Top Bern Historical Museum Special Exhibitions in 2026

The 2026 season features a major focus on global trade history. One highlight is the exhibition titled "Silk and Stone." This display explores Bern's ancient connections to the East. It features rare textiles and jewelry from the medieval era.

The Einstein Museum remains a central part of the visitor experience. In 2026, new digital displays will enhance the permanent collection. These updates explain the theory of relativity using modern technology. You can see original documents from Einstein's time in Bern.

Another exciting showcase focuses on Swiss folklore and local legends. This exhibition uses immersive soundscapes to tell old stories. Visitors can learn about the myths that shaped the Alpine region. It is a great choice for families and history buffs alike.

The museum also plans a special archaeology display for the fall. It will feature recent finds from the Bernese Oberland. You can see tools and pottery that are thousands of years old. Check the Bern Welcome site for specific seasonal dates.

Planning Your Visit to the Museum

The museum is located at Helvetiaplatz 5 in the city center. You can easily reach it by taking tram number 6, 7, or 8. The ride from the main station takes only five minutes. Walking from the Old Town is also a scenic option.

In 2026, adult tickets for special exhibitions cost approximately 22 CHF. Students and seniors can enjoy a reduced rate of 18 CHF. Children under the age of 16 often enter for free. Consider using Bern museum passes to save money on entry.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. It stays closed on Mondays throughout the year. We recommend arriving early to avoid the largest crowds. The on-site bistro offers great local snacks and coffee.

Lockers are available for your bags and heavy coats. The entire building is accessible for visitors with limited mobility. Audio guides are provided in several languages including English. Plan to spend at least three hours exploring the galleries.

New Museum Exhibitions in Bern for 2026

Bern is seeing a surge in cultural activity this year. There are many new museum exhibitions in Bern to discover. The Historical Museum works with other local galleries to provide variety. You can see everything from modern art to ancient relics.

The city's museum quarter is very easy to navigate. Most major sites are within walking distance of each other. This makes it simple to visit two museums in one day. You will find plenty of green space nearby for a picnic.

The Switzerland Tourism board highlights Bern as a top cultural hub. In 2026, the city will host several international art festivals. These events often include outdoor pop-up galleries and live performances. It is a vibrant time to experience the local scene.

Interactive Experiences and Educational Events

Education is a major focus for the museum in 2026. They offer weekly workshops for children and young adults. These sessions allow guests to try ancient crafting techniques. You can learn how to make traditional Swiss pottery.

The museum also hosts popular evening programs during the summer. These late-night museum events feature live music and special tours. It is a fantastic way to see the castle illuminated at night. Drinks and appetizers are usually served in the courtyard.

Digital interaction is another key feature of the new displays. Many galleries now include touchscreens and virtual reality headsets. These tools help bring complex historical events to life. They are very popular with younger travelers and tech fans.

If you are staying overnight, look for new Bern hotels near the museum district. Staying nearby allows you to enjoy the evening events more easily. Many hotels offer free public transport cards to their guests. This makes traveling between cultural sites completely free.