Navigate to myswitzerland.com
Destinations
Your swiss holiday time.
Holiday destinations
- Summer holiday destinations
- Winter sports & ski resorts
- Family destinations
Attractions
- Top attractions
- UNESCO World Heritage sites / biospheres
- Travel by train, bus or boat
- Top museums
- Swiss Parks
- Scenic nature
Experiences
Additional content about subnavigation experiences.
- Family excursions
- Food & Wine
- Group excursions
- Guided tours
Summer & Autumn
- Bicycle & Mountain bike
- Adventure & Sports Summer
- Zoo & animal experiences
- Ski and snowboard
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoe and winter hiking
- Tobogganing
- Winter excursions
- Christmas in Switzerland
Cities & culture
- Parks, Gardens and Squares
- Architecture
Experience Tour
- Car, motorcycle - Grand Tour
- Train, bus, boat – Grand Train Tour
- Mountain excursions
Accommodation
- Typically Swiss Hotels
- Wellness & Spa
- Family Hotels
- Bike Hotels
- Boutique Hotels
- Inspiring Meeting Hotels
- Swiss Historic Hotels
- Luxury hotels
- Winter sports hotels
Other types of accommodation
- On the farm
- Bed and Breakfast
- Mountains huts
- Group accommodation
Transport & Stay
- Travel to Switzerland
- Barrier-free travel
- Tickets public transport
- Service & support
- Money and shopping
About Switzerland
- General facts
- Custom and tradition
- History of Switzerland
- The Swiss Art and Culture Scene
- Health Travel
- Sustainability
Weather & Climate
- Climate in Switzerland
- Snow Report
- Water and pool temperatures
- City offers
- Touring offers
- Wellness offers
- Nature and outdoor offers
- Offers for families
Where are you from?
- België (Nederlands)
- Belgique (Français)
- Deutschland
- Netherlands
- Russia (Россия)
- Schweiz (Deutsch)
- Suisse (Français)
- Svizzera (Italiano)
- Switzerland (English)
- United Kingdom
- Canada (English)
- Canada (Français)
- China 中文简体
- China 中文繁体
- Gulf countries العربية
- Japan 日本
- Korea 한국어
- United Arab Emirates
- New Zealand
- International
Language, region and important links
- Slovenština
Service Navigation
- Help & Contact
Zytglogge (Clock Tower)
Built in 1191 as the western gate to the then-smaller city, Bern's Clock Tower is as old as Bern itself.
The tower dominates the central city with its steep copper spire; its astronomical clock workings were added in 1530, about the time of the Reformation. From the 16th-19th centuries this was the authoritative clock in Bern; all clocks were set according to this one. At five minutes before each hour visitors gather before the clock to watch its nearly 500-year-old workings perform.
Discover the surroundings
Advertisement, travel information: bern, destination.
Bern Welcome Bahnhofplatz 10a 3011 Bern +41 (0)31 328 12 12 [email protected] Website
- Hotel booking
- Group houses groups.swiss
- Swiss Hostels
- Bed and breakfast
- Railway timetable
Local Information
- Restaurants
- Parks and Squares
- Request brochures
Winter sports
- Wintersport activities
- Lakesides / Swimmingpools
- Climatic data
- Swisstravelcenter Hiking Maps
- Swisstravelcenter Mountainbike Maps
- Swisstopo Hiking Maps
Current Offers
Bern bern – museum card.
Kursaal Bern AG, Bern Winter happening
valid: 14.03.2024 - 01.04.2024
Hotel Grauholz, Ittigen All-day package
Without overnight stay valid: 14.03.2024 - 12.02.2025
Hotel Grauholz, Ittigen Half-day package
Discover bern.
Discover the Zytglogge Clock Tower in Bern’s Historic Heart
Located in the heart of Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town , the Zyteglogge is a must-see attraction. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Swiss capital and definitely worth spending some time seeing if you are in town.
The Zytglogge actually means “time bell” in the local dialect (Bärndütsch – Bernese German) and once you see the bell ring, you will understand why. The Zytglogge is more than just a clock and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Table of Contents
Architectural Details of the Zytglogge
The Zytglogge is a very distinct 23-meter-high tower that stands in the heart of downtown Bern. It has marked the passing of town for centuries and is even said to have inspired Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity.
It features a unique combination of both Gothic and Baroque architecture, which has evolved over the centuries.
The Astronomical Clock
The current astronomical clock was installed in 153 and actually replaced replacing an older, less sophisticated clock. The clock mechanism was designed by Kaspar Brunner, a Swiss clockmaker and is quite the work of art
The astronomical clock face features a plethora of clocks all wound around one another on the face. The various clocks and timekeeping devices include:
- Hours and minutes (including 24-hour time – 2 x 12 hours)
- Day of the week
- Lunar calendar
- Zodiac calendar
- A Planisphere (day, dawn, dusk)
- A Calendar Dial
But let’s not forget that on top of all of this runs an intricate clockwork that also moves a series of figures across the elaborate facade.
The Moving Figures
The moving figures on the Zytglogge’s astronomical clock are one of the highlights of any visit to the clock. They represent various aspects of time and serve as an entertaining spectacle every hour for onlookers. The four main moving figures are:
- Chronos : The god of time holds a scepter and an hourglass and symbolizes the continuous passage of time. He rotates the hourglass each hour and strikes the bell with his wooden scepter.
- The Rooster : Represents the herald of a new day, just as it does in real life. The Rooster crows three times: once before the hourly chimes, once during, and once after.
- The Jester : Symbolizing the fleeting nature of time, he sits just below Chronos. As the clock strikes the hour, the Jester rings two small bells in each hand, reminding us how important it is to enjoy each moment.
- The Golden Knight : Represents both civic pride and chivalry. He can be seen marching in a circle as the clock chimes. It is said that this figure exemplifies the values and virtues of Bernese citizens.
- A Parade of Bears: The bear is the symbol of Bern, so it is no surprise that at the bottom of the animated area is a parade of bears that begins every procession.
Right between the giant clock face and the astronomical clock is a large frieze worth looking at. It features a mix of Greek & Roman pagan gods including Jupiter, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars, Venus, and Mercury.
If you look in detail you will also notice that only the female gods have faces.
The Western Facade
The western face of Zytglogge is also adorned with a giant clock and decorated with a fresco titled “beginning of time. This mural illustrates Adam and Even in paradise being evicted by an angel while the devil is hovering menacingly in the background.
The Zytglogge Archway Paintings
Something a lot of people miss when visiting the Clock Tower is the paintings in the archway underneath. There are two on each side, each representing a particular part of the history of Bern.
The paintings were painted by Gotthard Ringgli and left to right above depict the following
- The granting of the hand vest by Emperor Friederich II
- The bear hunt in Nydegg (The apparent reason Bern is strongly associated with bears)
- Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen commissions Cuno von Bubenberg to build the town of Bern
- The building of Bern
When Should You Visit The Zytglogge?
You should visit the Zytglogge at least 5 minutes before the hour because of how the timing of the clock and moving figures operates.
Although the Zytglogge strikes every hour, the moving characters start their performance 4 minutes before the actual hour. So, to be sure you don’t miss anything, be there early, especially in summer and weekends when the crowds in front of the clock tower can be quite big.
The Zytglogge clock strikes every hour with a series of chimes and animations involving the four moving figures mentioned above.
The process begins a few minutes before the hour, as the Rooster starts to flap its wings and crow. When the hour arrives, Chronos inverts his hourglass and strikes the bell, while the Jester simultaneously rings his bells, usually too early, as is typical of such a fool. The Rooster crows again during the chimes, and the Golden Knight marches in a circle.
After the clock finishes ringing, the Rooster crows one final time, marking the end of the hourly spectacle.
The Zytglogge’s Rich History
No one knows the exact date, however, the Zytglogge was originally constructed between 1218-1220 as part of the city’s western gate and fortifications.
It has had a variety of functions over the centuries from its initial role as a gate to a women’s prison, and a guard tower, to its final role as a clock tower and archive.
In 1405 the tower was almost completely destroyed during a fire and had to undergo significant reconstruction. Early in the 15th century, the first simple clock was installed along with the first large bell that gave the Zyteglogge its time – “the Time Bell”.
Further restoration projects have been undertaken in 1527-1530, which was when the more elaborate current astronomical clock was added. Further repainting of the clock was carried out between 1607-1610 by Gotthard Ringgli and Kaspar Haldenstein who added the intricate detail in the clockfaces we see on both sides of the tower today.
There was a further repainting of the face in 1890, but people disliked the Rococo style and it was replaced in 1929.
Zytglogge Tours
One of the best ways to experience the true depth and intricacy of the Zytglogge is through a unique tour . Not only do you get to learn all about the history, inner workings and movements of the clock tower, you also get to go inside and see how it all works. You will also get a unique view from the top of this Bern landmark, something not everyone gets to do!
Bern Tourism
Zytglogge Bern
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Get Our Free Swiss Tips Guide
Popular destinations, important pages, on social media, travel planning, certified swiss travel expert.
Zytglogge In Bern: Seeing Switzerland’s Famous Clock Tower
Among the landmarks in Bern, the one I find most spectacular is Zytglogge! For me, a visit to Bern is incomplete without seeing it.
So, what is Zytglogge all about? Zytglogge, or the ‘clock tower,’ is a structure from the 13th century. It once served as the gate and defensive tower of the old city of Bern. Today, it stands as one of Bern’s best-known landmarks, attracting countless spectators who come to witness its spectacle.
Now, let me share some of the fascinating things I discovered about Zytglogge. You will also find tips on exploring Bern and visiting Zytglogge. I’ll cover what you should not miss when visiting Zytglogge, the best time to see it, the best place to view it, and more!
This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you from any qualifying purchases using the link.
As an engineer, I marvel at mechanisms from the medieval ages. I can’t imagine how ingenious the craftsmen of the middle ages were. They could make spectacular things move and work using just basic science.
What’s an excellent example of these mechanisms? Zytglogge, of course!
Save to Pinterest
What To See In Zytgloggle
Zytglogge is more than just a medieval mechanical masterpiece, as I have mentioned. It is a gem in Switzerland that feeds your wanderlust as you stumble upon it while wandering in Bern.
Needless to say, you must see Zytglogge—it’s one of Bern’s primary landmarks! However, I think it would be wise to know what awaits you in Zytglogge to spark curiosity and excitement to see the clock tower. By knowing these, you may not miss anything interesting about Zytglogge during your visit.
Zytglogge has two interesting facades. However, it’s the east facade, facing Kramgasse, where I think you’ll spend more time. Come close to Zytglogge’s east facade to see its beautiful elements clearly:
- Giant clock : It is the largest element in the east facade of Zytglogge. Its elegant appearance (golden hands, painted white and black) is an eye-catcher even at the far corner of Kramgasse.
- Astronomical clock : It’s one of the most colorful astronomical clocks I’ve ever seen. It is located just below the giant clock. Zytglogge’s astronomical clock can tell the current zodiac, day of the week, and hour of the day. Fascinatingly, it also has a planisphere, which can tell if it’s night, dawn, or daylight.
- Frieze : It is located between the giant clock and the astronomical clock. Come closer and see it depicting Greek/Roman pagan gods, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Venus, and Mercury. It’s intriguing why the male gods don’t have faces while the female gods do.
- Bellwork : You can find it beside the astronomical clock. It is the most spectacular part of Zytglogge with the figures of Chronos, the jester, and bears (symbol of Bern). I’ll tell you more about it later!
The western facade of Zytglogge also has a giant clock, but the clock is decorated with a fresco, “Beginning of Time.” The mural depicts an angel evicting Adam and Eve from Paradise while the devil is behind them.
As you may notice, Zytglogge has a small arch on its lower part. I can liken the arch to a time portal that lets you peek into different scenes in Bern during the Middle Ages or Renaissance. Walk through it, and you may find four artworks/paintings placed on the upper portion of the arch. They’re the little yet surprising things you can discover while wandering in Bern.
I believe these paintings tell about the important events or characters in the history of Bern. Here are two of them:
Do you need more ideas where to go in Bern? I can help you with that! You can try reading: Most Beautiful Views In Bern , Walking tour to the Most Beautiful Fountains In Bern , DIY day tour to the Impressive Landmarks in Bern . (Links open in a new tab)
How To Go To Zytglogge
Reaching Zytglogge should not be a concern. It is conveniently located at the heart of the old city of Bern, specifically at the west end of Kramgasse, the central street of the old city. You will surely find it without much difficulty!
If you are outside the old city, consider taking public transportation. Tram #9 and buses #10 and #12 can get you to Zytglogge quickly. The clock tower even has its own stop, just a few steps away.
Suppose you are already exploring within the old city. In that case, you might not need to use public transportation to reach Zytglogge. My estimate is that you can reach Zytglogge within 10 minutes from anywhere in Bern’s old city. However, you can shorten the walking time by riding trams and buses.
Lastly, Zytglogge is at the center of the tourist attractions in the old city of Bern. To give you a better idea, here is the location of Zytglogge relative to the different landmarks in the old city:
- It is located southeast of the Bern Museum of Fine Arts. (8-minute walk)
- Northeast of Bundeshaus. (4-minute walk)
- Northwest of Bern Cathedral. (4-minute walk)
- West of Einsteinhaus. (2-minute walk)
Do you want to learn more about Bern Cathedral and Bundeshaus? Check out my articles about visiting Bern Cathedral and visiting Bundesaus . I’ll show you the things you might not like to miss when you visit them.
When To See Zytglogge
One of the biggest mistakes you might make when in Bern is visiting Zytglogge at the wrong time!
Zytglogge looks imposing all the time with its giant clocks and murals, but it can be even more spectacular. So, when should you see Zytglogge? You should arrive at Zytglogge 5 minutes before the hour.
A minute after you arrive, you’ll see the mechanical human and animal figures of Zytglogge move and perform a mini-show that lasts for 4 minutes. I suggest you come early, especially during the peak season, to pick the best spot in Kramgasse to watch Zytglogge. You can expect to be among the crowd during that time.
At exactly 4 minutes before the hour, the tower’s rooster figure will crow, signaling the start of Zytglogge’s spectacle. The bears under Chronos will then start their procession. You’ll see the jester chiming the smaller bells. At this point, I believe you’ll also wonder how it is possible. Don’t get me wrong, of course, there’s a mechanism inside. But the synchronization and design of the clock—it’s amazing.
The mini-show ends when Chronos flips the hourglass and swings his scepter, indicating the exact hour. At this point, you will also hear the bell on the top of the tower ring.
Best Views of Zytglogge
Marveling at Zytglogge’s giant clocks, murals, and paintings can be one of your most beautiful experiences in Bern, especially if you’re the wandering type of traveler like me.
By appreciating its appearance and watching its spectacle, your imagination is transported back centuries into the past. But that’s not all! You’ll also discover pieces of Bern’s history and culture.
Although it’s nice to see Zytglogge up close, you should also try seeing it from different places. Zytglogge’s appearance, location, and size perfectly harmonize with other buildings in Bern’s old city.
Believe me, the scene where you can see Zytglogge with other buildings in Bern will compel you to take photos! It’s straight out of a fairytale.
There are three places in Bern to view and photograph Zytglogge:
Bern Cathedral
Are you looking for ways to visit Bern? Do you want to know how much time you must spend in Bern? My posts below can help! ( Links open in a new tab )
- Half A Day In Bern Itinerary
- One Day In Bern Itinerary
- Two Days In Bern Itinerary
Not sure how many days to visit Bern? Check my article How Long To Spend In Bern
Kramgasse is the main street of the old city of Bern, located east of Zytglogge. If you are now in Bern and can see Zytglogge’s astronomical clock, then you are in Kramgasse. It’s the most frequently visited place to photograph Zytglogge.
In Kramgasse, you can see the homogeneous arcaded buildings flanking the street, creating beautiful proportions and leading lines toward Zytglogge. Kramgasse offers a few more ways to photograph Zytglogge.
You can use the colorful water fountains (Zahringerbrunnen and Simsonbrunnen) and include them in the frame for a more creative shot.
Marktgasse is the street west of Zytglogge. It connects Zytglogge with the younger defensive clock tower in Bern, Kafigturm. From Marktgasse, you should see the west facade of Zytglogge with the fresco “Beginning of Time.”
The view in Marktgasse looks very similar to that in Kramgasse. Both sides of the streets have arcaded buildings and houses, which appear picturesque with Zytglogge at the center. Marktgasse also has a fountain (Schützenbrunnen) that you can include in your shot when taking photographs of Zytglogge.
Bern Cathedral is the place to be if you want to see Zytglogge from a whole new angle that is not commonly seen by most tourists. You can climb the spire of Bern Cathedral to see Zytglogge along with the rest of the panoramic old-world cityscape of Bern’s UNESCO heritage site.
Zytglogge will appear small from the spire of Bern Cathedral (as they’re not very close to each other). So, you might want to bring a powerful camera or smartphone with a strong zoom feature to photograph Zytglogge.
Tour Inside Zytgloggle
“For history lovers and curious travelers like me, I bet you’ll also like to see what’s inside Zytglogge. If you do, I have good news: you can go inside Zytglogge. However, there’s a catch: you can only go inside with a tour.
During a tour, you can expect the following:
- Learn the history of Zytglogge. During the tour, you might also be impressed with Zytglogge when the tour guide says it is more than 800 years old and has served several other purposes.
- See the mechanism that powers the clock on the first floor.
- View the astronomical calendar clock (the Astrolabium).
- Discover how these clocks work. As an engineer, I’m quite fascinated by how the makers designed the mechanism. The clock’s mechanism is powered by a stone that can make Zytglogge work for 24 hours if raised to a certain level. Yes, Zytglogge harnesses and utilizes potential energy and gravity to work! Also, the mechanism has a pendulum that looks like a mini wrecking ball synchronized with the clock’s ticking every second.
- See the panoramic views of the Bern UNESCO heritage site on the 6th floor. The tower is 54.5 meters or 179 feet tall; expect 100-ish-step stairs to climb. It may sound exhausting, but it’s worth it! (The view from Bern Cathedral is better)
- Feel like it’s the bygone days. The masonry walls and the old wooden trusses inside Zytglogge will definitely send your imagination back to medieval times.”
You can learn more about the Tour in Zytglogge from GetYourGuide .
Sources: Zytglogge
- Zytglogge (Official website of Bern)
- Official website of Zytglogge
- Dates and other facts (Wikipedia)
Similar Posts
7 Things To Do In Lake Brienz (And Visiting Information)
Here’s how you can enjoy and spend time in Lake Brienz: Iseltwald, Giessbach Waterfall, Brienz, Rothorn Bahn, Ballenberg Museum, and more.
Visiting Schloss Ambras: What to See in Innsbruck’s Castle
Discover Ambras Castle, from its rich history to its stunning architecture. Know what to expect and whether it’s worth your time in Innsbruck.
Karlskirche Vienna: All You Need to Know Before You Visit
Is Karlskirche Worth Visiting? This church has beautiful baroque interiors, unique exteriors, and amazing concerts! A magnificent destination in Vienna.
How Long To Spend In Bern: Half Day, 1 Day or 2 Days
Half a day trip to Bern is okay. One day is enough for the old city of Bern. Two days are great if you also love to see museums. Three days? Nah.
Salzburg Cathedral: Complete Guide (with Facts and Visit Information)
Have an idea of the things that you can find and experience inside Salzburg Cathedral to maximize your visit. Tips and visiting information are included!
One Day In Bern Itinerary: Landmarks & Scenic Spots Tour
The best way to spend a day in Bern is to visit the old city’s most beautiful landmarks and scenic spots. Here’s an itinerary you can use when visiting Bern.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Clock Tower - Zytglogge
- Bern Station • 6 min walk
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Also popular with travellers
CLOCK TOWER - ZYTGLOGGE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
- Historic Bern: Exclusive Private Tour with a Local Expert (From S$1,158.62)
- Bern Private Walking Tour (From S$624.95)
- Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-4 Hour Walking Tour of Bern (From S$320.20)
- Explore Bern in 1 hour with a Local (From S$122.20)
- Bern Old Town - Private Historic Walking Tour (From S$737.64)
- (0.06 km) Bern Backpackers - Hotel Glocke
- (0.18 km) Bellevue Palace
- (0.12 km) Best Western Plus Hotel Bern
- (0.10 km) Hotel Goldener Schlussel
- (0.09 km) Live in Bern's Old City, only steps from the city's main attractions
- (0.01 km) McDonald's Restaurant
- (0.01 km) McDonald's Bern Zytgloggelaube
- (0.02 km) Nooch Asian Kitchen Bern Westside
- (0.02 km) Stellwerk Bern
- (0.02 km) Spaghetti Factory Bern
Clock tower – Zytglogge
Bernese-Midlands
The Zytglogge, also known as the Zeitglocke or Zeitglockenturm, is a historic clock tower in the city of Bern. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is home to one of the oldest tower clocks in Switzerland.
Bern Zytglogge
The Zeitglockenturm is one of the most visited attractions in Bern and was once part of the city wall in the early 13th century. The imposing bell, which was initially rung manually, was installed in 1405. The clock, on the other hand, is somewhat younger: the clockwork by the German armourer Kaspar Brunner was installed in the Zytglogge in 1530.
The movement of the Zytglogge consists of five combined movements housed in a common case. It comprises the going train, two striking trains and two movements for figure movements. The hands of the clock are controlled by the hour axis of the going train and move above the two large 12-hour dials and the impressive astrolabe clock. The Zytglogge is a fascinating testimony to the art of clockmaking in past centuries and a striking landmark of Bern.
One striking mechanism in the time bell tower activates the hour strike in the top of the tower, while the other provides the quarter-hour strikes, which also sound in the top of the tower. The fascinating figurine games are located in the player’s bay below the large 12-hour display to the east, right next to the impressive astrolabe clock.
Zytglogge with astrolabe clock – Astronomical clock
The clock on the clock tower is one of the most complex and precious clocks in Europe and was created in 1530. It is not only used to measure time, but also provides a wealth of astronomical information. Because of this feature, it is also known as an astrolabe.
The clock has impressive functions and not only displays hours and minutes, but also provides astronomical data such as sunrise, sunset, moon phases and the position of the stars. With its precise mechanics and historical significance, the astrolabe on the Zytglogge is a valuable legacy of the art of clockmaking and a fascinating sight in the city of Bern .
Zytglogge Tower
Hourly puppet show at the clock tower
A fascinating spectacle begins every hour on the hour: the medieval puppet show comes to life. The dancing bear procession, the mischievous jester and the screaming rooster fascinate young and old – and have done so for centuries, day after day. But do you know what these figures stand for? Or how the mechanics behind the thick walls of the clock tower work and what stories are hidden there?
Immerse yourself in the secrets of the Zytglogge and be impressed by the fascinating details and the long tradition of this cultural heritage. Find out more about the significance and magic of this historic display.
Guided tour of the clock tower
The one-hour tour offers a special experience, not least because of the unique atmosphere inside the tower. Time seems to have stood still here many years ago. Heavy wooden beams, thick stone walls, coolness and silence take visitors on a fascinating journey into the past. The constant ticking of the medieval mechanism accompanies them through the historic rooms.
After climbing around 130 steps, you reach the viewing platform of this monumental memorial. From here, you have a magnificent view of Bern. The impressive view over the UNESCO World Heritage Site with its roof ridges, chimneys and towers is another highlight of this exciting tour. On clear days, the view even extends as far as the peaks of the Bernese Oberland .
This tour can be booked directly online , by phone at +41 31 328 12 12 12 or by e-mail to [email protected] .
Video Bern’s Clock Tower – Zytglogge
The video is embedded by YouTube and only loads when you click on the play button. More information: Privacy policy
Video Video Making of. . . Zytglogge / Clocktower Bern
Your luxury travel - our offers
unique - personal - unforgettable
Clock Tower - Zytglogge
- Bern Station • 6 min walk
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Also popular with travellers
Clock Tower - Zytglogge: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
- Historic Bern: Exclusive Private Tour with a Local Expert (From AU$1,318.71)
- Bern Private Walking Tour (From AU$711.30)
- Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-4 Hour Walking Tour of Bern (From AU$364.45)
- Explore Bern in 1 hour with a Local (From AU$139.08)
- Bern Old Town - Private Historic Walking Tour (From AU$839.56)
- (0.06 km) Bern Backpackers - Hotel Glocke
- (0.18 km) Bellevue Palace
- (0.12 km) Best Western Plus Hotel Bern
- (0.10 km) Hotel Goldener Schlussel
- (0.09 km) Live in Bern's Old City, only steps from the city's main attractions
- (0.01 km) McDonald's Restaurant
- (0.01 km) McDonald's Bern Zytgloggelaube
- (0.02 km) Nooch Asian Kitchen Bern Westside
- (0.02 km) Stellwerk Bern
- (0.02 km) Spaghetti Factory Bern
Save your favorites. No favorites saved yet.
- Business Go to a different page To the business page Go to a different page
- Internationals Go to a different page For staff of embassies, consulates, multilateral institutions and international organisations Go to a different page
Tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower)
Going on a tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) means: taking a look behind the clock that has existed for hundreds of years, learning about the history of this Bernese monument and enjoying the wonderful view from the top of the tower.
- Book Public Tour
- Book Public Combined Tour
- https://moz.com/blog/meta-data-templates-123 --> Facebook
- https://moz.com/blog/meta-data-templates-123 --> Twitter
Every hour, on the hour, something unique happens in Bern: medieval figurines appear from the Zytglogge (Clock Tower). The dancing bears, the cheeky fool and the crowing rooster have been a joy for the public every day for centuries. But who knows what they represent, how the mechanism works, and which stories are hidden behind the strong walls of the clock tower?
The exceptional atmosphere inside the tower makes the one-hour tour a special experience – it seems like time has been standing still for many years. The heavy wooden beams, the thick stone walls and the cool and quiet air take the visitors into the past, always accompanied by the steady ticking of the medieval clock.
The Clock Tower from the inside
On the tour of the historic building, visitors will examine the gears and the apparatus of the old clock, watch the figurines closely and learn interesting facts about the history and the different roles of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower).
They will also look at the astronomical calendar clock, the Astrolabium, on the eastern side of the tower and discover how it works, with its slowly moving clock hands, the turning discs and the skillfully crafted celestial bodies.
The tour ends high up on the viewing platform of the monument. The reward for climbing some 130 steps is a wonderful view of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its rooftops, chimneys and towers – another highlight on this interesting tour. When the weather is good, you can see all the way to the peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
Be it history fans, locals or visitors – everyone will enjoy this tour!
The Zytglogge (Clock Tower) tour is also available in combination with the walking tour of the UNESCO Stroll through the Old City.
Reservations online , via phone at +41 31 328 12 12 , or via e-mail citytours@bern.com
The combined tour consists of the UNESCO Stroll through the Old City at 11:00 am (Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays) or 1:00 pm (Wednesdays and Sundays) and the tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) at 2:15 pm (Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays) or 3:15 pm (Wednesdays and Sundays) and can be booked at a special price.
Reservations online or via phone at +41 31 328 12 12, or via e-mail: citytours@bern.com .
Reservations via phone at +41 31 328 12 12 , or via e-mail citytours@bern.com
City Tours Bern
Time for contrasts, ride an e-bike from bern’s unesco-listed old city to the “tales of the gantrisch” e-bike route.
You might also like
Clock Tower - Zytglogge
- Bern Station • 6 min walk
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Also popular with travellers
CLOCK TOWER - ZYTGLOGGE - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
- Historic Bern: Exclusive Private Tour with a Local Expert (From C$1,173.74)
- Bern Private Walking Tour (From C$633.10)
- Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-4 Hour Walking Tour of Bern (From C$324.38)
- Explore Bern in 1 hour with a Local (From C$123.79)
- Bern Old Town - Private Historic Walking Tour (From C$747.27)
- (0.06 km) Bern Backpackers - Hotel Glocke
- (0.18 km) Bellevue Palace
- (0.12 km) Best Western Plus Hotel Bern
- (0.10 km) Hotel Goldener Schlussel
- (0.09 km) Live in Bern's Old City, only steps from the city's main attractions
- (0.01 km) McDonald's Restaurant
- (0.01 km) McDonald's Bern Zytgloggelaube
- (0.02 km) Nooch Asian Kitchen Bern Westside
- (0.02 km) Stellwerk Bern
- (0.02 km) Spaghetti Factory Bern
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Going on a tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) means: taking a look behind the clock that has existed for hundreds of years, learning about the history of this Bernese monument and enjoying the wonderful view from the top of the tower. Book Public Tour. Book Public Combined Tour. Save. Every hour, on the hour, something unique happens in Bern ...
Zytglogge (Clock Tower) Tour . If you want a closer look behind the thick walls of the Clock Tower, the tour designed especially for this purpose is your best choice, because visitors may only enter the tower's interior with a guide. Participants will hear many exciting and interesting facts about the clockwork and the story behind this ...
The Zytglogge (clock tower): Visit the landmark of Bern's Old Town and experience the history and mechanics of the tower on a guided tour. Every hour on the hour, a fascinating spectacle takes place in Bern: the medieval puppet show of the Zytglogge (clock tower) begins. The dancing bear train, the cheeky jester and the crowing rooster are a ...
Take the advantage of the exclusive opportunity to view Bern's landmark the Clock Tower (Zytglogge) from inside. See the clock's fascinating 16th-century mechanism, and as a highlight enjoy the fantastic view of the capital city's roofs and alleyways. Together we'll view the clockwork and follow the performance of the clockwork figures step ...
Nestled in the heart of Bern, Switzerland, the Zytglogge clock tower stands as a timeless marvel amidst modernity, a juxtaposition of past and present that beckons curious minds to unravel its secrets. As visitors step inside this architectural gem, they are greeted by a world where history comes alive, where each tick of the clock resonates ...
Zytglogge (Clock Tower) Experience Bern. Built in 1191 as the western gate to the then-smaller city, Bern's Clock Tower is as old as Bern itself. The tower dominates the central city with its steep copper spire; its astronomical clock workings were added in 1530, about the time of the Reformation. From the 16th-19th centuries this was the ...
Architectural Details of the Zytglogge. Zytglogge clock tower in bern. The Zytglogge is a very distinct 23-meter-high tower that stands in the heart of downtown Bern. It has marked the passing of town for centuries and is even said to have inspired Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity.
Fascinating hour-long tour of the medieval clock tower. Plenty of information, plenty of steep stairs! And seeing the clock in action was a delight. The view from the tower is outstanding as well. The tour is limited to 20 people, and worth every penny. Written June 14, 2023.
Visit the Zytglogge, the famous clock tower, and experience a tour of the first Western city gate (1218 - 1256) in Bern's old city. Visit the clockwork and follow a puppet show step by step.
Learn the history of Zytglogge. During the tour, you might also be impressed with Zytglogge when the tour guide says it is more than 800 years old and has served several other purposes. See the mechanism that powers the clock on the first floor. View the astronomical calendar clock (the Astrolabium). Discover how these clocks work.
We viewed the wonderful clock tower as part of a walking tour of Bern. Lots of symbolism and some nice stories associated with the history of the building. ... According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Clock Tower - Zytglogge: Historic Bern: Exclusive Private Tour with a Local Expert (From S$1,168.58) Bern ...
This tour can be booked directly online, by phone at +41 31 328 12 12 12 or by e-mail to [email protected]. Video Bern's Clock Tower - Zytglogge. Bern's Clock Tower - Zytglogge. The video is embedded by YouTube and only loads when you click on the play button. More information: ...
ZYTLOGGE CLOCK TOWER - GLOCKENSPIEL TOUR. It is the most recognized landmark of Bern and has a place in the history of science and the universe. Every day at 4 minutes before the hour, tourists visitors to Bern gather below the famous tower clock, the Zytglogge Clock, to watch its colorful glockenspiel mechanism of twirling bears and medieval ...
Take a city tour and get inside the amazing clock tower. Every hour, the ancient Zytglogge (Clock Tower) marks the time with a crowing rooster, a circle of bears, a zodiacal clock, a man striking a bell, and more As the top of the hour neared, our accredited city guide unlocked a door and took us right inside.
The Clock Tower. Jul. 2023. Beautiful clock Tower in the middle of the old Town.Good place to take photos.its one of the most famous attractions in Bern.You cant come to Bern and miss to visit the zytglogge. Written 19 July 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Zytglogge (Bernese German: [ˈtsiˌkːlɔkːə]; lit. 'time bell') is a landmark medieval tower in Bern, Switzerland.Built in the early 13th century, it has served the city as a guard tower, prison, clock tower, centre of urban life and civic memorial.. Despite the many redecorations and renovations it has undergone in its 800 years of existence, the Zytglogge is one of Bern's most ...
Visit the Zytglogge, the famous clock tower, and experience a tour of the first Western city gate (1218 - 1256) in Bern's old city. Visit the clockwork and follow a puppet show step by step.
Hotels near Kinogorod Piligrim Porto Hotels near Culture and Leisure Park of Lev Tolstoy Hotels near Ezhi Monument Hotels near Country Park Hotels near Park of Maria Rubtsova Hotels near Khimki Art Gallery Named After S. N. Gorshin Hotels near Church of The Holy Blessed Matrona of Moscow Hotels near Holy Trinity Church Hotels near TAINY MIRA Hotels near St. Nicholas Chapel
Going on a tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) means: taking a look behind the clock that has existed for hundreds of years, learning about the history of this …
We viewed the wonderful clock tower as part of a walking tour of Bern. Lots of symbolism and some nice stories associated with the history of the building. ... According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Clock Tower - Zytglogge: Historic Bern: Exclusive Private Tour with a Local Expert (From C$1,180.56) Bern ...
Drive • 46 min. Drive from Zelenograd to Moscow 50.4 km. RUB 370 - RUB 550. Quickest way to get there Cheapest option Distance between.
Answer 1 of 3: My husband and I will be in moscow and wanted to take a side trip..understand Vladimir & Suzdal is quite nice. Do you prefer that to Sergiev Posad? Do you know any agencies that provide group tours or private tours to Vladimir & Suzdal? I...
Leave Moscow behind for a day, and explore the Golden Ring: a collection of cities northeast of Moscow that are famed for their beauty and heritage. Following pickup directly from your Moscow hotel, travel into the storybook Russian countryside. You'll be visiting Suzdal and Vladimir: two UNESCO World Heritage sites that are renowned for their bucolic landscapes, scenic white-stone buildings ...