Parliament Building and Parliament Square

The Parliament Building in Bern is the heart of Switzerland’s democracy: the parliament holds its meetings under the grand dome, the west and east wings house parts of the federal government and administration. And the large Parliament Square and long terrace are popular, lively meeting places.

Opening hours

open

Closes at 4:00, opens again at 9:00

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City of Bern
Landmarks

The Federal Palace in Bern glows impressively in the winter evening light, surrounded by a snow-covered landscape, creating a tranquil and festive winter atmosphere.

The picture shows the hustle and bustle of the Zibelemärit in Bern at night, with crowds of people strolling in the warm glow of the lights against the magnificent backdrop of the Federal Palace.

The photo shows a snow-covered landscape above Bern with a view of the Bundeshaus. The snow-covered trees and the calm River Aare lend the scene a peaceful winter tranquillity.

The Federal Palace in Bern shines at dusk, illuminated and embellished by fountains, creating an atmosphere of elegance and solemnity.

The picture shows the Federal Palace in Bern above a snow-covered river landscape, with the clear air and fresh snow evoking a quiet, wintry beauty.

The picture shows a lively scene in a square with people in wheelchairs and a person with a pram. They are enjoying the bubbling fountains and the magnificent architecture in the background, creating an atmosphere of accessibility and joy.

A view through a stone arch offers a scenic view of the bustling Swiss parliament, framed by the picturesque mural of the Alpine panorama, a symbol of the connection between tradition and political discourse.

With its wood panelling and magnificent murals, the historic hall in the Federal Palace in Bern exudes dignity and the importance of state deliberations.

From Parking Lot to Bernese Joie de Vivre

Up until 2003, Parliament Square (“Bundesplatz”) was a dull, grey parking lot. Except for Tuesdays and Saturdays, when it came (and still comes) alive with the bustling, colourful farmer’s market. From 2003 to 2004, it was radically redesigned, getting rid of the parking lot and allowing for an unobstructed view of the magnificent building. The square now has an elegant appearance, with its stately 180 m2 and slabs of dark gneiss from Vals.

The Federal Palace in Bern is illuminated by the morning sun, giving the magnificent building and its tranquil surroundings a peaceful, hopeful atmosphere.

In addition to the farmer’s market, it is also a place for political manifestations, concerts, state visits, and sporting events. Surrounding the square are the headquarters of the Swiss National Bank and the Berner Kantonalbank (Cantonal Bank of Bern) to its left and right as well as Bärenplatz (Bear’s Square) with its many restaurants at its North end.

Behind the Parliament Building lies the Bundesterrasse (literally the “federal terrace”), spanning all the way from the Kleine Schanze park to the historic Bellevue Hotel which, once upon a time, saw heads of state, artists, actors, and secret agents come and go. It is a place where locals like to meet to chat, enjoy a sundowner with a view, read a book, or “sünnele” (sunbathe). From here, you can reach the main station in only five minutes on foot, and the popular Marzili neighbourhood and the Aare river in ten.

Detailed information on Switzerland's political system can be found here.

An attentive group listens to a city guide standing in front of a historic building in Bern. The participants look interested and are wrapped up in warm jackets, which suggests an informative and cosy atmosphere during the "1848 - Bern becomes a federal city" tour.

A dedicated city guide explains something to a group of listeners in front of a monument and the backdrop of a church spire - a scene that conveys a thirst for knowledge and history during the "1848 - Bern becomes a federal city" tour.

A group of listeners stand in front of the Federal Palace in Bern and listen to a guide. They are looking at a model of the building, their faces bathed in sunlight, which suggests an informative and enjoyable guided tour "1848 - Bern becomes a federal city".

A city guide gestures animatedly to a model of the Federal Palace, surrounded by interested listeners in the clear, sunny backdrop of Bern during the "1848 - Bern becomes the Federal City" tour.

City tour "1848 - Bern's birth as a federal city"

The political epicentre of Switzerland: Although Bern is referred to informally as the “capital of Switzerland”, officially it has been a “federal city” since 1848. On this tour, participants will learn why that is and who was rather pessimistic about this decision.