Best Indoor Walking Alternatives in Bern Switzerland
Visiting Bern in 2026 means enjoying the outdoors in a beautiful setting. Sometimes the weather changes your plans and forces you to stay inside. You might need indoor walking alternatives in Bern Switzerland to stay active today. Check out our Bern winter walking guide 2026 for more tips.
Stroll Through the Historic Bernese Arcades
Bern features one of the longest covered shopping promenades found in all of Europe today. These arcades are known locally as the Lauben and offer plenty of dry shelter. They stretch for six kilometers through the heart of the historic Old City area. This makes them perfect for walking during rainy or snowy Swiss winter days in 2026.
You can explore the Bern Old City walking routes without getting wet or cold. The massive stone arches provide excellent shelter from the wind and heavy rain. You will find many unique shops and cozy cafes along the entire way. The atmosphere feels very historic even when the weather outside is quite poor.
These famous covered paths date back many centuries to the medieval era of Bern. They offer a unique architectural experience for every visitor to the Swiss capital. You can walk from the main train station to the Nydegg Bridge easily. Most of the path stays completely protected from the rain and the snow.
Indoor Walking Alternatives in Bern Switzerland
Westside is a modern architectural wonder located on the western edge of Bern city. Daniel Libeskind designed this massive complex with sharp angles and very bright spaces. It offers a vast indoor area for those who enjoy walking for exercise. You can spend several hours wandering through the different levels of shops today.
This center combines shopping, dining, and fitness in one large and modern place. The wide corridors provide plenty of room for a brisk and healthy indoor walk. You can easily reach Westside by taking the S-Bahn train from the city center. The journey takes less than fifteen minutes from the main Bern train station.
Visitors can also enjoy the Bernaqua water park located inside the large building. This makes it a great spot for a full day of indoor activity and healthy exercise. You can walk for many miles across the various shopping and leisure floors. It is a top-tier choice for indoor walking alternatives in Bern Switzerland for every traveler.
Walk Through Bern’s World Class Museums
Museums offer a fantastic way to stay active while learning something new today. The Bern Historical Museum is one of the largest buildings in all of Switzerland. Its grand halls and long galleries require a lot of walking to see. You can explore Swiss history across multiple floors of very interesting exhibits.
The Kunstmuseum Bern is another excellent choice for a long and peaceful indoor stroll. It houses a massive collection of fine arts from many different historical eras. You will cover a significant distance while admiring the many beautiful Swiss paintings. The quiet atmosphere makes for a very peaceful and relaxing walking experience here.
Check out the Einstein Museum located within the large Historical Museum building complex. It offers detailed insights into the life of the world famous physicist Albert Einstein. Walking through these exhibits takes about two hours at a very steady pace. Remember to wear proper winter gear for walking in Bern while traveling.
Use the Extensive Bern Train Station Passages
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The Bern main train station is a busy hub of underground walking activity. It features several levels of connected passages and many different local shopping areas. These tunnels link different parts of the city center together for easy access. You can walk for quite a distance without ever stepping outside into rain.
Many local commuters use these paths to avoid the biting Swiss winter chill. The passages are well-lit and filled with various small shops and food stalls. You can walk from the station to the Christoffel Tower area underground. It is a practical way to get your steps in easily.
The station is always bustling with a lot of energy and local life. You will see many people rushing to catch their daily trains or buses. It provides a safe and dry environment for a quick and urban walk. This area is part of a Bern winter walking tour with hot chocolate route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Bern arcades open on Sundays?
Most shops in the arcades are closed on Sundays in Bern city center. However, the walkways themselves remain open for public use all day long. You can still enjoy a quiet walk through the historic stone arches. This is a great time to take photos without crowds.
How much does it cost to visit Westside?
Entry to the Westside shopping mall area is completely free for everyone today. You only pay for parking or your public transport ticket to get there. Costs apply if you visit the cinema or the large water park. It is a budget-friendly indoor walking option for all travelers.
Is Bern safe for walking alone at night?
Bern is generally a very safe city for all types of travelers today. The train station and arcades are well-lit and monitored by the local police. You should always stay aware of your surroundings in busy public areas. Most indoor walking spots are located in safe city neighborhoods.
Bern offers many great ways to stay active indoors during your visit. You can choose between historic arcades or modern shopping centers for your walks. These spots ensure you enjoy your trip regardless of the changing Swiss weather. Start planning your 2026 visit to this beautiful Swiss capital city today.