Neubrügg

Neubrügg (also called Neubrücke) is a covered wooden bridge across the Aare on the edge of Bern, linking the Neufeld district with the village of Kirchlindach in the canton of Bern. It is listed as a Swiss heritage site of national significance and is regarded as the oldest surviving timber bridge in the canton.

What exactly is the Neubrügg?

The bridge runs roughly 91 to 92 metres and rests on four masonry piers built from tuff, conglomerate and sandstone. The timber is mostly fir, with oak used in the most heavily loaded parts. Five trussed struts spanning from pier to pier carry the load, and a gently pitched half-hipped roof covers the whole structure.

What is its history?

A ferry once served this crossing. The first bridge went up in the 1460s, and sources give 1466, 1467 or 1469. The present structure dates from 1534–35. According to Bern's building inventory, the carpenters Peter Kleinmann and Valentin Hirsinger built it under Barthlome Knecht. A customs post operated here until 1838. The bridge lost its role as the main road crossing in 1913, when the Halenbrücke opened a few hundred metres downstream. A widening in 1977 disturbed the original proportions.

What will you see?

You walk through a timber tunnel with views of the wooded Aare banks, heavy stone piers and a long roof that stands out against the greenery. The bridge is a favourite stop on walking and cycling routes along the river, and marked tours lead on from here towards the Halenbrücke.

How do you get there, and when should you go?

The Neubrügg lies in northern Bern on the road between Neufeld and Kirchlindach. Cycling or walking along the Aare paths is the easiest approach. The bridge can be visited all year, though late spring and summer, with green riverbanks, and autumn colours are the most pleasant seasons.

Frequently asked questions

Can you cross the bridge? Yes, with a caveat. It was closed in July 2025 for safety reasons after inspections showed that damage to the lower timber parts was advancing faster than expected. It reopened to pedestrians and cyclists on 29 August 2025, while car traffic stayed diverted. A full renovation is planned from 2027, so check the canton's notices before your visit.

How old is it? The current bridge is nearly five centuries old (1534–35), replacing a predecessor from the 1460s.

Is there an entrance fee? No. It is an ordinary public crossing.

Is it a good stop for a bike ride? Yes. It sits on routes along the Aare and connects with the path towards the Halenbrücke.