Looking for a festive way to spend your Christmas vacation in 2023? Then check out the Zurich Christmas markets!
With over a dozen different markets to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect place to shop, eat and drink your way through the holiday season.
From traditional Swiss goodies to handcrafted gifts, there's something for everyone at these festive markets.
Christmas Markets in Zurich
Zurich is known for its charming, festive Christmas markets that invite locals and visitors to explore the city’s charming Old Town and other bustling areas.
The oldest of these markets can be found in Zurich’s Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and idyllic setting.
For a more urban vibe, travelers can head to Zurich’s vibrant Sechseläutenplatz or Zurich Main Train Station, home to a bustling Christmas village and glittering 15-meter tall Christmas tree.
A drink of punch (for the kids) or mulled wine (for the adults) or a hot snack like raclette or fondue are both excellent options for warming up during a wander around the Christmas market.
Zurich’s Old Town “Dörfli Weihnachtsmarkt” Christmas Market
The picturesque Old Town Christmas market, which delights visitors with its festive lights, glittering ornaments, and wide array of treats and gift options.
With its quaint, old-world charm and festive atmosphere, Zurich's oldest Christmas Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to kick off their holiday season in style.
The numerous market booths that line the centrally placed Niederdorfstrasse and flow onto Hirschenplatz make it easy to lose track of time while examining the products for sale.
In addition, it is located on the banks of the river Limmat, and you can take a stroll along the river bank to the next Christmas market like the “Weihnachtsdorf” Christmas Market.
Dates: Nov 24 – Dec 23
The “Weihnachtsdorf” Christmas village on Sechseläutenplatz
For a more urban vibe, travelers can head to Zurich’s vibrant “Weihnachtsdorf” village. It is located close to the banks of Lake Zurich, at Sechseläutenplatz, directly in front of the Zurich Opera House.
“Weihnachtsdorf” Christmas village features a huge tree decked out in dazzling lights and surrounded by festive market stalls offering something for everyone.
At Zurich’s Sechseläutenplatz, one of the city’s largest and most beautiful Christmas markets is held every year.
Here, visitors can find over 100 stalls filled with a wide variety of colorful handcrafted goods and delicious culinary delights.
In addition, there is an ice rink where kids may skate alongside enormous plastic penguins.
The Opera, located behind the Sechseläutenplatz Christmas Market, also gets into the Christmas spirit. Every day at 17.30 you can listen to the Opera House's Christmas Musical Advent Calendar - a musical countdown to Christmas. It takes place in the entrance foyer, entry is free and the program for each day and each performance is only 15 minutes long.
So if you are looking to get into the holiday spirit in Zurich, be sure to stop by this wonderful Christmas market!
Dates: Nov 24 – Dec 23
Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Train Station
Next in our list is the Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station is one of the biggest and most popular indoor Christmas markets in all of Europe.
Situated right in the heart of the bustling train station, this vibrant market draws crowds of travelers and locals alike, who are all lured in by the intoxicating scent of mulled wine and freshly baked gingerbread.
Boasting over 150 stalls packed with traditional holiday treats and decorations, this festive market is a true treat for the senses.
But perhaps the absolute highlight of the Christkindlimarkt is its majestic 15 meters tall Christmas tree, adorned with several thousands of glittering Swarovski crystals and absolutely stunning against the backdrop of twinkling lights.
The next highlight is the artistic animations projected on the inner walls of the station hall. In addition, there is a Christmas light show every evening at 4:00 p.m.
Whether you're looking for a magical Christmas shopping experience or simply seeking some wintertime cheer, this one-of-a-kind market has it all!
Werdmühleplatz Christmas Market in Zurich
The Singing Christmas Tree and its Weihnachtsmarkt are located right off Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich's major shopping strip where the 'Lucy Lights' shimmer and dazzle.
These lights are dubbed "Lucy Lights" after the Beatles' song "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds." And that is not all, to provide a dreamy Christmas diamond and star look, each of the LED lights (around 12000) is encircled with a crystal.
But the absolute highlight at the Werdmühleplatz Christmas Market in Zurich is the unique Singing Christmas Tree.
Regardless of the weather there are daily concerts from various choirs that stay up on a vertical podium in the shape of a giant Christmas tree.
These festive performances bring the spirit of the season to life for visitors with a selection of classic carols and holiday tunes that are sure to get you into the festive mood.
This tradition, which began in 1998, is a highlight of each Christmas visit to Zurich.
Be sure not to miss out on this unique Christmas market gem!
Nov 25 – Dec 23 2023
Check out the Programm
Münsterhof Christmas Market in Zurich
With the Fraumünster church and the customary guild homes around it, the Christmas market on the Münsterhof is a true jewel.
At the Münsterhof Christmas Market, every gift is a delight. This festive market boasts a wide variety of local businesses offering treasures like handcrafted Zurich Tirggel cookies from the Bäckerei St. Jakob, Tsüri sauces and DillySocks, as well as writing utensils from the traditional firm Landolt-Arbenz.
In addition to its impressive selection of gifts, the Münsterhof Christmas Market also features a culture tent with a variety of musical performances, readings, and children's workshops.
So if you're looking for one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Zurich, look no further than the Münsterhof!
The Zurich City Christmas Market
At the Zurich City Christmas Market at Lintheschergasse, you'll find a charming mix of artisan craft stalls and delicious food vendors.
Located in the heart of Zurich's bustling shopping district, this lively market is the perfect place to pick up unique gifts for family and friends.
Additionally, this popular Christmas market offers a truly festive atmosphere with its pretty twinkling lights and festive decorations.
Read also: 14 Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland
Another Christmas Advent time events in Zurich 2023
As Christmas approaches, many people look forward to the festive celebrations and traditions that are a hallmark of the season.
One annual event that has become synonymous with the holidays is the famous Christmas markets in Zurich.
With picturesque snow-covered stalls filled with handmade crafts and delicious holiday treats, these bustling markets have been celebrated for generations as a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy all the best things about this most wonderful time of year.
And while other cities may host similar events, most agree that Zurich's Christmas markets are among the most beautiful in all of Switzerland.
So mark your calendars for 2022 and be sure to visit this special city when the most wonderful time of year comes alive!
Illuminarium Light Show (Nov 10 to Dec 30, 2023)
The Illuminarium is the ultimate winter event in Zurich, bringing light, music, and delicious food to the coldest season of the year.
During this six-week festival, the courtyard of the National Museum is transformed into a bright and magical wonderland, filled with thousands of dazzling lights and amazing displays.
Visitors can enjoy the light shows for free, but there are also two spectacular shows for which you have to pay, but it's worth it.
The first kid-friendly "Yuki Show" stars the mythical creature Yuki and her mischievous friends, who will be putting on a dazzling display of lights, pyrotechnics, and music.
Meanwhile, the Art Festival presents a collection of animated short films from some of the top animation studios and art schools around the world, this program is mostly intended for adults.
5-8pm: Yuki Show
8pm-10pm: Art Festival
Click to buy your tickets
Lichterschwimmen - Floating Candles (Dec 22, 2023 - 6:00 p.m)
At Christmas time, there is no more magical sight than a river full of glowing lanterns drifting serenely on its waters.
Every year, people from all over the city come together to take part in the traditional Lichterschwimmen event, where hundreds of tiny floating candles set sail from Ratbrücke on an unforgettable journey down the River Limmat.
These candle lanterns are made every year by the students of the canton of Zurich, and then they have the honor of launching their creations into the water.
So gather your friends and family and head right to the river to see firsthand the amazing display of glowing lights on the Limmat river.
Zauberpark at Zurich Airport (Nov 25 to Dec 11, 2023)
Christmas is a magical time of year, and at Zurich Airport, they make it extra special with the Zauberpark.
Not only is the food top notch here, but the festive atmosphere will leave you feeling truly enchanted.
One particularly popular highlight is the park's light art installations, which transform the space into a glowing wonderland filled with all sorts of colorful and mesmerizing shapes and patterns.
Additionally, the park hosts a variety of interactive children's programs, including storytelling and singing events with beloved characters like Papagallo and Gollo
On the other hand, for those who are looking for something more lively, every day at 20.15 in the park, concerts of a music program with the best singers of Switzerland are offered.
With its stunning light art displays and amazing music program, this unique event is one that everyone should experience. So be sure to check it out this season!
Santa Claus Parade (Nov 27, 2023 - 5:00 p.m)
Every year on the last Sunday evening of November, the city of Zurich is filled with Christmas cheer as thousands gather to celebrate the Samichlaus Parade.
Behind a fantastical Christmas-themed tram, elaborately decorated wagons wind through the streets, trailed by hordes of jolly Santa Clauses who spread Christmas cheer by handing out delicious gingerbread cookies to kids and adults alike.
As the parade makes its way through bustling Bahnhofstrasse, which is lit up in colorful Christmas lights, Santa and his entourage eventually arrive at Bürkliplatz, where a festive celebration takes place amidst lively brass bands.
Whether you're young or old, this Christmas season event promises to fill you with wonder and joy as you revel in all the Christmas spirit that Zurich has to offer.
Read also: Top 10 Christmas Markets in France
Jelmoli Märlitram - Santa Claus Story Tram (Nov 25 to Dec 24, 2023)
Looking for a unique Christmas experience for the loved kids? Look no further than the Jelmoli Märlitram! Designed specifically for children, this festive streetcar offers an experience unlike any other.
With Christmas stories read aloud by two angels, this fun and magical ride is sure to delight your little ones, and the best of all, Santa has left his reindeers in the stable, for he himself drives the tram, giving children of all ages an unforgettable Christmas adventure.
To get tickets for this special event, simply visit Jelmoli Customer Service on the 4th floor, but remember to buy early as they sell out quickly.
Märlitram departs from Bellevue and is sure to put your child in the Christmas spirit with its festive decorations and magical atmosphere, so hop on board and let the Christmas magic begin!
Read also: Christmas Markets in Basel
Hotel near Zurich Christmas Markets
Zurich is a beautiful city to visit during the holidays! If you're looking for a hotel near the Zurich Christmas markets, look no further.
We've got three great options for you, each with its own unique benefits. Keep reading to learn more!
At the stylish Ruby Mimi Hotel, guests will be greeted with luxurious amenities and bright, airy rooms that are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The hotel is also close to Zurich's historic train station, which is home to an indoor Christmas market filled with festive stalls and delicacies.
Alternatively, Motel One Zürich offers clean and comfortable basic rooms at an excellent price. The hotel is just across the river from the Niederdorf district, which is home to some of the best Christmas markets in town.
And if you're looking for something even more unique, 25hours Hotel Langstrasse provides convenient proximity to both the train station market and City Christmas Market while offering chic Scandinavian-inspired rooms that are sure to please even the most discerning traveler.
So no matter what your travel style or budget may be, there's a great choice awaiting you when it comes to finding hotels near Zurich's famous Christmas markets!
Read also: Christmas Markets in Montreux
Conclusion:
So if you're looking for somewhere truly special to celebrate this joyous time of year, look no further than Zurich's bustling Christmas markets – a veritable cornucopia of Christmas cheer in one dazzling city!
With so much excitement in store at every turn, you won't want to miss out on this absolutely magical experience. So bundle up and come explore all that Zurich has to offer this holiday season!
