Cozy Christmas markets, in a picturesque setting!
A trip to a German Christmas market is almost a tradition for many Dutch people. But drive a little further and visit one in Switzerland. The land of cheese, chocolate and mountains offers cozy Christmas markets in a picturesque setting. This is our top 3.
1 Basel: cozy & culture
The center of this city full of art and culture is picturesque all year round, but at Christmas it is completely a fairytale picture. It is not without reason that the Christmas market in 2021 was declared Europe’s most beautiful. The entire city center participates; the courtyard of the town hall is open, and the cathedral is magically illuminated and can be climbed for a majestic view of the Christmas town.
Image: Switzerland Tourism
A striking attraction is the 13-meter-high Christmas pyramid, a nice meeting point to meet for your mulled wine or hot chocolate. Tip: Basel – the first city across the border from the Netherlands – can be reached in 6.5 hours by (sleeper) train. Without transferring!
2 Lausanne: surprising & responsible
Grab your camera, because you won’t be short of eyes for this market, beautifully situated on Lake Geneva. To keep Christmas truly peaceful, there is also a sustainable Christmas market, where you can find the perfect sustainable and responsible Christmas presents and enjoy (vegan) treats.
Image: Switzerland Tourism
Children and playful adults should definitely take a trip on the twenty-meter long bobsleigh track. Too adventurous? There is also a train, there are carousels, or you can go on a ‘treasure hunt’. Tip: On the other side of the water is Geneva, where there is also a wonderful Christmas market. Nice for a combination.
3 Gruyères: undiscovered secret tip
Indeed, the town of cheeses. The Christmas market in the medieval town is a well-kept secret. At the many cute stalls you will find the most beautiful handmade gifts and this year also beautiful ice sculptures. Music sounds everywhere and there are fun performances and shows.
Image: La Gruyère Tourisme
The factory where the world-famous cheese Le Gruyère AOP is made can be visited almost every day. Where better to taste a real fondue than here? And be sure to visit the nearby Maison Cailler for your dessert, a chocolate factory that even Sjakie wouldn’t even dare to dream of. Here you will experience a true chocolate experience. Truly a wonderful Christmas!
Check myswitzerland.com/christmas markets for even more surprising winter trips.
