BärenPark is a modern bear enclosure on the banks of the Aare River, home to Bern famous bears - the city symbol since the 12th century. The park replaced the old Bear Pit in 2009 with a spacious hillside habitat. Current residents are mother bear Björk, father Finn, and daughter Ursina. The bears can roam freely between the hillside and even swim in the Aare River.
Completely free. BäreBähnli (inclined lift) also free. Bear feeding at 10am and 4pm
Spring through autumn (April-October) when bears are most active. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for feeding times. Note: bears hibernate November-March and are rarely visible in winter.
Located on the eastern edge of Old Town, across Nydeggbrücke bridge. 10-minute walk from Zytglogge. Bus 12 to Bärenpark stop. Bears are Bern's symbol. Free entry, open year-round.
Expect a natural hillside habitat where bears live in humane conditions with space to roam, swim, and forage. The park offers close viewing opportunities and beautiful views of the Old Town. Rangers provide information and feeding times. Wheelchair accessible via lift.
Open 24/7, 365 days a year. Rangers available: summer 9:00-17:00, winter 11:00-15:00. Zookeepers on duty daily 8:00-17:00.
faq.subtitle BärenPark (Bear Park)
The bear is Bern heraldic symbol, dating back to the city founding legend in 1191. According to tradition, the city was named after a bear killed by its founder. Bern has kept bears since 1513, making it one of the oldest bear enclosures in the world.
Bears hibernate from approximately November to March, so they are rarely visible during winter months. The best time to see them is spring through autumn when they are active.
Useful tips for visiting BärenPark (Bear Park)
Use the free BäreBähnli lift for easier access with wheelchairs or strollers. The old historic Bear Pit (Bärengraben) is right next to the new park and can also be viewed. Combine with a walk along the Aare promenade.
Located at the eastern end of the Old Town, across the Nydeggbrücke bridge. 10-minute walk from the Zytglogge. Bus 12 to Bärengraben stop.
Expect a natural hillside habitat where bears live in humane conditions with space to roam, swim, and forage. The park offers close viewing opportunities and beautiful views of the Old Town. Rangers provide information and feeding times. Wheelchair accessible via lift.
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