Your Guide To The Christmas Markets in Switzerland 2024

Switzerland in December is an enchanting wonderland. The lights, the decoration, Christmas markets everywhere and the aroma of roasted chestnuts and glühwein, cinnamon and ginger bread in the air. And what better way to experience that magic than by exploring the country’s enchanting Christmas markets?

From bustling city squares to quaint historic towns, Switzerland offers a diverse array of Christmas markets, each with its own unique charm and traditions.

To help you plan your festive adventure and get a hang on the scene, I’ve compiled a list of the Christmas markets in Switzerland for 2024. So Let’s dive right into it:

31st of October

Baden: Winter magic in Baden. The first one to kick the season is Baden WunderDorf – a cozy Christmas and food market. The entrance is of course free and you can enjoy the Christmas spirit and decorations. Along with plenty of food stands and delicious steaming mulled wine. Dates: October 31st- December 22nd.

7th of November

Zurich: Second on the list: The amazing Illuminarium which opens its doors to the inner courtyard of the National Museum and invites you to enjoy Christmas treats, fondue and cocktails in outdoor and indoor bars. When: 07.11-30.12.

15th of November

Mount Pilatus: small but cute: The HIGHEST Christmas Market in Europe can be found on the incredible mountain Pilatus. From the 15th to the 17th of November– at 2132 meters you will be able to enjoy the magic between 40 tiny festive stands and wonderful views to the lake and the alps!

Aarau: For authentic local experience away from the crowds: The Christmas market of Aarau is back from the 15th of November till the 22rd of December. With a charming fondue chalet and an Ice Rink.

20th of November

Lausanne: The Christmas market- Bô Noël Lausanne is back! From November 20th to December 31st with a festive atmosphere, delicious holiday yums and wines from the region. When visiting Lausanne I warmly recommend visiting Santa’s house at the nearby mountain Rochers de Naye.

Winterthur: A Christmas market in Winterthur- with over 70 cozy stalls and culinary dishes from all over the world. When: 20.11-23.12.

21st of November

Montreux: Now we pull out the big guns: Montreux Christmas Market-  Without a doubt, The famous Christmas Market in Montreux is one of the most beautiful ones in Switzerland and some would say in Europe. With magical stands along the lake and an incredible Santa Claus Sleigh flying through the sky!! You can also enjoy the Christmas spirit at the enchanting castle of Chillon or visit Santa’s little house at the mountain Rochers de Naye. When: 21.11-24.12.

Zurich: Great city getaway: Zurich has an entire magical scene with different Christmas markets, The Singing Tree, The little magical Märlitram for kids, The Lucy lights and more. Most Christmas scenes in Zurich will start on November 21st all the way till December 23rd. You can find all the info about the different events in the linked website.

Geneva: A Christmas market in Geneva- Noël au Quai,  the most majestic Christmas market in Geneva is located in the stunning Quai du Mont-Blanc by the lake shores. Here you will find plenty of food and gifts stands and even a fondue chalet! When: 21.11-24.12.

Locarno: The Winterland, a magical winter experience transforming Locarno from November 21st to January 6th. Enjoy ice skating, concerts, a festive Christmas market, and a dazzling audiovisual show projected onto the Piazza Grande.

22nd of November

Dachsen: A Medieval Christmas Market, the only one of its kind in Switzerland! From November 22nd to 24th, enjoy a magical atmosphere with candlelight, crackling fires, historical crafts, medieval music, and delicious food. ( I havn’t checked this one yet so I don’t have an opinion- let me know if you’ve been there)

23rd of November

Vevey:The Christmas village invites you to a cozy ambiance of cute chalets and wooden fire. Vevey is also an excellent place for a day trip as it’s located on the shore of Lake Geneva. You can combine some sightseeing and visit Nestlé Museum and Chaplin’s World. When: 23.11-31.12.

25th of November

Zurich: Winter Magic on the Uetliberg in Zurich- Have you been already on Zurich’ home mountain? If not, and to be honest even if you did- this is the ultimate winter magic with holiday spirit, Snow, delicious food and fondue. Dates: November 25th- February 28th.

28th of November

Basel: A rising star and yet a little undiscovered: The Christmas Market in Basel on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz is considered one of the most beautiful and largest in Switzerland. Dates: November 28th- December 23rd.

St. Gallen: A Christmas market in St. Gallen- The city of stars. When: 28.11-24.12.

29th of November

Chur: A Christmas Market in Chur- Mulled wine, roasted nuts and delicious food stands along with other gifts stands and art. Dates: November 19th- December 23rd.

Einsiedeln: The Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the Benedictine monastery and stretching along the main street, features charming stalls, festive lights, and charming shops. Dates: 29.11-08.12.

30th of November

Brunnen: Santa Claus arrives by boat on November 30th at 16:00, handing out gingerbread and greeting families at the boat station and Christmas market by the lake.

Rapperswil: The annual Chlauseinzug (Santa Claus procession) takes place on November 30th at 17:3, with Santa Claus arriving in the town center from Etzelwald forest.

Bern: The Bern Christmas Market on Münsterplatz and Waisenhausplatz, features a wide variety of handcrafted goods, festive food and drinks, and charming Christmas lights.

Olten: The Olten Adventsdorf (Advent Village), November 30th to December 22nd, with over 55 chalets, a festive atmosphere, and activities like a toboggan run and ice rink.

Chillon Castle: Christmas at Chillon with festive decorations, medieval dances, craft workshops, and historical ambiance.

Lugano: Christmas Market, from November 30th to January 7th, with festive markets, live music and entertainment.

Yverdon-les-Bains: The Christmas Market, from November 30th to December 24th, with artisan stands, seasonal treats, and activities for all ages.

Morges: The Christmas Market at the Château de Morges, November 30th to December 15th, featuring over 100 artisans, local food, and a festive atmosphere in a historic setting.

Brienz: Christmas Market in the old town and lake promenade, November 30th and December 1st, featuring handcrafted goods, a mini zoo, live music, and family-friendly activities.

More will get updates in the next few days!