Swimming in the Aare

In summer, Bern's residents swim in the Aare. The city has several riverbank facilities, but the most popular entry point is the Marzili open-air baths beneath the Bundeshaus. The current here is fast and the river is cold year-round, but from June to September the conditions are manageable and the swimming is one of the most pleasurable things you can do in the city.

The procedure is to enter at the Marzili, swim or float with the current, and exit using the metal ladders along the bank further downstream. The whole river loop from Marzili back towards the Old Town is a common route. The Marzili complex has changing facilities, grass terraces, and a café. Entry is free. If you are uncertain about the current, watch what the locals do and do not swim alone.

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Swimming in the Aare is one of Bern's defining summer experiences and a test of civic confidence in clean water. The river moves fast — it flows at around 5 km/h through the city — and the standard practice is to enter at the Marzili baths, let the current carry you downstream, and exit at one of the ladders along the bank. The water comes from glacial runoff and is clean, cold (typically 18–20°C in summer), and swift enough that you cover considerable distance quickly. Locals bring a waterproof bag for their belongings.

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