The Ultimate Zurich Christmas Market Guide: The Best Things to Do and See This Holiday Season

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I’ll never forget the first time I heard the Singing Christmas Tree in Zurich. A crowd of locals and tourists huddled together in front of the tiered platform shaped like a tree. Local choirs lead carols in both English and German, and for a moment, everyone in the crowd is connected through music.

Suddenly, the opening notes of a well-loved English song rang out and the whole audience joined in. I won’t spoil it now, but you’ll find out which song by the end of this post. That’s when I knew: Christmas in Zurich is something truly special.

In this guide, I’ll share what to expect, my favorite markets and must-visit experiences, and helpful tips to make the most of your Zurich Christmas trip, based on my own holiday adventure.

Short on time, here are some of the best things to do at Christmas in Zurich!

Christmas in Zurich

Zurich at Christmas feels like something out of a snow globe. The Old Town sparkles, market stalls line the historic streets, and the lake reflects the glow of holiday lights. It’s a city that truly knows how to celebrate the season, with delicious food stands and festive decorations at every turn.

The Christmas season in Zurich starts in late November and runs through December 24, with select markets and events continuing into the New Year. What makes it especially inviting is how walkable and well-organized everything is. It’s one of the easiest places to soak up a full Christmas experience without needing to rent a car or plan too much in advance.

Why Visit Zurich at Christmas?

Zurich offers one of the most magical yet manageable Christmas experiences in Europe. The city is compact and incredibly walkable, which makes hopping between markets, concerts, and light displays easy and enjoyable.

With its mix of lakeside scenery, historic Old Town charm, and festive events, Zurich feels both cozy and vibrant during the holidays. Add in Swiss efficiency, excellent public transport, and great day trip options, and it becomes a perfect destination for a relaxed and memorable Christmas trip.

25 Best Things to Do in Zurich at Christmas

Zurich knows how to deliver a full holiday experience without ever feeling overwhelming. You can easily spend several days here wandering from market to market, stopping for seasonal bites, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Here is a look at the best things to do during your Christmas trip to Zurich.

If you prefer a guided experience, this one comes highly recommended:

👉 Zurich Christmas Market Tour

Okay, let’s jump into the list of the best things to do in Zurich at Christmas!

1. Singing Christmas Tree at Werdmühleplatz

The Singing Christmas Tree is one of the most unique and heartwarming Christmas events in Zurich. It is a tiered platform shaped like a Christmas tree at the Werdmühleplatz Christmas market. Local choirs perform Christmas songs in both English and German.

The setting is small and intimate, and when the music begins, the crowd falls silent before softly joining in. During my visit, the energy shifted when a well-loved English song started playing. I won’t spoil which one it was, but you’ll find out at the end of this post.

The Singing Christmas Tree is part of the Wiehnachtsmärt Christmas Market on Werdmühleplatz, which also includes a small but well-curated food and gift market.

• Dates: November 20 to December 23, 2025
• Cost: Free
• Hours: 4pm-9pm, Saturday and Sunday open at 1pm

2. Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station (Hauptbahnhof)

Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station is Zurich’s largest and most convenient market, located entirely inside the main train station. It features over 100 stalls selling seasonal gifts, snacks, and drinks.

The showstopper here is the massive Lindt Christmas tree, glittering with thousands of lights. We stopped here several times when we took trains from the station. It was a nice touch to the beginning and end of each journey!

• Dates: November 20 to December 24, 2025
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Typically 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

3. Zürcher Weihnachtsallee at Europaallee (Christmas Alley)

Just outside the main train station, the Christmas alley market has a modern, urban vibe with stylish stalls, international food vendors, a fondue chalet, and even a karaoke bar. It is a great place for a casual evening meal without needing to plan ahead.

We returned here multiple times thanks to the convenient location and the variety of food. We even got to try some BBQ. It was pretty good, and we are picky since we are spoiled with Kansas City BBQ. Also try the warm cookies. They were delicious.

• Dates: November 20 to December 23, 2025
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Typically 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (8pm on Sundays)

4. Weihnachtsdorf at Sechseläutenplatz (Bellevue)

Located near the Opera House, this Wienachtsdorf at Sechseläutenplatz market feels like stepping into a miniature Christmas village. There are cozy food stands, handcrafted gifts, and a fondue chalet that often requires a reservation. It is one of the most atmospheric spots in Zurich and has become a favorite for both locals and visitors.

I loved the wooden huts that look like tiny living rooms. They are the perfect place to relax with friends, warm your hands, and enjoy a cup of Glühwein.

• Dates: November 20 to December 23, 2025
• Cost: Free
• Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (8pm on Sundays)

5. Dörfli Market in Zurich Old Town (Niederdorf)

Dörfli Market in Zurich Old Town is Zurich’s oldest Christmas market and one of the most scenic. Stalls are tucked along cobblestone alleys and historic buildings in the Niederdorf neighborhood. It is ideal for anyone who loves a more traditional, small-town feel.

We kept wandering through the Old Town and would stumble onto even more stalls. It added such a festive feel to Zurich’s historic center and made exploring even more fun.

• Dates: November 20 to December 23, 2025
• Cost: Free
• Hours: 11am to 9pm (8pm on Sundays, 10pm Fridays and Saturdays)

6. Münsterhof Christmas Market

The Münsterhof Christmas boutique-style market features premium stalls from Zurich-based brands and artisans. The backdrop of Fraumünster Church and the surrounding traditional guild houses adds to the ambiance, especially when paired with live music or a warm drink.

The theme of this market is “from Zurich for Zurich,” which highlights the locally made goods sold here. The culture tent offers activities like concerts and workshops for both adults and children.

• Dates: November 20 to December 24, 2025
• Cost: Free
• Hours: 11am to 9:30pm (7:30pm on Sundays)

7. Zurich Airport Christmas Market

Zurich Airport adds a festive touch to travel with its Christmas market at The Circle. Wooden huts, twinkling lights, and a “Sparkling Tree” light show every hour from 5-8pm make it feel like a small winter village right outside the terminals. It is a fun spot to grab a warm drink or a quick bite before or after your flight.

Inside the airport, you will also find seasonal pop ups, holiday treats, and small gift stalls. The easy access and cozy atmosphere make it a nice surprise for travelers who want a quick dose of Christmas magic at the airport.

• Dates: November 19 to December 28, 2025
• Cost: Free
• Hours: 11:30am to 9pm (weather dependent and times vary Dec 24-28)

8. Uetliberg Winter Wonderland

High above the city, Uetliberg becomes a holiday retreat during winter. You can hike or take the train to the top, then enjoy lights, curling, and a peaceful Alpine atmosphere. There is also a hotel, several great restaurants, and a cozy alpine hut where you can warm up with fondue.

• Dates: November 6, 2025 to January 31, 2026. Market is weekends only
• Cost: Free for the market, events, hotel and classes have a cost
• Hours: Market is 12pm-8pm Saturdays and 10am-6pm on Sundays

9. ILLUMINARIUM at National Museum Zurich

The immersive ILLUMINARIUM transforms the courtyard of the Landesmuseum Zürich into a magical winter escape. The castle-like setting is a beautiful backdrop for sipping Glühwein, enjoying winter cocktails, or grabbing a seasonal snack.

Light shows run several times each night, and the cozy fire-lit corners, fondue chalet (reservations recommended), and warm music create an atmosphere that makes you want to linger a little longer.

• Dates: November 6, 2025 to December 30
• Cost: Free to attend, with some extras for kids that require a paid ticket
• Hours: 5-11pm
• Light show: Runs every ~45 minutes between 5 pm and 9:30 pm

10. Christmas Concerts in Zurich

Several churches and halls across Zurich host Christmas concerts, ranging from orchestral to choral performances. Top venues include Fraumünster Church and Tonhalle Zurich. These concerts offer a peaceful contrast to the busy markets and can be a beautiful way to spend an evening.

• Dates: Varies, check calendars on website
• Cost: Paid tickets are required

The Zurich Opera House hosts a free 15-minute concert each day at 5:30 pm in the foyer from December 1 to 23. It is a lovely way to take a break and warm up during the holiday season. Be sure to arrive a little early, as space is limited and the line forms quickly.

11. Candle Making in Zurich

Candle making, known in Zürich as Kerzenziehen, is a long-standing Advent tradition where you dip a wick into warm beeswax again and again until it becomes a handmade candle. It is a fun, creative break from the markets and a meaningful souvenir you make yourself.

You pay only for the weight of the candle, so the final cost depends on how big you make it. Go earlier in the day for fewer crowds, and bring a small bag to protect your candle while it cools. Thicker candles hold up better for travel and burn longer.

• Dates: November 15 – December 21, 2025
• Time: Daily from ~10 a.m. to ~8 p.m. (times may vary). No reservations needed unless you have a large group.
• Cost: Varies, free but may be a small cost for the wax.
• Location: In 2025, the event is not at its usual spot at Bürkliplatz; due to construction it’s moved to Hechtplatz in Zurich.

12. “Lucy” Lights Switch-On (Bahnhofstrasse)

The switch-on of “Lucy,” the sparkling light display along Bahnhofstrasse, is one of the most festive moments of the season. Thousands of crystal-like lights illuminate the entire shopping street, creating a dazzling canopy that instantly transforms the city into a winter wonderland.

Crowds gather to watch the exact moment the lights turn on, and the lively atmosphere makes it a memorable way to kick off the holidays in Zurich.

This night also includes a special late-night shopping event, when many stores stay open well into the evening.

• Dates: November 20, 2025
• Cost: Free to attend. Arrive a little early to get a good viewing spot
• Hours: 6pm

13. Zauberpark at Zurich Airport

Zauberpark transforms the Airport Park at The Circle into a magical outdoor festival filled with colorful light installations, music, and winter fun. This event focuses on immersive art, family activities, and nightly entertainment.

Visitors can walk the illuminated trail, enjoy live concerts, explore kid-friendly shows, and warm up with seasonal food and drinks in the pop-up village. It is a great pick if you want something a little different from classic market stalls, especially if you are flying in or out of Zurich.

• Dates: November 19 to December 7, 2025
• Cost: Varies. The village is free. Concerts, the light trail, and events require a ticket
• Hours: Evenings, with concerts usually around 8:15 pm

14. St. Annahof Märlitram

The Märlitram is a magical Christmas streetcar and one of Zurich’s sweetest holiday traditions for children. This bright red fairy-tale tram, operated by Jelmoli, takes little ones on a short city ride while Christmas angels read festive stories.

The tram is beautifully decorated and creates a magical, old-fashioned holiday moment that families look forward to each year. Tickets often sell out quickly due to its popularity with local families.

• Dates: Late November to late December (varies by year)
• Cost: Paid ticket required
• Hours: Runs multiple times per day, primarily in the afternoon and early evening

👉 Buy tickets here for the Christmas tram: Märlitram Tickets 🎟️

15. Circus Performances in Zurich: Conelli and Salto

Zurich hosts two festive circuses during the holiday season, each offering a different style of performance.

Circus Conelli, held on a small island in the Limmat River, features a classic red-and-white tent and family-friendly shows filled with acrobatics, comedy, and live music.

Salto offers a more modern take on circus arts, blending acrobatics with theater, music, and contemporary staging. It is a great option if you want something creative and a bit off the beaten track during your visit.

• Dates:
  • Conelli: November 22 to December 31, 2025
  • Salto: November 19 to December 31, 2025
• Cost: Paid tickets required
• Hours: Vary by performance

16. Christmas Procession (Samichlaus Parade)

Santa Claus, known in Zurich as Samichlaus, leads a festive procession down Bahnhofstrasse alongside his helpers, the Schmutzli. The parade features lights, music, and children often receive small sweet treats along the way. It is a heartwarming tradition that brings the start of Advent to life in the city center.

This is a great event for families or anyone who wants to experience a classic Swiss holiday celebration.

• Date: Yearly the last Sunday in November
• Cost: Free to attend
• Hours: 5pm

17. Samichlausschwimmen, Santa Claus Swim

The Zurich Santa Claus Swim, known as Samichlausschwimmen, brings together brave participants who plunge into the icy Limmat River dressed in festive costumes. Crowds line the riverbanks to cheer them on. It’s a tradition that’s both quirky and memorable. The event often raises money for local charities, which adds a meaningful touch to the fun.

It is a unique event to witness if you are in Zurich in early December and want to experience something truly local.

• Date: December 7, 2025
• Cost: Free to watch
• Hours: 1pm

18. Zürcher Silvesterlauf

Although this run takes place mid-December, Silvesterlauf means “New Year’s Eve Run” in German, and this festive city race winds through Zurich’s beautifully lit streets with routes for kids, families, amateur runners, and elite athletes. Starting and finishing in the historic Old Town, the course takes you past festive decorations and holiday displays at every turn.

I love running through city centers because the closed streets give you a completely different perspective of the city. During Silvesterlauf, that feeling is even better, thanks to the festive lights and Christmas atmosphere all around you.

• Dates: December 14, 2025
• Cost: Paid registration required (varies by category) 1 mile & 10K offered
• Hours: Morning to early afternoon (various start times depending on category)

19. Lichterschwimmen

Every year Zürich Tourism hosts Lichterschwimmen, a special Advent tradition created as a way to say thank you to the people of Zurich and to visitors from near and far. Schoolchildren craft small candle boats that are released onto the Limmat River, sending a soft stream of glowing lights drifting through the city. The atmosphere is calm and reflective, offering a quiet moment of gratitude amid the holiday rush.

Crowds gather along the riverbanks to watch the candles float by and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the scene.

• Date: December 18, 2025
• Cost: Free to attend
• Hours: Begins at 6 pm

20. Lindt Home of Chocolate Tour

The Lindt Factory Tour was a highlight of my trip and truly worth every penny. The museum blends interactive exhibits with lots of chocolate tasting, and the giant whisk in the atrium is even more impressive in person. It is a fun and delicious way to spend an afternoon between markets and a perfect indoor option when the weather gets colder.

You can learn about the history of Swiss chocolate, and sample as much as you like before heading to the shop for gifts to take home.

A ticket is required to enter the museum, whether you choose a self-guided visit or a guided tour, and it is best to purchase in advance due to high demand. The museum guided tours are offered in multiple languages, along with hands-on chocolate courses where you can create your own chocolate bar or figures with the help of a Lindt Master Chocolatier.

• Dates: Open year-round
• Hours: Daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., last entry around 5:30 p.m.
• Holiday Hours: Closes early at 4 p.m. on December 24 and 31. Closed December 25, December 26, and January 1.

21. Fondue in Zurich

Invented in Switzerland, Fondue is one of Switzerland’s most iconic winter traditions. Zurich has plenty of places to enjoy it after a chilly evening exploring the markets. You’ll find festive pop-ups and classic Old Town restaurants, offering everything from traditional cheese fondue to fondue chinoise and raclette.

Here are a few popular places to enjoy fondue.

• Frau Gerolds Garten: A relaxed winter-pop-up in Zurich West with fire bowls, twinkling lights, and a cozy garden vibe. Offers cheese fondue, fondue chinoise, and raclette.
  • Dates: October to early March
• Swiss Chuchi: A popular Old Town spot known for classic Swiss fondue
  • Dates: Open daily year-round.
• Le Dézaley: A long-time local favorite near the Grossmünster, famous for rich fondue in a chalet-style setting.
  • Dates: Open year-round (Monday–Saturday).

💡 Pro Tip: Many places book up quickly in December, so reservations are recommended.

22. Holiday Pop-Up Bars in Zurich

Rudolph’s Holy Moly: One of Zurich’s most talked-about holiday pop-ups, known for its over-the-top decorations, Christmas-themed cocktails, and lively party vibe. It’s a great pick for an evening out with friends.

• Dates: Tuesday to Saturday, November 22 to December 31
• Hours: 5pm – midnight

LULU Christmas Igloo and Fondue Tent: A cozy winter bar near the Opera House with glowing igloos, warm lights, and a relaxed chalet feel. Ideal if you want a quieter, stylish place to enjoy a drink or a fondue night during your market visit. Reservations available.

• Dates: Daily, November 14 to December 23, 2025
• Hours: Noon to 11pm

23. Day Trips from Zurich for Christmas Markets

If you have an extra day or two, these nearby Christmas markets make wonderful add-ons to your Zurich trip. Both are easy to reach by train and offer a completely different holiday atmosphere from the city.

• Einsiedeln Christmas Market: Set in front of the famous Benedictine monastery, this market has a spiritual, cozy feel with classic stalls, handmade gifts, and plenty of holiday treats. Take a monastery tour if you have time!
  • How to get there: About 45 minutes from Zurich by direct train to Einsiedeln.
  • Why go: The monastery backdrop makes it one of the most unique and atmospheric markets in Switzerland.
  • Hours: Open Daily 11/28- 12/8
    
• Rapperswil Christmas Market: Located on Lake Zurich with views of the medieval castle, this market features over 200 stalls winding through the historic Old Town.
  • How to get there: About 35–40 minutes from Zurich by train to Rapperswil.
  • Why go: Beautiful lake views, a charming old town, and one of the largest market layouts in the region.
  • Hours: Open Thursday to Sunday 12/4 – 12/21

24. Guided Christmas Tour of Zurich

If you want to experience Zurich’s holiday traditions with a local expert, a guided Christmas tour is a great way to explore the city without planning every detail on your own. This small group tour leads you through Old Town, the festive light displays, and several of the main markets while sharing stories, history, and seasonal highlights you might miss on your own.

25. Zurich Walking Food Tour (Secret Food Tours)

If you are a foodie, this tour is a delicious way to explore Zurich. Over three and a half hours you will wander through Old Town and taste classic Swiss favorites like cheeses, fondue bites, Zurich sausage with sauerkraut, rösti, Swiss chocolate, hot chocolate, and local wines and spirits. It is a great mix of food, history, and storytelling that helps you experience the city like a local.

• Dates: Year round, daily
• Cost: Paid ticket required and advance booking is recommended
• Hours: Begins at 10:30 a.m. and lasts about three and a half hours

Tips for Visiting Zurich Christmas Markets

• Arrive early
  Markets are busiest on weekends after 5 p.m. For smaller crowds and better browsing, visit in the late morning or early afternoon. I like to do my shopping during the day, and back in the evening for the lights.
  
• Check performance schedules
  Events like the Singing Christmas Tree and Märlitram follow specific time slots. Plan around them if they’re on your list.
  
• Consider the Zurich Card
  Consider getting a Zürich Card if you’re planning to visit museums, take public transport often, or tour attractions like the Lindt Home of Chocolate. It includes unlimited rides on trams and buses, free or discounted museum entries, and even food perks at select spots. Available in 1-3 days duration.
  
• Carry a reusable bag or small tote
  You’ll likely pick up ornaments, snacks, or small gifts. Having a bag makes it easier to keep your hands warm.
  
• Wear waterproof shoes
  Whether it’s snow or slush, you’ll want dry feet. Layers, gloves, and a wool hat are also smart choices.
  
• Bring some cash
  While many stalls accept cards, a few are cash only, especially for smaller food or craft items.
  
• Save your Glühwein mugs
  Each market has its own design. I like to collect them from every city I visit and they’re one of my favorite travel mementos. You can return them for a small deposit, but I recommend keeping at least one from Zurich. It makes a great souvenir.

Christmas Market Map

Here is a map with all the major Zurich Christmas markets to help you plan your route. Save it to your phone for easy navigation.

What to Wear While You’re There

December in Zurich is cold and damp, with average temperatures between 28°F and 40°F. Snowfall and a cold rain is possible. The key to enjoying the markets comfortably is layering, waterproofing, and keeping warm from head to toe.

Start with a good thermal base. I recommend fleece-lined pants or thermal long underwear under your everyday clothes. I wore these under jeans for outdoor exploring. Add a midlayer like a fleece or insulated jacket, then top it off with a waterproof outer coat that blocks both wind and moisture.

Your feet will thank you for choosing waterproof boots with good grip. Streets can be icy or wet, and Zurich’s cobblestones are beautiful but unforgiving in poor footwear. I also loved these fleece lined shoes for keeping my feet warm.

For accessories, bring merino wool socks, a warm knit hat that covers your ears. Rechargeable hand warmers were lifesavers during evening market visits.

A small daypack or crossbody bag works well for holding your Glühwein mug, gifts, and layers as you peel them off inside warmer venues. If you’re visiting more than one market in a day, pack extra socks and an umbrella just in case.

With the right gear, you’ll stay warm enough to linger outdoors and stylish enough to enjoy those holiday photos.

Where to Stay

Zurich offers a wide range of accommodations, but during the Christmas season, location and comfort matter most. Staying near the main station or within walking distance of the markets will make your trip more relaxed and festive.

Here are a few great options for every budget starting with where we stayed:

1. Mid-Range ($$): The Bristol Zurich – This is where we stayed and I highly recommend it. The location is excellent, just a few minutes from the main station, old town, and to multiple markets. The staff went out of their way to help us get oriented, even giving us printed Christmas market maps.

Since we stayed for a full week and used Zurich as our base for day trips, they also included one free load of laundry, which was a nice bonus. The rooms were clean, quiet, and well-sized for a city hotel, and we found it great value for the comfort and service.

Although the hotel does offer breakfast. I highly recommend Cafe Wust just down the street. We ate there several times, the cost is about the same as the hotel, and we had lots more options!

2. Budget ($): Hotel Marta – just a five-minute walk from the main train station and close to the Dörfli and Münsterhof markets. Rooms are simple and breakfast is included.

3. Luxury ($$$): Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich – Located across from the main train station and overlooking the Limmat River, Hotel Schweizerhof blends historic charm with modern comfort. You can walk to nearly every Zurich Christmas market from here, and the elegant rooms and exceptional service make it a great choice for a special or festive stay.

FAQs

Is Zurich worth visiting for Christmas?

Absolutely. Zurich combines classic European Christmas charm with Swiss precision and ease. The city’s compact layout, scenic markets, musical traditions, and efficient transport make it an ideal destination for holiday travelers.

What is the most Christmassy place in Switzerland?

Zurich is definitely a top contender. With over eight unique markets, the Singing Christmas Tree, and lakefront lights, it offers variety and magic all in one place. However, towns like Einsiedeln and Rapperswil, which are easy day trips from Zurich, also feel like storybook settings during the season.

How many days do you need in Zurich for Christmas?

Two full days is ideal for experiencing the markets, concerts, and events without rushing. If you plan to do day trips to nearby towns like Lucerne, Rapperswil, or Einsiedeln, three to five days gives you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

Zurich at Christmas is more than just beautiful lights and markets. It feels like a complete experience. I stepped off the train into the Christkindlimarkt, then spent the afternoon savoring fresh chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate.

Even the city’s public spaces take part in the celebration, with concerts, light shows, and special seasonal exhibits adding to the magic. If you are planning a trip where convenience, charm, and classic holiday spirit all come together, Zurich is a must visit.

And yes, if you have read this far, I promised to reveal the song that turned the Singing Christmas Tree crowd into a joyful choir. It was All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey. The moment it started, the entire crowd lit up, singing and swaying to the music. It was unexpected, fun, and absolutely unforgettable.  Who knew that would be the song they went crazy for in a foreign country?

I hope you found this Zurich Christmas Market post helpful for planning your trip. Drop me an email if you have any questions at TravelandTinsel@gmail.com I love to hear from readers.