What to do in Basel during Christmas?

Basel at Christmas offers one of Europe’s most enchanting holiday experiences, featuring Switzerland's largest and arguably most beautiful Christmas markets at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. Visitors can enjoy, festive lights, traditional Swiss food like raclette and mulled wine, the Spielzeug Welten Museum, and a charmingly decorated old town.

Is Basel, Switzerland worth visiting in December?

Between the cozy Christmas markets, river cruise views, and friendly locals, Basel is a must-visit destination for your December trip to Europe!

What is the most Christmassy town in Switzerland?

Montreux is one of the ultimate Christmas villages in Switzerland. It's set in a gorgeous location, on the shores of Lake Geneva at the foot of the snowy Alps. Plus, the city holds the biggest Christmas Market in the country.

Is Basel good for Christmas markets?

The Christmas markets in Basel are considered to be some of the prettiest and largest in Switzerland, and although they are the only markets in Switzerland I've had the opportunity to visit, I can agree that they are beautiful!

What is the most Christmassy town in France?

Strasbourg – Alsace

Dating back to 1570, the legendary market sweeps across the entire Old Town in a glow of lights and garlands with the majestic Christmas tree on Place Kléber standing as the city's seasonal centerpiece. For many, Strasbourg is more than just a market – it's a holiday pilgrimage.

Basel Christmas Markets Guide 2025: BEST Things To Do in Basel at Christmas!

What is the best city to visit in France for Christmas?

Alsace. Known as the Christmas capital of France, Alsace creates a magical atmosphere to celebrate the festive season. Explore the emblematic towns and villages that are home to the most beautiful Christmas markets, such as Strasbourg, Colmar, Riquewhir, Eguisheim, Kaysersberg,…

What is the silly village in France?

Trécon, in case you missed it, sounds exactly like "très con" which means "really dumb" or "very stupid" in English. The mayor said that it wasn't uncommon for people to steal his village's road signs - something that many other villages with similarly strange names can relate to.

Does it snow in Basel at Christmas?

Does it snow in Basel during December? Yes, although it doesn't snow as much as you might expect. It's worth checking the local forecast a few days before you leave home so that you can pack appropriate footwear and clothing.

Which part of Switzerland is best for Christmas?

If the mountains aren't for you, a Christmas spent in any of Switzerland's major cities is a great option. Whilst snow isn't guaranteed, Bern, Geneva, Lucerne, Zurich and Basel all have large Christmas markets which run from around November 24 and they will definitely infect you with Christmas cheer, snow or no snow.

Is Basel Christmas market expensive?

Basel Christmas Markets are really cute and a wonderful way to spend a festive weekend, I'd actually go as far to say that they're a great way to do a Swiss weekend on a budget, thanks to their affordable mulled wine and bratwurst prices!

What is the most magical Christmas town in the world?

Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)

Often called the best Christmas town in the world. Village Inspiration: Snowy rooftops, log cabins, Santa's Workshop.

What is the prettiest village in Switzerland?

21 Beautiful Fairytale Towns in Switzerland to Visit

1. Grindelwald. What is this? ...
2. Andermatt. ⭐ Best for: Winter sports. ...
3. Bern. ⭐ Best for: History and culture. ...
4. Spiez. ⭐ Best for: Breathtaking scenery. ...
5. Lauterbrunnen. ⭐ Best for: Epic waterfalls. ...
6. Gimmelwald. ⭐ Best for: A hidden gem. ...
7. Zermatt. ...
8. Montreux.

What to do on Christmas Day in Switzerland?

Our most recommended Switzerland Christmas activities

• From Colmar: Christmas Markets Across 3 Borders. ...
• Ticket for the FLOW light show in Zurich. ...
• Zurich Christmas Market Tour. ...
• Interlaken: Night Sledding & Fondue Dinner with Guide. ...
• Montreux: Snowshoe Trek with Fondue and Wine. ...
• Switzerland: Private Sledging Day Tour.

What to wear in Basel in December?

Packing Checklist for a Trip to Basel-Stadt, Switzerland in Winter

• Thermal underwear.
• Waterproof winter coat.
• Scarves.
• Winter boots.
• Warm hat.
• Socks made of wool or other warm material.
• Long-sleeve shirts.
• Jeans or insulated pants.

What not to do in Switzerland as a tourist?

As a tourist in Switzerland, don't be loud in public, assume everyone speaks English, or be late; instead, be punctual, keep voices down on transport, greet people, respect queues and quiet zones, pack proper hiking gear, buy groceries on weekdays (not Sunday), and be mindful of fire bans and local customs like proper waste disposal and not cutting in line. Avoid planning too much in a short time, and always have correct currency (Swiss Francs) and travel insurance.

Do Swiss trains run on Christmas Day?

Swiss public transport operates normally on Christmas, so you shouldn't face issues traveling then. Check the specific public holiday schedules for the cantons you are visiting to stay informed about any closures.

Is Basel or Zurich better for Christmas markets?

Basel was definitely better & not because of the ceramic Glühwein mugs, but it had far more stalls of things for sale! Zurich had TONS of food stalls & very few vendors with things for sale. Everyone was walking around with brown paper cups @ the Zurich market!

What is the most picturesque Christmas town?

Christmas Towns at a Glance

• Leavenworth, Washington – Bavarian-style village with a Christmas charm.
• Aspen, Colorado – Snowy mountain luxury with festive activities.
• Bethlehem, Pennsylvania – The “Christmas City” is rich in tradition and markets.
• McAdenville, North Carolina – Famous for massive light displays.

What to do in Basel at Christmas time?

Basel Christmas Itinerary: 2 Days in Basel in December

• Morning: DIY Walking Tour of Old Town Basel (or Chocolate Walking Tour!)
• Afternoon: Münsterplatz Christmas Market.
• Early Evening: Winter Cruise along the Rhine.
• Late Evening: Cozy Courtyard or Back to Markets.

Why is Basel so popular?

Basel is commonly considered to be the cultural capital of Switzerland and the city is famous for its many museums, including the Kunstmuseum, which is the first collection of art accessible to the public in the world (1661) and the largest museum of art in Switzerland, the Fondation Beyeler (located in Riehen), the ...

Where to stay in Basel for Christmas?

Hotels near Basel Christmas Market

• The Passage - Urban Retreat. Hotel in Vorstädte, Basel. ...
• Hotel Wettstein. Hotel in Basel. ...
• Pullman Basel Europe. Hotel in Clara, Basel. ...
• Hotel Schweizerhof Basel. Hotel in Basel. ...
• Hotel Victoria. Hotel in Basel. ...
• Krafft Basel. ...
• Central City Hotel Rochat. ...
• Basel Marriott Hotel.

What is one weird law in France?

Perhaps the most odd law of all is that it is legal in France to marry a dead person, though you do need the permission of the President and you must have a good reason to do so.

What are slums called in France?

Are housing projects in France – particularly the French slums euphemistically termed Zones Urbaines Sensibles (ZUS for short) – comparable to American ghettos : i.e. enclaves of poverty resulting from geographic and ethnic segregation ?