Christmas Markets in Switzerland 2024-2025

Check out some of the most atmospheric Christmas fairs in Europe to get into the mood before the holidays

Dates: mid-November–early January

Bern Christmas Markets (November 21, 2024–January 4, 2025)

Bern's Christmas markets, set in the Old Town, offer a festive atmosphere with traditional crafts and seasonal delicacies. The main markets are located at Münsterplatz and Waisenhausplatz, featuring handcrafted goods, gifts, and local treats. Additionally, Bern's winter pop-up bars provide cozy spots to enjoy hot beverages and seasonal drinks, adding to the holiday charm. These markets and pop-up bars are a must-see for anyone visiting Bern during the Christmas season.

Basel Christmas Markets (November 28–December 23, 2024)

The Basel Christmas Market, held from late November to late December, stretches across the historic Old Town from Münsterplatz to Barfüsserplatz. Featuring over 130 festive stalls, it offers handmade gifts, delicious local treats like Swiss raclette, and Basel's famous Läckerli gingerbread. Visitors can also admire a towering Christmas tree at Münsterplatz and enjoy pre-Christmas events. Key attractions include the iconic 13-meter Christmas pyramid and the Basel Wish Book at City Hall for sharing holiday wishes.

Montreux Christmas Markets (November 21–December 24, 2024)

The Montreux Christmas Market, arguably Switzerland's most famous, is set in the picturesque town of Montreux along Lake Geneva. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and adorned with glowing decorations, this market offers over 150 chalets featuring artisanal goods and festive treats. Children especially love Santa's house and post office in the Christmas village. Other highlights include a Santa flight, a medieval village at Chillon Castle, and a stunning light show. Running from late November to Christmas Eve, it provides a magical, alpine holiday experience.

Lausanne Christmas Markets (November 20–December 31, 2024)

From late November to New Year's Eve, Lausanne’s Christmas markets come to life with a festive atmosphere perfect for gift shopping, savoring local gastronomy, and discovering regional wines. Highlights include the Opening Parade, Ferris Wheel, Igloo du Terroir Vaudois, and a Children's Village. Visitors can enjoy a skating rink, a market with 50 wooden chalets, and special events like Calèches apéro or fondue rides.

Zurich Christmas Markets (November 21–December 24, 2024)

Zurich offers a variety of Christmas markets. The Christkindlimarkt at the main train station features a stunning tree, while the "Wienachtsdorf" on Sechseläutenplatz has 100 stalls and an ice rink. The Niederdorf Old Town Market, perfect for a scenic stroll, offers handmade gifts and mulled wine. Most markets run from late November to Christmas Eve, transforming Zurich’s streets into a festive wonderland with over 200 shops and 70 decorated stalls offering gifts, food, and holiday magic for all ages.

Märlistadt Stein am Rhein (December 4, 2024–January 5, 2025)

Märlistadt Stein am Rhein is a unique holiday event set in a charming medieval town between Lake Constance and the Rhine Falls, northeast of Zurich. It's not a typical Christmas market but a festive gathering spot with fairy tale themes, crafts, concerts, and guided tours. Blacksmiths, carpenters, and other artisans create an immersive experience. The event is known for its annually changing fairy tale theme and cozy atmosphere, making it a beloved December attraction in northeastern Switzerland.