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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Kramgasse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

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.
"This is the most beautiful spot in Bern, I wish I can return one day!"
🚶♀️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Arcades
Walk beneath centuries-old covered walkways, a defining feature of Bern's Old Town.

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

UNESCO World Heritage Charm
Experience the heart of Bern's medieval town plan, a UNESCO-listed treasure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arcades
Fountain Hopping Adventure
Best Times
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.
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
Absolutely! Kramgasse is a pedestrian-friendly street, perfect for exploring on foot. The arcades provide shelter, making it pleasant in various weather conditions.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting on the historic buildings.
🍽️ 🛍️ 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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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
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.
Bern's Iconic Fountains
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit