Bern Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Tourists in Bern:

Getting Around:

  • Walking: Bern is a very walkable city, with its compact Old Town (Altstadt) easily navigated on foot. Walking is the best way to explore and soak in the charm of its medieval streets.
  • Public Transport: The city has an excellent public transportation system, including trams, buses, and a funicular railway. Buy a “Berner Ticket” for unlimited travel within the city.

Cultural Etiquette:

  • Greetings: A simple “Grüezi” (good day) or “Guten Tag” (good day) is the standard greeting in Bern.

  • Punctuality: Punctuality is highly valued in Switzerland. Be on time for reservations, tours, and meetings with locals.

  • Politeness:

    • Swiss people are generally polite and reserved.

    • Use “please” (“bitte” in German) and “thank you” (“merci” in French, “danke” in German).

    • “Excuse me” (“Entschuldigung” / “Pardon”) is important to use when needed.

  • Language: While German is the official language of Bern, many Swiss people speak English as well. It’s polite to greet locals with “Grüezi” or “Guten Tag” in German (or “Bonjour” in French) and then follow up with a “Guten Tag” if they don’t respond.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland, but it’s always appreciated for good service. 10% is a reasonable amount to tip in restaurants.

Additional Tips:

  • Respect the Quiet: Swiss people are known for valuing quiet and tranquility. Be mindful of noise levels in public spaces like trains, buses, and public buildings.

  • Punctuality Matters: Always be on time! Arriving late is seen as disrespectful, especially if you have a reservation or are meeting someone.

  • Cleanliness is Key: Swiss cleanliness standards are high. It’s considered polite to keep your surroundings clean and tidy, and littering can result in fines.

  • Punctuality: Switzerland values punctuality. Being late for anything, even a casual meeting, is frowned upon.

  • Public Transport Etiquette:

    • Trams and buses are the most common forms of transport. Be respectful of other passengers and avoid loud conversations or blocking aisles.
    • Seats on public transport are often reserved, especially during peak hours. If you see a “Sitzplatzreservierung” sign, it means the seat is reserved.

  • Respecting Personal Space: Swiss people value their personal space. Avoid standing too close to others in conversations and queues.

  • Politeness Rules: It’s important to be polite when interacting with anyone.

    • Use “Grüezi” (or “Hallo”) as a greeting.
    • Say “Danke schön” (thank you very much) or “Merci vielmals” (thank you very much - thank you for the specific act of thanks) when appropriate.

  • Politeness in Public:

    • A polite “Guten Appetit” (good appetite) is often said before starting a meal, and “Guten Tag” (good day) is a polite way to acknowledge someone when entering a room or public space.

  • Being Polite: “Grüezi” means “good day” in Swiss German and it’s the standard greeting in most situations. It’s also common to say “Bitte” (please) and “Danke/Merci” (thank you) for anything from a simple “good morning” to thanking someone for a service, even if it’s not mandatory.

Punctuality: Swiss people are known for being punctual. Being on time is considered a sign of respect for the person or people you are meeting.