Kramgasse - Old city of Bern with Kreuzgassbrunnen and Zytglogge in the background.
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Kramgasse

4.8
·70 reviews·Bern, Switzerland

Bern's most iconic street, featuring historic arcades, charming fountains, and a vibrant shopping scene within a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Kramgasse - Old city of Bern with Kreuzgassbrunnen and Zytglogge in the background.

Kramgasse

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bern's most iconic street, featuring historic arcades, charming fountains, and a vibrant shopping scene within a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4.8
(70 reviews)

"This is the most beautiful spot in Bern, I wish I can return one day!"

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TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander Under Arcades

Enjoy the unique covered walkways for shade and shelter, perfect for browsing shops.

⛲️ Fountain Spotting

Look out for the many decorative fountains; they're a highlight of the street's charm.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Arcades

Historic Arcades

Walk beneath centuries-old covered walkways, a defining feature of Bern's Old Town.

Unique Fountains

Unique Fountains

Discover charming and ornate fountains, each a miniature work of art along the street.

UNESCO World Heritage Charm

UNESCO World Heritage Charm

Experience the heart of Bern's medieval town plan, a UNESCO-listed treasure.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Arcades

Kramgasse is famous for its long, covered arcades. They offer shelter from sun and rain, making it a comfortable place to explore year-round. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and discovering hidden shops.

Fountain Hopping Adventure

This charming street is dotted with unique fountains, each with its own story. Keep an eye out for them as you wander; they're a delightful part of the Kramgasse experience and add to its historic ambiance.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light on buildings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander Under Arcades

Enjoy the unique covered walkways for shade and shelter, perfect for browsing shops.

⛲️ Fountain Spotting

Look out for the many decorative fountains; they're a highlight of the street's charm.

📸 Capture the Views

The street's architecture and fountains make for picturesque photo opportunities.

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Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander Under Arcades

Enjoy the unique covered walkways for shade and shelter, perfect for browsing shops.

⛲️ Fountain Spotting

Look out for the many decorative fountains; they're a highlight of the street's charm.

📸 Capture the Views

The street's architecture and fountains make for picturesque photo opportunities.

What Travellers Say

4.8
(70 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kramgasse for its picturesque beauty and historic charm, highlighting the unique arcades and decorative fountains. It's considered a must-see in Bern's Old Town, offering a delightful shopping experience and a glimpse into the city's medieval past. Some find it can get crowded, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.

"A special street with several fountains"

איל אלימלך

"This is a short section of the Old Town that connects the majority of the streets and businesses in the core centre of Bern. Plenty of fountains, old heritage sites along the way."

Mat Bienczyk

"Simple amazing. Very good view"

MOHANA PRIYA CHANDANA

What People Like

Historic arcades
Beautiful fountains
Charming atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kramgasse is centrally located in Bern's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. If arriving by public transport, take a tram or bus to the Zytglogge or Bern Bahnhof (main station) stops, and it's a short walk from there. Reddit

Absolutely! Kramgasse is a pedestrian-friendly street, perfect for exploring on foot. The arcades provide shelter, making it pleasant in various weather conditions. Reddit

Driving directly onto Kramgasse is restricted as it's part of the Old Town's pedestrian zones. It's best to park in a nearby public parking garage, such as the Rathaus-Parking or Parkhaus City West, and walk to the street. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kramgasse is a public street and is free to visit. You can stroll along it and admire the architecture and fountains anytime. Reddit

Kramgasse is always open as it's a public street. However, individual shops and cafes along the street will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to early evening. Reddit

Yes, Kramgasse is generally accessible. The street is relatively flat, and the arcades provide smooth pathways. Some of the older cobblestones might require a bit more effort, but overall it's manageable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The fountains are iconic photo subjects. Also, try capturing the long perspective of the arcades, the Swiss flags, and the historic building facades. The Zytglogge (Clock Tower) at one end is a must-capture landmark. Reddit

Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting on the historic buildings. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Kramgasse is a popular shopping street featuring a mix of boutiques, souvenir shops, fashion stores, and local artisan shops. You can find Swiss specialties and unique gifts here. Reddit

Yes, you'll find several cafes and restaurants along Kramgasse offering Swiss cuisine and international dishes. It's a great place to stop for a coffee or a meal while exploring. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kramgasse is a fantastic place for families. The covered arcades provide a safe and sheltered environment for children to walk and explore without worrying too much about traffic or weather. The unique fountains are a big hit with kids, offering a fun scavenger hunt to find them all. Many shops sell Swiss chocolates and souvenirs, which are always popular with younger visitors. Reddit

Consider stopping for an ice cream or a pastry at one of the many cafes. The relatively flat terrain makes it easy to navigate with strollers. The historical ambiance also offers a gentle introduction to the city's heritage for children.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Kramgasse is perfect for budget travelers as it's a free public street to explore. You can enjoy the architecture, the fountains, and the general atmosphere without spending a cent. Window shopping is a great way to experience the street's offerings. Reddit

To save money on food, look for bakeries or smaller cafes away from the main tourist spots for more affordable snacks and meals. Pack your own water bottle and refill it at public fountains if possible.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Bern's Arcades

Kramgasse is renowned for its extensive network of covered arcades, known locally as 'Lauben'. These arcades stretch for kilometers throughout Bern's Old Town, and Kramgasse is a prime example. They were originally built to protect goods and shoppers from the elements, and today they create a unique, sheltered shopping and strolling experience. The sandstone facades of the buildings above the arcades add to the historic charm, making it feel like stepping back in time. Reddit

Exploring under the arcades offers a distinct advantage, allowing visitors to comfortably browse shops and enjoy the street's atmosphere regardless of weather. Many of the shops here are independent boutiques, offering everything from Swiss watches and chocolates to local crafts and fashion. The continuous covered walkways create a cozy and inviting environment, even on a rainy day. Reddit

Bern's Iconic Fountains

Kramgasse is famously lined with several of Bern's distinctive Renaissance fountains, each a unique piece of art. These aren't just decorative; they were historically vital water sources for the city. Keep an eye out for the 'Zähringerbrunnen' (Bear Fountain), the 'Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen' (Justice Fountain), and the 'Simsonbrunnen' (Samson Fountain), among others. Each fountain features a colorful statue and intricate detailing, adding character and historical depth to the street. Reddit

These fountains are not only visually appealing but also tell stories of Bern's past. The 'Justice Fountain', for instance, depicts a blindfolded woman holding scales and a sword, symbolizing impartiality. Taking the time to appreciate each fountain can turn a simple walk down Kramgasse into a mini-museum tour. They are popular spots for photos and a great way to learn about Bern's heritage. Reddit

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