Bern’s christmas markets and winter pop-up bars

The trendy Christmas market on Kleine Schanze: In the festively decorated Christmas village, numerous little chalet-style stalls offering winter treats, hot drinks and design products invite you to do some Christmas shopping and linger for a bit. You’ll also come across a large fondue chalet, weather-proof lounges, a children's area with a merry-go-round, and a fabulous view of the Parliament Building. The entire Sternenmarkt is cashless, you can pay by card or Twint.

The traditional Christmas market with several decades of history: On Waisenhausplatz (Orphanage Square), festively decorated stalls offer candied almonds, star-shaped tree ornaments, “Güeziförmli” (cookie cutters), and many other gifts and souvenirs. With all the strolling, marvelling, and “Schnouse” (nibbling), you’ll be in the Christmas spirit in no time! We’ll let you know when this year’s food stall operators are announced.

A festive atmosphere far away from the hustle and bustle: Against the impressive backdrop of the Bern Minster, which has Switzerland's highest steeple at 100.6 metres, artisans from Bern and the surrounding areas display their unique items – all lovingly handmade in their own ateliers and sold by the makers themselves. And it is rumoured that the mulled wine at the "Märitbeizli" is the best in town!

Perfect for everyone who loves handicrafts: At the Christmas edition of the artisan's market on Minster terrace, local artisans and designers present their beautiful, carefully handcrafted products. You’ll have no trouble at all finding one gift or another for your “Götti” (godfather), “Mami” (mom), or sister. If you need a break from all the Christmas shopping, stop to enjoy the fantastic view of the federal city with the beautiful River Aare and the local mountain, the Gurten.

In the historic centre of the town of Huttwil, 60 minutes by train from Bern, you’ll find one of the largest, prettiest, and most romantic Christmas markets of the country. Step into a world of candlelight, music, fairy tales, festive treats, traditional craftsmanship, and good company. Lovingly decorated wooden huts and a choir singing Christmas carols complete the holiday idyll.What’s less traditional about it: this Christmas market takes place in the month of November only – but that just means you’ll be able to do your Christmas shopping extra early!