The picture shows a group of friends gathering in a Christmas-lit square in Bern. They clink glasses and enjoy the festive atmosphere in front of the Federal Palace. The mood is warm and cheerful, full of community spirit and anticipation of the festive season.

Bern’s Christmas markets

From traditional markets to Bernese craftsmanship to foodie heaven: the Christmas markets in and around Bern are as diverse as the people who visit them. Here’s everything you need to know about the festive season in Bern – Christmas markets and winter pop-up bars, fondue places, gift guides, city tours and much more.

Bern’s Christmas markets and winter pop-ups

During Advent, the scent of gingerbread, candied almonds and caramel wafts through the festively decorated streets and alleys in Bern. From trendy Christmas markets and winter pop-up bars in Bern’s old town – all within walking distance from one another – to historic Advent atmosphere at Burgdorf Castle to pure romance at the Christmas market in Huttwil: here are the must-sees.

To the highlights

The picture shows Bern's festively illuminated Christmas market on Waisenhausplatz. People stream past, wrapped in warm jackets, while the lights create a magical and inviting atmosphere. The mood is lively and full of anticipation.

More Christmas inspo

The restaurants set the tables for fondue. The streets of Bern’s charming villages light up. The museums polish their exhibits. And products made in Bern wait to be wrapped and placed under the Christmas tree.

The picture shows a convivial group in the Rosengarten restaurant in Bern, enjoying a fondue with a magnificent view of the city of Bern in the background, creating an atmosphere of cosiness and friendship.

Where to have fondue in Bern

The picture shows three women standing at the artificial ice rink on the Bundesplatz in Bern and clinking glasses. The Federal Palace can be seen in the background. The women are wearing winter clothing and laughing together. Children are skating on the ice rink, some using orange-coloured learning aids. The atmosphere is wintry and cheerful, and the scene is illuminated by the setting sun, creating a warm and cosy mood.

Christmas adventures in Bern

The picture shows two people Christmas shopping in front of a festively decorated shop window. They are smiling and holding gift bags in their hands. The mood is cheerful and festive, with a hint of anticipation for the holidays.

Gift guide: Bernese Christmas gifts

The «I love Bern» Advent calendar

Bern has a lot of surprises in store – and some of them are hidden behind the doors of our famous Advent calendar. Starting on 1 December, you’ll have the chance to win wonderful prizes. Got curious? Then be sure to drop by every day and participate – good luck!

A door a day

The picture shows a festively wrapped gift on a wooden table, decorated with twigs and berries. Next to the gift is a glass with a lit candle. Blurred lights can be seen in the background, creating a warm, festive atmosphere.

Winter getaway

Is there anything better than taking a few days off to unwind and reset before the Christmas festivities begin? Be it a romantic «Znacht» (dinner) in the city or a long weekend in the countryside – find out what Bern’s hotels and their restaurants have come up with to spread joy.

The picture shows a bright, inviting double room at the Hotel Kreuz in Bern with modern furnishings that exude a cosy and comfortable atmosphere. The combination of soft beds, warm wood tones and decorative city map on the wall conveys a feeling of peace and security, ideal for relaxation and recuperation. A fresh bouquet of flowers on the desk adds a personal and vibrant touch, while the natural light streaming through the window fills the room with an inviting brightness.

Kreuz Bern

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Schweizerhof Bern & Spa

The picture shows a bird's eye view of the Kursaal Bern. The building stands in the centre of a picturesque cityscape, surrounded by old houses. The sky is slightly cloudy, which creates a calm, peaceful atmosphere.

Swissôtel Kursaal Bern

The picture shows the entrance to the Hotel Alpenblick. At dusk, the lettering shines clearly and invitingly. The warm light inside creates a cosy atmosphere, while the modern glass façade conveys elegance.

Alpenblick – kind of a hotel

The picture shows a modern high-rise building that rises into the sky while the sun gently shines through the trees. The contrast between the clear, geometric design of the building and the natural surroundings creates a harmonious balance between urban architecture and nature. The warm rays of sunlight give the scene a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere, while the green leaves of the trees in the foreground add a touch of vibrancy. The image radiates a positive, optimistic mood that unites the beauty of the city and nature.

Harry's Home Bern-Ostermundigen

Bern Youth Hostel

Jardin

Fancy travelling from Italy to Bern and experiencing the magic of Christmas for real? Then be sure to take the train and benefit from the Eurocity 2x1 promotion. From 15 November to 20 December, two people can travel from Milan, Venice, Bologna or Genoa to Bern in first or second class for the price of one.