The Best Christmas Markets in Bern

As December comes around, Bern is bathed in golden light. Going shopping for Christmas presents and drinking Glühwein in the dreamy, medieval lanes of this World Heritage city are truly magical experiences. We present the best Christmas markets in Bern and its surrounding areas.

Christmas Market on Münsterplatz (Minster Square), Bern

Enjoy the Christmas spirit far from all the hustle and bustle: The Christmas market on Münsterplatz offers a cozy, charming atmosphere in a beautiful setting. Local artisans offer their unique wares at the foot of Bern Minster, the church with the highest steeple in Switzerland. Discover lovingly created arts and crafts, culinary delights, jewelry, games, and much more. Tip: the white mulled wine in the “Märitbeizli” is rumored to be the best in the city!

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Christmas Market on Waisenhausplatz (Orphanage Square), Bern

It’s only a few minutes’ walk from Münsterplatz to Bern's second Christmas market – and the ideal spot for finding the perfect Christmas present. Bordered by a fence of fir tree branches, visitors to Waisenhausplatz can find a wide range of souvenirs, typical Christmas goods, and other items for everyday use. The stalls are beautifully designed and decorated and the scent of gingerbread, caramel, and mulled wine fills the narrow streets. Tip: the do-it-yourself fondue in the “Märitbeizli” is truly unforgettable!

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Kambly Christmas Market in Trubschachen

The best things come in small packages: The little-known Kambly Christmas Market in the idyllic Emmental village of Trubschachen, a 40-minute train ride from Bern, is a true gem. Regional delicacies and beautiful handicrafts from local artisans are offered from festively lit Christmas chalets. Children’s eyes light up at the diverse Christmas program with festive fairy tales in the magical forest, gingerbread decorating, and a puppet theater, while adults will love tucking into a hearty raclette. Tip: after visiting the market, head for the Kambly Experience, where you can taste all sorts of biscuits to your heart's content with around 100 different types on offer!

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Huttwil Christmas Market

In the historic center of the town of Huttwil, a 60-minute train ride from Bern, you will find one of the biggest, prettiest, and most romantic Christmas markets in Switzerland. You can’t help but be drawn to the sight of the around 100 lovingly decorated chalets. Candlelight, music, fairy tales, culinary delights, arts and crafts, the scents of winter, and great conviviality are all to be found within a small area. Tip: visit the traditional Italian Bethlehem Grotto in Rosario Martignano’s art studio, intricately created through months of work.

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