Westside Shopping Center

The basics

Westside Shopping Center is just minutes west of downtown Bern, making it easy to pair a visit here with a walking or cycling tour of Bern's old town. Take in top sights such as the Bern Minster (Berner Münster)—the largest and most important late medieval church in Switzerland—plus the Bern Clock Tower (Zytgoggle), Bern Bear Park (BärenPark), and the Swiss Parliament House (Bundeshaus) in just a few hours with a guide.

Afterwards, head by car or bus to the shopping and leisure center to browse the stores, dine, catch a movie, or relax with your family at the waterpark.

Things to know before you go

• The shopping center is free to enter but attractions such as the AdventureDome play spaces and Bernaqua Water Park charge admission.

• With its wide variety of attractions, activities, and entertainment, the shopping and leisure center is perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends.

• Dining options range from international fast-food chains to wine bars and waffle stands.

• On-site services include an information point, ATMs, restrooms and infant changing and breastfeeding stations, and a short-term daycare.

• The complex is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though parts of the play spaces and water park have limited accessibility.

How to get there

Westside Shopping Center is along Highway A1 (exit no. 32 Bern Brünnen) between Bern and Murten-Neuchâtel and has ample paid parking. It’s also easy to reach from the center of Bern by public transport. Take the train to the Bern Brünnen Westside station or tram number 8 to the Brünnen Westside Bahnhof stop.

When to get there

Westside Shopping Center shops are closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays, though the complex’s restaurants and other attractions remain open. The complex can get very crowded on the weekends. Visit on Monday or Tuesday to take advantage of all the attractions without the crowds.

Visiting the Bernaqua Water Park

One of the highlights of the Westside Shopping Center is the family-friendly Bernaqua, a water park and fitness center that offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Swim in the main pool, take on the water slides, relax with tots at the kiddie playground, or join one of the aqua fitness classes. Adults can also take advantage of the sauna and massage treatments in the wellness area or exercise in the fitness area.