is the best way to explore Bern's food scene. This route specifically focuses on local icons like Chäsbueb for cheese and Tschirren for chocolate, allowing you to sample at your own pace.

Can I do this self-guided walk on a Sunday?

Sundays are not recommended for this specific route. Most specialty food shops like Chäsbueb and Tschirren are closed on Sundays in Switzerland, though the Kornhauskeller and some cafes remain open.

Where can I buy authentic Swiss cheese in Bern?

Chäsbueb in the Old Town is the premier destination for authentic Swiss cheese. They offer a wide variety of AOP-certified cheeses including Emmental, Gruyère, and local alpine specialties.

Is the Bern culinary walk accessible for strollers?

Yes, the route is very stroller-friendly. It follows the wide, paved arcades of the city, which are mostly flat, though some individual shops may have small steps at their entrances.

What are the must-try foods in Bern?

Key specialties include Bernese hazelnuts, 'Pave de Berne' chocolates from Tschirren, and a variety of Swiss cheeses. If visiting a market, look for seasonal produce from the Aare valley.

Where does the Flavors of Bern walk start?

The walk starts at Adrianos Bar & Café, located at Theaterplatz 2. It is conveniently situated right next to the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), a major transit hub for trams and buses.

Is the Kornhauskeller worth visiting if I am not eating a full meal?

Absolutely. The Kornhauskeller is worth visiting just for its magnificent Baroque architecture and history as a former granary. You can visit the gallery bar for a drink to admire the frescoes and vaulted ceilings.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Experience the sensory delights of Switzerland's capital with this self-guided walking route through Bern's historic Old Town. Known for its medieval architecture and six kilometers of sheltered arcades, Bern offers a unique culinary landscape that blends centuries-old traditions with a modern, vibrant food scene. This neighborhood stroll invites you to explore the flavors that define the region, from the pungent aromas of artisanal cheeses to the delicate sweetness of world-renowned Swiss chocolate. As you wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site, you will discover why Bern is a haven for food lovers and shoppers alike. The route takes you past the iconic Zytglogge clock tower and into the heart of the city's market culture. You will encounter local favorites like Adrianos, where the art of coffee roasting is celebrated, and Chäsbueb, a temple to Swiss dairy heritage. The walking route Bern provides is not just about the food, but the atmosphere of the 'Lauben'—the arcades—which keep you dry in the rain and cool in the summer. Highlights include a visit to the historic Münstergasse, a street that has hosted markets for generations, and the breathtaking Kornhauskeller, a former granary turned into one of the city's most majestic dining spaces. This walking tour Bern offers a flexible way to taste your way through the city at your own pace. Whether you are sampling pralines at a multi-generational confiserie or browsing the seasonal stalls at Bärenplatz, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the Swiss capital's gastronomic soul. This self-guided adventure is perfect for those who want to skip the rigid schedule of a guided tour Bern and instead linger over a glass of local wine or a piece of Emmental cheese whenever the mood strikes. Along the way, you will see how Bernese residents balance their deep respect for local sourcing with an appreciation for international trends, creating a food culture that is both grounded and innovative. From the subterranean cellars to the open-air market squares, every stop on this culinary exploration tells a story of Bern's rich history and its ongoing passion for quality and craft. **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

Sample artisanal coffee at the local favorite, Adrianos

Explore a curated selection of Swiss cheeses at Chäsbueb

Taste traditional 'Pave de Berne' at Confiserie Tschirren

Wander the historic market stalls of Münstergasse

Marvel at the Baroque architecture of the Kornhauskeller

Experience the vibrant market atmosphere at Bärenplatz

Tour Stops (6)

Adrianos Bar & Café

Begin your exploration at Adrianos Bar & Café, a cornerstone of Bern's modern coffee culture. Located just steps from the Zytglogge, this establishment is famous for roasting its own beans and maintaining a high standard of barista craft. The atmosphere here captures the lively spirit of Bernese daily life. While the menu often features seasonal blends and local snacks, the focus is always on the quality of the bean. It is a perfect spot to observe the 'Zytglogge-Effect'—the gathering of people waiting for the astronomical clock to strike. Take a moment to appreciate the interior design, which blends industrial elements with a cozy, communal vibe. Please note that coffee offerings and bean varieties change frequently to reflect the best harvests.

Chäsbueb

A short walk under the arcades brings you to Chäsbueb, an essential stop for any cheese lover. This specialty shop is a treasure trove of Swiss dairy, featuring everything from aged Emmental and nutty Gruyère to rare alpine varieties. The staff are experts in the 'AOP' (Appellation d'Origine Protégée) status of Swiss cheeses, ensuring that what you see is authentically produced. Beyond cheese, you will find a curated selection of delicatessen items like local honey, mustards, and dried meats. The selection is highly seasonal, with specific cheeses appearing only during certain months of the year. Breathe in the rich aromas and perhaps pick up a few samples to enjoy later by the river.

Confiserie Tschirren AG

Step into the sweet world of Confiserie Tschirren, a family-run business that has been delighting Bernese residents for generations. Swiss chocolate is world-renowned, and Tschirren represents the pinnacle of traditional craftsmanship. Their signature 'Pave de Berne' is a must-try, though their pralines and truffles are equally spectacular. The shop windows are often decorated to reflect seasonal holidays or local festivals, showcasing the artistic side of Swiss confectionery. As you browse, notice the attention to detail in the packaging, which makes for excellent gifts. Since they use fresh ingredients without heavy preservatives, the flavors you experience here are exceptionally pure and reflect the high standards of Swiss food production.

Münstergasse

Continue your walk to Münstergasse, one of the most picturesque streets in the Old Town. Historically, this has been a primary site for Bern's weekly markets. On market days (typically Tuesdays and Saturdays), the street transforms into a bustling hub of local farmers selling fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal breads. Even when the market isn't in full swing, the street is lined with unique boutiques and small specialty food shops tucked into the basement levels of the medieval buildings. The architecture here is a prime example of the sandstone structures that define Bern. Keep an eye out for small signs indicating temporary pop-up shops or seasonal exhibits, as the local retail scene here is very dynamic.

Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar

Enter the Kornhauskeller and prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale of this underground space. Originally built as a granary for the city in the early 18th century, it later served as a massive wine cellar. Today, it is one of Bern's most grand dining venues. The high vaulted ceilings and Baroque frescoes create an atmosphere of opulence and history. While it serves as a restaurant and bar, the architecture itself is the main attraction. It represents a time when Bern's wealth was measured in its stores of grain and wine. The menu often highlights Bernese specialties with a modern twist, but even just stopping for a drink at the gallery bar allows you to soak in the magnificent surroundings.

Bärenplatz

The route concludes at Bärenplatz, or 'Bear Square,' located right in front of the Federal Palace. This square is the beating heart of Bern's public life. Depending on the day and season, you might find a vibrant vegetable market, a crafts fair, or even a giant outdoor chess set in use. The square is surrounded by cafes with outdoor seating, making it an ideal place to sit and enjoy the view of the Parliament building. Bärenplatz has a long history as a meeting place and a site for political expression. The food stalls here offer a great opportunity to grab a quick local snack, like a hot 'Chäsbrägel' or fresh seasonal fruit, as you reflect on your journey through the flavors of Bern.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk takes approximately 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to browse the shops and enjoy a coffee, covering a distance of about 1.5 kilometers through the Old Town.