16 Aug AMAZING CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN SWITZERLAND
Christmas markets in Switzerland are a delightful secret waiting to be uncovered. And oh boy, we did. As we travelled by train to Zürich, Lausanne and Lucerne, we discovered that the Swiss know how to organise a proper Christmas market. From a Ferris wheel to a singing Christmas tree. Each visit is accompanied by mulled wine and a charming atmosphere. Let us show you the best Christmas markets in Switzerland to visit!
Swiss Christmas markets
Often associated with pristine Alpine landscapes, Switzerland reveals another facet of its charm during the festive season – its enchanting Christmas markets. And what better way to discover them, than by train? With a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, this sustainable way of travelling isn’t only comfortable, but also very easy with a Swiss Travel Pass.
The Swiss Christmas markets are all about getting together in a cosy setting with family and friends. At all markets, you’ll find stalls with Swiss delicacies and – of course – mulled wine. Tip: put in a deposit and ask for a mug for your mulled wine. Most markets also have stalls where you can buy Christmas items, souvenirs, handicrafts and more. However, most people here will come together to enjoy each other’s company in holiday spirits.
Check out Europe’s Best Christmas Markets!
Singing Christmas Tree in Zürich
Zürich is an absolute must-see during the holiday season. The city sparkles in every direction you look, especially the illuminated Bahnhofstrasse, which is a sight for soar eyes. Every year on the Thursday, four weeks before Christmas this city will put on his cloak of Christmas lights. Then, as far as Zürich is concerned, the holiday season has officially started.
The Christmas market at Münsterhof is a nice market to start with. Under the motto ‘From Zurich for Zurich’ you’ll find local products at each stall. The second that left a smashing impression was the Wienachtsdorf at Sechseläutenplatz in front of the Opera House. This is one of the largest in Zürich and gives a more buzzing atmosphere. The third one that can’t be missed is the Christkindlimarkt inside Zürich main train station, the largest indoor Christmas market in Europe.
The main reasons for visiting this one are the over 100 stalls and the 15-meter Christmas tree. Lastly, and my personal favourite, just because it’s so funny and I haven’t seen this before anywhere in the world: the Singing Christmas Tree and market at Werdmühleplatz. A few times a day, a choir climbs up the Christmas tree to perform their Christmas songs. There must have been 40 or 50 singers up in that tree!
In addition to the Christmas markets, many events take place during the Advent period. It’s recommended to check the calendar online. Also, keep a lookout for the stunning light show Illuminarium and the swimming Santa Clauses for charity.
Hop on the Ferris wheel in Lausanne
Lausanne, the city alongside Lake Geneva, but we’re here to visit Lausanne’s Bô Noël. Lausanne’s Christmas markets are spread out around the city, with the Ferris wheel close to the cathedral high up on the hill to the meeting place at Saint-François church with the iconic tree decorated with giant baubles. Also, the Boutique des Créateur·trices is worth a visit with handcrafted products from local creators.
Charming Christmas markets in Lucerne
From Lausanne, we hop on the train to Lucerne, the last stop of our Christmas market tour through Switzerland. Lucerne is known for the oldest wooden bridge in the world, dating back to the 14th century. During the holiday season, this city transforms into a Christmas wonderland with Christmas markets and Advent ‘pop-ups’.
In the old town, Franziskanerplatz transformed into a Christmas market of wooden stalls with traditional handicrafts and treats, mulled wine and raclette. It’s a delight to wander around here and enjoy a mug with punch or mulled wine.
Franziskanerplatz
While near the train station and the KKL, Rudolfs Weihnacht overlooks Lake Lucerne. This Christmas market is less traditional, with food stalls offering international dishes. And at the mini-market, you’ll find gorgeous handcrafted jewellery, home accessories and eatables. Oh, and to top it off, end your evening at the Glühwein-disco. Yes, that’s a thing here.
In addition, and worth checking out, are the pop-ups of the Advent Events. These ‘after-work advent concerts’ pop up in various locations throughout the city every day. Who, when and where? Better check out the program every year online!
Planning your trip to the Christmas markets in Switzerland
The Christmas markets in Switzerland cannot be compared to the ones in Germany. They are unique and worth a visit. The easiest way to get around is with a Swiss Travel Pass. This gives you access to public transport like trains (hello panorama train), busses and boats. You can even go up Mount Rigi from Lucerne. The Swiss Travel Pass is available from 3 to 15 days. A 3-day pass is approximately 245 euros (second class) and can be purchased online.
If you are just as much of a fan of Christmas, do not skip Switzerland! Each city has a unique atmosphere, but all are very much holiday-spirited. Wander around the Christmas markets while having a (white) mulled wine, enjoy the fondue or raclette and bring home (eatable) souvenirs. You’ll love it!
Happy holidays!
XXX – Danielle
*header photo Switzerland Tourismus / Jan Geerk
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