Best Christmas markets in Switzerland 2024

Discover the best Christmas markets in Switzerland for 2024! This winter, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Noël au Quai in Geneva, proudly awarded the title of "Best Christmas Market in Switzerland." This magical market features a stunning array of festive lights, handcrafted gifts, and delightful culinary treats, making it a must-visit destination.

For a romantic Christmas getaway, Lucerne is the perfect choice, boasting a picturesque setting with its iconic Chapel Bridge, often recognized as one of the best places for a marriage proposal in Europe. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand along the lake, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive cheer.

If you're seeking a vibrant Christmas city break that combines shopping, culture, and comfort, look no further than Bern. The capital city offers a charming old town adorned with holiday decorations and a variety of unique local crafts.

For those craving a winter holiday filled with a lively après-ski atmosphere, Lausanne is the place to be. With its bustling markets and stunning views of Lake Geneva, it promises an unforgettable festive experience.

There are countless reasons to visit Switzerland this winter and explore the best Christmas markets. Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, or holiday spirit, Switzerland’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone. Don’t miss out on experiencing the magic of Swiss Christmas traditions!

For a detailed ranking of the best Christmas markets across the country, including essential travel tips and festive highlights, stay tuned for our comprehensive guide.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Switzerland for a 100% Swiss and 100% Magical Christmas.

1. Geneva

From 21st November to 24 December 2024

This is the Best Christmas Market in Switzerland. Experience the magic of Christmas at 'Noël au Quai' in Geneva, set along the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva at Quai du Mont-Blanc.

This enchanting market is a holiday paradise where you can explore unique gifts from talented local craftspeople, with fresh artisans featured each week. Indulge in culinary delights from over 30 food stalls, savoring street food, hand-warming raclette, mulled wine, and the iconic Chalet à Fondue. The festive atmosphere is completed with antique carousels and a children's yurt offering games, crafts, and storytelling.

Beyond the market, Geneva awaits with diverse winter experiences. Dive into invigorating winter swimming followed by a restorative sauna or indulge in local chocolate delights. Engage in watch-making workshops, savor a brunch at the Grand Théâtre, and explore Geneva’s rich cultural scene, fine dining options, and sporting activities. Whether you’re seeking festive cheer or unique adventures, Geneva promises a winter escape like no other.

During your stay do not miss to visit the Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland, Geneva with Noël au Quai is #1st ranked in your selection of the Most Beautiful Christsmas Destinations in Switzerland! 

Book your flights, your accommodation and discover the Most Magical Christmas Destination in Switzerland! 

 Opening dates: From 21st November to 24th December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Geneva Airport

 Where to stay: "The Ritz Carlton Geneva". Situated in the heart of the city.

2. Zurich

From 21st November to 23rd December 2024

THE ZURICH “WIENACHSDORF” AT BELLEVUE

The first Christmas market is said to have taken place as early as 1384. Switzerland cannot look back on such a long tradition, but that is precisely what makes the Zurich Christmas market at Bellevue so magical. Voted by worldwide travellers as the Most Magical Christmas Market in Europe, it has captivated visitors from all over the globe.

But how did the Christmas Village become one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe in such a short time?

Lovingly decorated + community = unique Christmas magic.

Lovingly decorated: on the historic Sechseläutenplatz square in front of Zurich Opera House and in the center of the city, the Christmas market has been set up in the form of a village for almost 10 years. Winding alleyways lead past lovingly decorated huts and cozy squares. Countless Christmas trees line the way, with a huge Christmas tree forming the centerpiece in the village center, all under a sea of lights. These playful decorations and loving details, combined with a great touch of love and spirit of the times, enchant young and old alike.

The people of Zurich have contributed to the Wienachtsdorf—precisely because the Wienachtsdorf at Bellevue has such a young history, the citizens of Zurich, together with the Wienachtsdorf, created a new tradition that the city of Zurich had been missing until then: a place of warmth where the pre-Christmas season can be celebrated in community, a magic that Zurich can no longer be imagined without. The community of vendors has also grown and become part of the Wienachtsdorf—countless concept stores with exquisite products or pop-ups with the finest food have established themselves in Zurich over the years, creating something new.

Grown out of the community, contemporary, modern, beautiful, delicious, original, and with great attention to detail—but not run-of-the-mill—Wienachtsdorf has quickly established itself as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

 Opening dates: From 21st November to 23rd December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich Airport

 Where to stay: "Baur Au Lac" a luxurious hotel located just a short distance from the Christmas Village

3. Basel

From 28th November to 23rd December 2024

Basel has a deep-rooted tradition as Switzerland’s most beautiful and largest Christmas city, and is well worth a visit every year. Not only the well-preserved Old Town is radiant in the warm Christmas light, but the shops and the facades of many buildings glitter with a golden glow. Roughly a hundred tall pine trees border the streets and stand like brightly lit sentinels pointing the way for the visitor. The Basel Christmas Market can be found on Barfüsserplatz, and on Münsterplatz – one of the most beautiful squares in Basel.

A magnificent Christmas tree stands on Münsterplatz, with ornaments by the well-known decorator Johann Wanner.

Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities at the best prices in Basel such as a private tour with a local.

Select the "free cancellation" option and book your accommodation at the best price in Basel.

 Opening dates: From 28th November to 23rd December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Basel Airport.

 Where to stay: "Hyperion Hotel Basel", just a short walk from the Old Town; it offers a sauna and a fitness center.

4. Bern

From 21st November to 28th December 2024

This winter discover one of the Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland. Christmas markets in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bern's medieval streets offer a unique setting for the annual Christmas Markets.

A peaceful, calm advent atmosphere awaits you on the Cathedral Square market, the stands of which crowd right up next to cathedral portal with its representation of the Last Judgment. Regional craft and bake goods, culinary and artistic wares, jewelry and games – all this and much more are on offer here. All these diverse items have one thing in common – the potential gifts are all fashioned and formed with love, skill and imagination.

Hence, the atmosphere at the foot of the Cathedral (Münster) is very special. Fall under its magic spell and enjoy the Christmas mood far from all the hustle and bustle. 

 Opening dates: From 21st November to 28th December 2024. (Confirmed).  

 How to get there: Book your flights to Bern as well as your accommodation, tours and activities.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Bellevue Palace" 300 m from the Christmas Market.

5. Gruyeres

From 13th to 15th December 2024

The medieval town welcomes the traditional Handicraft & Christmas' flavours market in the mainstreet of Gruyères. More than 60 craftsmen and -women participate to the market and many activities are proposed for children and families.

At the foot of the Pre-Alps, you will be enchanted by the charm and picturesque architecture of the medieval town of Gruyères.  The town has given its name to the area and to its delicious cheese. Come and explore a little town that's been unaffected by the passage of time, built in a superb setting. Discover Gruyères, the most beautiful village in western Switzerland. 

 Opening dates: From 13th to 15th December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Bern (40 min by car), Lausanne (1h) or Geneva (1h20 min).

 Where to stay: "Hotel de Ville" is a charming hotel, located 100 m from the Christmas Market.

6. Lausanne

From 20th November to 31st December 2024

Lausanne hosts one of the Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland. Since 2015, the Christmas markets of Lausanne have been improving and transforming the city of Lausanne into a joyful celebration throughout the month of December. With a concept of themed places in the city center, Bô Noël allows visitors to discover Lausanne, its particular typology on a hill overlooking the lake, and the charm of its historic alleys. A unique experience that makes Lausanne exciting and contagiously attractive.

For the first time ever, the Christmas market events will be carried out through to New Year’s Eve, ending with a big New Year’s celebration. 

 Opening dates: From 20th November to 31st December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Lausanne as well as your accommodation, tours & activities. 

 Where to stay: "Lausanne Palace" located 200m from the Christmas Market.

7. Lucerne

From 16th November to 23rd  December 2024

During Advent, Franziskanerplatz is transformed into a town in miniature crammed with gaily decorated stalls resembling little timber houses. Located in the heart of Lucerne's Old Town, the Christmas Market, ranked among the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Switzerland, creates a highly evocative seasonal atmosphere.

Drawing visitors from near and far, the 70 or so festively decorated stalls offer a host of wares and special gift items. While the grown-ups savour a wealth of food and drink offerings, the children make a beeline for the Christmas carousel to the appropriately seasonal music of brass ensembles and choirs. The air is laden with the spicy fragrance of punch and mulled wine. The festive ambience invites visitors to stroll, browse and linger.

 Opening dates: From 16th November to 23rd December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich Airport as well as your accommodation in Lucerne and your tours & activities.

 Where to stay: "Hotel des Balances" 100m from the Christmas Market.

From the beginning of December until Epiphany the city will be embracing the magic of Christmas, filling the festive period with cheer and events to suit all ages. The streets and squares of the city centre will be festively decorated and will host the traditional Lugano Christmas market, which will be inaugurated on 1 December when the Christmas tree lights are switched on in the Piazza della Riforma. The many Christmas market stalls will offer a wide range of gift ideas, from handicrafts and decorations to food specialities, and will be open every day until 24 December from 11:00 to 19:00.

Also don't miss the food huts between the Piazza della Riforma and Piazza Manzoni that will offer something to suit all palates with various culinary delights. Families, on the other hand, can have fun in the Christmas Village, which will be offering musical entertainment, amusements and activities for children. 

 Opening dates: From 1st December 2024 to 7th January 2025 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Milan Malpensa (1h by car, 1h15 by public transport).

 Where to stay: "Hotel Gabbani". Stay in the heart of Lugano.

9. Einsiedeln

From 29th November to 8th December 2024.

Each Christmas, Einsiedeln transforms into a magical winter wonderland, embracing the spirit of Christmas with festive lights, traditional market stalls, and events for visitors of all ages. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss countryside, the town’s central Abbey Square, in front of the stunning Benedictine monastery, is where the renowned Einsiedeln Christmas Market takes place. The stalls, adorned with twinkling lights, will offer an array of handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and local food specialties, open daily from 11:00 to 19:00.

A highlight is the local culinary offerings, with food huts set up around the square serving Swiss festive favorites like raclette, fondue, and Bratwurst, as well as mulled wine to warm up chilly evenings. Traditional Swiss pastries and sweets, such as Basler Läckerli and Lebkuchen, are also available.

Families will enjoy the festive atmosphere, with activities for children, such as visits from Santa Claus, live music, and a special Christmas Village full of entertainment. The Abbey itself often hosts Christmas-themed concerts and religious events during this period, enhancing the spiritual and cultural richness of the experience.

 Opening dates: From 29th November to 8th December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich Airport (just 1 hour by train or car). Direct trains from Zurich take you to Einsiedeln in about an hour.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Drei Könige" or "Boutique Hotel St. Georg", both located in the heart of Einsiedeln

10. Montreux

From 21st November to 24th December 2024.

From late November to early December, Montreux will come alive with the enchanting spirit of Christmas, showcasing its renowned Montreux Christmas Market.  This picturesque market transforms the lakeside promenade into a festive wonderland, with beautifully decorated chalets offering an array of handcrafted gifts, decorations, and local delicacies.

Visitors can indulge in delicious Swiss culinary specialties, including fondue, raclette, and sweets like marzipan and gingerbread.

The market also features food stalls serving hot chocolate and mulled wine, perfect for warming up on a chilly winter evening. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by live music, entertainment, and traditional holiday decorations that create a magical ambiance.

For families, the market offers activities for children, such as visits from Santa Claus, carousel rides, and craft workshops. Montreux’s iconic Christmas lights and decorations along the lakeside create a truly enchanting setting, making it a perfect destination for holiday cheer.

 Opening dates: From 21st November to 24th December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Geneva Airport which is about 90 minutes away by train or car.

 Where to stay: "Fairmont Le Montreux Palace", known for its luxury and stunning views of the lake.