Switzerland’s seasonal markets fill the streets from late November through Christmas Eve and even beyond. You’ll find anything and everything for family, friends, and your own deserving self at the plethora of colorful stands chock full of local specialties as well as imported goods. From foie gras and Berner Hobelkäse to Peruvian sweaters and handmade ceramics, your choices are many—and your shopping enjoyment is only enhanced when you sing along to the festive live music and indulge in a couple of cups of the Glühwein or vin chaud.

Whether you’re based in Gstaad or arriving here for the holidays via Bern, Geneva, Zurich or Basel, stop in at the market of your choice. Then, stop in at the local Saanenland Christmas shopping spots.

 

The Little Swiss Market That Could -- Montreux

There’s a reason nearly half a million people show up every year for the one-of-a-kind Christmas market in Montreux. Not only is it the largest marché de Noel in Switzerland, it’s one of the most attractive and appealing. With more than 150 brightly lit chalet-style shops ringing the promenade along the lake as well as the main street, you have countless options to choose from—including a wide selection of surprisingly affordable handcrafted jewelry made by local artisans—before you take a break and head for the historic 1890s wooden dome, where the food and drink stands await.

If you’ve got kids—or you can borrow some—jump on the train that winds its way up to Rochers-de Naye and drop by Chez Santa Claus. You’ll also enjoy the authentic Christmas village in Caux—and its great views of Lac Leman. Last but not least, Chateau de Chillon hosts a medieval market just 15 minutes’ walk further up the lake.

 

Double Your Flavor and Fun -- Basel

In Basel, twin offerings in Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz (by the cathedral) provide two unique shopping experiences. With the city’s historic old-town as a backdrop, you can check out the Christmas stands, many offering traditional handicrafts. Just remember to try one of the renowned Basler Leckerli spiced cookies, washed down with hot cider spiced with Schnapps or rum-infused Punsch.      

 

 A Delight for the Senses -- Bern

You’ll find a small gem of a holiday market in Bern. With its quaint setting in the midst of historic 15^th century buildings on Münsterplatz, this Weinachtsmarkt rivals Basil’s in sensorial charm. The air is rich with the scent of chestnuts, smoky incense, cinnamon and pine; the stands are rich with tactile treasures. Check out the main square for arts and crafts, and proceed to Waisenhausplatz for more traditional offerings. 

 

The Right Side of the Tracks-- Zurich

Zurich’s most popular Christmas market happens right in the train station—perfect for shopping on the go. Whether you’re coming or going, you can pick up whatever you need—from handcrafted wooden toys and woolens to a wide array of cheeses and dried meats. The stands flank the show-stopping 40-foot Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. You don’t even have to leave the train station—but if you’re willing to move on down Bahnhofstrasse, you’ll discover the singing Christmas tree (performances daily), as well as additional market stands.

 

Winterzauber—Saanenland’s Magical Market

Located next to the ice skating rink on Gstaad’s Promenade, this charming little market runs through the holidays straight up until January 4. The festively decorated wooden chalets offer handmade gifts for the whole family. Watch the ice skaters jump and spin while sipping a hot Glühwein and sampling one of the installation’s many delicious baked goodies.