Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is often overshadowed by its flashier Swiss siblings like Zurich or Geneva, but this UNESCO World Heritage city has plenty of charm on its own. The medieval old town dates back to the 12th century and features stunning architecture with its iconic arcaded walkways that stretch for miles, keeping shoppers dry during rainy days – pretty smart design for medieval times!

The city sits on a peninsula created by the winding Aare River, which locals love to float down during summer months. The turquoise waters are surprisingly clean and offer a refreshing escape from hot days. Bern also has an interesting connection to Albert Einstein, who developed his theory of relativity while living here. You can visit his former apartment which has been converted into a museum.

One quirky fact about Bern is that it's named after a bear, and the city has kept live bears in a central pit since the 16th century. Today, the bears enjoy a much more humane riverside enclosure. The city's symbol can be found everywhere from fountains to flags.

With its perfectly preserved old town, fantastic museums, and relaxed atmosphere, Bern offers a authentic Swiss experience without the tourist crowds you'll find elsewhere. The Swiss capital runs like clockwork – literally, as the famous Zytglogge medieval clock tower puts on a show every hour that has been entertaining people for centuries.