Berne, Switzerland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Berne, Switzerland? If you're planning to go to Berne, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Berne, Switzerland

Based on the climate and weather in Berne, Switzerland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Berne, Switzerland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Berne, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Berne, Switzerland by month

January

In January, Berne is freezing. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Berne, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 80%. There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February for Berne can be very chilly and somewhat hazy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains regularly and snows regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Berne can be brisk, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to high 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you go to Berne in April, you will notice that it is cold, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you visit Berne during May, you might notice that it is cool, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you visit Berne during June, you may notice that it is mild, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be sure to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you are traveling to Berne in July, you will notice that it is warm, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Berne is balmy, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you go to Berne in September, you will notice that it is mild, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you visit Berne during October, you will probably notice that it is relatively cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you vacation in Berne during November, you are likely to find that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Berne is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. It also snows sometimes. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average. There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. It's important that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you go to Tierpark Dählhölzli (Zoo), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Berne, Switzerland

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is a picturesque city nestled in the heart of the Alps. It is famous for its medieval architecture and unique cultural heritage. If you find yourself in Switzerland, Berne is definitely worth the visit. Here are the top tourist attractions that you should not miss.

1. The Old Town

The Old Town of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic tourist spots in Switzerland. The area boasts many medieval buildings, narrow streets, and picturesque alleys. A stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town is the ideal way to experience Bern's charm and beauty. It is also home to several famous landmarks such as the Clock Tower, the Bern Minster, and the Parliament building.

2. Bern Minster

The Bern Minster is a beautiful Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the Old Town. It is the tallest church in Switzerland, standing at 100 meters tall. The Cathedral has a beautiful interior, and visitors can climb up to the top of the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

3. Zytglogge Clock Tower

Zytglogge Clock Tower is an iconic landmark of Bern. The clock tower is located in the center of the Old Town and boasts an ornate astronomical clock dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can witness the moving figurines on the hour, and the clock's beautiful mechanism is a sight to behold.

4. BearPark

The BearPark is a unique attraction in Bern, as it is home to the city's mascot `The Bernese Bear.' Visitors can observe a family of bears living in their natural habitat along the Aare River. The park has an excellent observation deck and offers a chance to see the majestic animals up close.

5. The Parliament Building

The Swiss Parliament Building is a magnificent building located in the center of Bern. The building boasts intricate design and architecture and is referred to as one of the most beautiful government buildings in Europe. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, including the parliament chambers.

6. Federal Palace

The Federal Palace is another famous landmark in Bern, and it is the seat of the Swiss Government. The building is located on a hill overlooking the city and boasts an impressive architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, learn about Switzerland's political history, and how the federal government operates.

7. The Rose Garden

The Rose Garden is a beautiful park located on a hilltop overlooking Bern. The park has over 220 varieties of roses and offers a panoramic view of the city. It is the perfect spot to relax and unwind while enjoying the serene surroundings.

In conclusion, Bern is a beautiful city that offers plenty of attractions for all kinds of travelers. From the Old Town's medieval architecture to the bear park and the beautiful Rose Garden, Bern is indeed a city that should not miss your bucket list. Its iconic landmarks and attractions are some of the most visited in Switzerland and have rightly earned the distinction of Bern as a top tourist destination in Europe.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Rhosneigr, Wales, United Kingdom, Great Barrington, Massachusetts, United States of America, Arlington, Vermont, United States of America, Ceredigion, Wales, United Kingdom, Kaolack, Senegal, Bagenalstown, Ireland, Antofagasta, Chile, Colton, California, United States of America, Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada, Nilakkal, India, and Middelfart, Denmark.