In the 25+ years I have called Switzerland home, Swiss Christmas markets have turned things up a notch. For starters, there are more than ever to choose from, plus the larger markets now step open most of the advent season, so it’s possible to visit more than one. They might not have the reputation of the markets in German or the Alsace, but I find them just as magical, especially at dusk, with the lights twinkling overhead.
When I choose a Swiss Christmas market, my first priority isn’t what I can purchase. It’s the atmosphere. I want decorations, I want the smell of good food, and I want space to wander and take in the sights and sounds around me. So we usually skip weekends and visit during the week after work and school. Everyone loves the break in routine, which make the outing feel even more special. And there are few crowds to battle. A win win.
What Makes Swiss Christmas Markets Different?
Swiss Christmas markets are usually smaller than the German ones, and are often spread out across several spots in a city instead of one big square. Like in Zurich, you will find a market in the train station, in front of the Opera house as well as the old town. Not only does that help with the crowds, but you can also get to see the city wandering from one area to the other.
They run anywhere from late November to around December 23rd. Larger cities will have markets open this entire time, whereas smaller towns like Einsiedln run for just ten days. Opening hours vary too. Some open ever day from early till late, where as others have varied opening hours. Chest dates and times before you go, so the market you wish to visit is actually open.
Einsiedeln Christmas Market - 27. Nov till 6. Dec 2026
With its impressive abbey in the background, Einsiedeln is a lovely place to visit anytime of the year. But for ten days in December, the smell of Glühwein fills the air and fairy lights twinkle in the night sky. Wooden stalls line the street, selling wooden toys and ornaments, winter hats, fragrant spices and everything in between. Kids can even make their own candles. But we go mostly for the treats.
This market specialised in traditional Swiss food, so expect everything from Bratwurst, Spätzle, fondue and fried fish. (more on what to eat at a Swiss Christmas market here)
Our first stop is always a drink to warm our hands: Glühwein for the parents and orange Punsch for the kids. then we slowly make our way down the street to see what is on offer. The Fackelspiess stall, with its delicious pork on a long stick, has been a favourite for years. My husband cannot rests the raclette stand, and for my pickiest eater it is always a Swiss sausage.
But always leave room for dessert. My favourite is the Apfelchüechli, deep fried apple rings and dusted in cinnamon sugar. And unique to this market, the Grittibänz Berliner, a freshly made, jam-filled doughnut in the shape of a litte man.
During the ten days the market is open, the village also hosts plenty of events, including the St. Nikolaus blessing, gingerbread decorating and a lantern parade. You can also visit one of the world’s largest nativity scenes, the Diorama, daily from 12-5pm.
Einsiedeln is easy to reach by direct train from Zurich in just 50 minutes, with the station sitting right at one one of the market. If you come by car, (paid) parking is well signposted around town.
Zürich Christmas Market - from 19th November
Zürich has at least six Christmas markets in the city centre, all within a short walk of each other, which makes for a uniquely spread-out Christmas market experience. From the main station, to the opera house, you can soak up the Christmas spirit and get a good wander through the city as you visit them all. Most run from the 19th November until 23rd December, so there is plenty of time to sell them all.
If you want to see them all in one go, below is the route I would take. If you have time for just a few, I would head straight to the Singing Christmas for a performance and then onto Bellevue Noël.
Polarzauber, Zürich Main Station
Start the moment you arrive into Zürich. The station’s giant hall hosts around 100 stalls, with a towering Christmas tree at its centre. It’s all under cover, which makes it ideal when the weather is bad. You’ll also find a festive donut train carriage for a fondue with a difference.
The Singing Christmas Tree, Werdmühleplatz
Walk down Bahnhofstrasse towards the lake and take a left into Werdmühleplatz, where you will find the giant singing Christmas. Featuring daily concerts by locals choirs, enjoy music while enjoying a snack from the food stalls. Or settle in for a candlelit fondue.
Old Town Christmas Market, Niederdorf
Cross the river to find Zurich’s oldest Christmas market lining the streets of the old town. On the Rosenhof, there’s a tiny ice rink for kids.
Bellevue Noël, Opera House
Recently relaunched as Bellevue Noël, the market in front of the city’s Opera house is one giant Advent wreath. Walk up onto the wreath for a view over the whole market, and then explore its 100 stalls and huge fondue chalet.
Münsterhof
As you make your way back to the station, stop at the Münstefhof in the historic old town. It’s one of my favourite smaller spots, with Zürich brands and good food.
Weihnachtsalle, Europaalle
Before you catch your train, finish at the Europaalle/Sihlpost market by station’s south-western exit. There are treats from around the world, a fondue chalet, local artists and even a karaoke bar.
For details on all Zürich’s Christmas markets visit the Zürich Tourism Website.
More Swiss Christmas Markets Worth the Trip
There are many more Christmas markets to discover in Switzerland. These are the ones I’d happily travel for
Bern – from 19th November
Bern has six Christmas markets dotted around the city, which makes Switzerland’s capital a fabulous option for a day trip. My favourite is the Sternenmarkt, which I save for at dusk.
Basel – from 26th November
Basel’s Christmas market spreads across four locations, with Barfüsserplatz at its heart. But I have a soft spot for the Münsterplatz market, with its Christmas tree, and lights hanging from the trees around the square. While you are in town, don’t miss Johann Wanner’s christmas shop.
Lucerne – from 20th November
Lucerne has two main Christmas markets: Rudolf’s at the Wertsteg, with its fondue chalet, and the Lucerne Christmas market on Franziskanerplatz. However you find much festiveness on Europaplatz, right near the train station. Including ice skating and food options. The city also hosts one-off markets, so check the Lucerne Tourism website before you go.
Montreux – from 20th November
Montreux’s Christmas market has become THE place to visit, thanks to its Flying Santa, who sails across the sky above the lake several times a day. The market also hosts 150+ illuminated wooden chalets selling crafts, jewellery, decorations and local food.
Beyond Switzerland's Christmas Markets
Christmas markets aren’t the only way to enjoy the festival season in Switzerland. December is full of events, traditions and lights all over the country. Here are some of my favourites:
- Klausjagen, Küssnacht am Rigi: On the evening of the 5th December, giant glowing lanterns and thunder cowbells fill the village streets.
- Christmas Lights in Switzerland: where to find the best light displays.
- Alternative to Christmas markets: from lantern paths to car-free festive towns, ideas away from the busy cities.
For everything else about the Christmas in Switzerland, from Samichlaus to Christmas Cookies, start withy guide to Christmas in Switzerland.
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