Knowledge & culture

Discover Biel

The bilingual city on Lake Biel

Biel stands for exciting contrasts: tradition and modernity, city and nature, German and French. This diversity shapes the life and atmosphere of Switzerland's largest bilingual city. Between the lake, the old town, and modern architecture, Biel has many faces—authentic, open, and unmistakable.By any measure, Biel is worth a visit - whether you come for its architecture, culture, history or gastronomy.

Discovering Biel is like embarking on a journey through different eras and cultures. In the old town, narrow streets and historic facades tell tales of centuries past, while the culinary discovery tour nourritour combines regional specialties and fascinating stories. Themed city tours focusing on architecture, art, or bilingual identity are also well worth taking.

A highlight of any visit is a boat trip on Lake Biel – whether to St. Peter's Island or simply to experience Biel from a new perspective. The city reveals itself in ever-changing ways – lively, enjoyable, and surprisingly diverse.

Discover

Urban golf in Biel

On Biel’s first urban golf course, you can enjoy a new take on golf in a fun and playful way within an urban setting.

Urban golf is a variation of classic golf played in public spaces. Equipped with a golf club, balls, and a scorecard, you’ll transform the terrain and all kinds of objects into a creative course. The course in Biel takes you to the lake and along one of the city’s most beautiful promenades. Anyone can play Urban Golf, even without any golf experience. A unique experience is guaranteed!

Price: CHF 15.- per person

More information and reservations

Biel Old Town

Behind the modern façade of the watchmaking city lies a surprisingly well-preserved medieval old town. Cobblestone streets, fountains, and historic buildings create a special atmosphere where history and the present meet.

Biel's old town is authentic and diverse: small boutiques, galleries, and studios alternate with restaurants, theaters, and cozy cafés. On Saturdays, the colorful fruit and vegetable market on Burgplatz brings the streets to life – a meeting place for locals and visitors alike.

First Friday offers a special experience: on the first Friday of every month, the old town comes to life. Between 6 and 10 p.m., boutiques, delicatessens, and antique shops open their doors, the culinary offerings are diverse, and numerous concerts and a rich cultural program transform the old town into a lively meeting place – Biel at its most enjoyable and creative.

Biel Old Town

Guided tours of Biel

Street art meets precision watchmaking – and all in two languages. The city thrives on its exciting contrasts: French and German, historic and modern, industrial and creative. On a guided tour, you will discover Biel from new perspectives and learn more about its eventful history, architectural diversity, and artistic creativity. Let yourself be guided through the cobbled streets, discover hidden courtyards, colorful facades, and impressive Bauhaus buildings – inspiring discovery tours full of contrasts that show Biel from its authentic side.

Guided tours of Biel

Nourritour a culinary walk

Held every saturday, the nourritour is a culinary walk through the old town of Biel. The tour has seven diffent stops, which allow you to taste regional products, some of which are even home made. Duration: 3 hours.