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The underrated ‘fairytale’ European capital – with wild swimming and award winning gardens
And some of the most overlooked city break destinations in Europe
WHEN people think about visiting European capital cities, places like Paris, London and Amsterdam are usually among the first to spring to mind.
However, there's another that people feel has been overlooked by tourists, with its award-winning attractions and laid back vibe.
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In fact, Switzerland has other cities, like Zurich and Geneva, that may even be better known than its capital.
However, Bern has plenty to shout about according to those who have visited it, with its UNESCO heritage old town even compared to a fairytale.
Among those drawing such comparisons are , who wrote about the city's "fairytale places" and "curious legends" seen in its medieval old town.
They said: "Bern is a beautiful Swiss city.
"It is surrounded by a wonderful river, the Aare, with light blue waters that looks like something out of storybook pictures.
"The city centre is easy to visit, strolling among medieval buildings, curious fountains and historic towers."
Among its most famous sights are the ornately decorated clock tower, known as the Zytglogge, and a fountain called the Kindlifresserbrunnen that depicts an ogre eating children.
The latter is said to be based on a 16th-century folk tale from the area.
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Wrapping its way around the old town is the River Aare, which is one of the most popular spots in the city for visitors and locals, who love taking a dip.
In fact, going for a wild swim in the river's bright blue waters is described as a "must-do" experience for anyone visiting Bern, especially during the warm summer months.
Temperatures can reach the high 20s between July and August and there's no better place to cool down.
wrote: "Jumping in the Aare is a must-do Bern experience for visitors who know how to swim.
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"If you really want to get to know the city, you should head to – or rather into – the Aare.
"Surrounded by nature yet in the middle of the capital city, urban swimmers are carried effortlessly down the river – with the impressive UNESCO-recognized Old Town as a backdrop."
Nature is on show elsewhere in Bern too, with its Rose Garden (rosengarten) among several award-winning attractions.
The garden offers amazing views over the top of the city and is one of the top rated places to go.
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In 2023 it won a TripAdvisor traveller's choice award because of the number of positive reviews it received from holidaymakers and tourists, giving it an overall score of 4.5/5.
One wrote: "Rose garden is located at the top of the mountain, planted with hundreds of roses. One experiences instant happiness."
Other popular highlights include the Einstein museum and Bern Minster with the highest church spire in the country.
The 344 steps take visitors right to the top of the tower that stands high over the city.
wrote: "Bern is a great city break option for people who want to explore a new city at a slower pace, without any hustle and bustle. Bern is a small city and the vibe is very laid back.
"The distinctively turquoise Aare River runs through the heart of Bern, so imagine relaxed riverside dining and boutique shops a plenty.
"My top things to do in Bern include exploring the old town, visiting the Albert Einstein museum, climbing up to the Rose Garden, going swimming in the Aare River and climbing the steps of Bern Minster."
A night for two in Bern can be booked from £98.
There are other underrated European cities that have been recommended for people to visit instead of the more popular locations.
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnia is a country that often slips under the radar, despite its fascinating history, amazing natural landscapes and beaches with crystal-clear water.
According to a team of travel experts at eurochange, Sarajevo, which is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has some of the cheapest beers in Europe, with a pint costing £1.75.
France
The town of Annecy in the south east of France is extremely popular with visitors because of its Venice-style canals and "fairytale" scenery.
However, just a stone's throw away is Talloires, which is often ignored by holidaymakers, despite it being just as picturesque as its more famous neighbouring town.
The two even share a lake, Lake Annecy, meaning their views are fairly similar.
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Meanwhile, these city breaks are on offer from £249pp this April.
And these are the best budget-friendly European city breaks.
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