In the delightful Old Town arcaded street is an enchanting symbol of the city. First saw it evening time when it was bathed in the golden sunlight. It began life in the early 1200s and has had numerous functions down the centuries. Clock faces including an astronomical clock are standout features.

Doing my research what to do in Bern, clock was high on the list. However once you are there you keep on waiting to be impressed but sadly you are not. Ok for quick photo as it’s a a nice historical clock and historical buildings around it but you move on very quickly. Most people on hate red around for a few minutes and left.

Well of course the Zytglogge is a very interesting building ,but if by chance you stay in Bern after ash Wednesday ,you can experience the" Bern Fasenacht." This is a big big block party ,which happens in the old town. Many bands are playing ,plenty of kids in fantastic costumes around ( not only Dumbledors) and a heck lot of fun. Of course there are food stands etc. This event is over 3 days with the most busy day on Saturday. For the very conservative people from Bern ,this is the time for fun and food. Do not miss the Muenster Platz just beside this great church .. So just relax walk the streets and have enjoy.

I am not great with heights but my wife and I decided to climb the tower. If you are unfit like me it is a real hard one but the feeling of achievement is great. Views out from the second level(2nd lot of stairs) were great but I have no idea what the views down were because I certainly was not going to look. The stairs down are a mirror of the way up but more terrifying as you do have to look down at times and there are many barred windows. Did it and felt good. 313 steps each way!

We were in Bern for the day and were looking forward to seeing the famous medieval clock, we watched at 11 AM, 11:30 AM and 12 noon and the figures never moved at all so we came to the conclusion that the clock movement must be currently broken down! If you want to see what it looks like you can go on YouTube! However, it is a beautiful looking clock, and the only tourist shop that we could find in all of Bern is a little booth under the clock tower where we were able to buy a frig magnet for our collection! The clock is located at the beginning of the old town, which is about a 15 minute walk from the main Bern train station.

Fascinating hour-long tour of the medieval clock tower. Plenty of information, plenty of steep stairs! And seeing the clock in action was a delight. The view from the tower is outstanding as well. The tour is limited to 20 people, and worth every penny.

We saw the clock numerous times from outside and specially during the time when it showed all its movements. Could not get a chance to go for the tour inside because of timing mismatches but seeing the clock from outside itself gives a good idea about the complexities involved inside it. This is a landmark in the city.

We viewed the wonderful clock tower as part of a walking tour of Bern. Lots of symbolism and some nice stories associated with the history of the building. We didn't have time to go inside but it sounded interesting. It's on the main street so easy to find and certainly worth checking out.