The Christmas markets, oh the Christmas markets! So popular now that they are even being sold as top tourist destinations around the world.
Christmas markets in Europe are known to be the best in the world, and although Luzern’s markets may not reach the likes of Strasbourg or Dresden, they are still great to enjoy that cosy Christmassy feel that invokes nostalgia, are a celebration of culture, tradition and community and the savouring of seasonal delights. Glühwein anyone?
The Christmas lights have been switched on at Luzern’s railway station and the markets begin this weekend on the lake:
Luzern Railway Station
15 November – 22 December
Taking place at the Inseli Quai right on the banks of Lake Luzern, Rudolfs Christmas market offers a range of food, drink and hand-made goods for you to enjoy. Rudolfs fondue chalet will offer you a particularly Swiss and cozy evening! Various activities also take place here throughout the month, so make sure to take at look at the online program here.
Rudolfs is also included in Swiss Family Funs’ 10 Best Switzerland Christmas Markets 2025 (with map!) along with a couple included below and one above the hustle and bustle of the city at the Pilatus Christmas Market that starts today!
27 – 29 November
Discover Christmas at the cosy Bruchquartier Christmas Market. Many shops and creative outlets are part of the trouvaillenmarkt, (flea market) with handmade gift ideas. An art market in the Factory offers diverse paintings, cards and objects for sale and singers warming your ears as you wander through. Offering an interesting and full program for young and old, an eTukTuk is available for comfortable transport between the different shops and stalls. Check out the program as there will be a lot going on, including: concerts, bands, films, lantern procession, visit from Samichlaus, roasting marshmallows and festive foods and drinks available.
Also, congratulations to the Bruchweihnachten organisation as on 11 November they were awarded first place in the Anerkennungspreis Quartierleben 2025 (Neighbourhood 2025 Recognition Award). Drop by and see what it is all about.
30 November, 7 December and 14 December
For three Sundays in a row, enjoy an indoor market in the luxurious setting of the well-known Schweizerhof Hotel. You can find lots of local vendors with handmade gifts and festive treats to try. Open from 10.00 to 18.00.
4 – 21 December
The Luzern Christmas Market takes place at Franziskanerplatz, right in the heart of the old town and in front of the Franciscan church, and you can find around 70 stalls offering various handmade gifts and items. You’ll also be able to grab a hot, festive drink of your choice and enjoy some snacks as you browse and take in the atmosphere. This market attracts a lot of Swiss and international visitors, and has the largest Advent wreath in Central Switzerland!
Travel magazine Time Out counts it among The ten most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe – honoured for its atmospheric ambiance, loving craftsmanship and the typical Luzern mulled wine, that is served in the popular collection cups.
Taking place on the 6, 8, 13, 14, 20 and 21 December, the Luzern Craft Market is filled with beautiful homemade and handcrafted goods. From glass trinkets, to embroidered or wooden presents, you will definitely find something local & unique here!
14 December
Open from 10.00 – 18.00, you can find beautiful and quirky gifts at this Christmas market.
16 – 23 December
Whether you’re looking to buy a Christmas tree or just soak up the atmosphere, the city’s Christmas Tree Market is where you can browse trees and decorations which are all grown locally. It takes place at Schweizerhofquai, Nationalquai and Helvetiaplatz.
18 – 21 December
This unique, international Christmas market celebrates traditions and customs from all over the world. You can experience music, dance, and a lot more entertainment at this fun celebration. It takes place at Kapellplatz.
Header image from Pexels: William Gevorg Urban
