BärenPark Bern

BärenPark Bern is a bear enclosure on the slope above the Aare river, right next to Bern's old town. The brown bear is the symbol of the Swiss capital, so this spot has long been among the city's most recognisable sights. The park opened to visitors on 25 October 2009.

What is the BärenPark in Bern?

It is a large, green enclosure on a hillside running down to the Aare, designed to give the animals far more room than the old stone pit offered. According to Switzerland Tourism it covers roughly 6,000 square metres, although sources quote slightly different figures. The bears can roam among trees on the slope and enter the water. With luck, you will see them swimming, foraging and resting.

Why does Bern keep bears?

Bears have been tied to the city for a very long time. Sources say they have lived in Bern since 1513: first in the town itself, then in the bear pit, and since 2009 in the new, spacious park. A bear also appears on Bern's coat of arms, so the animal is more than a tourist attraction.

What about the old Bärengraben?

The historic Bärengraben, or "bear pit", still stands beside the park. The last version, which you can still see today, opened on 27 May 1857. It is listed as a cultural property of national significance in Switzerland. The old pit has not been abandoned: it remains available to the bears as extra space. A tunnel links it with the newer enclosure, so the animals can move between the two parts.

How to visit

You look down on the enclosure from platforms and paths along the slope, which gives you several viewpoints. Thanks to a lift, the whole site is wheelchair accessible. Come in the morning or late in the day, when bears tend to be more active and the paths are quieter. Bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom, since the animals sometimes stay far from the fence.

Guidebooks mention three bears living in the park, including Finn, Björk and Ursina. The group can change over time, so check current information on the official website before you go.

What to see nearby

The park sits beside Bern's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A short walk leads to medieval arcaded streets, the clock tower and the cathedral. From around the park you get a view over the rooftops and the bend of the Aare. It combines well with a stroll along the river or a walk up to the rose garden on the hill above.

Frequently asked questions

When did the BärenPark open? On 25 October 2009, replacing the old, cramped pit as the bears' main home.

Does the old Bärengraben still exist? Yes. The pit built in 1857 still stands and is protected as a cultural property of national significance. The bears can still use it.

Is the park accessible for wheelchair users? Yes. Thanks to a lift, the entire facility is accessible for people with reduced mobility.

Do I need a ticket? According to Switzerland Tourism, entry is free. Check current rules before your visit.

Will I always see the bears? There is no guarantee. The enclosure is large and the animals may be hidden among trees or resting, so spend a few minutes watching from different viewpoints.

Practical tips

The park is on a slope, so wear comfortable shoes. It is a walk of about a quarter of an hour from the centre. Consider visiting outside peak season too: bears are active for much of the year and Bern is calmer then. Remember these are wild animals, so keep quiet and never throw food to them.