Shopping and Markets
There is a wide range of shopping opportunities in large shopping centres and smaller shops in Bern. The «Old Town Arcades», or «Lauben», are a popular place, especially when they can provide shelter from the rain. There are also bustling markets held each week in Bern’s city squares.
Shop Opening Hours
Bern’s shops are open six days a week. Generally, the following opening times apply:
| Monday to Friday | 09.00–19.00 (some until 20.00) |
| Thursday (late-night opening) | 09.00–20.00 |
| Saturday | 08.00–18.00 |
| Sunday | Closed all day, except shops at the main station |
Markets
Bern is also the city of markets. The many regular weekly markets and the big market events, such as the annual Graniummärit (geranium market) and the Zibelemärit (onion market), draw visitors from near and far.
Weekly Market
On the Waisenhausplatz, every Tuesday and Saturday
Fruit, Vegetable, Meat and Flower Market
On the Bärenplatz, the Bundesplatz and the neighbouring lanes and the Münstergasse every Tuesday and Saturday morning. On the Bärenplatz, daily between April and October and in December.
Crafts Market
On the Münsterplattform, usually the first Saturday of every month from March to December. During Advent additional dates.
Flea Market
On the Mühleplatz in the Matte, the third Saturday of every month, May to October.
Geranium Market (Granium-Märit)
On the Bundesplatz, end of April.
Market of Wild Plants
On the Federal Square, late April
Pro Specie Rara - Market of Ornamental Plants
Elfenau, mid-May
Bern Christmas Markets
On the Waisenhausplatz, daily during Advent
On the Münsterplatz, daily during Advent
Zibelemärit (Onion Market)
The fourth Monday in November
For further information:
www.bern.ch/märkte (German)
www.marktbern.ch (German)
www.bern.com
www.bernergraniummärit.ch (German)
Banks and Post Offices – Opening Hours
Change at the Railway Station
| Monday to Friday | 07.00–19.30 |
| Saturday | 08.00–19.00 |
| Sunday | 09.00–19.00 |
Main Post Office «PostParc» (excluding holidays)
Bogenschützenstrasse 9B
3008 Bern
| Monday to Friday | 07.30–21.00 |
| Saturday | 08.00–17.00 |
| Sunday | 16.00–20.00 |
For more information on other Post Offices and opening hours: www.post.ch
Phone: 0848 888 888
Banks
You can find information about the opening hours of banks on the relevant websites on the Internet.