Bear Pit

Bern’s Bear Pit and Bear Park sit by the Nydegg Bridge on the slope down to the River Aare. The historic circular Bärengraben remains part of the ensemble, while the modern BärenPark – a natural hillside enclosure – has been in use since 2009.

• Area ~5,000–6,000 m² – a natural slope from the old pit to the Aare with viewpoints and a riverside “bear bath”.
• A tunnel links the old pit and the park so the bears can move between the two.
• Free 24/7 access – it functions as an urban park; keepers are on duty during the day.
• Step-free “BäreBähnli” inclined lift since 2015 connects the riverside path with the upper level.
• Bear-keeping is a Bern tradition – the first pit is recorded in 1441, and bears have been part of the city’s identity since at least the 16th century.

• The historic Bärengraben with viewing terraces above the enclosure.
• The Aare-side slope with paths and glass-fronted viewing points.
• The riverbank at the foot of the park and skyline views of the Old City from Nydeggbrücke.

The first bear pit was noted in 1441 near today’s Bärenplatz; later pits moved location, and the present circular pit by Nydeggbrücke opened in 1857. A smaller cub pit was added in 1925, and the site was refurbished 1994–1996.

By the early 2000s the classic pit no longer met welfare standards, so the city created a natural park. The new BärenPark on the Aare slope was inaugurated on 22 Oct 2009 and opened to visitors on 25 Oct 2009; a tunnel connected it to the pit, while the small pit ceased to house bears.

In 2015 the free “BäreBähnli” incline lift improved step-free access. Today the Bärengraben and BärenPark form part of Tierpark Bern and remain among the city’s best-known sights.

Location: Grosser Muristalden 6, 3006 Bern; eastern edge of the Old City by Nydeggbrücke and the Aare.

Getting there: From Bern HB take tram 12 to Bärengraben, or walk through the Old City across Nydeggbrücke; the lower entrance is reachable along the Aare path.

Access: Free, 24/7; main paths are paved with gradients. The “BäreBähnli” inclined lift is free and wheelchair-friendly. Dogs on leash only.

Visiting hours: Open round the clock year-round. Keepers generally on site 08:00–17:00.

Visit duration: 30–60 minutes for a standard visit; longer if you stroll along the river and viewpoints.

Best time: Spring–autumn, mornings or golden hour for softer light. In winter the bears may hibernate and be less visible.

Notes: Do not feed the animals. Follow staff guidance at glass barriers and crossings. Slopes can be slippery in rain or ice.