Bern
Bern, the de facto capital of Switzerland, lies on the River Aare, which splits the city in two. It is known for its beautiful medieval Old Town, inscribed on the UNESCO list. At the heart of the old quarter stands the late Gothic cathedral with its impressive stained glass. Founded in 1191 by Duke Berthold V, the city is famous for the bear that appears on its coat of arms. With mild winters and warm summers, Bern can be visited all year round, though spring and summer are the most agreeable.
