Aare swimming — Bern's summer ritual

In summer, the Aare becomes the social hub of Bern: Thousands let themselves drift through the city in the turquoise glacier water. Aare swimming is not a sport, but a way of life — and the quintessential Swiss summer experience.

★★★ Aare Swimming

The route: Entry at Marzilibad or above at Schwellenmätteli, exit at Marzili or Lorraine. The current carries you at 5–8 km/h — you drift leisurely past the old town, past the Federal Palace, and under historic bridges. The water temperature reaches 18–22 °C in July/August (Caution: Glacier water, always cold enough for a shock!).

Important Rules

• Only for strong swimmers! The current is strong and can be treacherous. Never swim alone.
• Waterproof bag (Wickelfisch) for clothes and valuables — available at Aare sales points and at Marzilibad (from 15 CHF).
• Never enter from the Federal Palace side — dangerous eddies at the threshold there.
• Don't miss the exit ladder — the current carries you faster than expected.

★★ Marzilibad

Bern's most popular outdoor pool, right on the Aare below the Federal Palace. Free entry! Pools, sunbathing lawn, restaurant, volleyball — and the entry point for Aare swimming. In summer, the social center of the city. Sunny location until evening.

Marzilistrasse 29. Free entry. May–September, 9 am–8 pm (until 9 pm in good weather).

★ Schwellenmätteli

Gastro complex right on the Aare threshold: Restaurant, bar, and lounge on terraces over the water. At sunset, listen to the water rushing with a spritzer in hand — one of the most atmospheric places in Bern.