Bern: Political Walking Tour with a Diplomat｜Switzerland

Your expert local guide (former diplomat and development expert) will show you selected parts of the capital city and put emphasis on unique features of the Swiss political system, explain why it is working and compare it to other systems. While walking through the city you will be able to see most of the main attractions but on top you will get a unique insight into the way Switzerland works. As an example, you will learn about the social peace agreement, the role of chocolate and the importance of outstanding and integrative personalities like Henri Dufour and Ernst Bloch. You will also learn why Switzerland has had more female presidents than any other country although the right to vote for women was only introduced by 1971. Furthermore, you will learn about the key elements of the history of Switzerland's famous neutrality. The focus of this tour is to see the city from a local perspective while learning about the bright and also the less bright sides of the political exception Switzerland. Points of special interest can be agreed upon in advance or discussed when meeting up.

Some examples of MAIN SIGHTS we can visit:
• Bern’s Old City: Bern’s Old City has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983.
• Parliament Building & Parliament Square: The heart of Switzerland’s Democracy.
• Bernese Minster: Highest church spire in all of Switzerland and is one of the most important landmarks of the capital.
• Münsterterrasse (Minster Terrace): The Minster terraces offers breathtaking views over river Aare and the Alps.
• Zytglogge (Clock Tower): Once a city gate, the Clock Tower now attracts spectators from all over the world.
• BärenPark (Bern Bear Park): The Bern bear pit is an attraction that is known far beyond the borders of Switzerland.
• Rosengarten (Rose Garden): The Rose Garden is a mecca for flower lovers with around 250 varieties of roses.

Some examples of HIDDEN SECRETS we can visit:
• Freibad Marzili: The most beautiful riverside pool in Switzerland.
• Fountains of Bern: Colourful figures, skillfully crafted pillars and detailed decorations – those are the characteristics of Bern’s fountains.
• Ländtetor: Unknown by most, the site of the ancient port is a minuscule site restored with federal local resources.
• Von Wattewyl House: Maybe the most important place for Swiss policy-making.
• Käfigturm (Prison Tower): In the past, Käfigturm was where criminals were interrogated and locked up, today it is a space for political discussions.
• Französische Kirche (French Church): Oldest sacred building in the capital and attracts fans of architecture, art and culture alike.

Please note that it is not guaranteed to visit all the sightseeing places listed here. How many places you can visit depends on the length of the tour booked and how much time you spend at each place. After booking you can discuss the detailed itinerary with your guide.