Bern Arcades
Step into a 90s gaming haven with classic pinball and pool tables. A nostalgic escape for retro enthusiasts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more game time
Bern Arcades
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more game time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a 90s gaming haven with classic pinball and pool tables. A nostalgic escape for retro enthusiasts.
"One of the last classic arcades, with pinball machines and pool tables. A true slice of 90s gaming heaven."
Bring Cash for Games
Most classic arcade games and pinball machines operate on coins. Come prepared to feed the machines! :moneybag:
Embrace the Retro Vibe
Dim lighting and a classic scent are part of the charm. It's a step back into the 90s gaming scene. :sparkler:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Pinball Machines
Main arcade floor
Relive the glory days with classic pinball games like Medieval Madness and Tales of the Arabian Nights. A true blast from the past!
Pool Tables
Dedicated area
Challenge your friends to a game of pool in a classic, atmospheric setting. Perfect for a relaxed evening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Plan for Classic Gaming
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Could Rain ruin a one day trip to Bern (tomorrow)?
Bring Cash for Games
Most classic arcade games and pinball machines operate on coins. Come prepared to feed the machines! :moneybag:
Embrace the Retro Vibe
Dim lighting and a classic scent are part of the charm. It's a step back into the 90s gaming scene. :sparkler:
Support Classic Gaming
Your francs help keep these vintage pinball machines and arcade games alive for future generations. :heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Games
Most classic arcade games and pinball machines operate on coins. Come prepared to feed the machines! :moneybag:
Embrace the Retro Vibe
Dim lighting and a classic scent are part of the charm. It's a step back into the 90s gaming scene. :sparkler:
Support Classic Gaming
Your francs help keep these vintage pinball machines and arcade games alive for future generations. :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bern Arcades for their authentic collection of vintage pinball machines and pool tables, offering a nostalgic trip back to the 90s. The classic atmosphere is a significant draw, with many appreciating the opportunity to support and enjoy these retro games. However, some patrons have reported negative social interactions, which is a point of concern for a few. Despite this, the core appeal of classic gaming remains strong.
"I was there with some friends this spring and was called a black person for no reason by a very rude, old white Swiss guy. We just wanted to play pool, and when we went to get the rackets, I heard this comment from him: he wanted me to take the rackets because of my skin color."
hype market
"Beautiful room, very clean and very quiet, the ideal conditions to play with the two William's pinball machines, relics of the 90s. Both Medieval Madness and Tales of the Arabian Nights were in good condition. 3 games for 5 chf, but 5 balls per game! And anyway, I'm always happy to pay to help keep these antiques alive, thank you Golden Games 😎👍🏻🙌"
Gae Matt
"One of the last classic arcades, with pinball machines and pool tables.
I spent a lot of my time as a teenager in these then almost "sacred" halls.
Dim lighting, cigarette-scented air, and always people you didn't want to meet in the dark.
Yes, yes, it was a long time ago... and it cost me a few francs.
PIAZZA dates back to the time when PlayStation was still in the cradle of the digital age.
Check it out."
B.B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bern Arcades are located in the heart of Bern, making them easily accessible by public transport. Tram and bus lines stop frequently near the city center. If you're arriving by train, it's a short walk from Bern Hauptbahnhof. Check local transport apps for the most direct routes from your location.
Parking in Bern's city center can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation. If you must drive, look for underground parking garages like the one at the Hauptbahnhof or other central locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Bern Arcades is typically free. You only pay for the games you play, such as pinball or pool. This allows you to browse and soak in the atmosphere without any commitment.
Opening hours can vary, but classic arcades like this often stay open late into the evening, especially on weekends. It's best to check their specific hours closer to your visit, as they may not have a readily available online presence.
Games like pinball machines usually cost around 3 games for 5 CHF, with 5 balls per game. Pool table rates will vary, so inquire on-site for current pricing.
🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience
The Bern Arcades are known for their collection of vintage pinball machines, including popular titles like Medieval Madness and Tales of the Arabian Nights. They also feature pool tables, offering a classic arcade experience.
While the games themselves are generally suitable for most ages, the atmosphere is reminiscent of older arcades, which might include dim lighting and a more adult-oriented vibe. It's a great spot for adults and teens looking for a retro gaming experience.
Yes, the Bern Arcades typically have separate areas for pinball machines and pool tables, allowing visitors to enjoy both activities during their visit.
Expect a nostalgic, dimly lit environment with the sounds of classic arcade games. It's a place that evokes memories of 90s gaming culture, with a focus on the tactile experience of playing physical games.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other patrons. The dim lighting might make for atmospheric shots, but ensure you're not disrupting gameplay or privacy.
Capture the unique aesthetic of the vintage pinball machines, the classic pool tables, and the overall retro ambiance. The neon lights and classic game art can make for striking photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Nostalgia Seekers
This is a perfect spot for a casual outing with friends or a unique date night. Bring cash to ensure you can play all your favorite games. It's a chance to disconnect from modern distractions and immerse yourself in a truly classic entertainment experience.
Budget Travelers
It's a great way to spend an evening without breaking the bank, especially compared to other forms of entertainment. Focus on the pinball machines for a good value and a lot of replayability. It’s a fun, low-cost activity that provides hours of entertainment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Retro Gaming
These arcades are more than just places to play games; they are time capsules. They preserve a piece of cultural history, offering a glimpse into the entertainment landscape of the past. For many, visiting these spots is a journey down memory lane, evoking childhood memories and simpler times. The dim lighting, the distinct scent of classic arcades, and the chorus of game sounds all contribute to an immersive, nostalgic experience.
Supporting establishments like the Bern Arcades is crucial for the preservation of this heritage. As technology advances, classic gaming venues face challenges. By patronizing them, visitors not only enjoy themselves but also contribute to keeping these unique spaces alive for future generations to discover and appreciate. It's a way to ensure that the legacy of physical arcade games continues to be celebrated.
Navigating the Bern Arcade Experience
Financially, the Bern Arcades operate on a pay-per-play model. Pinball machines typically require a few Swiss Francs for a set number of balls, and pool tables are usually rented by the hour or game. It's advisable to bring sufficient cash, as not all machines may accept cards. This also helps in supporting the arcade's operational costs, as mentioned by patrons who are happy to pay to keep these classic games running.
For those seeking a truly authentic retro experience, the Bern Arcades deliver. The atmosphere is characterized by dim lighting and a classic arcade scent, which many find adds to the charm. It’s a place where the focus is purely on the games, offering a break from the digital world and a chance to engage in some classic fun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit