Aare River
Bern, Switzerland
While it’s a tributary of the international Rhine River, the Aare River runs exclusively through Switzerland. You’ll find it flowing through major Swiss cities, including the capital of Bern, whose surrounding 15th and 16th century architecture makes the Aare even more picturesque.
The basics
You won’t miss the Aare River when visiting Bern. It’s a central part of the city, and you’ll almost certainly cross it more than once when visiting museums, dining out, or exploring the UNESCO–listed medieval city center. If you desire more than just a pretty view, you can book a guided tour led by a local expert.
Many of these walking tours visit either side of the river. You can also see the river from atop a fat bike in the winter, by canoe in the summer, or even from a helicopter when the weather is right.
Things to know before you go
Swimming in the Aare is possible, but can be risky; it’s only recommended for highly experienced river swimmers.
Don’t pack the ice skates—this river doesn’t freeze often.
The Altenbergsteg is a pedestrian–only bridge crossing the Aare.
How to get there
Bern juts into the Aare River, which curves around the Old Quarter (making the “Aare loop”) as it flows between the north and south. A good place to view the river is from the Nydeggbrücke bridge, which crosses the Aare between the Nydeggkirche church and the brown bear–filled BärenPark. Another spot for views is the riverside Universität Bern Botanical Garden across the Lorrainebrücke.
When to get there
Don’t worry, the Aare River isn’t going anywhere—as long as the Oberaar glacier keeps feeding it. The best time to visit depends on how you want to experience it. Winter is lovely; wandering the riverside in search of Bern’s Christmas markets is a memorable seasonal stroll. Visit in the summer months to raft or canoe down the river, or during the spring or autumn to see the foliage change.
Visit other cities where the Aare River flows
The Aare River splits from the Rhine River at Koblenz, which means you’ve got plenty of towns to follow the river to or from Bern. Brugg is at the confluence of the Aare, Limmat, and Reuss, which surround the medieval town. The Crooked Tower Krummturm sits over the Aare in Solothurn, while Thun’s eponymous castle delivers panoramic views of the Aare from its hilltop.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!