Originally founded in the 12th century, Fribourg has all the medieval character visitors to Switzerland could want in a west-central Swiss town. Its old city is its main draw for tourism, featuring plenty of historic art and architecture.
The Old Town or Basse Ville of Fribourg is anchored by the 76-metre tall St. Nicholas Cathedral, which visitors can climb for a panoramic view, and filled with over 200 Gothic facades. Adding to its 15th century character is a maze of curving alleys and other landmarks like the Church of Notre Dame, the Town Hall and the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire.
Like just about every other Swiss city, Fribourg benefits from the country’s excellent rail system. There are train connections between the city and other major destinations in Switzerland, including Berne, Geneva and Zurich. There is also a direct route to the Zurich airport. The city of Fribourg itself is best navigated on foot.
Fribourg has long been a city of bridges, as its peninsular foundation required it. The first bridge spanning the Sarine River was constructed in 1250. By the 19th century, the city was famous for its suspension bridges, many of which have since been replaced. Still-standing bridges in Fribourg include the covered wooden Bern Bridge and the Zaehringen suspension bridge.