Spitalgasse - an apartment building with a tree in front of it
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Spitalgasse

4.6
·491k reviews·Bern, Switzerland

Bern's vibrant Zibelemärit (Onion Market) transforms Spitalgasse into a festive celebration of onions and Swiss culinary traditions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds, best selection

CrowdLow
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Spitalgasse - an apartment building with a tree in front of it

Spitalgasse

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds, best selection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bern's vibrant Zibelemärit (Onion Market) transforms Spitalgasse into a festive celebration of onions and Swiss culinary traditions.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-visit for a truly unique Bernese experience, but be prepared for the crowds!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for the Best Experience

To truly enjoy the Zibelemärit, get there before 8 AM to see the stalls being set up and snag the freshest onions.

💰 Bring Cash for Purchases

Many vendors prefer cash, so have some Swiss Francs handy for your onion and food purchases.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Onion Market Spectacle

The Onion Market Spectacle

Thousands of onion braids adorn stalls, creating a unique visual feast. A true Bernese tradition!

Culinary Onion Delights

Culinary Onion Delights

Savor traditional onion tarts, soups, and other local specialties. A must-try for foodies!

Festive Bernese Atmosphere

Festive Bernese Atmosphere

Experience the lively buzz, music, and community spirit of Bern's biggest party.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Zibelemärit Spirit

Spitalgasse transforms into the vibrant Zibelemärit (Onion Market) once a year. Plan for crowds and embrace the festive atmosphere. Arriving early is key to experiencing the full charm before it gets too packed.

Bern's Culinary Celebration

This event is a feast for the senses, especially for onion lovers! Come hungry to sample delicious onion tarts, soups, and more. It's a unique Bernese tradition worth experiencing.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the crowds, best selection
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Lively atmosphere, still good food
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

How to Zibelämärit

🎯 Arrive Early for the Best Experience

To truly enjoy the Zibelemärit, get there before 8 AM to see the stalls being set up and snag the freshest onions. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Purchases

Many vendors prefer cash, so have some Swiss Francs handy for your onion and food purchases. Reddit

reddit.com

Any good food places that are a must to see and visit in Bern?

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the crowds. Reddit

🧅 Sample the Onion Tart

Don't leave without trying the famous Zibelemärit onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen). It's a delicious local specialty! Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for the Best Experience

To truly enjoy the Zibelemärit, get there before 8 AM to see the stalls being set up and snag the freshest onions. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Purchases

Many vendors prefer cash, so have some Swiss Francs handy for your onion and food purchases. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the crowds. Reddit

🧅 Sample the Onion Tart

Don't leave without trying the famous Zibelemärit onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen). It's a delicious local specialty! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Zibelemärit in Spitalgasse is a beloved Bernese tradition, celebrated for its unique onion market and festive atmosphere. Visitors rave about the delicious onion tarts and the vibrant cultural experience. However, the immense crowds, especially later in the day, can be a significant drawback for some.

What People Like

Unique onion market
Delicious onion tart
Festive atmosphere

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Spitalgasse is a central street in Bern, easily accessible by public transport. Take trams or buses to the city center. Walking from Bern main station is also a short and pleasant option. Reddit

Parking is extremely limited and not recommended due to the massive crowds. It's best to use public transportation or walk. Reddit

Trams 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, as well as numerous bus lines, stop near Spitalgasse. Check the Bernmobil website for specific routes and schedules. Reddit

Cycling is possible, but be prepared for crowds and potential bike parking challenges. Secure your bike well if you choose this option. Reddit

The street is generally flat, but the dense crowds can make navigation difficult. Early morning is the best time for easier access. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Spitalgasse and the Zibelemärit is free. It's a public street market. Reddit

The Zibelemärit typically starts very early in the morning, around 5 AM, and runs until late afternoon. Vendors begin packing up as the day progresses. Reddit

For the full experience and best selection, aim for the early morning hours (before 8 AM). For a more festive, albeit crowded, atmosphere, late morning or early afternoon works too. Reddit

While the main attraction is the onion market, there are often street musicians and a general festive ambiance throughout the day. Reddit

Yes, many vendors sell onions by the braid, and some may offer bulk discounts if you're looking to buy a significant quantity. Reddit

🍽️ 🧅 Food & Dining

The star is the Zibelemärit onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen), but you'll also find onion soup, sausages, raclette, and other Swiss treats. Reddit

While onions are the focus, you can often find other options like raclette or potato dishes. It's best to ask vendors directly. Reddit

Prices are typical for a Swiss market event. Expect to pay around 5-10 CHF for a slice of onion tart or a small meal. Reddit

Yes, various beverages, including mulled wine (Glühwein) during colder months, beer, and soft drinks, are usually available. Reddit

Seating is usually limited and informal, often just standing room or small communal tables. Many people eat while walking. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant displays of onion braids, the bustling crowds, and the traditional Swiss market atmosphere. Early morning light is ideal. Reddit

Yes, the crowds can make it challenging. Be patient, use a wider lens if possible, and try to find slightly less congested spots. Reddit

Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, making it perfect for capturing detailed shots of the onion braids. Later in the day provides more dynamic street photography opportunities. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in crowded urban areas like this. It's best to assume they are not permitted to avoid issues. Reddit

Focus on the intricate patterns of the onion braids, close-ups of the food, candid shots of vendors and shoppers, and wider shots of the street scene. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Zibelemärit can be a fun, albeit busy, experience for families. Arriving very early (before 8 AM) is crucial to avoid the peak crowds and make it easier to navigate with little ones. Focus on the visual spectacle of the onion braids and the lively atmosphere. Reddit

Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as the market can get expensive. While the onion tart is a must-try, ensure your children are adventurous eaters or have other options available. The early morning offers a calmer environment for children to enjoy the sights and sounds without being overwhelmed. Be prepared for a lot of walking and keep a close eye on your children in the dense crowds. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Zibelemärit is a free event to enter, making it an accessible cultural experience. While the famous onion tart and other treats can add up, bringing your own water bottle and perhaps a packed snack can help manage costs. Reddit

Focus on enjoying the atmosphere and the visual feast of the onion displays. Purchasing a small onion braid as a souvenir can be more budget-friendly than larger food items. If you're looking for a hearty and relatively inexpensive meal, the onion tart is often a good value for its size and flavor. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Zibelemärit: A Bernese Tradition

The Zibelemärit, or Onion Market, is Bern's most famous traditional festival, held annually on the fourth Monday of November. Spitalgasse and surrounding streets are transformed into a bustling marketplace where farmers from the surrounding regions sell their produce, with onions being the undisputed star. Visitors can admire and purchase thousands of intricately braided onion strings, a testament to the farmers' skill and hard work. The event is a celebration of the harvest and a cherished part of Bernese culture, drawing locals and tourists alike. Reddit

Beyond the onions, the market is a culinary adventure. Stalls offer a variety of delicious food and drinks, with the Zwiebelkuchen (onion tart) being a must-try. This savory tart, made with a rich custard and plenty of onions, is a hearty and flavorful treat. Other popular items include onion soup, sausages, raclette, and mulled wine, making it a perfect place to sample authentic Swiss flavors. The festive atmosphere is amplified by street musicians and the general buzz of people enjoying the unique occasion. Reddit

Navigating the Crowds and Experience

Experiencing the Zibelemärit means embracing the crowds. The event is incredibly popular, and Spitalgasse becomes packed, especially as the day progresses. Arriving early, ideally before 8 AM, is highly recommended by locals and frequent visitors to get the best selection of onions and a more relaxed browsing experience. Reddit

Practical tips for navigating the market include wearing comfortable shoes, as you'll be on your feet for hours. Bringing cash is also advisable, as not all vendors may accept card payments. While the market is lively and fun, it can be overwhelming for very young children or those sensitive to noise and crowds. If you're visiting with family, the early morning hours are again your best bet for a more manageable experience. Reddit

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