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WHERE: Zurich, Switzerland
WHEN: from 23 November to 24 December 2023
Magical. Colored. Fairytale.
Starting in November, Zurich is transformed into a riot of lights, colors, sounds and scents. It is the time of Christmas and the magic is felt practically on every corner, square and street.
The traditional Christmas Markets in Zurich are the real stars, with many stalls displaying sweets, delicacies, souvenirs and handicrafts. There are so many markets in the city. Suitable for all tastes and ages. But they are not a part of the beloved the city can offer in this period.
You will be able to witness an incredible series of extraordinary events. Circus shows. Shopping Nights. Advent concerts. The traditional Advent calendar and, even, a great race through the festively illuminated historic center.
Then there are the unmissable shows linked to tradition, shows for the little ones and less usual events, such as a swim in the icy waters of the Limmat!
Because Christmas in Zurich is sharing but, above all, fun.
CHRISTMAS IN ZURICH: THE MARKETS
There is no Christmas without the traditional Christmas Markets. Just for a simple walk. To breathe the Christmas atmosphere. To eat something on the fly. To buy gifts and souvenirs. In the city there are really many places, suitable for all tastes.
NIEDERDORF
The oldest Christmas market in Zurich takes place in the historic center, in what is called Niederdorf. For many, it is a must at Christmas in Zurich, with the inevitable stalls set up between Hirschenplatz and Rosenhof.
Lights, colors and lots of mulled wine. The artisans display their artifacts while, outside the entrance to the shops, the owners offer customers chocolates to take from the tree.
HOURS: From 23 November to 24 December. Monday to Saturday 11.00 – 21.00. Sunday 11.00 – 19.00.
WIENACHTSDORF
Along the Sechseläutenplatz, in front of the splendid Opera Theater, stands the market most loved by families.
The name of this market means Christmas Village. And, just walking here, you have the feeling of being in front of a small world apart. Many stalls offer the most disparate products. From culinary delights, to sweets, up to jewels, souvenirs and eccentric clothes, and not.
Absolutely not to be missed is the legendary Fondue Chalet.
And, to the delight of young and old, right here, along Sechseläutenplatz, there is a wonderful ice rink, open from Monday to Friday, from 09:00. Tickets starting from 4CHF for children up to 15 years, and 6CHF for adults. To the price, you will have to add the cost of renting the skates.
The market is open from 23 November to 23 December, from Monday to Saturday, from 11:00 to 22.00; Sunday, from 11:00 to 20.00.
ZÜRCHER CHRISTKINDLMARKT
Photo © Roland Fischer, Zürich (Switzerland)
The largest indoor Christmas market in Europe. These premises could explain the success of this extraordinary market set up in the Central Station Hauptbahnhof Zürich. Truly enchanting to get off the train, and be enveloped by the magic of Christmas in Zurich. Even the most hasty will not be able to remain impassive to the charm of the 15 stalls and the spectacular Christmas tree, 15 meters high, and decorated with sparkling Swarovski crystals!
From 24 November to 24 December 2022. The market observes the following times:
Sunday to Wednesday 10:30 am – 9:00 pm
Thursday to Saturday 10:30 – 22:00
Monday, December 24th 10:30 am – 4:00 pm.
WERDMÜHLEPLATZ
Small, Crop. Absolutely magical. You will find a few houses and a particularity that makes this market truly unique, the Singing Christmas Tree. It is a large stage in the shape of a Christmas tree. Here, many children offer to perform in traditional Christmas carols. Guaranteed atmosphere and magic. Two shows are scheduled, at 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm, from Monday to Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, however, 4 shows at 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 6.30pm.
Open every day, from 23 November to 23 December, from Monday to Thursday, from 4pm to 9pm. Friday, from 4pm to 9pm – Saturday, from 1pm to 10pm. Sunday, from 1pm to 9pm
Not far away, on Bahnhofstrasse, another lovely Christmas market awaits you in Zurich. The stalls are festively decorated between the Jelmoli and Globus department stores. Many choose it for the atmosphere and to draw a good glass of mulled wine.
CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN ZURICH
Christmas in Zurich is not just about markets.
Throughout November and December, the city is a succession of events, more or less extraordinary.
At the beginning of December, one of the most incredible events awaits you: a swim in the icy waters of the Limmat. Learn more from here.
Another traditional event is the December marathon, with a nice run through the illuminated historic center. It is open to people of all ages, divided into categories. You can participate, or simply watch as spectators.
According to locals, Christmas in Zurich begins as soon as the famous Circus Conelli pitches its tent at the Bauschänzli. You can admire the acrobatics of artists, incredible musical performances, dream poems, comedies and much more.
EVENTS FOR CHILDREN
Christmas is magic. Sharing. And there is nothing better, and more beautiful, than looking at it from the eyes of the little ones.
Christmas in Zurich for children is full of extraordinary initiatives. Starting with the mythical Märlitram. It is a specially decorated tram which crosses the streets of Zurich from the Bellevue stop. It can only accommodate children between the ages of 4 and 10. On board, the little passengers listen to Christmas tales from the mouth of Angels. The ticket must be purchased, 7 days before the race, at the Jelmoli Department Store, 4th floor. Last day of the Märlitram departures on December 23rd.
Christmas in Zurich, like everywhere, is tradition. Among these, there is the art of preparing candles. Since 1969, the Music Pavilion at Bürkliplatz has been transformed into a real laboratory. Here, in an atmosphere of peace and meditation, visitors can try their hand at making a candle. And if you fail to complete your masterpiece, no problem; you can leave your candle in a special wardrobe, and come back later!
On December 25th, at 17:00 sharp, in Usteristrasse, between Globus and Bahnhofstrasse, Santa Claus himself will distribute sweets to the small children present. Not to be missed for your Christmas in Zurich with children.
The dates, times and program indicated are to be considered purely indicative and NOT ABSOLUTELY OFFICIAL.