Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Zurich and Lucerne, Switzerland

Snow-dusted streets, twinkling fairy lights, and the comforting scent of mulled wine in the air... it's no surprise that Christmas in Switzerland feels like stepping straight into a storybook. If you’re visiting during the festive season, Zurich and Lucerne are two cities you won’t want to miss! Each city offers a smattering of beautiful sights and sounds, and with the year-end festivities, there will also be lots of gorgeous Christmas markets to visit as well.

Whether you’re after handcrafted gifts, festive bites, or simply soaking up the holiday atmosphere, here’s a guide to the best Christmas markets to visit in Zurich and Lucerne — make sure to put them in your itinerary!

Zurich does Christmas with understated elegance and cosy charm. As Switzerland’s largest city, you'll find that there are quite a few festive markets around, and the the city transforms into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, and wooden chalets tucked between medieval streets and grand squares. Grab yourself a glühwein (mulled wine), and enjoy shopping!

#KlookTip: In general, most shops accept card, so don't worry about having not enough cash on hand!

One of Zurich’s largest and most popular Christmas markets, Sechseläutenplatz is located right in front of the iconic Zurich Opera House. Just steps away from Lake Zurich, the market transforms the square into a festive “Wienachtsdorf” (Christmas village), with around 100 stalls gathered against a stunning lakeside backdrop. Visitors can wander between wooden chalets, sip on warming cups of glühwein, and soak in the cheerful holiday vibes.

Beyond classic Christmas treats, Sechseläutenplatz also stands out for its local handmade crafts market and diverse food offerings. Local designers rotate through the stalls, selling unique jewellery, crafts, and thoughtful gifts you won’t find elsewhere.

📅 20 November - 23 December 2025

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Nestled right inside Zurich’s Main Station, Polarzauber is the only indoor Christmas market in Switzerland!

With over 100 charming stalls offering regional delicacies, handcrafted gifts and festive treats, there is definitely so much to see and explore. A standout feature is the giant Lindt-decorated Christmas tree, towering above the market with its tasty-looking chocolate ornaments (perfect photo op btw). For a truly memorable experience, book a seat on the Fondue Express, an elevated winter dining experience styled like a cosy train carriage where you can savour classic Swiss fondue paired with selected wines and live winter music, all while looking out over the market below. You can make a reservation on their website.

📅 20 November - 24 December 2025

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Every winter, Zurich’s Old Town transforms into a classic storybook Christmas village, with historic streets and charming squares glowing under festive lights. Wander past around 70 beautifully decorated market stalls, browse unique gift ideas from over 200 surrounding shops, and soak in the seasonal cheer with mulled wine, sweet treats, and hearty local bites.

From the ice world at Rosenhof - visitors can ice skate for free - to fiery live performances (how cool is that?!) at Zwingliplatz and Hirschenplatz, there’s something magical waiting around every corner that's waiting for you.

📅 20 November - 23 December 2025

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Zürcher Weihnachtsallee transforms the vibrant Europaallee district near Zurich’s main train station into a sparkling Christmas boulevard during the holiday season. Browse the various handcrafted gifts and food stalls available and check out the unique offerings they have - the fondue chalet and mulled wine room!

The fondue chalet is where you can enjoy the hearty, iconic Swiss favourite - dipping bread and potatoes in ooey gooey melted cheese (honestly how does that not sound heavenly?). If a tipple is more up your alley, their mulled wine room is the place to be. Grab a glass, and enjoy live entertainment as you sip.

You can make reservations for both venues on their website.

📅 20 November - 23 December 2025

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The Münsterhof Christmas Market is tucked in Zurich's Old Town, and offers a relaxed charming vibe for visitors. Framed by the Fraumünster church and historic guildhalls, this elegant market focuses on local Zurich brands, thoughtfully designed gifts, and high-quality artisanal finds—making it a great stop if you’re shopping for something meaningful rather than mass-produced.

Be sure to check out the cultural tent for special events, where live performances, creative workshops, and music by the Zurich Conservatory of Music bring the square to life. A highlight not to miss is 7nach7, a nightly storytelling session where well-known personalities share short, reflective stories at 7:09pm.

📅 20 November - 24 December 2025

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Located just off Bahnhofstrasse at Werdmühleplatz, the Singing Christmas Tree and Christmas Market is one of Zurich’s most beloved festive highlights. What sets this market apart is its striking centrepiece: a towering, illuminated stage shaped like a Christmas tree, where choirs line up on vertical tiers to perform seasonal carols.

Throughout the Advent period, daily live concerts fill the square with Christmas cheer, drawing both locals and visitors alike. It’s a heartwarming experience that perfectly captures the magic of the festive season.

📅 20 November - 23 December 2025

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Unlike the bustling city of Zurich, Lucerne is where you feel like time slows down, and the Christmas magic really comes alive. Nestled by Lake Lucerne and framed by the Alps, this postcard-perfect town turns especially magical during Christmas.

Think fairy lights reflected on the water, historic squares filled with festive stalls, and mountain backdrops that make every moment feel cinematic. Lucerne’s Christmas markets are smaller and more intimate, but still full of character - ideal for travellers who love cosy vibes and scenic views, all at a slower pace.

Looking for a Swiss Christmas market with amazing food offerings? Located by Lake Lucerne in Inseli Park, Rudolfs Weihnachtsmarkt is a must-visit for anyone who believes Christmas markets are best experienced through food.

This market shines with its focus on regional, homemade Alpine specialties, from iconic fondue to delicate Kernser Magronä (a comforting Swiss-style macaroni and cheese) to creamy Niederbauer Bratchäs, topped with crispy roasted onions and served alongside homemade applesauce. Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying, these dishes feel tailor-made for cold winter evenings.

Pair your meal with a mug of mulled wine or hot punch, and you’ve got the perfect festive feast with a lakeside view.

📅 15 November - 22 December 2025

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Right in the heart of Lucerne’s charming Old Town, the Lucerne Christmas Market at Franziskanerplatz is another lovely stop to add to your festive itinerary.

At the centre of the market stands the largest Advent wreath in Central Switzerland, glowing atop the historic Franziskaner fountain — the perfect backdrop for sipping warm glühwein from a collectible mug as you browse wooden chalets filled with handcrafted gifts, Swiss decorations and artisanal treats. This is easily one of Lucerne’s most picturesque Christmas markets and one you won’t want to miss.

📅 4 - 24 December 2025

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Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains, Ice Magic offers one of the most scenic winter skating experiences in Switzerland. The open-air ice rink at the KKL forecourt is transformed into a festive wonderland with cosy chalet-style huts, hot drinks, and comforting winter bites to keep you warm between laps.

Live music performances will also take place on the concert stage beside the rink, adding to the lively atmosphere - talk about vibes. And the best part? Both the skating and concerts are completely free. You only need to pay for the skate rental.

P/S: You'll find that only food stalls are available here, so if you're looking to shop you can visit the other markets instead! There is a wide range of food options available, from local classics to international favourites.

📅 12 November - 4 January 2026

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