Experience in Bern, Switzerland by Martina

What is it like to live in Bern? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I love to live in Bern and can recommend it to anyone - the city is absolutely charming and lovely.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Bern?

In case you dare taking the first step and introducing yourself, swiss students are very kind, open, tolerante and straithforward. Also there are weekly student-parties on thursdays where you can meet lots of fellow students.

In my experience, it is pretty easy to pass the exams, but not that easy to achieve really good outcomes (although I only know about regular law courses, not about courses for exchange students.

How much does it cost to live in Bern?

Depends on the appartement you choose - there is a lot of flat share, for 1 room usually it is between CHF 350 and 550. If you prefere a studio you should. As everywhere in Switzerland, Bern is pretty expensive for exchange students and costs for food, party etc. easily add up to CHF 600/month.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Bern? Is there any advice you can give?

It's not easy to find a studio or an appartment, but it should be possible to find a room.

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What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Of course there are some typical swiss dishes like fondue, raclette etc. (although I would not absolutely recommend you to order these in a restaurant except you spend some days in the mountains, but rather let it one of your swiss-friends cook them for you) - but in general we have a assorted cuisine, mixed with italian and french influences. In the city you'll find anything you like (traditional, italian, grill and burger, chinese etc. ).

What places would you recommend visiting in Bern?

Münsterplatform, Botanischer Garten, Bärengraben, Marzili, Bundeshaus, Rosengarten, Gurten, Altstadt...

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Is it good to eat out in Bern? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Tibits, Sassafraz, Ristorante Casa (Schwellenmätteli), Hitzberger...

Is the nightlife good in Bern? Where is good to go?

Student parties usually take place in the "Liquid club"; just go where you're friends drag you - good parties always depend on the program and the dj's (and of course the people you are there with).

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What advice would you give future students heading to Bern?

Don't be discouraged if it takes some time to get to know swiss people - some of us are a little distant at the beginning - but once you made some friends, we are the most loyal people you've ever met.