Skip to main content.
Bern Welcome Logo
The picture shows the Bundesplatz in Bern, where an artificial ice rink has been set up. People are skating, some with the support of orange learning aids. The Bundeshaus, an impressive building with a green dome and sculptures, can be seen in the background. To the left and right of the ice rink, people can be seen watching the goings-on or standing at bar tables. The atmosphere is wintry and cheerful, people are dressed warmly. The light suggests late afternoon or early evening, which gives the picture a cosy atmosphere.

Skating Rink on Parliament Square

Pirouettes in front of the Parliament: from December to February, thousands of ice skaters traditionally meet on Bundesplatz to go «schlöfle» (ice skating).
14December 2024
TOP-EVENT
15February 2025
TOP-EVENT

The rink with its unique and spectacular backdrop is a hit with locals and tourists alike: every year, thousands of visitors lace up their skates to glide across the ice on the 600-square-metre illuminated rink in front of the Bundeshaus (Parliament Building). By the way: After a few years of using artificial ice, the organizers are working with real ice again this year.

If you get cold from whizzing around on the ice, you can warm your hands and feet at the adjacent restaurant and enjoy a hot chocolate, a steaming mug of mulled wine or a creamy cheese fondue. The complete menu, information regarding events and everything else can be found on the website.

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.
© Bern Welcome

The perfect choice for a fun activity with your family or friends or a romantic date with your (future?) sweetheart.

Nothing planned for before or after ice skating? How about one of these great guided city tours?

Information and opening hours

  • Ice rink opening hours

    Daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

  • Restaurant opening hours

    Monday – Friday 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

  • Prices

    Admission is free. Ice skates can be rented on site for CHF 7 (children) and CHF 10 (adults), respectively

loader
Das Bild zeigt eine Gruppe von Freunden, die auf einem weihnachtlich beleuchteten Platz in Bern zusammenkommen. Sie stoßen mit Tassen an und genießen die festliche Atmosphäre vor dem Bundeshaus. Die Stimmung ist warm und fröhlich, voller Gemeinschaftsgefühl und Vorfreude auf die Feiertage.

Magical moments for the end of the year

Bern’s Christmas markets