Swiss Christmas Markets

from £1782 excluding flights

7 nights
Nov-Dec

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Highlights

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Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of traditional Christmas markets

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Enjoy a warm, spiced glass of mulled wine

Take an optional mountain excursion to Mt Pilatus or Jungfraujoch

Savour the delightful flavours of local delicacies

Why this trip...

Festive getaway

This holiday can also be taken at Christmas or New Year adding a dose of magic to the festive season

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Go slow and savour

This itinerary is ideal for those who want to work away from home, or take their time to explore the country in depth

Immersive exploration

Immerse yourself in your surroundings on a true exploration of remote and spectacular areas

Overview

Embrace the festive magic of Central Europe on an enchanting rail journey through some of its most picturesque cities and mountain villages, all aglow with Christmas cheer. In just one week, you will uncover the charms of France and Switzerland, journeying from Alsace’s historic towns to the majestic Swiss Alps, with captivating beauty and rich culture at every stop. Wander through the twinkling market stalls of Strasbourg, revel in Basel’s festive atmosphere and stunning holiday decorations, soak up the alpine charm of Grindelwald, take in Lucerne’s breathtaking lakeside views dressed in seasonal splendour, and explore Bern’s Old Town, filled with warmth and holiday joy.

Strasbourg

Begin your adventure in the charming French city of Strasbourg, a fairytale destination of half-timbered houses, twinkling Christmas lights, and renowned holiday markets. Wander the enchanting Petite France quarter, where the scent of mulled wine drifts through the air, and marvel at the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral as it sparkles with festive decorations. Indulge in traditional Alsatian treats at a cosy brasserie, experiencing the warmth and flavour of this magical region.

The Strasbourg Christmas Market, known as Christkindelsmärik, dates back to 1570 and is one of the oldest and most iconic Christmas markets in Europe. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the historic city centre, the market transforms Strasbourg into a winter wonderland filled with festive charm. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you will be greeted by the sight of over 300 beautifully decorated wooden stalls, each brimming with artisanal crafts, handmade gifts, and traditional holiday decorations. The air is fragrant with the enticing aromas of roasted chestnuts, spiced cookies, and mulled wine (vin chaud), inviting you to indulge in seasonal treats.

Open: 27 November to 27 December 2024

Basel

A short train ride along the Rhine Valley brings you to Basel, Switzerland’s cultural capital. Lose yourself in the Old Town’s cobbled streets, historic architecture, and world-class galleries, or peruse the Christmas markets for unique handmade gifts. Basel’s blend of medieval charm and modern flair offers unforgettable holiday shopping, riverside strolls, and the chance to visit Switzerland’s most acclaimed art museums.

The Christmas Markets in Basel are renowned for their festive charm and vibrant atmosphere, and offer a delightful mix of traditional crafts, seasonal delicacies, and enchanting decorations, all set against the stunning backdrop of the city’s historic architecture. The main Christmas market is located in Basel’s Old Town, particularly around Marktplatz and Barfüsserplatz, where hundreds of beautifully decorated stalls come to life.

Food is a central highlight of the Basel Christmas Markets. Stalls are filled with delicious treats such as raclette, fondue, and bratwurst, as well as sweet delights like Swiss chocolate, gingerbread, and stollen (a traditional fruitcake). Don’t miss the chance to warm up with a cup of glühwein (mulled wine) while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Open: 28 November to 23 December 2024

Lucerne

Next, journey to Lucerne, a Swiss winter wonderland framed by the serene shores of Lake Lucerne. Walk across the medieval Chapel Bridge, admire the poignant Lion Monument, and explore cobbled streets draped in festive lights. Take a thrilling trip on the cable car up Mount Pilatus will give you sweeping views of Switzerland’s snow-capped mountains—a holiday experience like no other.

The Christmas Markets in Lucerne transform this lakeside city into a winter wonderland, offering a magical setting with snow-capped mountains, charming medieval architecture, and festive lights reflecting off Lake Lucerne. The main market, Lozärner Weihnachtsmärt, is located in the Franziskanerplatz and is known for its intimate, village-like atmosphere with dozens of wooden chalets offering a range of unique gifts, from handcrafted ornaments to artisan jewellery and local crafts. The entire square glows with festive lights and garlands, with the fragrance of spiced mulled wine, fresh pine, and roasted chestnuts filling the crisp winter air.

Adding to the festive spirit, carol singers and live musicians perform throughout the markets, creating a lively, joyful ambiance. Be sure to try local delicacies like raclette, fondue, and the famous Swiss Christmas cookies while warming up with a cup of glühwein.

Open: 05 – 22 December 2024

Interlaken

The journey continues deeper into the Alps to Interlaken, a charming lakeside town that could be straight from a Christmas card. Spend two magical days hiking serene trails, exploring glacier paths, or ascending by cable car to the Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe.” Enjoy the town’s cosy atmosphere, sipping hot chocolate with views of the iconic Eiger mountain as your backdrop.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this extraordinary Christmas Market, featuring a delightful array of exhibitors and attractions from both Interlaken and the charming regions of German-speaking and French-speaking Switzerland.

Step through a stunning 10-metre-long illuminated tunnel, beautifully adorned with festive decorations, and find yourself in the heart of the market, where a breathtaking 8-metre-high Christmas tree sparkles against a backdrop of charming chalets and exquisite decorative elements. As you stroll through artistically designed stalls showcasing handmade arts and crafts, you’ll feel the true essence of Christmas come alive all around you.

Savour a diverse culinary experience with an enticing selection of traditional Swiss dishes and modern delicacies from across the country, ensuring there is something to tantalise every palate. Indulge in the flavours of the season while surrounded by the warmth of festive cheer and the joyous sounds of the holidays.

Open: 29 November to 22 December 2024

Montreux

Travelling on the magnificent Golden Pass Panorama Express train, take in the idyllic wintery montage of snow-capped mountains, shimmering lake, and frost-kissed vineyards… Montreux, dressed in its seasonal splendour, has inspired artists, writers, and musicians ranging from Freddie Mercury and Prince to Igor Stravinski. The shores of Lake Geneva, almost Mediterranean in summer, take on a magical charm in December, where the Montreux Riviera enjoys a milder microclimate that preserves the enchanting terraced vineyards of Lavaux (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) even in the colder months.

The best Christmas Market in French-speaking Switzerland, and one of the largest in the country, is the Marché de Noël à Montreux. Each Christmas holiday season, around 170 market stalls sell Christmas fares at the traditional Christmas market (Weihnachtsmarkt) in the town centre and on the lake-side quays, at the special market for a guest country, and in the covered market in Montreux. Further holiday cheer is added by a medieval festival at Chateau de Chillon Castle and Santa’s Workshop at the top of Rocher-de-Naye, an Alpine peak with wonderful views of Lake Geneva and the mountains. The Village des Lutins in the gardens of the Casino shows the elves at work.

Open: 21 November – 24 December 2024

Itinerary

Depart London on the Eurostar to Paris, then continue by train to Strasbourg, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. Settle in and enjoy an evening stroll through Strasbourg’s enchanting Petite France district, where half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and scenic canals create a fairytale-like atmosphere. For dinner, explore Alsatian cuisine at a local brasserie and sample regional specialties such as flammekueche, Alsatian flatbread pizza; choucroute garnie, a hearty sauerkraut dish with sausage and pork; and fresh bretzels.

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Morning to explore Strasbourg Cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg with stunning Gothic architecture and intricate astronomical clock. Take in the breathtaking city views from the cathedral’s viewing platform. The rail journey from Strasbourg to Basel is a delightful passage through the heart of the Upper Rhine Valley, connecting French and Swiss cultures in under two hours. As the train departs Strasbourg, you’ll glide past the charming countryside of the Alsace region, known for its rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and clusters of picturesque farmhouses. The scenery shifts from lush vineyards and green hills to glimpses of the Rhine River, as you draw closer to the Swiss border. Crossing into Switzerland, the architectural style subtly changes, and you’ll notice traditional Swiss chalets set against a backdrop of gently rising hills and forested slopes. Afternoon and evening to wander through Basel’s historic Old Town, with its medieval buildings, cobbled streets, and highlights like the Town Hall with its bright red façade and intricate frescoes and Spalen Gate, a beautifully preserved city gate from the 1400s. Savour Basel’s culinary offerings at local restaurants and markets and try some traditional dishes like Basler Läckerli (a spiced gingerbread cookie), Swiss fondue, and hearty Rösti.

The rail journey from Strasbourg to Basel is a delightful passage through the heart of the Upper Rhine Valley, connecting French and Swiss cultures in under two hours. As the train departs Strasbourg, you’ll glide past the charming countryside of the Alsace region, known for its rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and clusters of picturesque farmhouses. The scenery shifts from lush vineyards and green hills to glimpses of the Rhine River, as you draw closer to the Swiss border.

Crossing into Switzerland, the architectural style subtly changes, and you’ll notice traditional Swiss chalets set against a backdrop of gently rising hills and forested slopes.

Afternoon and evening to wander through Basel’s historic Old Town, with its medieval buildings, cobbled streets, and highlights like the Town Hall with its bright red façade and intricate frescoes and Spalen Gate, a beautifully preserved city gate from the 1400s.

Savour Basel’s culinary offerings at local restaurants and markets and try some traditional dishes like Basler Läckerli (a spiced gingerbread cookie), Swiss fondue, and hearty Rösti.

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Taking just over an hour, the train journey from Basel to Lucerne is a picturesque trip through some of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes. Pass through the peaceful Swiss countryside dotted with charming villages, green pastures, and traditional farmhouses. Approaching Lucerne, you’re treated to increasingly dramatic alpine scenery, with snow-capped mountains framing the landscape and glimpses of Lake Lucerne.

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A full day to explore Lucerne, perhaps begin your adventure by strolling across the iconic Chapel Bridge, a 15th-century wooden structure adorned with beautiful frescoes that illustrate significant historical events. Don’t miss the nearby Water Tower, which adds to the bridge’s picturesque setting. Wander through the enchanting medieval Old Town, where cobblestone streets and vibrant architecture await. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a scenic cable car ride up Mount Pilatus to soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

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Departing from Lucerne, the journey takes you through the breathtaking Brünig Pass, where the train winds its way through lush forests and gently rolling hills. Keep an eye out for cascading waterfalls and picturesque villages nestled in the valleys. As the train climbs higher, you’re treated to stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, including the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the serene waters of Lake Brienz, setting a beautiful scene before arriving in Interlaken.

The vibrant atmosphere of Interlaken offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking natural beauty. Immerse yourself in Swiss culture by exploring local Christmas Markets, savouring exquisite Swiss chocolate and cheese, and enjoying lively folk music performances. For truly stunning alpine views, take the scenic train journey to Jungfraujoch. Marvel at the magnificent scenery along the way, and once you reach the summit, explore the captivating Ice Palace and soak in the panoramic vistas of the Aletsch Glacier.

For truly stunning alpine views, take the scenic train journey to Jungfraujoch. Marvel at the magnificent scenery along the way, and once you reach the summit, explore the captivating Ice Palace and soak in the panoramic vistas of the Aletsch Glacier.

The journey from Interlaken to Montreux on the Golden Pass Express transforms into a breathtaking winter adventure, winding through snow-dusted meadows and frosted forests. As the train glides past charming towns like Zweisimmen and Gstaad, each offers a glimpse of quintessential Swiss life, now adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Approaching Gstaad, the landscape becomes a picturesque winter scene, complete with rolling hills blanketed in snow, traditional wooden chalets adorned with icicles, and grazing cows that seem to frolic in the frosty fields. From Gstaad, the Golden Pass Express continues through vineyards and terraced fields, which are now glistening under a layer of fresh snow, as it descends toward Montreux. The final stretch into Montreux is particularly magical, with the glittering, ice-fringed waters of Lake Geneva on one side and the majestic, snow-capped French Alps in the distance. You’ll arrive in this sophisticated lakeside town, famous for its jazz festival and its unique Mediterranean-like climate that feels even more enchanting against the winter backdrop. The combination of alpine and lake views, along with the train’s large panoramic windows, makes this winter journey one of the most beautiful rail experiences in Switzerland, where each turn reveals a new scene straight out of a storybook.

From Gstaad, the Golden Pass Express continues through vineyards and terraced fields, which are now glistening under a layer of fresh snow, as it descends toward Montreux. The final stretch into Montreux is particularly magical, with the glittering, ice-fringed waters of Lake Geneva on one side and the majestic, snow-capped French Alps in the distance. You’ll arrive in this sophisticated lakeside town, famous for its jazz festival and its unique Mediterranean-like climate that feels even more enchanting against the winter backdrop. The combination of alpine and lake views, along with the train’s large panoramic windows, makes this winter journey one of the most beautiful rail experiences in Switzerland, where each turn reveals a new scene straight out of a storybook.

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Travelling via Geneva to Paris Gare du Lyon, then transfer to Gare du Nord for the evening Eurostar to London.

Accommodation

We will recommend accommodation for this holiday, but with a vast choice available, we can adapt to suit your personal preference mixing different grades and styles in different cities.

Discuss your options with our Travel Specialists

Prices and Departures

Price from £1782 excluding flights

Airfares are quoted separately to the holiday price. When enquiring, our Travel Specialists will provide the best fare possible from your preferred airline / airport.
Note: Airfares tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

What's Included

Accommodation in rooms with private facilities
Breakfast throughout
Interrail Pass for 5 days of travel in one month
All compulsory seat reservation fees on panorama and international trains
24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
No surcharge guarantee
Full financial protection

From price per person

Based on two sharing a twin room with private facilities and breakfast. Prices may vary depending on departure date. Please contact us for a detailed quote based on your preferred travel dates.

Departure	Duration	Price
November & December 2024	7 nights	£1,782	Round trip by train
November & December 2024	7 nights	£1,570	Fly to Strasbourg and return from Geneva - price excludes flights*

*Please note that flights are not included in the price, but will be quoted at the time of booking.

This itinerary is flexible and the number of nights at each of the overnight stays can be extended or reduced.

Children under 12 travel free on the parent's Interrail Pass and 12-27 year olds receive a discounted youth Interrail Pass. Accommodation is in family rooms where available. Please contact our travel specialist for a quotation.

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Swiss Christmas Markets

Highlights