Schwellenmätteli
Dine and drink directly over the Aare River with stunning views of Bern's Old Town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, romantic ambiance
Schwellenmätteli
Best Time
Less crowded, romantic ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dine and drink directly over the Aare River with stunning views of Bern's Old Town.
"The location and atmosphere is amazing. The food is hit or miss."
🎯 Book Terrace Seating
Secure your spot on the coveted terrace for the best river views and atmosphere .
🌊 Embrace the River Sound
The flowing Aare is loud but adds to the unique ambiance; great for conversation .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dining Over the Aare River
Terrace seating
Experience a meal or drinks with the Aare River flowing beneath you. Truly unique!
Spectacular Bern Views
Terrace
Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Bern's Old Town, including the Parliament Building.
Mediterranean & Fish Dishes
Restaurant
Savor fresh fish and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a stunning riverside setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the River Vibes
Food & Atmosphere Balance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Terrace Seating
Secure your spot on the coveted terrace for the best river views and atmosphere.
🌊 Embrace the River Sound
The flowing Aare is loud but adds to the unique ambiance; great for conversation.
Descent of Aare
💰 Consider Portion Sizes
Some reviews mention small portions for the price; order wisely or focus on the experience.
☕ Coffee & Vibes
Even for just coffee, the location and atmosphere are highly recommended.
A day for the museums and restaurants
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Terrace Seating
Secure your spot on the coveted terrace for the best river views and atmosphere.
🌊 Embrace the River Sound
The flowing Aare is loud but adds to the unique ambiance; great for conversation.
💰 Consider Portion Sizes
Some reviews mention small portions for the price; order wisely or focus on the experience.
☕ Coffee & Vibes
Even for just coffee, the location and atmosphere are highly recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Schwellenmätteli is celebrated for its absolutely stunning location directly over the Aare River, offering breathtaking views of Bern's Old Town and a unique, lively atmosphere. While the setting is a major draw, the food quality and portion sizes receive mixed reviews, with some dishes being hits and others misses for the price. Service can also be attentive but busy.
"We just for coffees and enjoyed the vibes. Not crowded at all but enough people to feel the good atmosphere. Loud because of the river but it allows for conversation. Recommended!"
Gio Log
"Had an amazing in this scenic restaurant on the river! The outside terrace is just beautiful and refreshing to watch river flowing whilst having a nice meal. Food was amazing and i could tell that it was made from fresh ingredients. Thank you for making my day 🩵"
Bagel oyster
"The location and atmosphere is amazing. The food is hit or miss. Very much overpriced for rather small portions. Moules Frites were great. Cordon bleu was good too. Lamb was very fatty and not up to the expected quality standards for the high price of it (and it is not even swiss lamb). The rice that came with it was bland and boring and way too much of it. I kind of don't know what they tried to do there. A risotto would have been much better. But this was bland rice with some tomato paste. Waiters were all very busy and basically did not pay us any attention unless we waved at them."
Lo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schwellenmätteli is easily accessible in Bern, located directly on the Aare River. It's a pleasant walk from the city center, offering scenic views along the way. Many visitors find it a perfect stop after a tour along the river.
While direct parking at Schwellenmätteli is limited due to its riverside location, there are several public parking garages within a short walking distance in Bern's city center. Consider parking at the Rathausgasse or Casino parking garages.
Yes, Schwellenmätteli is well-served by Bern's public transport. Several tram and bus lines stop near the city center, from where it's a short walk to the restaurant. Check the local transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Schwellenmätteli. It operates as a restaurant and bar, so you can walk in. However, booking a table, especially for the terrace, is highly recommended, particularly during peak hours or weekends.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours, especially if you plan to visit during off-peak seasons or holidays.
There is no separate entry fee for the terrace itself. The terrace seating is part of the restaurant's dining area. However, due to its popularity, reservations are strongly advised to guarantee a spot with a view.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Schwellenmätteli offers a menu featuring hot and cold drinks, along with fish and Mediterranean dishes. While some dishes like Moules Frites and Cordon Bleu have received praise, others have been noted as inconsistent or overpriced for the portion size.
The menu typically includes a variety of options, and while specific vegetarian or vegan dishes might not always be highlighted, the kitchen is generally accommodating with dietary requests. It's advisable to inquire with your server about current offerings.
Schwellenmätteli is considered moderately to expensively priced, especially for its main courses. While the unique location justifies some of the cost, reviews suggest that portion sizes can sometimes be small relative to the price.
Absolutely! Schwellenmätteli is a great place to enjoy hot and cold drinks. Many visitors stop by just for coffee or a beverage to soak in the atmosphere and the stunning riverside views.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire terrace offers incredible photo opportunities with the Aare River flowing below and Bern's Old Town skyline in the background. Capture the unique pavilion design and the dynamic water views.
Yes, Schwellenmätteli is an excellent spot for sunset photos. The golden hour light reflecting on the river and the historic buildings creates a magical ambiance. The Parliament Building and Minster are particularly picturesque during this time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🥂 Couples & Romantic Evenings
🚶 Day-Trippers & Sightseers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Schwellenmätteli Experience: More Than Just a Meal
Beyond the immediate riverside setting, the terrace offers spectacular panoramic views of Bern's iconic Old Town. Landmarks like the Parliament Building and the Minster are clearly visible, making it a prime spot for both tourists and locals to appreciate the city's beauty. This combination of innovative architecture and breathtaking scenery makes Schwellenmätteli a destination that appeals to all the senses, promising a memorable visit whether you're there for a full meal or just a refreshing drink.
While the ambiance and views are consistently praised, it's worth noting that the culinary aspect can be a point of discussion. Reviews indicate that while some dishes are excellent, others may not meet the high expectations set by the premium location and price point. Therefore, it's advisable to approach the dining experience with an appreciation for the overall atmosphere, perhaps focusing on well-regarded items or enjoying the extensive drink menu alongside the captivating river panorama.
Navigating Bern's Aare River: A Local's Perspective
Schwellenmätteli itself is a perfect place to relax after a river excursion or to simply enjoy the sight of others navigating the currents. The restaurant's proximity to the riverbanks makes it an integral part of the Bernese summer experience. Visitors often combine a visit to Schwellenmätteli with a stroll along the river, or even a dip in the refreshing waters during warmer months, making it a versatile destination for a full day of enjoyment.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit