Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Franziskanerplatz

Lucerne's most famous Christmas market, held since 2009 in the heart of the historic Old Town around the Franciscan Church. Features around 70 market stalls offering special gift items, and is known for the largest Advent wreath in Central Switzerland on the Franciscan fountain - over three meters in diameter, decorated with hundreds of lights and four-meter-high candles.

Zurich Main Station (Hauptbahnhof)

One of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets, located in the main concourse of Zurich's central train station. Features around 140-150 stalls and a spectacular 15-meter (50 ft) tall Christmas tree decorated with Swarovski crystals. The market greets travelers with festive atmosphere immediately upon arrival.

Quai du Mont-Blanc

Geneva's main Christmas market located on the shores of Lake Geneva at Quai du Mont-Blanc. Features over 150 decorated chalets, a Ferris wheel, carousel, fondue chalets, and a Christmas pub. The market offers stunning views of the lake and Jet d'Eau fountain, creating a magical lakeside atmosphere.

Place Saint-François

Covered Christmas market with glass canopy and dozens of food and shopping stalls

Barfüsserplatz

The larger of Basel's main Christmas markets, featuring around 150 wooden chalets wrapped around the historic Barfüsserkirche. Known for its 13-meter high Christmas pyramid, traditional Swiss delicacies including raclette and Basler Läckerli, and the famous Feuerzangenbowle stand. Voted Best Christmas Market in Europe 2021.

Münsterplatz

A magical Christmas market situated in front of the Bern Minster cathedral, featuring unique handmade items and local crafts. The market focuses on art and craftsmanship in an intimate atmosphere, with the Gothic-style Minster (built in 1893) providing a stunning backdrop. Known for excellent mulled wine in the 'Märitbeizli'.

Sechseläutenplatz

One of the largest and most atmospheric Christmas markets in Zurich, located directly in front of the Opera House with views of Lake Zurich. Features over 100 market stalls arranged in a village-like setting, including a Designer Market with local artisans, international food offerings, skating rink, Bavarian curling, fondue chalet, and traditional carousel. Known for its diverse culinary selection from around the world.

Place de l'Europe

Marché du Terroir with local food products and the Igloo du Terroir Vaudois

Parc des Bastions

A Christmas market located in the historic Parc des Bastions in Geneva. The park also features a free outdoor ice skating rink during the winter season, making it a popular destination for families.

Kapellplatz

One of Lucerne's most significant international encounters, featuring cultural exchange from around the world. Visitors learn how Christmas is celebrated globally, with music groups from various countries performing and diverse international cuisine offered at the stalls.

Waisenhausplatz

One of Bern's main Christmas markets featuring traditional chalets with Swiss handcraft products and common market articles. Located in the UNESCO-listed Old Town, it offers warm food and hot drinks in a festive atmosphere. The market also includes an Old Year's Market and New Year's Market after Christmas.

Münsterplatz

Located in front of the historic Basel Cathedral (Münster), this market features a magnificent Christmas tree decorated by renowned decorator Johann Wanner. The square is beautifully illuminated with snow globe decorations hanging from trees. Includes the Märchenwald (fairytale forest) section with activities for children including candle-making, gingerbread decorating, and metal forging workshops.

Niederdorf (Old Town)

Zurich's oldest Christmas market, spread throughout the picturesque Old Town (Niederdorf quarter) across multiple squares including Zwingli Space, Stüssihoffstatt, Rosenhof, Niederdorfstrasse, Hirschenplatz and around the Grossmünster. Features traditional handcrafts, international goods, ski gondolas converted into fondue spots, and entertainment including fire jugglers, giant alphorns, and llamas. Known for its romantic atmosphere with pastel-colored historic buildings.

Kleine Schanze

One of Bern's main Christmas markets featuring a large Christmas tree adorned with teddy bears and cozy wooden chalets. The market offers handmade gifts, mulled wine, raclette, and a heated fondue chalet seating around 200 people. The market is fully cashless and features festive lighting throughout.

Claraplatz

Located in Kleinbasel across the Rhine, this market features a large Alpine hut (Alphütte) offering a wide selection of food and drinks. Known for the Chääsjoodler stand serving fondue in bread bowls and traditional cheese fondue in various varieties, including vegan options. The cozy atmosphere invites visitors to linger and enjoy Swiss cheese specialties.