Bern’s arcades—called Lauben—are the city’s best feature for travelers. They are not just a pretty detail; they fundamentally change how Bern feels: long, sheltered walks through the UNESCO Old Town, with shops, cafés, and cellar entrances tucked beneath vaulted ceilings. Rain becomes background. Winter becomes comfortable. Wandering becomes easy.
Total Length
About 6 km of covered arcades in the Old Town.
Best For
First-time visitors, rainy days, shopping, and café hopping.
Best Time
Early morning for calm, evening for warm Old Town glow.
Where to Walk (The Classic Arcade Spine)
The simplest approach is to follow the Old Town’s main axis from the station into the medieval center, letting the arcades guide the route. The best “first walk” is a continuous flow of shopfronts, fountains, and landmark moments.
- • Station → Spitalgasse → Marktgasse → Kramgasse (Zytglogge area).
- • Add fountain detours and courtyards as mood and weather allow.
- • Finish toward the river bend for Bear Park and Rosengarten if the day is clear.
Use the Old Town walking tour for a step-by-step route.
Arcades Tips (Small Things That Make It Better)
- • Look for cellar doors: Many of Bern’s best bars and restaurants hide below street level.
- • Peek into courtyards: Some of the prettiest corners are one step off the main flow.
- • Use cafés strategically: A warm stop turns any season into easy travel.
- • Shop in weather windows: The arcades make “bad weather” shopping feel peaceful instead of annoying.
Next reads
Keep exploring Bern with guides that pair well with this one.
Accuracy note
Hours, tickets, and seasonal access can change. We link to primary sources where it helps and keep guides updated—but always verify time-sensitive details before you go.