Casinoplatz - a casino sign hanging from the ceiling of a building
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Casinoplatz

4.6
·491k reviews·Bern, Switzerland

A grand square in Bern, home to the historic Casino and a gateway to the UNESCO Old Town's arcades and charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Casinoplatz - a casino sign hanging from the ceiling of a building

Casinoplatz

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand square in Bern, home to the historic Casino and a gateway to the UNESCO Old Town's arcades and charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Casinoplatz: The elegant heart of Bern, leading you into a world of historic arcades and stunning architecture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Arcades

Explore Bern's unique covered walkways for shade and charming shops. Perfect for a leisurely walk.

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Grand Casino and surrounding buildings offer fantastic photo opportunities. Visit early for fewer people.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Casino Building

The Iconic Casino Building

Center of Casinoplatz

Admire the majestic architecture of the Grand Casino Bern, a symbol of elegance and history.

Bern's Old Town Charm

Bern's Old Town Charm

Surrounding Casinoplatz

Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site, with its arcades and medieval streets.

Kornhaus Bridge Views

Kornhaus Bridge Views

Near Casinoplatz

Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Aare River and the city from this historic bridge.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Grandeur

Casinoplatz is a stunning architectural marvel. Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere before the crowds descend, especially if you're keen on capturing its beauty in photos. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.

Navigating Casinoplatz

While Casinoplatz itself is a public square, understanding its context within Bern is key. It's a central hub, so comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the surrounding Old Town. Public transport is excellent for reaching the area.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on buildings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Arcades

Explore Bern's unique covered walkways for shade and charming shops. Perfect for a leisurely walk.

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Grand Casino and surrounding buildings offer fantastic photo opportunities. Visit early for fewer people.

☕ Enjoy a Coffee Break

Numerous cafes near Casinoplatz offer a chance to relax and people-watch.

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Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Arcades

Explore Bern's unique covered walkways for shade and charming shops. Perfect for a leisurely walk.

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Grand Casino and surrounding buildings offer fantastic photo opportunities. Visit early for fewer people.

☕ Enjoy a Coffee Break

Numerous cafes near Casinoplatz offer a chance to relax and people-watch.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Casinoplatz is appreciated for its central location and the grandeur of the Casino building, serving as a beautiful entry point to Bern's historic Old Town. Visitors enjoy the architectural beauty and the convenience for exploring the city's arcades and attractions. Some find it a bit less of a destination in itself and more of a transit point.

What People Like

Elegant architecture
Central location
Gateway to Old Town

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Primarily a transit point

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Casinoplatz is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines 3, 6, 7, 8, or 9 to the 'Casinoplatz' stop. It's also a pleasant walk from Bern's main train station, taking about 10-15 minutes through the charming Old Town.

Parking in Bern's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. The closest underground parking garage is the 'Casino' parking. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if possible.

Absolutely! The walk from Bern Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Casinoplatz is about 1 kilometer and takes around 10-15 minutes. It's a lovely route through the heart of Bern's UNESCO-listed Old Town.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Casinoplatz is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. Access to the Grand Casino building itself may require tickets for specific events or performances.

As a public square, Casinoplatz is open 24/7. The surrounding shops and the Grand Casino have their own operating hours, which vary.

📸 📸 Photography

The facade of the Grand Casino Bern is a prime subject. For wider shots, consider the view from the Kornhaus Bridge or the surrounding streets that capture the square's context within the Old Town.

Photography policies can vary inside the Grand Casino Bern. It's best to check with the venue directly or look for signage regarding photography rules, especially during events.

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around Casinoplatz is bustling with dining options. You'll find everything from traditional Swiss cuisine to international fare in the nearby streets and arcades of Bern's Old Town.

Several charming cafes are located within a short walk of Casinoplatz, offering coffee, pastries, and light snacks. Many are tucked away in the historic arcades.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Casinoplatz itself is a pleasant open space for families to briefly enjoy. The real family fun begins in the surrounding Old Town. Encourage kids to spot the numerous historic fountains, each with its own unique statue and story. The nearby Bear Park is also a must-visit for children, offering a chance to see Bern's beloved mascots.

Consider a leisurely walk along the Aare River or a ride on the historic funiculars for scenic views. Pack snacks and drinks, as exploring the Old Town can be an adventure in itself, and many cafes offer kid-friendly options.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

For solo travelers, Casinoplatz is a perfect starting point for exploring Bern on foot. Its central location makes it easy to navigate to other key attractions. Take advantage of the numerous benches to rest and observe the city life.

Embrace the opportunity to wander through the arcades, discover local shops, and perhaps enjoy a quiet coffee at one of the many cafes. The Old Town's compact nature means you can cover a lot of ground comfortably, making it ideal for those who enjoy independent exploration.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Grand Casino Bern: A Historical Gem

The Grand Casino Bern, located prominently on Casinoplatz, is more than just a building; it's a historical landmark. Opened in 1905, its opulent architecture reflects the Belle Époque era, making it a significant part of Bern's cityscape. It has served as a venue for cultural events, concerts, and, of course, its original purpose as a casino.

Visitors often admire its intricate facade and the grandeur it exudes. While the casino operations continue, the building also hosts a variety of performances and events, adding to its vibrant role in the city's cultural life. Experiencing the atmosphere around the Casino, even from the outside, offers a glimpse into Bern's elegant past.

Casinoplatz and Bern's Old Town

Casinoplatz serves as a gateway to Bern's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. This historic center is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, characterized by its sandstone buildings and distinctive arcades, known as 'Lauben'. These covered walkways stretch for kilometers, providing shelter from the elements and creating a unique shopping and strolling experience.

Exploring the streets radiating from Casinoplatz allows visitors to discover hidden courtyards, historic fountains, and charming boutiques. The proximity to the Aare River, with its emerald-green waters, adds another layer of natural beauty to the urban landscape. Many visitors find the seamless blend of history, architecture, and natural scenery to be the most captivating aspect of Bern.

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