Where to go in Switzerland for Christmas?

For a magical Swiss Christmas, head to Montreux for lakeside markets with flying Santa, Basel for Switzerland's oldest market in the Old Town, or Zürich for diverse markets including a giant indoor one in the station and singing trees, while Lucerne, Bern, and Geneva offer charming city celebrations, with mountain towns like Zermatt and Grindelwald promising a snowy white Christmas.

What part of Switzerland is best for Christmas?

Christmas in the Swiss Alps

These resorts include St. Moritz, Zermatt and Davos/Klosters where you'll not only find great skiing but great après-ski activities, too. If you are a skier or snowboarder, you'll want to read this article about the best resorts for skiing in Switzerland.

Is Switzerland worth visiting during Christmas?

Sparkling lights, enticing scents, Christmas music, and a fairytale atmosphere: Christmas in Switzerland is truly magical. Stroll through Christmas markets, enjoy mulled wine or fondue, and be enchanted by festive lights – holiday experiences that delight both young and old.

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.

Which city in Switzerland has the best Christmas Market?

Top 10 Swiss Christmas Markets

• St. ...
• Bern. ...
• Montreux. ...
• Zurich. ...
• Basel. ...
• Geneva. ...
• Lausanne. Lausanne's Bô Noël Christmas markets highlight the city during the holidays. ...
• Chur. The charming ambience of this historic Alpine city is matched by the rustic appeal of Graubünden's Chur's Christmas market.

Best Places To Visit In December In Switzerland

Where should I go in Switzerland in December?

10 Reasons to Visit & Things to Do in Switzerland in Winter

• Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz.
• Visit Jungfrau.
• Christmas Markets.
• Thermal Spas.
• Fondue in the Alps - Gstaad.
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn.
• St Moritz.
• Lucerne.

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 magical Christmas town in Europe?

The 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns in Europe

1. Strasbourg, France. ...
2. Vienna, Austria. ...
3. Prague, Czech Republic. ...
4. Cologne, Germany. ...
5. Budapest, Hungary. ...
6. Tallinn, Estonia. ...
7. Basel, Switzerland. ...
8. Edinburgh, Scotland.

Is Christmas in Switzerland expensive?

Sure, yes. Christmas in Switzerland is expensive, but it is worth the cost. The beauty of the festivals, spectacular alpine scenery, and wonderful traditions make it a perfect holiday destination.

What is the most beautiful village in Switzerland winter?

Lauterbrunnen. One of Switzerland's most beautiful valleys, Lauterbrunnen, is known for its 72 waterfalls that freeze beautifully in winter. This scenic village is surrounded by cliffs and snowy peaks, giving a peaceful ambience.

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.

Is Switzerland too cold in December?

On a winter trip to Switzerland, you can expect chilly conditions below freezing, lasting from December through February. Naturally, skiing is a popular activity in Switzerland in the winter, and, as it's the peak season to visit the country.

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 is the Christmas capital of Switzerland?

Christmas in Bern: Exploring Switzerland's Magical Festive Capital — Martin Hesp: Food and Travel Writer & Journalist.

Is Zermatt open on Christmas Day?

Yes. Zermatt is especially beautiful at Christmas, with reliable snow, festive lights, and a calm, cosy village atmosphere. Ski conditions are strong and winter walking trails are open.

Where is the most Christmassy place in Switzerland?

Montreux is the best place to celebrate Christmas in Switzerland also known locally as Marche de Noel Montreux. In Montreux, Christmas celebrations in Switzerland is at another level. This is because they have Montreux Christmas market, probably the best Christmas market in Switzerland and a whole festival around it.

How much money will I need for 4 days in Switzerland?

❓ Is Switzerland expensive for tourists? Yes — especially food and hotels. Expect around £140–£220 per day for a mid-range trip, though backpackers can do it for £70–£110.

What is the cheapest month to go to Switzerland?

🇨🇭 Want to visit Switzerland on a budget? November is the cheapest month of the year. Hotels drop prices, trains are less busy, and you can find great deals in cities and early ski resorts like Zermatt. Here's why it's the best time to save on your Switzerland trip.

What are the top 5 Christmas markets in Europe?

Europe's top Christmas markets often include Germany's festive staples like Cologne (Cathedral) and Berlin (Gendarmenmarkt), France's enchanting Strasbourg and Colmar, Austria's grand Vienna (Rathausplatz), the fairytale setting of Prague's Old Town, and Belgium's sprawling Brussels (Winter Wonders), each offering unique charm, crafts, lights, and seasonal treats like mulled wine and pastries.
 

What is the most Christmassy place in the world?

15 Most Enchanting Christmas Towns Around the World

• Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)
• Leavenworth, Washington, USA.
• Colmar, France.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany.
• Strasbourg, France.
• Hallstatt, Austria.
• McAdenville, North Carolina, USA ("Christmas Town USA")
• Bruges, Belgium.

What is the cheapest European country to visit at Christmas?

On a Budget? Here Are the Best European Cities to Visit in Winter

• Budapest, Hungary. If you're not afraid of a little cold, then Budapest is one of the best European cities to visit in winter. ...
• Valletta, Malta. ...
• Jasná, Slovakia. ...
• Lisbon, Portugal. ...
• London, UK.

Is Basel or Zurich cheaper?

In a nutshell your rent will likely go down and taxes and health insurance up. Example single 120k living in 3.5 room apartment in city center: Zurich: 32k rent + 17k taxes + 4k health insurance = 53k. Basel: 22k rent + 20k taxes + 5k insurance = 47k.

How many days in Basel is enough?

Two days in Basel are enough to see the main attractions, enjoy its cultural atmosphere, and get a genuine feel for the city. While you won't experience everything, you won't feel like you are missing out either.