The most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland

Montreux Noël 

Montreux Noël stretches along the promenade of Lake Geneva. The Christmas market in Montreux is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland. With its charm, it enchants visitors both big and small. The lake promenade is decorated for the season and illuminated – from the Ferris wheel you have a great view over the Christmas chalets, which offer all kinds of artisan crafts and gift ideas. A highlight for the little ones: In Montreux you can marvel at Santa Claus flying by in his sleigh pulled by reindeer against the idyllic backdrop of the lake. 
If you want to experience even more Christmas magic, you can even meet Santa in person. Santa's house awaits you at the top of Rochers-de-Naye. Or how about Christmas in a castle at Chillon Castle. On the first three weekends in December, great events for families take place there!

Opening hours and program: Montreux Noël | montreuxnoel.com

Zurich Christmas Village at Bellevue 

The "Wienachtsdorf am Bellevue", a Christmas village at Sechseläutenplatz in Zurich, is a classic among Swiss Christmas markets. The red huts are home to numerous merchants who combine traditional craftsmanship and design. Of course, culinary delights from all over the world are also offered. While you are eating dumplings, ramen, or pasta, you can catch a glimpse of Santa Claus or one of the great walking acts. The program also includes workshops with the Opera House seamstresses, face painting for children, and more.

More info can be found at: Christmas market Zurich | wienachtsdorf.ch

Christkindlimarkt Zürich

Zurich has more to offer than just one Christmas market! In addition to several outdoor markets, you will also find one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe: The Christkindlimarkt in Zurich's main train station. Centerpiece and landmark is the traditional Christmas tree, which is over 10 meters high and decorated with thousands of sparkling Swarowski ornaments. 140 market stalls attract not only train commuters.

Christmas market in Basel 

The oldest Christmas market in Switzerland can be found in Basel. The old town is transformed into a magical Christmas land thanks to miles of fairy lights and numerous decorated Christmas trees. Nestled in the historic city center, the Christmas market in Basel can be found around the two churches on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. By the way, in addition to the traditional mulled wine selection, you can also indulge in mulled beer here. Moreover, you can enjoy a wonderful view from Basel Cathedral: The staircase of the Martinturm is illuminated during Advent and from the top you have a fantastic view of the sea of lights below.

For more info click here: Basel Christmas market 24 Nov – 23 Dec 2022 | basel.com

Einsiedeln Christmas Market 

The largest Christmas market in Central Switzerland can be found in the monastery village of Einsiedeln. This market captivates with its fairytale touch of woodland Christmas in front of the impressive monastery backdrop. Hundreds of Christmas trees adorn the long promenade along the main street, which leads to the imposing square in front of the world-famous Benedictine abbey with over 140 huts. Various concerts, museums, and other program highlights add to the charm and sweeten the Christmas market visit for young and old.

The program and opening hours can be found at: Einsiedeln Christmas market | einsiedler-weihnacht.ch

Lucerne Christmas Market: Lozärner Wiehnachtsmärt 

Lucerne is the destination for numerous visitors from all over Switzerland during the time leading up to Christmas. The Lozärner Wiehnachtsmärt, Lucerne's Christmas market, takes place on the Franziskanerplatz and offers many Christmas specialties as well as a great music program. It is also well-known for the largest Advent wreath in Central Switzerland: The Franziskanerbrunnen is festively transformed with fir branches and meter-high candles.  

Opening hours and program information: Lozärner Wiehnachtsmärt | weihnachtsmarkt-luzern.com

Bern Christmas market: Berner Sternenmarkt 

The Christmas market in Bern, called the Berner Sternenmarkt or Star market, is particularly authentic and offers wonderful arts and crafts. What's special: The exhibitors, who offer design and delicacies in the 80 wooden huts, are constantly changing. There is also entertainment for children. The Bern Children's Village has a carousel and attractions on hand to make a visit to the Christmas market a real experience. In the cozy, heated Gstaad Fondue Chalet, you can also make yourself comfortable and enjoy cheese specialties.

Find out more at: Berner Sternenmarkt | bernersternenmarkt.ch

Planning a visit to the Christmas market  

Do you love to stroll through the Christmas market, to have the delicious smells in your nose, and to be caught up in the festive atmosphere? Most of the time you can also find a gift or two for loved ones. If you like to experience something new and visit a different Christmas market for a change, our list is sure to be a great inspiration. Of course, there are many, many other Christmas markets in Switzerland – so it pays to plan well if you want to visit several. 

First of all, it is important to know when the Christmas market takes place. Many markets already open towards the end of November, just in time so that you can ring in Advent with a mulled wine. The duration of the Christmas markets also varies, sometimes you have until shortly before Christmas, but sometimes the markets only take place at the beginning of December. There is usually an official website where you can find the start and end dates as well as the opening hours.

Also think about how you want to travel. In many cases, traveling by train is less stressful. If you do want to drive, it's best to check the parking options beforehand - ideally with two or three alternatives. Especially on weekends, the Swiss Christmas markets are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. No wonder, with so many crafts, arts, treats, and Christmas spirit!