Are you planning to visit Switzerland this December? If so, you have so much to look forward to, from the charming streets of Zurich to enjoying a cup of Swiss hot chocolate in the snowy alps. One of the best parts of visiting Switzerland in the winter is the Christmas markets, where you can enjoy the best of traditional Swiss culture. Here are our top six favorite Christmas markets in Switzerland. Enjoy!
These 6 Christmas Markets In Switzerland Are Worth Visiting
1. St. Gallen
An hour away from Zurich will get you to St. Gallen, with a gorgeous baroque cathedral and medieval buildings that will bring you back in time. If you’re lucky, your visit will coincide with the lighting of the tallest Christmas tree in Switzerland, while carol singers add to the festivities. You’re sure to encounter “biberli,” a Swiss desert made of ginger bread and marzipan in all kinds of shapes.
2. Montreux
At Montreux, views of the snowy Alps are the background to the cosy Christmas market. The market is right by Lake Geneva with 150 chalets along the water. The Christmas village is magical for children, with a traditional nativity scene. The decor of lights and snowflakes will brighten up a chilly night, and the wine and hot speculoos drinks will keep you warm. Treat yourself with classic Swiss sweets and chocolates, as the market is open for just a month from late November to late December.
3. Zurich
At the magical main station in Zurich, the Christmas market sprawls out inside the main hall. Travelling has never been this festive. An incredible Christmas tree adorned in Swarovski crystal ornaments signals the holiday season, and overlooks one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. The Christkindlimarkt, as the Swiss call the market, is also laden with steaming raclette and mulled wine.
4. Lausanne
All over Lausanne you can find the Christmas market spread of wooden chalets. Find arts and crafts for last minute gift inspiration, and frolic on an ice rink that’ll bring you back to your childhood. The markets can be found at Saint Francois, Pepinet, and Flon. Travel between all of the markets as you take in the beautiful streets — Lausanne is a maze of Christmas cheer.
5. Basel
In the centre of the city in Old Town, a gloriously decorated Christmas tree sets the scene for one of Switzerland’s most popular markets. The lights twinkle while the Christmas treats are piping hot. Waffles, gluhwein, gingerbread, sausages, and raclette give you just a taste of what’s on offer at the Basel Christmas market — what more could you need! The popular market runs from late November to late December.
6. Bern
This Christmas Market derived from a general food and crafts market in the capital of Switzerland. There are two markets, at the Munzterplatz and the Waisenhausplatz. At the Muzterplatz, you’re more likely to find crafts and Christmas gifts to browse through. However, the Waisenahausplatz is more of a traditional market, with food, treats, clothes, and roasted chestnuts that are not to be missed. ’Tis the season to be in Switzerland!
This article was written by Clara Hudson.