Bern Christmas Markets
Bern's Christmas Markets are some of the most anticipated festive street events in Switzerland each winter. The main markets take place at Kleinen Schanze near Bern Train Station, as well as on Waisenhausplatz and Münsterplatz in the Old Town of Bern, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its remarkably well-preserved medieval buildings.
A festive day out in downtown Bern
Get ready for a memorable afternoon or evening out and about in Bern with family and friends, strolling between charmingly decorated wooden chalets that offer all kinds of wondrous things. You may be on the lookout for Christmas gifts for loved ones or you may simply want to take in the one-of-a-kind atmosphere and breathe in the cold, crisp air infused with cinnamon and other festive spices.
Besides craft and gift stalls, the market wouldn’t be complete without food stalls. No matter the weather, get ready to sample some delicious local Swiss food, as well as some heartwarming mulled wine. One thing that makes Bern Christmas Market stand out from the others is the sizeable fondue chalet, so fans of Swiss cheese fondue will have something well worth working up an appetite for!
Christmas Market on Waisenhausplatz
The Christmas Market on Waisenhausplatz takes place from December 1, 2023 - January 6, 2024. This Christmas market has been running for over 30 years and is considered the focal point of all the Christmas markets in Bern.
Here are the opening times for Dec 1-23:
- Monday-Saturday: 10am-8pm
- Sunday: 10am-6pm
These are the opening times for Dec 27 - Jan 6:
- Monday-Saturday: 10am-6pm
- Sunday: 10am-5pm
Please note that the market will be closed during December 24-26 and December 31 - January 2.
Christmas Market on Münsterplatz
The Christmas Market on Münsterplatz happens on December 1-23, 2023, in front of Bern Minster (Berner Münster), the famous Swiss Reformed cathedral. This Christmas market focuses on high-quality handcrafted products, so it's ideal for anyone who wishes to buy special one-off gifts.
Here are the opening times:
- Monday-Thursday: 11am-6.30pm
- Friday: 11am-8pm
- Saturday-Sunday: 10am-6pm
Bern Stars Market
Bern Stars Market (Berner Sternenmarkt) takes place from November 23 - December 29. The market takes place at Kleinen Schanze, not far from Bern Train Station - that's why this market is perfect for anyone arriving by public transportation. Visit over 80 beautifully decorated chalets and save some space for fondue at the Gstaader Fondue Chalet!
Here are the opening times:
- Monday-Saturday: 11am-10pm
- Sunday: 11am-8pm
- Christmas Eve: 11am-5pm
- Christmas Day: Closed
Plan your visit to Bern Christmas Markets
Whether you live in Bern or plan to visit, especially from one of the other Swiss cities, you’ll be in for a treat. The markets are centrally located and are therefore easy to reach by public transportation. Check out the Bern Christmas Markets visitor page for more information.