Bundesplatz & Bundeshaus, Bern

Historic Building and Square in Bern

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Peter Gronemann

At the center of Bern's political and civic life lies the Bundeshaus, Switzerland's grand Parliament Building, and the bustling Bundesplatz that stretches before it. Together, they form one of the top sights in Bern—a place where power, architecture, and public life converge. Beneath the Bundeshaus' elegant dome, Switzerland's parliament meets to shape national policy, while outside, Bundesplatz transforms daily into a social and cultural hub, full of life and energy.

The square, once a featureless car park, is now one of the best places to visit in Bern for people-watching and soaking up the city's rhythm. On market mornings, the air fills with the scent of cheese, flowers, and baked goods from the traditional farmer's market. In the evenings, the 26 fountains—symbolizing the Swiss cantons—illuminate in playful jets of water. It's also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Bern, connecting easily with the Old City's main streets, the Aare River, and the Bundeshaus terrace behind.

History and Significance of Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus
Things to See and Do in Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus
Is Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus
Nearby Attractions to Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus

History and Significance of Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus

The Bundeshaus was built between 1894 and 1902, designed by architect Hans Auer in a Renaissance Revival style to embody the strength and unity of the Swiss Confederation. Its distinctive copper-green dome and ornate façade represent the democratic ideals that define Switzerland's political identity. Inside, symbolic artworks and sculptures celebrate freedom, justice, and federal harmony, while the east and west wings accommodate government offices and administrative departments.

The adjacent Bundesplatz, or Parliament Square, has long been a meeting ground for public life in Bern. Up until 2003, it served mainly as a car park—hardly befitting the nation's political center. A major redesign between 2003 and 2004 transformed it into the elegant plaza seen today, paved with dark gneiss stone from Vals and cleared to give an uninterrupted view of the Bundeshaus façade. The redesign turned what was once a utilitarian space into a democratic stage for gatherings, celebrations, and demonstrations—truly reflecting the open spirit of Swiss governance.

Behind the Bundeshaus, the Bundesterrasse offers another layer of charm. Once frequented by diplomats, artists, and even spies, it now serves as a relaxed viewpoint where locals and visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the Aare River and the Bernese Alps. Its connection to Kleine Schanze park and proximity to Marzili make it a peaceful yet central spot to unwind.

Things to See and Do in Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus

Visitors to Bundesplatz can enjoy a mix of civic beauty and lively activity. The square’s most beloved feature is its 26 fountains, representing Switzerland’s cantons—especially enchanting when illuminated at night or splashed in by children on summer days. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the traditional farmer’s market fills the plaza with regional produce and handmade goods, continuing a tradition that dates back centuries.

Inside the Bundeshaus, guided tours take visitors through the grand chambers where Switzerland's parliament meets. The highlight is the central dome hall, decorated with murals and mosaics depicting the Alps and national emblems—a symbol of Swiss unity and balance between cantons. Tours are free but must be booked in advance when parliament is not in session.

Around the square, visitors can admire the Swiss National Bank and the Berner Kantonalbank buildings, both fine examples of early 20th-century Swiss architecture. Just a few steps away, Bärenplatz offers cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink while watching daily life unfold. Behind the parliament, the Bundesterrasse invites a slower pace, with benches and wide views across the Aare valley—a perfect spot to pause after exploring the city center.

How to Get There

Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus are located in the very heart of Bern, about a five-minute walk from Bern train station. Simply follow the signs for “Bundeshaus” from the station concourse. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If arriving by car, you can park at Metro Parking Bern or City West Parking, both within walking distance of the square.

Practical Tips on Visiting Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus

Best time to visit Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus: Visit on market days (Tuesday or Saturday morning) or at sunset for beautiful light on the parliament dome.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free; guided tours of the Bundeshaus must be reserved in advance.
Opening hours: The square is open 24 hours; tours of the Bundeshaus operate Monday to Friday on non-session days.
Official website: https://www.parlament.ch
How long to spend: 1–2 hours including a guided tour and stroll along the terrace.
Accessibility: Fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Facilities: Restrooms nearby; cafés and restaurants around the square.
Photography tip: Capture the parliament dome from the center of Bundesplatz for symmetry; sunset offers warm tones.
Guided tours: Available in several languages; free admission with prior booking.
Nearby food options: Lötschberg, Volkshaus 1914, and restaurants along Bärenplatz offer good local meals.

Is Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus Worth Visiting?

Definitely. As the symbolic and political heart of Switzerland, Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus combine national significance with everyday life in perfect harmony. It's one of the must-see places in Bern for travelers seeking to understand the country's democratic spirit while enjoying the energy of its most iconic public square. Whether you come for the architecture, the views, or the atmosphere, you'll find Bern's essence captured here in stone and sunlight.

FAQs for Visiting Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus

Can you go inside the Bundeshaus?
Yes, guided tours are free but must be booked in advance when parliament is not in session.

When does the farmer’s market take place?
Every Tuesday and Saturday morning, year-round.

Are there fountains in the square?
Yes, 26 fountains represent the Swiss cantons, active daily in warmer months.

Can you visit at night?
Yes, the square is beautifully illuminated in the evening and safe for evening strolls.

Is the Bundesterrasse accessible?
Yes, it’s accessible and offers beautiful panoramic views.

Nearby Attractions to Bundesplatz and Bundeshaus

Zytglogge Clock Tower – Bern's medieval clock tower with an hourly mechanical show.
Bern Historical Museum – Switzerland's second-largest museum, home to the Einstein Museum.
Bern Minster – A Gothic cathedral with Switzerland's tallest church tower.
Käfigturm – Another historic clock tower once part of Bern's western fortifications.
Kleine Schanze Park – A green hilltop park offering peaceful views over the city and Alps.

The Bundesplatz & Bundeshaus appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bern!

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