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Bern, where medieval charm and groundbreaking science harmoniously intertwine.

Two Self-Guided Audio Tours to rediscover Bern

A first taste of the best stories the city has to offer. Many more tours are waiting for you.

The Understated Capital: Arcades, Fountains, and the Soul of Bern

Forget everything you know about European capitals. Bern doesn't shout; it whispers. On this immersive journey through the medieval heart of Switzerland's federal city, you'll discover a place where power is intentionally hidden, where 500-year-old fountains serve as moral compasses, and where covered arcades shaped the daily lives of merchants and a young Albert Einstein. Join us as we decode the bizarre, the beautiful, and the brilliantly understated soul of Bern.

8 Stops
105 Min
2.3 km
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Tour poster: The Relativity of Genius: Einstein's 1905 Miracle
Tour 02
©
Pic by Aliman5040 on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

The Relativity of Genius: Einstein's 1905 Miracle

Step into the cobblestone streets of Bern and travel back to 1905, a year that shattered our understanding of the universe. This isn't a story of a celebrated professor in a pristine laboratory. It's the hidden, human story of a 26-year-old patent clerk, a struggling father, and an academic outcast who rewrote the laws of physics between his day job and changing diapers. Join us as we explore the mundane reality that birthed extraordinary genius.

5 Stops
73 Min
1.9 km
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Your in-app experience

This is how the Red Thread app brings your tour to life.

Red Thread guides you through the city's stories that you won't find in any guidebook. Authentically and compellingly told by our experts and locals.

Home
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Home

Get inspired and choose a story that fits your location and your mood.

Search for tours directly
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Search for tours directly

Use the map to find tours in your city or at a specific address.

Redeem in the app
03

Redeem in the app

Redeem purchased tours or City Passes in the app using a voucher code or QR code.

Start well prepared
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Start well prepared

Explore the route, stops, and many additional features for your experience.

Listen where it happened
05

Listen where it happened

Hear the stories where they happened.

Ask your guide
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Ask your guide

Get extra context, deeper details, or useful tips nearby.

Collect discoveries
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Collect discoveries

Build your travel passport and explore fascinating insights.

Discover Bern – Stories Worth Hearing

Red Thread is an iOS and Android app with over 1,500 guided audio tours through cities worldwide - including in Bern.

Bern is more than just the Swiss capital; it’s a journey through centuries, where the Aare river gently embraces the historic peninsula and the red rooftops of the Old Town beckon. Did you know the Zytglogge, Bern's iconic clock tower, not only tells time but also houses a fascinating astronomical mechanism that mesmerizes thousands daily, and that Albert Einstein developed his theory of relativity here while working at the patent office?

The characteristic arcades, known as Lauben, invite you to stroll and linger, while over 100 magnificent fountains tell stories, giving the city its distinctive flair. Our audio tours, like "The Understated Capital," guide you from these picturesque lanes to the intellectual hotspots where geniuses like Einstein re-imagined the universe, letting you experience Bern through fresh eyes.

Bern Highlights
  • Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
  • Explore Bern's unique arcades (Lauben) and fountains.
  • Follow Einstein's path and his "Miracle Year 1905."
  • Perfect for visitors and locals discovering something new.
Learn more about Red Thread

Frequently Asked Questions about Bern

General questions about the app, pricing and features are answered in our full FAQ on the main page.

What are the must-see sights in Bern?
Start in the Old Town with the Zytglogge clock tower, wander through the arcades (Lauben), and discover the historic fountains. A visit to the Einstein House is also a must, especially if you want to learn more about his life in Bern.
How long should I plan for an audio tour?
Our tours vary in length: "The Understated Capital" takes about 105 minutes, covering 8 stops, while "Einstein's Miracle Year" guides you through 5 important locations in approximately 73 minutes.
Is Bern easy to explore on foot?
Absolutely! Bern's compact Old Town, with its short distances and pleasant arcades (Lauben), is ideal for walking. Our tours are designed to help you comfortably explore the city on foot.
Can I create my own tours in Bern?
Yes, with the XL or Unlimited subscription you can use our AI-powered tour creator to build your own personalized tour in Bern on a topic of your choice. All Infos here
Can I use the Bern tours offline?
Yes, with an XL or Unlimited subscription you can download tours for offline use.
Can I do Bern tours together with friends?
Yes – with Together Mode (from XL plan) the whole group listens in sync on their own devices. Up to 4 people on XL, up to 10 on Unlimited.
In which other cities does Red Thread offer tours?
Further tours are available in nearby cities like Zürich, Freiburg im Breisgau, Annecy, or international destinations like Barcelona, Split, Amsterdam and many more. All cities can be found here.
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The main page has all the features, pricing and background info. One tap – and you get the full picture.

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