When it comes to traveling for the holidays, it doesn’t get much better than spending Christmas in Switzerland. The stunning scenery and wide range of activities make Switzerland the perfect holiday travel destination. Here are our top four destinations you need to book your Switzerland holidays!
The Swiss Alps
Travelers dreaming of a white Christmas won’t be disappointed when visiting the Swiss Alps. The Alps cover three-fifths of Switzerland, so you needn’t go far to find the awe-inspiring vistas for which they are known. For skiers and snowboarders, there is a wide array of ski resorts to choose from such as St. Moritz, Zermatt, and Davos/Klosters where you’ll not only find great skiing but great après-ski activities as well. Visitors also enjoy traditional activities such as sleigh rides and regional village Christmas markets. In the town of Gstaad, you can enjoy the traditional visit from Santa Claus. Follow along as he walks with the town’s children from the Posthotel Rössli, the oldest hotel in town, to the chapel. Christmas in Switzerland can be a magical time!
Basel
Away from the peaks in Switzerland’s Basel is another wonderful locale for spending your Switzerland holidays. The city is located where Switzerland, France, and Germany meet, offering a wide variety of cultural attractions. It’s also known for hosting Switzerland’s largest Christmas celebration. Basel is home to the largest and oldest Christmas market in the country, with over 180 stalls. The market is located on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, in the heart of old town, and thought to be one of the prettiest in all of Europe. Be sure to get a picture of the towering Christmas tree at the market, decorated by noted designer Johann Wanner. Another tradition visitors won’t want to miss is the Basel Wish Book.
For the 25th time the traditional Basel Wish Book will once again be openly accessible in the inner courtyard of the Town Hall for all members of the public – both local residents and visitors from around the world – to add their Advent wishes. Over the entire Christmas period and into the new year visitors can fill the book with their private thoughts, wish-lists for Santa Claus and hopes for peace, love and good health. –Basel.com
Geneva
Geneva takes full advantage of its international roots with the annual Genève Marché International de Noel at Place de la Fusterie, located in between the old town and Lake Geneva. The market has an eclectic mix of international exhibitors and traditional pre-Christmas food from many nations for visitors to sample. You can also visit the open-air ice rink in the Parc des Bastions. Here you can rent skates if necessary and enjoy the rink for no charge. Want to ski on during your Christmas in Switzerland? Geneva is also the perfect launching point to travel to Switzerland’s ski destinations, making it perfect for combining a city visit with a ski vacation.
St. Gallen
For a magical Christmas experience, visit the town of St. Gallen in eastern Switzerland during the Advent season. The town itself is a UNESCO Heritage Site but the addition of 700 floating stars over the city make it even more special during this season. In addition, the town’s Christmas tree in the Abbey district glows with over 18,000 lights. It’s no wonder the town is nicknamed “the city of stars” for its Christmas celebration. Take in one of the many concerts held at the city’s magnificent cathedral or simply wander the streets and take in the yuletide ambiance. Of course, the town also features a charming Christmas market with plenty of mulled wine to warm chilly shoppers!
No matter where you choose to spend your Christmas in Switzerland, you’re guaranteed a truly special holiday experience. After all, Switzerland holidays offer up some of the best memories for your entire family. For even more Christmas destination advice explore Christmas Market: The Best Luxury Hotels for Your Trip.
