Switzerland

Bern is Switzerland’s capital in practice—the designated “federal city” (Bundesstadt) since 1848—because it houses the Federal Council, Parliament, and the Bundeshaus (Federal Palace). The Swiss constitution doesn’t explicitly name a capital, but Bern serves as the seat of national government. Don’t be fooled by the prominence of the other cities: Zurich is the largest city and financial hub; Geneva hosts many international organizations (UN, Red Cross); Lausanne is home to the International Olympic Committee. Memory tip: B for Bern, B for Bundesstadt and Bundeshaus—and the city’s bear symbol. Picture the bear by the Aare River guarding Switzerland’s government to lock it in.