Prison Tower (Kafigturm)

The basics

The Prison Tower is a landmark building in Bern’s historical center that you’ll see on many guided walking tours. Don’t confuse this clock tower with the Bern Clock Tower (Zytglogge), although it was once used as a temporary replacement for the city’s famous timekeeper. The tower is open to visitors every day except Sunday and runs scheduled events that are open to the public and free to attend. Most visitors admire the tower from the exterior while exploring the city.

Things to know before you go

• Watch out for trams running through the tower.
• Dine with a view of the Prison Tower at two adjacent restaurants.
• Refill your water bottle nearby at Bärenplatz Fountain.

How to get there

Bern’s Prison Tower is located at Marktgasse 67 between Waaghausgasse and Waisenhauspl. It’s a 5-minute walk from Bern train station via Marktgasse or reach it from Bundesplatz by walking north through Käfiggässchen. If taking the tram or bus, hop off at the Bärenplatz stop.

When to get there

The Prison Tower is typically closed on Sundays and has reduced hours on Mondays and Saturdays. There’s no bad time to visit, especially since you plan to only walk through the bottom of the tower. A better time for photographs is early morning before the square fills with locals and sightseers. Check its website for the upcoming calendar if you’d like to attend a Polit-Forum Bern event.

Finding the main clock tower in Bern

The Prison Tower’s clock face was installed in 1405 when it temporarily replaced the Zytglogge. The rebuilt Zytglogge is nearby: walk east down Marktgasse for five minutes to reach it. This astronomical clock plays an hourly puppet show and is open for visitors to climb its 130 tower stairs.