Basel is home to one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. Set on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, the market is surrounded by historic guild houses, the impressive Basel Minster, and a beautifully decorated old town.
Over 150 stalls offer:
- Swiss handicrafts and Christmas decorations
- Mulled wine (Glühwein) and roasted chestnuts
- Raclette, sausages, and traditional treats like Basler Läckerli
The atmosphere is elegant, authentic, and relaxed—perfect for starting a festive journey through Switzerland.
🎄 Zurich Christmas Markets: A Festive Day Trip
Just over an hour by train from Basel, Zurich offers a more urban and cosmopolitan Christmas experience.
Highlights include:
- The famous indoor Christmas Market at Zurich Main Station, featuring a sparkling Swarovski Christmas tree
- Atmospheric outdoor markets in Zurich’s old town
Zurich’s Christmas markets are ideal for a comfortable day trip from Basel, combining festive tradition with city elegance.
🎄 Alsace at Your Doorstep: Colmar & Strasbourg
One of Basel’s greatest advantages is its location at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany. The legendary Christmas markets of Alsace are remarkably close.
🎄 Colmar Christmas Market
Often described as a fairytale town, Colmar becomes truly magical during Advent. Several small markets are scattered through the old town and along the canals of Little Venice, surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses.
🎄 Strasbourg Christmas Market
Known as the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets. Its grand cathedral, large central market, and beautifully decorated streets create an unforgettable festive atmosphere.
Both Colmar and Strasbourg can easily be combined with a stay in Basel—without changing hotels.
⭐ Why Basel Is the Ideal Christmas Base
Staying in Basel allows you to:
- Visit one of Europe’s top Christmas markets right outside your door
- Take easy day trips to Zurich, Colmar, and Strasbourg
- Experience Swiss panoramic trains and alpine scenery without moving hotels
- Travel comfortably by train throughout Switzerland and neighboring regions
Basel combines festive charm, perfect location, and excellent rail connections—everything needed for a memorable winter journey.
🎄 Discover Christmas Switzerland with Us
We specialize in private, tailor-made tours starting from Basel, combining Christmas markets, scenic train journeys, and iconic Swiss experiences. Whether you are dreaming of festive cities, panoramic trains, or the Matterhorn in winter, we design journeys that are seamless, comfortable, and unforgettable.
Basel is not just a destination—it’s the perfect base for discovering Christmas magic across Switzerland and beyond. ✨