Best Christmas markets in Switzerland in 2023

Discover the best Christmas Markets in Switzerland in 2023. Did you know that Basel has been voted the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe? This pedestrianized city is a perfect destination for families. For a romantic Christmas getaway stay in Lucerne, its bridge is ranked among the best places for a marriage proposal in Europe.

For a Christmas city break combining shopping, culture and comfort, choose Bern and for a winter holiday with a festive après-ski atmosphere, stay in Lausanne. There are only good reasons to visit Switzerland this winter and discover the best Christmas markets in Switzerland.

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. Basel

From 23rd November to 23rd December 2023

The Basel Christmas market has been voted the winner of the European Best Christmas Markets.

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: 23rd November to 23rd December 2023.

 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.

2. Bern

From 1st December to 23rd December 2023

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 1st December to 23rd December 2023. 

 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.

3. Gruyeres

From 8th to 10th December and from 15th to 17th December 2023

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 8th to 10th December & From 15th to 17th December 2023.

 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.

4. Lausanne

From 17th November to 31st December 2023

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 17th November to 31st December 2023.

 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.

5. Lucerne

From 1st December to 21st December 2023

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 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 1st December to 21st December 2023.

 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 30th November to 24th December 2023.

 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.