At a glance
- The tourist office’s signature Aare River swim route starts in Marzili, then follows the river upstream on foot to Eichholz. From there, swimmers enter the water and swim downstream toward Marzili. Some people also enter the water near Schönausteg.
- Marzili swimming pool is the easiest viewing spot to reach from Bern station and the Old Town. Take the Marzilibahn behind the Federal Palace, then look toward the riverside exit.
- From Schönausteg bridge, you get a broad view of the river and can watch activity between Marzili and Eichholz. Allow 15–25 minutes for a relaxed walk from the bridge to Marzili.
- Even if you see many people carrying waterproof bags, the river is not a beginner-friendly swimming spot. Official safety guidance says only experienced swimmers should enter, to learn the access points in advance, and not to swim after heavy rain or when water levels are high.
Day by day
Suggested itinerary
See each day's route, highlights, background and stay together in one place.
Walk from the station toward the Federal Palace, then take the Marzilibahn downhill. Watch the swimmers and the river from the designated pedestrian area along Marzili swimming pool.
Allow about 10–20 minutes for the walk and short funicular ride combined. Google Maps 길찾기
If you have only 30 minutes, don’t enter the river. Watch swimmers coming downstream and the exit points around Marzili swimming pool.
Follow facility access rules and construction signs. Google Maps 길찾기
If you have more time, walk along the riverside path to Schönausteg. View upstream and downstream from the bridge, then return the same way or by public transport.
Keep to the edge where cyclists and pedestrians share the path. Google Maps 길찾기
Places and meals
The closest riverside reference point to Bern station.
Google MapsA good spot for a broad view of swimmers and the river’s flow from the bridge.
Google MapsThe upstream end of the official recommended swimming route. It takes longer to reach than Marzili, even if you’re only watching.
Google MapsHow to fit it in
This suits travelers who want to spend an extra 45–90 minutes after sightseeing in Bern’s Old Town to experience local summer river culture. For the shortest trip from the station, visit only Marzili swimming pool. For a riverside walk, continue toward Schönausteg.
Reality check
From Bern station, walk toward the Federal Palace to reach the upper Marzilibahn station. The Bern Ticket included with Bern accommodation covers the Marzilibahn. Other travelers should check that they have a city transit pass valid for the day.
Allow 45–60 minutes for a round trip from the station if you’re only visiting Marzili swimming pool, or 75–120 minutes if you walk to Schönausteg. Don’t miss your next train or reservation while waiting for swimmers.
Watching from the riverside is free. Check whether your Bern Ticket or transit pass covers the Marzilibahn and city transport.
The Aare can be dangerous even for people who are used to swimming. If you’re watching, don’t lean over barriers or block access steps. Watch for slippery banks and fast-moving bicycles. Swimming is not recommended.
If plans change
Skip the riverside and look down over the Aare from the Federal Palace terrace, or visit the Bern Historical Museum instead.
Take the Marzilibahn to and from Marzili swimming pool. Don’t walk to Schönausteg.
Local river culture depends on the weather and water temperature. Instead of waiting, enjoy the riverside and Old Town scenery, then return on schedule.
Small tip
Swimmers don’t appear on a schedule. Your chances are better on a warm, clear late afternoon, but if the water temperature, flow, or weather isn’t suitable, enjoy a riverside walk and head back.
Final check before departure
- Check Bern Tourism’s Aare safety guidance and any closures for the day.
- Keep riverside walks short after rain or heavy rain.
- Save the locations of Marzili swimming pool and Schönausteg on your map.
- Save the time you need to return to Bern station and the platform for your next train.
When the river reopened on May 23, 2026, construction-related swimming and boating bans were lifted. However, Bern announced follow-up construction after the swimming season ends on September 13, so follow any riverbank closure signs. Whether you’ll see swimmers depends on the season, weather, and water level. This is a riverside sightseeing route, not a guide to swimming in the Aare. Stay away from the water after flooding or heavy rain.
Information checked: 2026-09-05