Best Beaches in Bern 2025
Discover the most beautiful beaches and coastal experiences in Bern.
The Canton of Bern is Switzerland's second-largest canton, stretching from the UNESCO-listed medieval capital city to the dramatic peaks of the Bernese Oberland. Home to the federal capital of Switzerland, picturesque alpine lakes, and world-class ski resorts, Bern blends political significance with breathtaking natural beauty.
Top 10 Beaches
The best beaches Bern has to offer.
Marzili Riverside Lido (Aare River, Bern)
Bern's most beloved and unique swimming experience—a riverside lido on the fast-flowing Aare River where locals and visitors drift downstream with the current on hot summer days. The Marzili has a heated outdoor pool, open-air sunbathing lawns, and changing facilities. Lifeguards are present in summer.
Eichholz Lido (Aare River, Bern)
A larger riverside lido south of Bern city with an outdoor pool, grass sunbathing areas, volleyball, and a café. Less intense than the Marzili current and more suitable for families with children who prefer calmer swimming.
Beatenbucht Lido (Lake Thun)
A beautiful lakeside swimming area on the north shore of Lake Thun, backed by cliffs with the Beatushöhlen caves above. The crystal-clear turquoise water is cooler than a sea beach but the mountain setting is extraordinary. Reached by lake boat from Interlaken or bus.
Thun Strandbad (Lake Thun)
Thun's official municipal swimming area on Lake Thun combines a 50-metre outdoor pool with lake swimming access, grassed sunbathing areas, and a café. A popular local destination with Bernese Alps as a backdrop.
Brienz Lido (Lake Brienz)
Lake Brienz's stunning turquoise-green colour—produced by glacial meltwater—makes this lido exceptional. The village of Brienz is famous for wood carving and the steam railway to Brienz Rothorn adds a wonderful excursion option.
Spiez Lido (Lake Thun)
Arguably the most picturesque swimming spot on Lake Thun, the Spiez lido is backed by the medieval Spiez Castle on its vineyard hill and faces across the lake to the Niesen and Bernese Alps. The water is clean and the setting is postcard-perfect.
Beaches by Vibe
Find the perfect beach for your style.
Quiet & Peaceful
Beatenbucht on the north shore of Lake Thun offers a peaceful, cliff-backed swimming spot away from crowds
Family-Friendly
Eichholz Lido on the Aare and Thun Strandbad on Lake Thun have calm water, playgrounds, and facilities ideal for families
Water Sports
Marzili on the Aare River is the most thrilling experience—drifting fast downstream is an exhilarating local ritual
Lively Scene
Marzili in Bern and Spiez Lido on Lake Thun have the liveliest summer atmospheres with locals and tourists
Complete Beach Guide
Detailed beach profiles, packing lists, and seasonal recommendations.
Beach Activities
Things to do at the beach and in the water.
Aare River Drifting
Bern's signature activity—local residents float downstream in the powerful Aare current, get out after 1-2km, and walk back. Requires good swimming ability and knowledge of the safe entry and exit points.
Stand-Up Paddleboard (Lake Thun)
SUP rental available at several Lake Thun and Lake Brienz lakeside operators. The calm lake water makes it ideal for beginners.
Lake Swimming
The turquoise Alpine lakes of Thun and Brienz offer exceptional swimming in clean, cold, glacier-fed water.
Boat Rental
Row boats, pedal boats, and electric boats available for rent at most Lake Thun and Lake Brienz lidos for self-guided lake exploration.
Practical Information
What you need to know before heading to the beach.
Best Season
June-September for comfortable lake and river swimming; water temperature 18-22°C in Lake Thun peak summer; Aare River cooler at 16-20°C
Facilities
Municipal lidos have changing rooms, showers, and lockers; free natural swimming spots have basic or no facilities
Access
All public swimming areas and lidos are accessible; entry to natural lake shores is free; lidos charge CHF 5-8 entry
Costs
Marzili Bern: free; municipal lidos CHF 5-8; boat rental CHF 20-40/hour; SUP rental CHF 25-40/hour
What to Bring
- Sun protection (high SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Beach towel or mat
- Modest swimwear (check local customs)
- Water shoes for rocky areas
- Cash for vendors and rentals
- Waterproof bag for valuables
Beach Safety
Stay safe while enjoying the water.
Always check local conditions and follow lifeguard instructions. Swim in designated areas only.
Be aware of currents, tides, and marine life. Don't swim alone or when flags indicate danger.
Protect yourself from sun. Apply sunscreen regularly and seek shade during peak hours (11am-3pm).
Keep valuables secure or leave them at your accommodation. Don't leave belongings unattended.
Explore Bern's Best Beaches
Get our complete beach guide with seasonal tips, packing checklists, and activity recommendations.
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