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If you've ever dreamed of experiencing a fairytale Christmas , Bern at Christmas , the capital of Switzerland, is your ideal destination.

In this city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , history and the Christmas spirit intertwine in an experience that will leave you speechless.

With its Christmas markets, an ice rink in front of Parliament and activities for all ages, Bern at Christmas becomes an unforgettable place for both children and adults.

In this post, I tell you about my family experience visiting the city's most iconic markets, skating under the Christmas lights and exploring unique corners that you can only enjoy during this magical time.

Travelling to Bern at Christmas was like stepping into an Alpine fairy tale, but with the advantage that the main characters were neither princesses nor ogres, but us: a family of four in the middle of a Christmas exploration of a dreamlike snowy Switzerland.

But let's start at the beginning: What is it about Bern that captivates you in winter and at Christmas?

Our route through Switzerland at Christmas: video summary

Our plan? A week-long route, 10 days round trip, through the most enchanting corners of Switzerland at Christmas : First, the Swiss capital, Bern, with its various Christmas markets (and the aroma of cheese). Then we visit the picture-postcard views of Interlaken and, from there, use the different family-friendly ski slopes of the Jungfrau Ski Region as a base, such as those in Grindelwald and Mannlinchen . Next, we visit the impressive Aletech Arena ski area on the other side of the Jungfrau, where there are three fairytale villages accessible only by cable car. And finally, we head to the cozy and family-friendly Crans Montana . All this, combining enchanting landscapes, trains and cable cars, and lots of family laughter.

In the links for each place I've mentioned above, I share our entire experience in detail. Access the different posts to get all the information about our route. Also, watch the video summary of our route on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/5szf71TG1S0

Why travel to Bern at Christmas?

If you picture Bern, Switzerland, as a quiet medieval city , prepare for a spectacular Christmas upgrade. The cobblestone streets of the old town are adorned with twinkling lights, the arcaded buildings look like they've stepped off a postcard, and the aromas of the Christmas markets —cinnamon, melting raclette cheese, and mulled wine—seduce you at every turn.

At this time of year, Bern isn't just beautiful, it's welcoming, like the city is giving you a warm hug. And if you're lucky, like we were, you'll see it completely covered in Switzerland's white gold . A blanket of snow that makes Bern at Christmas a picture-perfect fairytale.

How to get to Bern

Bern is perfectly connected to the rest of Switzerland and Europe , so getting here is easy and convenient. Here are the main options:

By plane

Although Bern has its own regional airport, most international travelers arrive via Zurich or Geneva airports , which offer fast and frequent train connections to the city. From both airports, the journey takes less than two hours. Traveling from Milan is also an option.

Before buying your flight, a tip: use this flight comparison tool , which in our experience works best.

By train

The train is undoubtedly the most convenient way to reach Bern. The city is located in the heart of the Swiss rail network, and the main station, Bern Hauptbahnhof , is right in the city center. From Zurich, the journey takes approximately one hour, while from Geneva it takes about two hours. If you are traveling from neighboring countries, such as France or Germany, international trains also connect you directly to Bern.

SUPER TIP KUCAVANA!

To travel by public transport and save money, we recommend purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and ferries throughout Switzerland. You'll also have access to over 500 museums. Guaranteed savings compared to the cost of any individual journey.

By car

If you prefer to drive, Bern is accessible via the A1 motorway, which connects to major Swiss cities. Keep in mind that you'll need special snow gear at Christmas and a vignette (a mandatory sticker for driving on Swiss motorways, which is now also available online, eliminating the need for a physical copy), which costs CHF 40 and is valid for one year.

I recommend buying it online before you go so you don't have to stop at the border and wait in line. Also, be careful with websites; this is the official one for buying the Swiss e-vignette , unlike others that charge higher prices because they're intermediaries and take a commission.

In addition, parking in the centre can be limited and expensive, so it is recommended to use park-and-ride car parks and travel by public transport.

If you need to rent a car, here's a tip: do it through this car rental comparison site. You'll definitely save money, based on our experience.

How to get around Bern

Once in Bern, you won't need a car thanks to its excellent public transport system. The Bern Ticket , which you receive free of charge when staying in a hotel or other accommodation , includes unlimited travel on trams, buses, and the Gurten funicular.

Where to stay in Bern at Christmas

In general, we recommend staying in one of the hotels in the old town of Bern, where you can walk everywhere and enjoy the warm and elegant atmosphere.

If you want to treat yourselves as a couple, this is the best hotel you can stay in Bern, let us know what you think 🙂 :l Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa , a historic 5-star hotel but with good prices and in the center, a real luxury treat.

But if you're looking for something practical for families with children, the bedinBERN Aparthotel is one of the best, as children under 16 stay free, it's super central, and it has a kitchen to save money and be more comfortable with children.

What to see in Bern at Christmas

In this section I will try to detail all the plans to see and do in Bern at Christmas, including Christmas markets, activities and visits that you can make in the capital city of Switzerland.

Berner Sternenmarkt: the most magical Christmas market in Bern

Located in the heart of the city, the Berner Sternenmarkt or Star Market is a true visual spectacle. This market is located just a few minutes from the centre and is ideal for the whole family.

What surprised me most was the atmosphere: a Christmas village illuminated with garlands, sparkling decorations, and a warm ambiance that contrasts sharply with the cold Swiss winter. Children will have a blast in their dedicated area, while adults can enjoy a fondue in their impressive chalet.

Also, don't miss the local craft stalls, where you'll find everything from handmade Christmas decorations to delicious Swiss specialties like cinnamon biscuits and Glühwein (mulled wine).

 Weihnachtsmarkt Waisenhausplatz: tradition in its purest form

Just steps from the Sternenmarkt, the Weihnachtsmarkt Waisenhausplatz is Bern's most traditional Christmas market. This place has a special charm that transports you back in time with its wooden stalls decorated in a classic style.

Here you'll find a wide variety of handmade gifts: artisanal candles, wooden toys, and local products that are perfect for taking a little piece of Switzerland home with you. And if you're a chocolate lover, don't miss the stands offering irresistible chocolates and bars.

What I liked most was the warmth of the vendors, always willing to explain the story behind their products. It is also the perfect place to take a break and enjoy a freshly prepared raclette while warming your hands next to a brazier.

Generationenhaus: a unique space for young and old with Christmas workshops

The Generationenhaus, located near the train station, is a place that combines cultural and festive activities. During the Christmas season, it organizes workshops that are ideal for families. We tried the candle-making workshop, and it was a hit with the kids!

In addition, this space features interactive exhibits and Christmas events that change throughout December. It's the perfect place to escape the cold while enjoying creative and educational activities.

The ice skating rink on Parliament Square

If you're travelling with children, this will undoubtedly be one of the most fun moments of your visit to Bern at Christmas. In front of the imposing Parliament building, there is an open-air skating rink that looks like something straight out of a Christmas postcard.

Entry to the rink is free, and skate rental costs CHF 10 for adults and CHF 7 for children . It's open daily from 11:00 AM to 22:00 PM, giving you the chance to enjoy this activity both during the day and under the Christmas lights.

My kids had a blast, and the location is simply spectacular: you skate while being surrounded by the majesty of the illuminated Bundeshaus (Parliament) and the festive hustle and bustle of the city.

Zytglogge: The iconic clock tower

The Zytglogge, or Clock Tower, is one of Bern's most iconic symbols , and it takes on a special magic during Christmas. Built in the 13th century, this medieval tower not only marked the western entrance to the old city, but has also been a silent witness to centuries of Bernese history.

What makes it truly special is its astronomical clock, added in the 15th century, an engineering marvel that still functions like a Swiss precision mechanism. Every hour on the hour, you can enjoy its spectacle: animated figures parade by, including a crowing rooster, a jester, and dancing bears, symbolizing Bern's tradition and character.

Watching this show is an experience that combines history, art and a touch of Christmas magic. My recommendation is to arrive a few minutes early, find a good spot in front of the tower and accompany the wait with a freshly baked pretzel. That crunchy salty bite combined with the magical atmosphere will make you feel part of the heartbeat of the city.

Gurten, Bern's Local Mountain

The Gurten is a perfect getaway if you are looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just 4 kilometres from the centre of Bern, this “mountain” offers stunning views of the city, the Aare River and, on clear days, the majestic alpine panorama of the Bernese Oberland. It is ideal for families, as it has a playground and easy walking trails.

To reach Gurten, take the Gurtenbahn, a funicular train included in the Bern Ticket, which you receive free of charge when staying at a hotel in the city. The journey takes just a few minutes and is a fun experience in itself, especially for children. At the top, you'll find a panoramic restaurant, picnic areas, and, in winter, even a snow slide if conditions permit. This place is a gem for getting away from it all and enjoying the fresh air.

Dählhölzli Zoo

While the bears at BärenPark hibernate in winter, the zoo remains open year-round and is home to numerous Nordic, native, and exotic animals. It also includes a children's zoo with farm animals, perfect for young children, which is free and open to the public.

Museum of Communication

This museum offers a unique experience exploring the evolution of human communication , from traditional mail to the digital age. The special exhibition “Dance!” invites visitors to discover the world of rhythm and music through interactive activities. Tickets cost CHF 12 for adults and CHF 6 for children, with family discounts available.

Paul Klee Centre and Creaviva

It houses the largest collection of works by Paul Klee , one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. The center also features creative workshops at the Creaviva museum, where children can paint, sculpt, and create. Admission is CHF 20 for adults and free for children under 16.

Berna Historical Museum

This museum combines history, archaeology, and ethnography in exhibits that fascinate all ages. The special exhibition "And Then Came Bronze" highlights the revolution this metal brought to human life. It offers exercise and activity books for children. Admission is CHF 13 for adults and CHF 8 for children.

Bimano Indoor Playground

This park is a paradise for little ones , with a wide range of activities including a ball pit, slides, a climbing wall, and fun rides. Prices range from 8 to 15 CHF per child, depending on the length of the visit.

And if you'd like more indoor plans to combat the cold in Bern at Christmas, I recommend visiting the following tourism website: The coolest indoor activities for families – Bern Welcome

Recommendations for eating in Bern at Christmas

Bern has many restaurants. However, apart from eating standing up at the Christmas markets, we recommend the following restaurants that we liked the most and that have a traditional Christmas atmosphere:

• Restaurant Moléson: Classic Swiss fondue and local specialties.
• Röstigraben Restaurant: Perfect for tasting typical dishes such as rösti.

8 Tips to make the most of Bern at Christmas

Here are 8 tips that I hope will be useful to you before traveling to Bern at Christmas.

• Plan your route: The markets are within walking distance of each other, so it's easy to visit them all in one day. They last until the end of the year, but there are some days when they are closed. Check the calendar on the Bern tourism website.
• If you can move by public transport and Parking cars in winter, with the snow and everything full of very expensive private parking lots is the best.
• Arrives early: Both the ice rink and the markets fill up in the afternoon. Make the most of the mornings to enjoy them more calmly.
• Try the crazy gastronomyl: From fondues and raclettes to traditional cakes like Zimtsterne, Bern is a food lover's paradise.
• Take away cash: Although many stalls accept cards, some prefer cash, especially the smaller ones.
• Wear warm clothing, but in layers. The streets are cold, but the premises are well heated.
• Please book accommodation in advance. Although Bern is not as touristy as Zurich or Geneva, at Christmas time everything fills up quickly.
• Buy the Swiss Travel Pass. It is comfortable and allows you to move around Switzerland without worrying about individual tickets. From Bern, we easily reached Interlaken, our next stop.
• Don't forget the camera. The city illuminated at night is spectacular.

Our personal opinion of Bern Switzerland at Christmas

The best thing about Bern at Christmas is that it's accessible and manageable , even with children. Everything is close by, you don't need a car (thanks to its excellent public transport), and the city is so friendly that even at the Christmas markets, no one minded when my children got a little too excited about the wooden toys at one stall.

As for the food, if you're looking for something typical, try the fondue. We enjoyed it at a restaurant overlooking the River Aare, and amidst laughter and more bread than I should admit, we ended up falling in love with the atmosphere.

Conclusion

Bern at Christmas is a gem you shouldn't miss if you're planning a winter getaway to Switzerland. It's the perfect place to start or end a Christmas tour of the country, with just the right amount of history, tradition, and festive atmosphere. Our family experience was unforgettable, and I have no doubt that if you visit Bern, you'll also be captivated by its magic.

And now tell me! Are you tempted to include Berna in your next Christmas adventure? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.