Floating the Aare is one of Bern’s most famous summer rituals: waterproof bag over the shoulder, a confident entry into cold turquoise water, then a fast, scenic drift beneath medieval rooftops. It’s also a real river with current, temperature changes, and hazards that don’t negotiate. This guide focuses on practical safety: how to decide if it’s right for you, how to plan a route, and how to avoid the classic mistakes.
Important: Conditions and local rules can change. Always check official notices and river conditions on the day you go.
Current Restrictions to Know (Feb 2026)
Some of Bern’s most popular Aare sections can be temporarily closed due to construction and safety risks. As of February 2026, an official notice for the river protection works indicates a swimming and boating ban from Eichholz to Dalmazibrücke, starting September 22, 2025 and lasting until approximately the end of May 2026 (with only limited emergency exit options kept open).
If a closure is in effect, do not “work around it.” Pick a different plan: walk the riverside paths, use the arcades in the Old Town, or choose an alternative swim area that is explicitly open and safe.
Non-Negotiables
- • Strong swimmers only. If swimming in current is unfamiliar, choose riverside walks instead.
- • No alcohol. Not before, not during.
- • Never go alone. Go with a buddy who can help if something goes wrong.
- • Know your exit point. Before entering the water, identify where you will get out.
- • Respect closures and restrictions. They exist because something has gone wrong before.
Best Season
The classic Aare float is a warm-month activity. Water is cold even in summer, and conditions after heavy rain can become riskier. Outside the warm season, treat the Aare as a walking route and photo backdrop.
Route Reality
Popular routes can feel “easy” because so many locals do them—but the river remains fast. People get into trouble when they underestimate the cold, panic mid-stream, or miss exit points.
What to Bring (The Local Kit)
- • Wickelfisch (waterproof swim bag): Put clothes, towel, phone, and valuables inside; it doubles as a float support.
- • Water shoes: Many entry/exit points are rocky or slippery.
- • Warm layer for after: The “afterdrop” chill is real once you get out.
- • Minimal extras: The lighter your kit, the calmer you’ll feel in current.
A Simple Safety Plan (Step by Step)
- Check conditions: weather, rainfall, and any official restrictions for your planned section.
- Choose the route: decide entry and exit before you leave home.
- Scout the exit: walk to your exit point first so it’s familiar from the water.
- Pack and seal your Wickelfisch: do a quick leak-check before entering.
- Enter calmly: cold shock is real—take a moment, breathe, then commit.
- Stay aware: keep distance from obstacles, boats, and bridge structures.
- Exit early if needed: fatigue and cold can build fast; getting out “too early” is a win.
How to Decide If It’s Right for You
Green Lights
- • Comfortable swimming in open water
- • Calm under pressure (no panic if you drift fast)
- • Able to swim to the bank and climb out
- • Willing to skip the float if conditions feel wrong
Red Flags
- • Weak swimmer or uncomfortable in current
- • Cold sensitivity or history of panic in water
- • Planning to “figure it out” once in the river
- • Entering after heavy rain or during unusual conditions
Next reads
Keep exploring Bern with guides that pair well with this one.
Accuracy note
Hours, tickets, and seasonal access can change. We link to primary sources where it helps and keep guides updated—but always verify time-sensitive details before you go.