The Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten - BOGA) is a charming riverside park with bright flowers and green vegetation. More than 6,000 plant species grow in the 5-acre (2-hectare) enclosure, which features an outdoor garden as well as seven greenhouses with some of the more exotic flora. Roam across the different sections to see plants, flowers and trees from a range of ecosystems.
On a sunny day, meander around the various water features and plants in the picturesque garden. Enjoy the views of the River Aar, which flows alongside the garden. Take a look at the various garden sections that hold distinct collections of flora.
One of the highlights is the Alpine section, with flowers from regions in Switzerland. Imagine you are in the Swiss Alps as you encounter blue stemless gentians, red campions and golden hawksbeards alongside mountain shrubs and rocks. Learn about endangered species of plant through informative plaques.
The tropical plants are sheltered in large greenhouses. In the Palm House, gaze up at bizarre gangly trees from exotic regions. See plants from Southern Europe and Northern Africa in the Mediterranean House and explore various species in the Orchid House, Fern House, Steppe House and other conservatories.
The garden is part of Bern University’s grounds. Take a look at the Institute of Plant Sciences’ research buildings. Sit with a drink in the garden’s small café while you enjoy the views of the scenic setting around you.
You can access the garden, which has no entrance fee, daily from morning until early evening.
The Botanical Garden is very easy to find, as it is next to the main railway station in the heart of the city. Take a bus, train or tram to the transportation hub and cross the River Aar on the Lorraine Bridge. Bern University and the city’s congress lie across the street from the scenic setting.
