The Bear Park (Bärengraben) is a free, open-air brown-bear enclosure stretching down to the River Aare at the eastern edge of Bern's old town. The bear has been the emblem of the city and canton of Bern for centuries, appearing on their coat of arms, and bears have been documented here since 1513. After criticism that the historic round bear pit (the old Bärengraben) no longer met animal-welfare standards, the modern, spacious riverside BärenPark opened in 2009. As of 2026 it is home to three bears — mother Björk, father Finn, and daughter Ursina — and it is an easy, free stop that flows naturally into a walk through the UNESCO-listed old town.
Watching the three bears (Björk, Finn and Ursina) graze, swim and roam the terraced enclosure that steps down to the Aare
The original 19th-century round stone bear pit (the old Bärengraben), now a historic feature along the visitor path
Views over the Nydeggbrücke bridge, the Nydegg church and the skyline of Bern's UNESCO World Heritage old town
The free BäreBähnli inclined lift linking the Aare riverside promenade with the upper viewing path
The story of the bear as Bern's civic symbol, right where an old-town walking tour naturally begins or ends
Good to know
SeasonLike their wild counterparts, the bears hibernate roughly from November to mid-March and are rarely seen. For reliable sightings, visit spring through autumn, ideally around the keepers' morning or late-afternoon feeding times.
RulesFeeding the bears is strictly prohibited, as the wrong food harms them. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times.
MannersThe keepers aim for animals that stay as wild as possible, so watch quietly — avoid shouting, throwing objects or trying to provoke the bears.
SafetyThe riverside ramps and steps are steep and can be slippery in wet weather. Visitors with strollers, wheelchairs or limited mobility can use the free BäreBähnli inclined lift.
CautionAdmission is completely free — never pay anyone who claims to charge entry. Buy transit tickets only from official SBB/BernMobil machines or apps, and if you stay in a Bern hotel, use the free Bern Ticket public-transport pass.
SeasonBern's weather is changeable and the river adds a breeze, so it can feel cool even in summer. Bring layers and a rain jacket or umbrella.
Practical info
The park sits at the eastern edge of the old town beside the Nydeggbrücke on the banks of the Aare (Grosser Muristalden 4, 3006 Bern). From Bern main station, take bus 12 to the 'BärenPark' stop, or tram 9 to 'Nydegg' (about 15 minutes) and walk the short distance. It is open free of charge 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with keepers and rangers on site during the daytime. Please confirm current ranger hours, feeding times and the hibernation period on the official Tierpark Bern website.
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