The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Markets in Bern Switzerland
Looking for a Christmas destination without the crowds? Then read on for the ultimate guide to Christmas Markets in Bern.
I was honestly so surprised by Bern. At first, it was just a convenient stopover on my epic Christmas trip through Europe (I visited 15 Christmas markets by train from Vienna to London – definitely check out that post!). I didn’t think much of it going in… but I ended up completely falling for this little city.
Not only was it pleasant with few crowds, there are 3 Chrismas markets throughout the city. I found them to be super authentic with nice handmade items for sale.
The lights throughout were super cute and I loved the teddy bear tree in the city center.
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Where to Stay for the Bern Christmas Markets
I stayed at Bellevue Palace Hotel and it was such a dream. It was also decked out for Christmas and had amazing views of the city.
They also have really delicious restaurants right on site, like Noumi, which is asian fusion. So even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth visiting just to try out the food and see the gorgeous Christmas displays.
The outside of Bellevue Palace has an entire Christmas model train set. Where a train goes around a Christmas village. The interior has a huge Christmas tree, which is super instagrammable.
Bern Switzerland Christmas Market Dates 2025
The Bern Christmas Market dates for 2025 have not yet been announced. In 2024, the dates were November 29, 2024 – December 22, 2024, so it’s expected to be similar for 2025.
Where are the Christmas Markets in Bern, Switzerland?
Bern has 3 main Christmas Markets and I loved them all! Here’s a breakdown of the ones I visited, plus a drink only one at the end.
Berner Sternenmarkt – Weihnachtsmarkt Bern
Located on Kleine Schanze, Berner Sternenmarkt (Star Market) is one of the main Christmas Markets in Bern. You’ll find a large Christmas tree adorned with adorable teddy bears and cozy wooden chalets all around. The market stalls sell everything from souvenirs and handmade gifts to mulled wine, raclette, and other festive treats.
There’s even a heated fondue chalet that seats around 200 people—perfect for warming up with a traditional Swiss meal. The market is open from November 21 to December 24, with hours from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and until 8:00 PM on Sundays. The fondue chalet stays open later, until midnight on weekdays and Saturdays.
On December 24, the market closes early at 5:00 PM and remains closed on Christmas Day. It’s also fully cashless, so be sure to bring a card!
Google Maps Location
🕒 Hours: November 21 to December 24 from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and until 8:00 PM on Sundays.
Waisenhausplatz Christmas Market in Bern
This was the most magical market in Bern, situated right in front of the Bern Minster. And not too busy at all. You can really find some unique handmade items here. Bern Minster is also absolutely stunning. This cathedral was built in 1893 and has a Gothic style. As you walk to the market, you will follow the prettiest street full of stars and lights.
Don’t miss a mulled wine in the “Märitbeizli” – it’s one of the best.
Münsterplatz Christmas Market
This was one of my favorite markets. It was all lit up with starry lights and the stalls were endless. Full of handmade goods and tons of yummy street food to choose from.
Oscar Elch, Ringgenpärkli Park (drinks market)
This market is all about the mulled wine and drinks. They have cozy littly open chalets you can hang out in with friends. Like most Christmas Markets in Europe, you have to pay a deposit for the mug so if you return it you get some change back. Otherwise, you can keep it.
Are the Christmas Markets in Bern worth it?
Absolutely! I loved the Christmas Markets in Bern. They were less touristy than other European Christmas Markets. Everything feels more authentic and local. The actual items for sale were things I actually wanted to buy! Most were handmade and locally produced. I liked that there were tons of food options too at the Münsterplatz Christmas Market. The overall atmosphere felt super Christmassy, and I can’t wait to visit again one day.
Day Trip idea from Bern: Visit the Montreux Market via the Belle Epoque Train
If you’re looking to explore the Montreux, Switzerland Christmas Market with the flying Santa, it’s only about 2 hours away and I traveled via the Belle Epoque vintage train, which is a huge bucket list experience!
This vintage-style train only runs twice a day, and the best part? It’s included in your Interrail pass!
You can check the exact times on the MOB site, but as of October 2024, the schedule is:
Departing from Montreux: 09:50 and 14:50
Departing from Zweisimmen: 12:02 and 17:02
👉 Pro tip: Be sure to reserve a first-class seat for the prettiest vintage-style interiors and larger windows. If you don’t have an Interrail pass, tickets start around €50 for first class from Zweisimmen to Montreux, or as low as €17 from Gstaad to Montreux.
For the best views, sit on the left-hand side if you’re traveling from Zweisimmen to Montreux!
Route Overview:
- 🚆 Bern → Zweisimmen (~1 hour 16 minutes via Spiez)
- 🚂 Belle Époque Train: Zweisimmen → Montreux (~2 hours 8 minutes)
You may also like these posts:
🚆 Best European Christmas Markets by Train
✨ Best Cities for Christmas in Europe
🎅 Christmas Guide to Vienna, Austria
🛷 Montreux, Switzerland Christmas Market Guide
🏰 Christmas Guide to Rothenburg, Germany
🎄Cologne Christmas Market Guide
🏘️ The Charming Town of Eguisheim, France
🎅🏼 Christmas Markets in Alsace, France
🐻 Best Christmas Displays in Paris
🎡 Best Christmas Decorations in London
🇨🇿 Best Christmas Markets in Prague + Things to Do
