Bern
Bern, the de facto capital of Switzerland, is situated on the Aare River, which divides the city into two parts. Renowned for its beautiful medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the heart of the old town is the late Gothic cathedral with its impressive stained-glass windows. Founded in 1191 by Duke Berthold V, the city is famous for its bear symbol, featured in its coat of arms. Bern, with mild winters and warm summers, can be visited year-round, though spring and summer are the most pleasant.
