Federal Palace and Bundesplatz

The Federal Palace, or Bundeshaus, is where the Swiss parliament meets and where the national government works, and it stands on the edge of the Old Town overlooking the Aare. Completed at the start of the twentieth century, it is built in a mix of Renaissance and neoclassical styles from Swiss stone, and its central dome is topped with a cross and the national colours. Inside, the grand entrance hall, the staircases and the parliamentary chambers are decorated with murals, stained glass and sculpture that portray Swiss history and the cantons. A statue group in the hall shows the three founders of the Confederation. Visitors can take free guided tours when parliament is not in session, and in the debating chambers you see the seats where the National Council and the Council of States meet. Tours need advance registration and a valid photo ID, and security checks apply. The tours explain how Swiss direct democracy works, from the referendums to the unusual collective presidency.

In front of the building lies Bundesplatz, a large square of paving stones with a field of water jets set into the ground. In warm weather the jets rise and fall in rhythm, and children run through them, which makes the square one of the liveliest places in the city. On market days, stalls selling vegetables, cheese, flowers and bread fill the square, and the market is a good place to pick up picnic food. Cafes line the edges, and the terrace on the south side overlooks the Aare, with a view toward the Gurten.

Tours are offered in English at set times, and the visit lasts about an hour. If parliament is in session, the building may be closed to visitors, though the public gallery may allow you to watch a debate with registration. Check the parliament website for dates and booking details, since the schedule follows the parliamentary calendar. Dress neatly and bring photo ID, because you will not be allowed in without it. Large bags and certain items are not permitted, so travel light.

Even without a tour, the building repays a short visit from the outside. The facade, the dome and the monuments around the square give a sense of Swiss civic pride, and the Federal Terrace behind the building offers one of the best views over the Aare valley. A path along the terrace leads to the funicular that links the upper city to the Marzili district by the river.

Combining the palace with a walk along the Aare and a swim in summer makes a fine half-day. Remember that Switzerland has no single capital named in law, and Bern is formally the federal city, which is a fun fact to share on the tour.

Beyond the tours, the Federal Terrace behind the building is a lovely place to sit, with benches, trees and a view over the Aare and the hills beyond. In the evening, the palace is lit and the square feels calm after the market stalls have gone. Visitors who want to see democracy in action can check whether the public gallery is open during a session, which usually requires registration and ID.

Security staff are friendly but thorough, so allow a few extra minutes at the entrance, and remember that photography inside may be limited in the chambers.