Switzerland's top 10 Xmas Market + what to eat - from a local
TOP 10 XMAS MARKET IN SWITZERLAND
#1 BASEL
Winner of the best European Christmas Markets. Basel is Switzerland's largest Xmas City and is worth visiting every year. You will find two markets in Basel, one on Barfüsserplatz, and on Münsterplatz. Both are open from the 23 Nov. - 23 Dec. 2023
#2 BERNE
A unique setting in the Heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site Berne within the medieval streets. Here too, you can find three different market within the city!
#3 ZURICH - 23rd Nov to 23rd Dec.
Three different markets within the city. One is located in the main train station of Zurich and is famous for its massive Swarovski crustal Christmas tree and has a variety of local crafts and international foods.
+ Don't miss the one in the Old Town, which is one of the most romantic one!
#4 MONTREUX - 23rd Nov to 24 Dec.
In a beautiful setting along the Shores of the Lake Geneva. Famous for the Santa Claus show where the sleigh flies above your head, you can even take a train ride to Santa's house up the mountain of the Rochers de Naye. This is one of Switzerland's biggest Xmas market. The Chateau de Chillon also has many activities for you!
#5 LAUSANNE
"Bô noel" in Lausanne is a hippier take on the holidays with stalls sprinkled through the city from local designers, local beers, and artsy light instillation (especially for Festival Lausanne Lumieres).
#5 LUCERNE
Another city with various Xmas market nestled within the city. The Craft Market is where artisans showcase homemade products. The backdrop of snow-covered peaks and the lake created a special and magical ambiance for Xmas.
#7 GRUYERES - weekends of 8-10 and 15-17 Dec.
A special vibe in the medieval city where around 40 artisans display their handmade items on two different weekends. You can also visit the Xmas market of nearby towns such as Bulle or Jaun.
#8 SAINT-GALLEN
There are three markets located around the city. It is also known as the city of Stars during the Advent because there are around 700 stars illuminating the city! They are all open from the 30th Nov to 24 Dec. 2023
#9 LUGANO
Located in the Italian speaking part of Switzerland, this will not be your typical Swiss Xmas market. Yet, totally worth visiting if you are traveling around there. Lugano is an amazing city and you find lots of Ticino specialities that you can't find at any other market.
#10 GENEVA
It is rare to see the city covered with snow, yet you will still experience the Swiss atmosphere. You will be able to buy artisans work, go to a Xmas pub, eat at the Chalet a Fondue, or ride the carrousel.
TOP 10 THINGS YOU HAVE TO TRY!
Because Switzerland is so diverse in terms of cultures, each region has its own traditions and own food specialities. There are classic, such as the fondue or raclette that you might find everywhere, but most of them are specialities relative to their region.
#1 The cheese fondue
A classic in Switzerland! You just can't leave Switzerland without having tried it at least once our national dish, especially during Xmas time!
#2 The raclette
Another national dish, and more practical than the fondue because you don't need to sit down. Look for the authentic ones where half of the cheese is melted and then scooped on your potatoes!
#3 Zimtsterne
Literally "Cinnamon stars", these are cookies that we cook during Xmas time
#4 Leckerli - Swiss Gingerbreak-like treat
These are typical Swiss treats with a honey base, almonds, and small pieces of fruits. A must-eat during Xmas time.
#5 Nusstorte
This is a Swiss speciality; literally a "nut cake". You often have a crust all around with walnut filling in the middle!
#6 Christstollen
This is a pastry filled with fruit and rolled. A tradition for Xmas time.
#7 Hot chocolate
Another Xmas classic. But being in the country of chocolate, it always hit a sweetpoint, especially when it's a little colder outside! Also don't forget to try regular chocolate!
#8 Tartiflette
If i am not wrong, this is actually a dish with French origin, but it has become one of the most consumed dish in Switzerland. It is baked potatoes with cheese and bacon. It was one of my grandma's favorite!
#9 Roesti
We often eat this on the ski slopes and it is one of our national dish. It is a kind of hashbrown. Each region has its own style of making it. It can be eaten as a side or main course. Often garnished with cheese, fried egg, meat, etc.
#10 Vin Chaud/Gluhwein
What else to stay warm while walking around the market?! This is a must-try. There are some with wine or without!
Again, this is only a sparkle of all what you could eat. There are many other specialities that you can try.
And don't forget to bundle up before you go!!
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