Einstein House (Einsteinhaus)

The basics

Located just a few hundred meters along from the 15th-century Zytglogge and Zähringerbrunnen fountain, Einstein’s former home is a common stop on tours of Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. You need around an hour to get around the museum itself, starting off in the former family living quarters before heading to the upstairs exhibition room, which provides further insight into his life beyond Bern.

Things to know before you go

• The Einstein House is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.
• Some tours include entry; otherwise, admission can be booked in advance or on the door, where payment is cash only.
• Bathroom facilities and refreshments can be found downstairs in the Einstein Café & bel étage.

How to get there

The Einstein House is a 15-minute walk from Bern Station, or a 5-minute ride on tram 6, 7, 8, or 9, alighting at Zytglogge. Bern’s Old Town is ideally explored on foot, as vehicle access is heavily limited. There is a large parking lot at the main station.

When to get there

The attraction opens daily, except over the Christmas period and other major national holidays. Its small size means it can get slightly crowded; arrive early to optimize your chances of exploring alone.

Swiss Pass and Selfies

Swiss Pass holders receive discounted entry to the Einstein House, plus free entry to hundreds of other attractions, including the Einstein exhibition over at the Bern Historical Museum (Bernisches Historisches Museum). As you stroll around the city, look out for the Einstein public benches, where you can pose for a selfie with the man himself (in statue form).