More blogs
The Swiss have truly outdone themselves this year! Home to the infamous Alps, Heidi, Muesli and the world's best chocolate (sorry Belgium), Switzerland is the perfect winter destination for magical Christmas markets, stunning scenery and a unique culture unlike anywhere else. To make sure you don’t miss a thing in Switzerland this Christmas, our experts have rounded up the best Christmas markets in Switzerland which offer everything from dazzling Christmas light shows, and delicious Swiss food to fun Christmas activities to enjoy beyond the Swiss Christmas markets.
If you want to jump to the chase, click the links below to find out more about the best Switzerland Christmas market for you:
- The Montreux Christmas Market to catch Santa flying overhead.
- The Basel Christmas Market, one of Switzerland’s oldest.
- The Zurich Christmas Market to see the Christmas tree decorated in diamonds.
- The Zauberwald Lenzerheide Market to lose yourself in a magical forest maze.
- The Lausanne Christmas Market for tobogganing in the snow.
- The Geneva Christmas Market for a fondue feast by Lake Geneva.
- The Lucerne Christmas Market for a ride on Santa's boat.
- The Bern Christmas Market for a truly enchanting setting.
- The Winterthur Christmas Market to celebrate in the Swiss Alps.
- The St Gallen Christmas Market to stroll beneath a sky full of stars.
1. Montreux Christmas Market
Dates: 21 November - 24 December 2024
If it’s pure Christmas magic you’re after, the Montreux Christmas market is the place to be. Between Lake Geneva and the Alps, you'll find this stunning Swiss Christmas market that always appears in the list of Switzerland’s best and this year marks the 30th anniversary, promising extra surprises all December long!
At the Montreux Christmas market, you'll find over 150 chalets selling Swiss treats, and unique crafts. But what truly sets this Christmas market apart is Santa’s House at Rochers-de-Naye, where the little ones can ride Santa's train to meet the man himself and even get a Christmas gift (only if they've been good of course).
Must-sees at the Montreux Christmas Market:
- Santa's House: Meet Father Christmas at an altitude of over 2,000m.
- Chillon Castle Christmas Market: take part in Christmas festivities in a fortress, with traditional dances and craft workshops in centuries-old halls.
- Santa Flying: every day at 5, 6 and 7 pm, watch Santa fly over this Swiss Christmas market.
The Lowdown on the Montreux Christmas Market:
Number of Christmas markets: Montreux has 4 main Christmas markets
- On the Quays of Montreux
- On the Place du marché
- At the Rochers-de-Naye (to see Santa's house)
- At the Château de Chillon
We loved: Santa's train to Santa's house
For more information: visit the Montreux Christmas Market website.
2. Basel Christmas Market
Dates: From November 28 to December 23 2024
In one of Switzerland's most beautiful old towns, the Basel Christmas market is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe and easy to reach from Mulhouse in France.
The Basel Christmas market is worth a visit simply because it's one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in the country, stretching across several squares in the city. You'll find an impressive array of over 150 stalls selling handcrafted products, local specialities such as Basel's famous gingerbread, and magnificent Christmas decorations that light up the cobbled streets. As well as offering entertainment for all the family, Basel's Old Town is transformed into a fairytale in December thanks to its beautiful illuminations that are a pleasure to explore as the sun goes down.
Must-sees at the Basel Christmas market:
- The Christmas Pyramid on Barfüsserplatz: at 13m high, it is one of the most beautiful Christmas pyramids in Europe.
- The Basel's Wish Book: in the courtyard of the Town Hall, it collects messages of love, peace and letters to Santa from thousands of visitors.
- The Hans-Rudolf Liechtenstein's Stand: taste the Feuerzangenbowle prepared in a copper cauldron with rum and a sugar loaf.
The Lowdown on the Basel Christmas Market:
Number of Christmas markets: Basel has 3 main Christmas markets:
- The Christmas market on Barfüsserplatz
- The Münsterplatz Christmas market.
- The Adväntsgass Christmas market
We loved it: writing your wish in the Town Hall Christmas book.
For more information: on the Basel City website.
3. Zurich Christmas Market: Sparkle in the City
Dates: 21st November to 23rd December 2024
Third on our list of the best Switzerland Christmas markets is the Zurich Christmas market. In the heart of the main railway station, the Christkindlimarkt is one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets and inside you'll spot the sparkling Christmas tree. In addition to its exceptional location, Zurich has several other enchanting Christmas markets, such as the Wienachtsdorf on Sechseläutenplatz. These stalls showcase all the local crafts, from Swiss delicacies to handmade items.
Must-sees at the Zurich Christmas Market:
- The Jelmoli Märlitram: led by Father Christmas, children aged 4 to 9 can cross the city listening to tales told by 2 angels (in German).
- The Singing Christmas Tree: daily choir concerts on a stage shaped like a Christmas tree.
The Lowdown on the Zurich Christmas Markets:
Number of Christmas markets: 7 main Christmas markets:
- Christkindlimarkt at Central Station
- Wienachtsdorf on Sechseläutenplatz
- Dörfli Weihnachtsmarkt in the Old Town
- Weihnachtsmarkt on Werdmühleplatz
- Münsterhof Weihnachtsmarkt
- Christmas market at Marktplatz Oerlikon
- Zürcher Weihnachtsallee on Europaallee
What we loved: The Christmas market at Central Station – it’s perfect for browsing as soon as you step off the train.
For more information: Head over to the Zurich City website.
4. Zauberwald Christmas Market
Dates: 12th to 30th December 2024
The Zauberwald Lenzerheide is like no other Switzerland Christmas market – a truly enchanting blend of lights, art, and nature in a beautifully illuminated forest. It’s a feast for the senses with stunning light installations, Swiss crafts, and delicious local bites. Adding to the magic, they’ve got live, open-air concerts and family-friendly activities for all ages.
The Must-sees:
-
- The Light Installations: incredible light shows set up by acclaimed international artists.
- Concerts on the Forest Stage: live music that adds to the ambience.
Market location: Zauberwald Lenzerheide
Our favourite: The light show was unforgettable.
Find out more: Check out their official website.
5. Lausanne Christmas Market
Dates: 20th November to 31st December 2024
Lausanne’s Bô Noël Christmas market is all about that cosy winter charm spread across the city’s top spots. From artisan gifts on Place Saint-François to foodie treats in the Flon district and a sustainable Christmas market on Place Centrale, this one’s full of local flavour and twinkling lights.
There’s plenty for families too, like the Children’s Village near the cathedral, making it ideal for a festive family day out.
Must-sees:
- Snowy toboggan run: Kids will love zooming down on their sledges.
- Marché des Papilles: Tuck into gourmet bites and sip on the region’s signature mulled wine.
- Giant Ferris Wheel: Take in the views of Lausanne all aglow!
Number of Christmas markets: 9 main markets spread across various locations in Lausanne, including:
- Place Saint-François (Bô Noël)
- Place Pépinet (Bô Noël)
- Place de l'Europe (Bô Noël)
- Place des Pionnières (Bô Noël)
- Terrasse Jean-Monnet (Bô Noël)
- Place du Château (Bô Noël)
Our favourite: The ethical market on Place Centrale, perfect for thoughtful, sustainable gifts.
6. Geneva Christmas Market
Dates: 21st November to 24th December 2024.
Set along Lake Geneva, Geneva’s Christmas market is a wonderfully festive experience that’s as sophisticated as the city itself. Spread across Parc des Bastions, Jardins des Anglais, and the Quai du Mont Blanc, this market combines charming chalets, wintery bites, and even open-air skating. It’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit with Geneva’s elegance as a backdrop.
Must-sees:
- The Fondue Chalet: A must for a warming fondue by the lake.
- The Christmas Pub: Enjoy a tipple (and plenty of Mariah Carey hits) at this quirky spot.
- Christmas Yurt for children: Fun workshops and games to entertain the little ones.
Number of Christmas markets: 3 main markets across Geneva:
- Quai du Mont Blanc
- Parc des Bastions
- Jardin des Anglais
Our favourite: The fondue chalet – there’s nothing like it!
For more information: Head to the Christmas at the Quai website.
7. Lucerne Christmas Market
Dates: 5 December to 22 December
Framed by snow-capped mountains, Lucerne offers a cosy Christmas escape with its charming medieval streets and twinkling lights. At Franziskanerplatz, you’ll find tons of wooden chalets overflowing with local crafts—perfect for finding a uniquely Swiss Christmas gift. Tuck into Swiss favourites like warm fondue and mulled wine as you soak up the views of Lake Lucerne. Lucerne has that welcoming, intimate feel, especially if you hop on a Christmas boat ride across the lake or attend one of the magical concerts in a historic church.
Lucerne Christmas Market Highlights
- The Ice rink at Europaplatz: Glide on the ice beneath sparkling Christmas decorations.
- A Cruise on Lake Lucerne: Festively decorated boats offer stunning views of the city and mountains.
- The Lucerne Bellringers and Trychler Parade: Be part of an unforgettable Swiss Christmas tradition as the sound of bells fills the streets.
8. Bern Christmas Market
Dates: 21 November to 28 December
In Switzerland's capital, the Bern Christmas Market transforms the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, into a dreamy, festive village. Here, you’ll find two main markets: Waisenhausplatz for Swiss crafts and Münsterplatz for arts and cosy ambience. With its charming arcades and historical feel, Bern brings out the magic of the season. Strolling beneath twinkling lights and discovering the city’s beautiful landmarks makes this Christmas market visit truly special.
Must-See Highlights at the Bern Christmas Market:
- Visit the Clock Tower (Zytglogge): See one of Bern’s most iconic landmarks with festive lights.
- Taste the treats at Waisenhausplatz: Warm up with delicious Swiss delicacies like Bricelets and fondue.
- Venture to Huttwil’s Christmas village: A short train ride away, this smaller Swiss Christmas market is full of charm.
The Lowdown on the Bern Christmas Market:
Locations: Three main markets in Bern:
- Kleine Schanze star market
- Waisenhausplatz Christmas market
- Collegiale Christmas market at Bern Cathedral
Our highlight: Cosy up with a cup of mulled wine by the Bern Cathedral.
9. Winterthur Christmas Market
Dates: TBC
Just a short journey from Zurich, Winterthur Christmas Market is an absolute delight. With over 100 Christmas stalls, Winterthur’s festive setup brings a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Stroll through the village and enjoy local delicacies while taking in the lively spirit brought by open-air concerts and festive cheer from local residents.
Winterthur Christmas Market Highlights
- The Wiedehopf rooftop winter pop-up: Sip on mulled wine under starlit skies, with lovely views of the village.
- Winterthur Christmas Market rides: Treat yourself to a Ferris wheel ride or enjoy festive attractions for all ages.
10. St. Gallen Christmas Market
Dates: 28 November 2024 to 6 January 2025
Last on our list of the best Switzerland Christmas Markets but full of magic, St. Gallen Christmas Market has an enchanting glow. With over 700 stars sparkling above the old town, the atmosphere is nothing short of magical. Wander between market stalls, sip mulled wine, and listen to Christmas music as street performers fill the air with Christmas cheer. It’s simple, Swiss, and perfect.
St Gallen Christmas Market Highlights
- The 700 Stars Light Show: Watch as twinkling stars create a mesmerising light display.
- The giant Christmas tree at Klosterplatz: A sight that brings everyone together.
Buy Hotel Vouchers For Your Loved Ones This Christmas
Still not bought all your Christmas gifts? Buy gift vouchers for hotels around the world with Hotelgift. Our hotel gift cards are the best Christmas gift for travel lovers or simply those who could do with a well-deserved night away. Our gift cards come as:
- PDFs: for you to print at home to give in person
- E gift cards for hotels: sent in minutes to their inbox
- Luxury vouchers for hotels: printed on 11-inch gold card in the shape of a do-not-disturb sign and sent for free in the post
You can add credit between £25 to £10,000 and in multiple currencies so it's super easy to budget and send a unique Christmas gift to your long distance relatives or friends. With only one gift voucher for hotels, they can book with over 750,000 hotels across the UK, Europe and beyond! Whether they fancy a staycation or save it for their next holiday, everything's possible with a hotel voucher.
