Mc CARTHY'S

In the very heart of the old town, where winding streets preserve a medieval spirit, lies McCarthy's Irish Pub. This cozy establishment in the city of Bern has become a favorite spot for both locals and travelers seeking a slice of the Emerald Isle in a country like Switzerland.

McCarthy's. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

McCarthy's is famous for its authentic atmosphere, where heavy wooden furniture and dim lighting create the perfect conditions for relaxation. With a high rating of 4.5, the pub confirms its status as one of the best bars in the historical center, offering guests not only quality drinks but also a warm welcome.

Located at Aarbergergasse 20, the pub is just a few steps away from the Aare River embankment. It is a place where Swiss precision meets Irish hospitality, creating a unique mix for evening leisure.

To clarify reservation information or details about upcoming events, you can use the official communication channels. The staff is always ready to answer your questions in English or German.

A visit to this spot in Bern promises to be rich in flavors and emotions. First and foremost, it's worth ordering a glass of classic Guinness or trying rare varieties of ale brought from the shores of the Irish Sea. For food lovers, the menu features hearty burgers, steaks, and traditional Irish shepherd's pie.

The evening program often includes live music. On weekends, bands perform Irish folk using fiddles and bagpipes, turning an ordinary dinner into a real celebration. If you're a sports fan, huge screens broadcast major football and rugby matches, bringing together fans from all over the world.

During the warmer months, guests prefer to spend time on the summer terrace, enjoying cool drinks and watching the slow-paced life of the old town. Friendly staff and fast service make a break at McCarthy's as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Getting to the pub is incredibly easy, as it is located within walking distance of key tourist sites. From the famous Clock Tower, the walk takes only about 5 minutes, and from Bern Cathedral, it's no more than a 10-minute stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town.

If you are using public transport, look for trams No. 3, 6, 7, or 9. You should get off at the Zentralbahnhof or Bahnhof Bern stop. From the station, the building at Aarbergergasse 20 can be reached on foot in just 5–7 minutes. For those arriving from the airport, it is most convenient to take a train to the central station (travel time is about 20 minutes).

For drivers, parking in the city center can be difficult and time-limited, so the best solution is to leave your car at a park-and-ride lot and transfer to a tram or rent a Bern Bike. Exact coordinates for navigation: 46.949667, 7.4432588.

The history of this place is inextricably linked to the development of Irish pub culture in Europe. McCarthy's Irish Pub is part of a well-known chain that began its journey in Switzerland back in 1991 with the opening of its first location in Zurich. The Bern branch became a natural continuation of this successful tradition.

Particular attention is paid here to interior details: almost every element of decor, from flags to photographs on the walls, carries a piece of Irish history. The owners strive to maintain maximum authenticity, importing beverages and drawing inspiration from classic Dublin establishments.

Over the decades of its existence, the pub has become an important point on the city's cultural map. It has combined the functions of a classic bar and a platform for intercultural communication, where traditions of Irish hospitality have harmoniously blended into the Swiss urban landscape.

When planning your evening, it's worth considering the format of your visit. If you've dropped into McCarthy's just for a pint of beer or a light snack, 30–45 minutes will be quite enough. This is a great option for a short break while sightseeing in the center.

For a full dinner with a group of friends or to watch a sports broadcast, it's better to set aside 1–2 hours. If you happen to catch a live music night, which usually starts after 20:00, prepare to spend 2–3 hours here to fully immerse yourself in the fun atmosphere.

Keep in mind that on Friday and Saturday nights, the establishment is in high demand, so extra time may be needed to wait for a free table if you haven't booked in advance.

The pub's doors are open to guests daily; however, the schedule changes depending on the day of the week. From Monday to Thursday, the establishment opens in the afternoon, offering a cozy evening retreat. On Friday and Saturday, the pub stays open until late at night, becoming a hub of the local nightlife.

Monday: 16:00 – 23:30; Tuesday – Thursday: 16:00 – 00:00; Friday: 11:30 – 02:00; Saturday: 12:00 – 02:00; Sunday: 12:00 – 23:30. Operating hours may change on public holidays, so it is recommended to check the official website before visiting.

Bern's Old Town is a true open-air museum, and McCarthy's Pub is right at the epicenter of its most interesting locations. A walk around the neighborhood after your visit will allow you to see the city from different perspectives: from majestic architecture to cozy market squares.

The city's main symbols, including historical towers and unique fountains, are concentrated within walking distance. Below are the nearest sites worth including in your itinerary: