Exploring Bern on foot is like leafing through a living history book . one where every chapter has perfect light.
The city’s cobblestone streets, medieval arcades, and turquoise river bends invite you to slow down, wander, and photograph without rush. On foot, you notice the small things: the curve of a balcony, the shadow of a clock hand, the way the afternoon sun touches the sandstone facades.
I’ve lived near Bern for years, yet I never tire of photographing it. It’s a city that reveals new details with every walk, especially when you follow its rhythm instead of a timetable. Here’s how I’d explore Bern as a photographer, step by step.
I am currently creating a one page sheet with the locations and some tips with bars, especially rooftop bars that I like so much in Bern. Either message me or jump over to my store to see if you can download them (for free).
Start at the Zytglogge – Bern’s Iconic Clock Tower
Few landmarks are as photogenic as the Zytglogge, Bern’s 13th-century clock tower. Arrive early in the morning, before the tour groups arrive, to capture the empty cobblestone street leading straight to the tower.
One of my favorite shots here was during a winter sunrise – the street glistened with frost, and the warm light hit the clock face just as it struck eight. For a symmetrical perspective, position yourself in the middle of Kramgasse, letting the arcades frame your composition.
Follow the Arcades for Unique Light and Shadow
Bern’s 6 kilometers of covered arcades are a dream for photographers who love patterns and repetition. The columns create natural frames, and the interplay of shadow and sunlight changes with every step.
Try shooting at an angle to create depth, or crouch low to emphasize the rhythmic curve of the arches. In the rain, the arcades offer shelter – and the reflections from wet stone add a cinematic touch to your images.
Capture the Aare River from Kirchenfeldbrücke
For one of the best cityscape views, head to Kirchenfeldbrücke. From here, you can photograph Bern’s old town with the turquoise Aare looping around it.
Blue hour is magical at this spot — the city lights twinkle, the sky turns deep blue, and if you’re lucky, the river mirrors it all in perfect reflection. I once stood here in early spring, capturing a lone canoe gliding through the still water, framed by the historic skyline.
Explore the Garden of Roses for a Panoramic City View
A short uphill walk brings you to the Rose Garden (Rosengarten), a peaceful park with unbeatable views over Bern’s rooftops and cathedral spire.
Spring brings blooming roses, autumn offers warm foliage, and winter adds a dusting of snow to the scene. The best time for photography is late afternoon, when the sun lights up the old town from the west, casting a golden glow over the sandstone.
End at the Federal Palace for History and Architecture Shots
Bern’s Federal Palace (Bundeshaus) is more than a political hub — it’s an architectural gem. Its neoclassical façade, grand staircase, and surrounding square offer plenty of photo opportunities.
I like to mix wide shots showing the building in context with tighter compositions that focus on details like statues, windows, or the intricate bronze doors. In summer, the square’s fountains add playful foreground elements.
