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.
Bern Canton is one of the safest regions in Europe with extremely low crime rates. The primary safety considerations are mountain and outdoor safety in the Bernese Oberland rather than urban crime.
Current safety advisory
Low
Switzerland is a very safe destination. The Swiss government and US State Department advise normal precautions. No specific travel warnings apply to Bern Canton.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Switzerland is at Level 1. Exercise normal precautions. Petty theft and pickpocketing are the most common crimes affecting tourists, primarily in tourist areas.
FCDO - No specific regional advisory
Switzerland is overall safe. Petty crime and pickpocketing occur in tourist areas. Terrorist attack cannot be ruled out anywhere in Europe.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Bern is one of the safest cities in Europe—violent crime is extremely rare but maintain standard urban awareness in crowded tourist areas
Pickpocketing can occur around Bern train station and on busy trams in summer—keep bags in front of you
Always carry your passport or ID; Swiss police may request identification and travellers are legally required to carry it
Mountain safety is critical—never hike alone in the Bernese Oberland; check weather forecasts at meteoswiss.admin.ch before setting out
Respect mountain safety signage—trails marked with blue/white or red/white stripes have difficulty ratings; only attempt ones within your fitness level
Alpine weather changes rapidly—even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly above 2,000m; always carry warm layers and waterproofs on mountain excursions
Swimming in the Aare River (Marzili) is popular but the current is fast and powerful—only swim at designated areas with lifeguards and never after rain
Sun protection is essential at altitude—UV radiation increases by approximately 10-12% per 1,000m; use SPF 50 on the Jungfraujoch
Altitude sickness can affect some visitors at Jungfraujoch (3,454m)—ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and descend immediately if feeling unwell
Emergency mountain rescue (Rega) operates 24/7 but rescue can be expensive—ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance including mountain rescue
Avalanche risk exists in the Bernese Oberland from November to April—check avalanche bulletins at slf.ch before backcountry activities
Tap water throughout Bern Canton is safe and excellent quality—no need to buy bottled water
Public transport is reliable and safe at all hours, including at night; night buses operate Fri-Sat in Bern city
Switzerland has strict drug laws—cannabis possession is decriminalised for small amounts but public consumption is not acceptable
Bear the bears in mind—the Bear Park animals are wild; maintain appropriate distances and follow park rules
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Fake charity workers
Individuals approach tourists in busy areas claiming to collect for charities while distracting them
How to avoid: Politely decline and walk away; donate directly to known charities
Overcharging taxis
Unlicensed or unregistered taxis near tourist sites may quote inflated flat rates
How to avoid: Use the official taxi rank at Bern station or book via app (Uber, Bolt, TaxiBe)
Ticket inspector scam
Rare reports of individuals posing as transport inspectors requesting fines in cash
How to avoid: Genuine Swiss transport inspectors carry official ID; always ask to see identification
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No specific vaccinations required for Switzerland. Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccination recommended for hiking in forested areas of Bern Canton.
- Water
- Tap water is safe and of excellent quality throughout Bern Canton—one of the best in the world
- Food
- Food safety standards are among the highest in Europe; all restaurants are regulated and inspected
- Facilities
- Bern's Inselspital (Inselgasse 1) is a world-class university hospital. Excellent medical facilities throughout the canton. Pharmacies (Apotheke) are found in every town and city. Emergency dental care is available in Bern city.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Bern is extremely safe for solo travellers of all genders. Bern city is navigable day and night, all neighbourhoods are safe, and public transport is reliable around the clock. Solo hiking in the Bernese Oberland should be on marked trails with a registered plan left with accommodation.
Female travellers
Bern is one of Europe's safest cities for women travelling alone. Switzerland consistently ranks among the world's best countries for gender equality. Standard nighttime precautions apply in bar areas; the Reitschule cultural centre area can feel edgy late at night.
Families
An exceptionally family-friendly destination. Switzerland's infrastructure, clean environment, and outdoor activities make Bern Canton ideal for families. Child safety facilities in parks, cable cars, and public spaces are excellent. Mountain activities should be chosen according to children's ages and fitness.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Switzerland is one of Europe's most LGBTQ-friendly countries. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2022. Bern has an active LGBTQ scene centred around the Reitschule and Lorraine district. Public displays of affection are generally accepted without issue.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 117
- Medical
- 144 (ambulance) / 145 (poison centre)
- Embassy
- US Embassy Bern: +41 31 357 70 11; UK Embassy Bern: +41 31 359 77 00
- Tourist Police
- No dedicated tourist police; regular Kantonspolizei Bern handles all matters (+41 31 634 41 11)
- Mountain Rescue
- 1414 (Rega helicopter rescue)