Bern Christmas Markets 2026 – Sternenmarkt, Minster Square & Waisenhausplatz

Welcome to the Bern Christmas Markets 2026 in Bern

Bern’s Christmas markets transform the UNESCO-listed Old Town into a sea of lights from 19 November to 27 December 2026. Between the modern Berner Sternenmarkt on Kleine Schanze, the traditional market on Waisenhausplatz and the artisan market in front of Bern Minster, visitors experience a unique mix of design, crafts and culinary specialities. All markets are free to enter and within easy walking distance of each other.

Highlights & Attractions at Bern Christmas Markets in Bern

• Berner Sternenmarkt with around 80 wooden chalets, Gstaad-style fondue chalet and spectacular views of the Federal Palace and the Alps
• Traditional Christmas market on Waisenhausplatz with gift ideas, roasted almonds and the city’s most beautiful Christmas tree
• Münsterplatz Christmas market in front of Switzerland’s tallest church tower featuring high-quality regional handicrafts
• Artisan market on the Minster terrace with unique pieces sold directly by the makers
• Cashless payments at the Sternenmarkt (card and Twint) plus weather-protected lounges and a children’s area with carousel
• Renowned mulled wine at Münsterplatz, prepared in advance and freshly heated
• Festive lighting throughout the UNESCO Old Town and a cohesive atmosphere across all locations

Program & Schedule: What to Expect in 2026

Bern’s Christmas markets offer a varied programme throughout Advent. The Sternenmarkt opens on 19 November and runs until 27 December. The classic market on Waisenhausplatz starts on 27 November, while the Münsterplatz market and artisan market begin on 28 November. All sites are easily reachable on foot and complement each other perfectly for a full-day visit.

Berner Sternenmarkt (Kleine Schanze)

From 19 November to 27 December 2026 the trendy Sternenmarkt turns Kleine Schanze and the Europapromenade into a Christmas village. Numerous chalets offer winter delicacies, hot drinks and products from local designers. Highlights include the large Gstaad-style fondue chalet (up to 200 seats), weather-protected lounges, a children’s area with carousel and the spectacular view of the Federal Palace. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 11:00–22:00, Sunday 11:00–20:00; 24 December until 17:00; closed on 25 December. The entire market is cashless.

Waisenhausplatz Christmas Market

The long-established Christmas market on Waisenhausplatz runs from 27 November to 24 December 2026. Festively decorated stalls invite visitors to browse roasted almonds, Christmas decorations, souvenirs and gift ideas. It is one of Bern’s classic large markets and continues as a year-end market (28–31 December) and New Year market (4–9 January 2027). Opening hours during the Christmas market: Monday to Saturday 10:00–20:00, Sunday 10:00–18:00; 24 December 10:00–17:00.

Münsterplatz Christmas Market

From 28 November to 24 December 2026 the Christmas market takes place directly in front of Bern Minster. Against the impressive backdrop of Switzerland’s tallest church tower (100.6 m), artisans from Bern and the surrounding area present their handmade unique pieces. The market is known for its quieter, craft-focused atmosphere. The mulled wine is regarded as one of the best in the city. Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 11:00–18:30, Friday 11:00–20:00, Saturday and Sunday 10:00–18:00; 24 December 10:00–16:00.

Artisan Market on Münsterplattform

On the Minster terrace the artisan market takes place with additional Advent dates (including 29 November, 5 & 6 December and 19 & 20 December 2026). Regional craftspeople offer exclusively self-made unique items. The market complements the Münsterplatz Christmas market and offers direct views over the Old Town rooftops and the Aare river.

Tickets & Admission for Bern Christmas Markets Bern

Admission to all Bern Christmas markets (Sternenmarkt, Waisenhausplatz, Münsterplatz and the artisan market) is free of charge. Costs only arise for food, drinks and purchases. At the Sternenmarkt only cashless payment (card or Twint) is accepted. Official and up-to-date information is available on bern.com and the City of Bern websites.

Visitor Tips: Travel & Accommodation in Bern

• Arrival by train to Bern station is ideal; all markets are reachable within 10–15 minutes on foot or by tram/bus (Zytglogge stop for Münsterplatz).
• Warm, weatherproof clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended – the Old Town is hilly and it can be cold and damp.
• Book accommodation in the Old Town or near the station early, as the Advent season in Bern is very popular.
• Combine the markets: start at the Sternenmarkt with fondue and the view, then move to Waisenhausplatz and finish at Münsterplatz.
• On 24 December the markets close earlier; the Sternenmarkt is closed on 25 December. Take advantage of the Sunday shopping days in the Old Town for additional browsing.