Where to stay in Bern for first-time tourists

In historic Bern, the bulk of the accommodation offerings are confined to the peninsula, where the Old Town or \"Altstadt\" is located. Staying here gives you the convenience of being within walking distance to everything--which will come in handy in this generally car-free area. Throughout the Old Town you'll find a number of mid-range three-star hotels complete with their original 19th-century characteristics. A couple hostels and pensions round out the options here, though these tend to be a bit more expensive than one might expect. Outside of the Old Town, there are a few hotels with cheaper rates, though you compromise on convenience and atmosphere. The city also boasts a few stunning four- and five-star hotels, should your budget be forgiving.