The 10 Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Switzerland transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, adorned with sparkling lights and the festive ambiance of Christmas markets. AlpExcursion invites you to explore the magic of the 10 most enchanting Christmas markets in the country, each offering a unique blend of seasonal delights, charming stalls, and a festive atmosphere.

1. Stein am Rhein Christmas Market

Participate in the medieval charm of Stein am Rhein's Christmas market. The cobblestone streets of the Old Town come alive with festive decorations, and the market offers a delightful mix of local crafts, seasonal treats, and a nostalgic atmosphere.

2. Montreux Christmas Market

Nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, the Montreux Christmas Market is a magical affair with stunning lakeside views. The market features a blend of Swiss and international crafts, festive decorations, and a Santa's Village for the little ones. Enjoy the melodies of the Montreux Christmas Jazz tunes that add a unique musical touch to the holiday spirit.

3. Zurich Christmas Market

Zurich, with its cosmopolitan flair, hosts a Christmas market that transforms the city into a festive haven. Stroll through the twinkling lights of Bahnhofstrasse, savor culinary delights, and discover unique gifts in the heart of Switzerland's largest city.

4. Bern Christmas Market

The capital city's Christmas market is a feast for the senses, with the old town square adorned in festive lights and the air filled with the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. Enjoy the traditional Swiss crafts, delightful treats, and the warmth of the holiday spirit.

5. Basel Christmas Market

The Basel Christmas market is a celebration of tradition and craftsmanship. The historic Old Town provides a charming setting for festive stalls, offering handmade decorations, artisanal gifts, and local culinary delights, such as Basel Läckerli, mulled wine, waffles, Swiss raclette or the famous grilled sausages. A magical Christmas tree stands on Münsterplatz, with decorations designed by the famous decorator Johann Wanner.

6. Geneva Christmas Market

Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva, the Christmas market in Geneva is a delightful experience. Enjoy the Noël au Quai Christmas market in the heart of Geneva. At this magical time, the city transforms into a festive village, offering a wide array of crafts, gifts, and delicious treats. Don’t forget to try the mulled wine and the delicious “moitié-moitié” fondue.

7. Lucerne Christmas Market

Lucerne's Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the picturesque lake and mountains, creates a magical atmosphere. Explore the wooden stalls offering handmade gifts, try the seasonal treats, and take in the breathtaking views that make Lucerne a winter paradise. The Franziskanerbrunnen fountain is a sight not to miss, which is adorned with meter-high candles, pine fonds, and twinkling lights.

8. Interlaken Christmas Market

Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Jungfrau region, the Interlaken Christmas Market offers a charming winter experience. Wander through wooden chalets adorned with twinkling lights, enjoy local specialties, and take in the breathtaking views of the snow-covered Alps.

9. Lausanne Christmas Market

Set against the backdrop of the historic Old Town and the Cathedral, the Lausanne Christmas Market is a festive delight. The market features a variety of stalls offering handmade crafts and gifts, and delicious Swiss treats. The carousel in the shape of a giant fir tree, the toboggan run and the festive decorations add to the enchanting atmosphere.

10. Chur Christmas Market

Nestled in the oldest town in Switzerland, the Chur Christmas Market captures the essence of tradition and charm. The market square comes alive with festive lights, showcasing a mix of local crafts, home-baked seasonal treats, wooden toys, and holiday decorations. Also enjoy the local Mailänderli cookies, barley soup or hot glühwein. The backdrop of Chur's medieval architecture adds to the magical atmosphere, inviting visitors to enjoy the timeless beauty of a Swiss Christmas.

Switzerland's enchanting Christmas markets are scattered across the country, each offering a unique blend of festive cheer, local crafts, Christmas trees and seasonal delights. Whether you find yourself at the lakeside market in Montreux, amid the snow-capped peaks in Interlaken, in the historic heart of Lausanne, or in the charming town of Chur, the magic of a Swiss Christmas is sure to captivate your heart. If you need a transfer to and from any of those markets, we are at your disposal to make your holidays even more memorable.

AlpExcursion wishes you a joyous and magical holiday season filled with the enchantment of these delightful Christmas markets.