Bern
Shopping in Bern: Discover Your Favourite Spots
The Swiss capital city Bern combines historic charm with a modern shopping experience. Shopping in Bern means wandering through mediaeval lanes whilst discovering the latest trends. From exclusive boutiques in the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town to hidden vintage treasures - the city offers shopping enthusiasts a unique variety. Whether you're looking for Swiss designer pieces, sustainable fashion or special souvenirs, shopping in Bern has something for every taste.
Shopping in Bern Old Town: Boutiques Between Historic Walls
Bern's Old Town is the heart of exclusive shopping in Bern. Elegant boutiques and traditional shops are tucked away between the famous arcades.
Kramgasse and Gerechtigkeitsgasse
The historic main lanes offer a perfect blend of international brands and local specialities:
- Globus Bern: Luxurious department store with international designer brands
- Loeb: Traditional department store since 1881 with a wide selection
- Boutique Seidenhof: Exclusive women's fashion and accessories
- Herren Globus: High-quality menswear across three floors
💡 Tip: Visit the Old Town boutiques in the early morning, when the lanes aren't yet crowded and you can browse in peace.
Marktgasse: A Shopping Paradise in the Heart of the City
Marktgasse is considered one of the best addresses for shopping in Bern. Here you'll find both well-known chains and unique concept stores.
- Jelmoli: Premium department store with exclusive brands
- Zara Home: Stylish homeware and textiles
- COS: Minimalist fashion for conscious shoppers
- & Other Stories: Trendy fashion with a Scandinavian touch
Vintage Shops in Bern: Treasures from Bygone Times
For those seeking something special, shopping in Bern offers a lively vintage scene with authentic finds and sustainable fashion.
The Best Vintage Addresses
Brocki Bern on Länggassstrasse is a true paradise for vintage lovers. Across three floors you'll find:
- Vintage clothing from the 60s to 90s
- Retro furniture and homeware
- Rare books and records
- Jewellery and accessories from past eras
- Collectables and curiosities
Sustainable Fashion Concepts
Glore Bern is revolutionising shopping in Bern with fairly produced fashion:
- Eco-friendly materials and fair working conditions
- Transparent supply chains from well-known eco brands
- Style advice for a sustainable wardrobe
- Workshops on conscious consumption
💡 Tip: Many vintage shops in Bern also offer swap events. Bring along clothes in good condition and swap them for new favourites.
Designer Shops in Bern: Exclusive Fashion and Accessories
Shopping in Bern also means access to exclusive designer collections and limited editions you won't find elsewhere.
Swiss Designers in Focus
Akris Boutique on Waisenhausplatz presents timeless elegance "Made in Switzerland":
International Luxury Brands
Spitalgasse is home to several luxury boutiques:
- Louis Vuitton: Handbags, leather goods and accessories
- Hermès: Exclusive silk scarves and perfumes
- Cartier: Jewellery and watches of the highest calibre
- Bulgari: Italian elegance in gold and diamonds
Shopping Centres and Malls in Bern
Modern shopping in Bern also takes place in contemporary shopping centres, combining comfort and variety under one roof.
Westside Shopping Centre
The architecturally striking Westside offers shopping in Bern at the highest level:
- Over 55 shops across three floors
- A mix of fashion, electronics and lifestyle
- Restaurants and cafés for shopping breaks
- Childcare while you shop
Bern Railway Station: Shopping on the Go
Bern's main railway station is more than just a transport hub - it's a shopping destination:
- RailCity: 60 shops with extended opening hours
- Migros: Full range for daily needs
- Coop: Fresh food and Swiss specialities
- Pharmacy: Health and wellness products
- Souvenir shops: Typical Swiss gifts to take home
💡 Tip: The shops at the station are also open on Sundays - perfect for last-minute shopping in Bern.
Shopping in Bern: Markets and Local Specialities
You can experience authentic shopping in Bern at the traditional markets, where local producers sell their goods.
Weekly Markets in Bern
The Bärenplatz Market (Tuesday and Saturday) is a highlight for shopping in Bern:
- Fresh produce from the region
- Handcrafted specialities
- Flowers and plants
- Vintage clothing and antiques
Swiss Souvenirs and Gifts
Heimatwerk Bern on Kramgasse offers authentic Swiss products:
Cheese and Delicatessen
Chäs Vreneli on Münstergasse is the go-to address for Swiss cheese specialities:
- Over 200 varieties of cheese from Switzerland
- Expert advice and tastings
- Vacuum packing for transport
- Accompanying wines and spirits
Insider Tips: Hidden Shopping Gems in Bern
Away from the well-known shopping routes, Bern hides real treasures for adventurous shoppers.
Neighbourhood Shops with Character
The Länggasse quarter offers alternative shopping in Bern:
- Unverpackt Bern: Sustainable shopping without packaging waste
- Buchhandlung Beer: Literary treasures and readings
- Studio shops: Buy directly from the artist
- Organic markets: Regional and seasonal produce
Flea Markets and Second-Hand
The Bern Flea Market on Bundesplatz (every Saturday) is an insider tip:
- Antiques and collectables
- Vintage clothing at fair prices
- Books, records and CDs
- Handmade one-off pieces
- Household items and decorations
💡 Tip: Come early in the morning to snap up the best pieces. Many traders are also happy to negotiate.
Shopping in Bern: Practical Tips and Opening Hours
To make the most of your shopping experience in Bern, there are a few practical points worth bearing in mind.
Opening Hours and the Best Times to Shop
Most shops for shopping in Bern have the following opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 am - 6:30 pm
- Saturday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: Extended until 9:00 pm (late-night shopping)
- Sunday: Only the station and petrol stations are open
Parking and Getting There
For a relaxed shopping trip in Bern, it's best to travel by public transport:
- Parkhaus City West: Direct access to the Old Town
- Station Parking: Centrally located with good connections
- Park+Ride: An affordable alternative on the outskirts
- Public Transport Day Ticket: Unlimited travel around the city
📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Bern on our city page.
Conclusion: Shopping in Bern Is a Unique Experience
Shopping in Bern combines historic charm with modern comfort in a truly unique way. From exclusive boutiques in the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town to sustainable vintage shops, the capital city has something for every taste.
The key takeaways for successful shopping in Bern:
- Old Town boutiques for exclusive fashion and Swiss design
- Vintage shops for sustainable and unique finds
- Weekly markets for regional specialities and crafts
- Shopping centres for comfortable shopping under one roof
- Insider tips in the neighbourhoods for special discoveries
Allow plenty of time to discover the variety that shopping in Bern has to offer. The city rewards curious explorers with unforgettable shopping experiences and authentic Swiss products.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for shopping in Bern? The best time for shopping in Bern is on weekday mornings or during Thursday's late-night shopping until 9 pm. On Saturdays, especially in the Old Town, it can get very busy.
Are there tax-free options when shopping in Bern? Yes, as a tourist you can reclaim VAT on purchases over 300 CHF. Ask in the shop for a tax-free form.
Which payment methods are accepted when shopping in Bern? Alongside cash (CHF), all major credit cards and debit cards are accepted. Many shops also offer contactless payment.
Where can I find the best vintage shops for shopping in Bern? You'll find the best vintage shops in the Länggasse quarter, in the Old Town and around Helvetiaplatz. Brocki Bern and Glore are especially recommended.
Are there special shopping events in Bern? Yes, Bern regularly hosts shopping events such as the "Lange Nacht der Museen" (Long Night of Museums) with extended opening hours, or seasonal markets such as the Christmas market on Waisenhausplatz.
Anna Hoffmann
