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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection
Spitalgasse
Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bern's vibrant Zibelemärit (Onion Market) transforms Spitalgasse into a festive celebration of onions and Swiss culinary traditions.
"A must-visit for a truly unique Bernese experience, but be prepared for the crowds!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Festive Bernese Atmosphere
Experience the lively buzz, music, and community spirit of Bern's biggest party.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Zibelemärit Spirit
Bern's Culinary Celebration
Best Times
Insider Tips
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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.
💰 Bring Cash for Purchases
Many vendors prefer cash, so have some Swiss Francs handy for your onion and food purchases.
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.
🧅 Sample the Onion Tart
Don't leave without trying the famous Zibelemärit onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen). It's a delicious local specialty!
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.
💰 Bring Cash for Purchases
Many vendors prefer cash, so have some Swiss Francs handy for your onion and food purchases.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the crowds.
🧅 Sample the Onion Tart
Don't leave without trying the famous Zibelemärit onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen). It's a delicious local specialty!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Parking is extremely limited and not recommended due to the massive crowds. It's best to use public transportation or walk.
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.
Cycling is possible, but be prepared for crowds and potential bike parking challenges. Secure your bike well if you choose this option.
The street is generally flat, but the dense crowds can make navigation difficult. Early morning is the best time for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Spitalgasse and the Zibelemärit is free. It's a public street market.
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.
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.
While the main attraction is the onion market, there are often street musicians and a general festive ambiance throughout the day.
Yes, many vendors sell onions by the braid, and some may offer bulk discounts if you're looking to buy a significant quantity.
🍽️ 🧅 Food & Dining
The star is the Zibelemärit onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen), but you'll also find onion soup, sausages, raclette, and other Swiss treats.
While onions are the focus, you can often find other options like raclette or potato dishes. It's best to ask vendors directly.
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.
Yes, various beverages, including mulled wine (Glühwein) during colder months, beer, and soft drinks, are usually available.
Seating is usually limited and informal, often just standing room or small communal tables. Many people eat while walking.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant displays of onion braids, the bustling crowds, and the traditional Swiss market atmosphere. Early morning light is ideal.
Yes, the crowds can make it challenging. Be patient, use a wider lens if possible, and try to find slightly less congested spots.
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.
Drone usage is generally restricted in crowded urban areas like this. It's best to assume they are not permitted to avoid issues.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Zibelemärit: A Bernese Tradition
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.
Navigating the Crowds and Experience
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.
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