Bern: Complete Travel Guide

Bern is Switzerland's capital — and it surprises those expecting a modern metropolis. The historic centre is medieval, with stone arcades covering 6 km of pavements, 13th-century towers, and the River Aare making a perfect curve around the city. In 1983, UNESCO declared Bern's old town a World Heritage Site.

It's smaller and more relaxed than Zurich, with the rhythm of an authentic European city. A great base for exploring the rest of Switzerland by train — Zurich is 1 hour away, Interlaken 50 minutes, Lucerne 1h15.

Essential information

• Country: Switzerland
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Visa: Brazilians do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in the Schengen area
• Travel insurance: Mandatory for entering the Schengen area, with minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.

Required documents

• Passport: Valid with at least 3 months beyond your return date
• Return ticket: Proof of departure from the Schengen area
• Financial proof: Bank statements or proof of income
• Accommodation proof: Hotel reservation or invitation letter
• Travel insurance: With minimum coverage of 30,000 euros in medical expenses

Internet and SIM card in Bern

• Local SIM card: Buy in Zurich (airport) before coming to Bern. Swisscom, Sunrise and Salt offer prepaid plans from CHF 15–25.
• International eSIM: A practical option to activate before boarding, without swapping your physical SIM card. Check out Airalo, our eSIM partner.
• Free Wi-Fi: Available in cafés, museums and the public BernWifi network.