Moving to Bern
Since 1961, the International School of Berne has been at the heart of the Bern community. We feel that you family will not only enjoy living in this spectacular city but will thrive! Our Admissions team is ready to help answer any questions you may have, and here we created a short overview of your next home.
About Switzerland
The International School of Berne is fortunate to be situated in one of the world's most beautiful, culturally diverse, and safe countries. Renowned for its beauty and efficiency, Switzerland consists of 26 cantons, with Bern as its capital. It borders five countries, Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the north, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east, and recognizes four official languages, French, Italian, German and Romansch. Considered one of the most developed countries globally, Switzerland ranks at, or near to the top of, several global surveys relating to the quality of life.
About Bern
Bern is Switzerland's fifth-largest city with about 125'000 inhabitants. German is the official language, yet English and French are widely spoken. In German, the city is spelled Bern, while in English it is Berne.
Even though it is a capital city, Bern's pace is slower, and its inhabitants are relaxed and easy-going. Its beautifully well-preserved old town is a Unesco World Heritage Site. The old town's renovated bear park, house of parliament, clock tower (Zytglogge), and cathedral of Bern are classic tourist destinations. Temperatures can reach over 35 °C in summer and average -1 °C in January.
Nature lovers will enjoy a summer swim in the Aare River that encircles the town. So close to the mountains, Bern also provides easy access to some of the world's most breathtaking natural environments and an almost limitless array of associated activities and pastimes.
The Bern Welcome Desk is a wonderful resource for information and tips about relocating to this area.
Local Associations, Groups, and Organizations
The International School of Berne does not endorse or sponsor these organizations.
- American Women's Club of Bern
- Bern Economic Development Agency
- Bern Expats Facebook Group
- Bern Welcome Desk
- Business and Professional Women's Club of Bern
- English Speaking Club of Bern
- Expats in Bern Facebook Group
- International Club of Berne
- International Mothers Living in Switzerland Facebook Group
- What's Up Bern Facebook Group
Supporting Families in Transition
We understand that relocating your family to Switzerland, changing schools, settling into a new home can be both exciting and challenging for parents and children alike. We work with each new ISBerne family in a highly personalized way to provide a warm welcome, with plenty of support to help you and your family to find your feet. This includes help and advice with the practicalities of transition as well as supporting you with the social side of settling in. If you have any questions about moving to ISBerne, please contact our Admissions team.