From 21st November to 28th December

This year visit Bern Christmas Market, of one the Best Christmas Markets in Europe and among your Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland. Discover Bern Christmas markets in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site

Bern's medieval streets offer a unique setting for the annual Christmas Markets.

A peaceful, calm advent atmosphere awaits you on the Cathedral Square market, the stands of which crowd right up next to cathedral portal with its representation of the Last Judgment. Regional craft and bake goods, culinary and artistic wares, jewelry and games – all this and much more are on offer here. All these diverse items have one thing in common – the potential gifts are all fashioned and formed with love, skill and imagination.

Hence, the atmosphere at the foot of the Cathedral (Münster) is very special. Fall under its magic spell and enjoy the Christmas mood far from all the hustle and bustle. 

It’s only a few minutes’ walk from the Cathedral Square (c) to Bern's second Christmas Market on the Orphanage Square (Waisenhausplatz) in passing by the Clock Tower (Zytglogge), the Ogre Fountain (Kindlifresserbrunner) and the Granary Square (Kornhausplatz). Here you will find an even broader selection of merchandise and Christmas items, beautifully designed and decorated booths with the scent of gingerbread, caramel and mulled wine wafting over the narrow streets.

Take a break at the market restaurant Platzhirsch where you can make your own Fondue. The do-it-yourself Fondue in the middle of the Christmas Market of Bern is a truly memorable experience! Then head back to shopping with renewed vigor. Stroll along the festively decked streets or under the arcades, what the locals call ‘Lauben’. The Old Town's underground offers unique cellar shops or Bern's classic cellar restaurants.

Discover the Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland as Basel Christmas Market or Lausanne Christmas Markets. Need more inspiration? The Very Best Christmas Markets in Italy are also waiting for you! 

In the winter, Parliament Square (Bundesplatz) becomes a playground for ice skaters. 

This artificial ice rink amid the unique setting of the Swiss parliament building is hugely popular with locals and tourists alike: every year, thousands of visitors lace up their ice skates and practice their turns on the 600m2 illuminated rink. The ice rink restaurant warms cold feet and provides skaters with mulled wine and fondue. Entry is free of charge.

Ice skates are available for hire at the rink. The artificial ice rink is open 11:00-22:00 every day.

The special city tour for foodies: discover Bern sipping a glass of white wine and twirling bread cubes in a hot cheese fondue while you're enjoying an individual city tour through the UNESCO World Heritage Site on a rickshaw. Your driver provides the entertainment with interesting facts and anecdotes about the city.

This stroll through the festively lit streets of Bern will bring you closer to the most wonderful time of the year.

Leave the hectic pace of everyday life behind and fully experience the Advent season, complete with the aroma of roasted chestnuts, the bright glow of candles, the richly adorned shop windows and of course the traditionally decorated Christmas tree on Parliament Square (Bundesplatz).

What’s the story behind Saint Nicholas, Christmas balls and mistletoe hung over the front door? Take in the enticing aroma of mulled wine and learn about the fascinating and interesting customs and traditions of the Christmas season.