Altenberg Quarter
Iconic pedestrian bridge offering thrilling river jumps and scenic Aare River views. A summer must-do in Bern!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for river swimming!
Altenberg Quarter
Best Time
Perfect for river swimming!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic pedestrian bridge offering thrilling river jumps and scenic Aare River views. A summer must-do in Bern!
"The obligatory ritual in Bern - jump from the bridge into the river! On a hot summer day - this is the best entertainment!"
🏊♀️ Dive into the Aare!
The river swim is a must-do in summer. Jump from the bridge for an unforgettable experience!
🚗 Park Smartly
City Hall Parking Amag is okay, but a closer lot near the bridge is ideal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kornhausbrücke Bridge Jump
Aare River
The iconic ritual: leap from the bridge into the cool, flowing Aare River on a warm summer day. Pure exhilaration!
Aare River Tubing
Aare River
Watch or join the vibrant scene of people tubing down the Aare. A perfect way to cool off and enjoy the city.
Scenic River Stroll
Riverbanks
Enjoy a leisurely jog or stroll along the Aare's banks, taking in the stunning views and the river's unique color.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Aare River Swim
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏊♀️ Dive into the Aare!
The river swim is a must-do in summer. Jump from the bridge for an unforgettable experience!
🚗 Park Smartly
City Hall Parking Amag is okay, but a closer lot near the bridge is ideal.
🚶♀️ No Running on Bridge
Enjoy the views, but please refrain from running across the bridge.
☀️ Sunbathe by the River
Great spot to relax and soak up the sun on the riverbanks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊♀️ Dive into the Aare!
The river swim is a must-do in summer. Jump from the bridge for an unforgettable experience!
🚗 Park Smartly
City Hall Parking Amag is okay, but a closer lot near the bridge is ideal.
🚶♀️ No Running on Bridge
Enjoy the views, but please refrain from running across the bridge.
☀️ Sunbathe by the River
Great spot to relax and soak up the sun on the riverbanks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the exhilarating experience of jumping into the Aare River from the Kornhausbrücke bridge, calling it a quintessential Bern ritual, especially on hot summer days. The scenic river walks and the vibrant atmosphere of tubing are also highly praised. Some note that parking can be improved, and caution is advised when swimming due to the river's current.
"A great place to do the obligatory ritual in Bern - jump from the bridge into the river! On a hot summer day - this is the best entertainment in the city!
We parked at City Hall Parking Amag Bern and then walked along the path down to the river (marked in blue). Near the bridge itself we noticed a parking lot where it would probably be ideal to park for this event - marked in green."
Aliaksei Apet
"A smaller pedestrian bridge under the Kornhausbrucke bridge above - it's situated right above the water, and allows pedestrians to get across and enjoy the Aare river. Plenty of people tubing below during the warm summer weather."
Mat Bienczyk
"Nice place to jog or take a stroll outside, the view is great and the colour of the river is awesome"
Kuik Yq
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Altenberg Quarter is easily accessible by foot from Bern's city center. The Kornhausbrücke bridge is a prominent landmark. For parking, City Hall Parking Amag Bern is an option, but a smaller lot closer to the bridge is more convenient for river access.
Yes, Bern has an excellent public transport system. You can take trams and buses that stop near the city center, from where it's a short walk to the Kornhausbrücke bridge and the Altenberg Quarter.
Cycling is a popular way to get around Bern. There are bike paths along the Aare River, making it a scenic route to reach the Altenberg Quarter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Altenberg Quarter and the Kornhausbrücke bridge is free. It's a public area for everyone to enjoy.
Swimming in the Aare River is free. It's a natural river, and the popular spots for entry are accessible to all.
The Altenberg Quarter and the Kornhausbrücke bridge are open 24/7, as they are outdoor public spaces. However, the river swimming is best enjoyed during daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main draw is the opportunity to jump from the Kornhausbrücke bridge into the Aare River, especially during hot summer days. The river itself and the scenic views are also major attractions.
The Aare River has a current, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and swim responsibly. Locals are very accustomed to it, but visitors should exercise caution.
You can enjoy a scenic stroll or jog along the riverbanks, watch people tubing, or simply relax and enjoy the views.
Yes, running on the bridge is discouraged. It's meant for pedestrian access and enjoying the scenery.
Summer afternoons are ideal for swimming when the weather is warm. However, for a less crowded experience, consider weekday mornings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the immediate area around the bridge is more focused on the river experience, Bern's city center is a short walk away and offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Yes, picnicking by the Aare River is a popular activity. You can bring your own food and find a nice spot along the riverbanks to enjoy your meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the thrill of people jumping from the Kornhausbrücke bridge, the vibrant scene of river tubing, and the unique turquoise color of the Aare River. The surrounding cityscape also offers great backdrops.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the river and city views. Midday is great for capturing the lively atmosphere of swimmers and tubers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing inflatable rings or floats for a gentler river experience. The scenic walks along the river are also great for family strolls. Ensure adequate supervision, especially near the water, and pack plenty of sunscreen and water for a comfortable outing.
☀️ Sun Seekers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond swimming, the area is perfect for leisurely jogs, scenic walks, or simply lounging by the river. Pack a picnic, a good book, and prepare to spend a delightful afternoon immersed in nature and the vibrant local culture. The views from the bridge are also spectacular, making it a great spot for photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Aare River Experience
When visiting, be prepared for a lively atmosphere. On hot days, the riverbanks and the bridge are bustling with people enjoying the water. While the jump from the bridge is a highlight for many, it's essential to be aware of the river's current and swim responsibly. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, simply watching the action or enjoying a stroll along the well-maintained paths is equally rewarding.
Beyond swimming and tubing, the Aare River offers a beautiful setting for a leisurely jog or a peaceful walk. The paths are well-kept and provide stunning views of the river and the surrounding city. It’s a perfect escape from the urban hustle, offering a refreshing natural experience right within Bern.
Navigating Parking and Access
This proximity is particularly beneficial if you plan on participating in the river activities or simply want to be as close as possible to the action. It saves time and effort, allowing you to maximize your enjoyment of the area. Remember that the bridge is a pedestrian zone, and while it's a popular spot for jumping into the river, running across it is discouraged.
For those arriving via public transport, Bern's efficient network of trams and buses will bring you close to the city center, from where a pleasant walk will lead you to the bridge. Cycling is also a great option, with dedicated paths along the Aare River offering a scenic approach to the Altenberg Quarter.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit