Basel, Switzerland, is unique. It’s a tri-national city where Switzerland, France, and Germany meet. Basel’s charming Old Town is especially festive during the Christmas season.
The Basel Christmas markets are among the largest and oldest in Switzerland, and they’re known for their unique charm. In fact, Basel’s Christmas markets were voted “European Best Christmas Market” for 2021 and again for 2024.
This article will guide you through the magic of the Basel Christmas markets, highlighting key attractions, food and drink, and shopping opportunities. We’ll also provide practical information and tips for planning your visit. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s traditional roots or its modern festive experiences, the Basel Christmas markets offer a captivating blend of both.
So, if you’re looking for the best Christmas markets Basel, Switzerland has to offer, you’ve come to the right place!
Planning Your Trip to Basel: Essential Information
So, you’re thinking about visiting Basel for the Christmas markets? Excellent choice! Here’s what you need to know to make your trip as smooth as Swiss chocolate.
Getting to Basel
Basel is super easy to get to. The EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL) is right there and has flights from all over. From the airport, you can hop on a train or a bus to get into the city center. What’s cool about Basel is that it’s a tri-national city, meaning it sits right where Switzerland, France, and Germany meet. So, getting there from any of those countries is a breeze.
Once you’re in Basel, getting around is even easier. Get yourself a Basel Card! It gives you free rides on public transport and discounts on a bunch of attractions. The trams are the way to go – they’ll whisk you between the markets, the airport, and all the cool spots in the city.
When to Visit: Dates and Hours
The main markets, Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, are usually open from late November until December 23rd. Plan your trip accordingly! Typically, they’re open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day, but it’s always a good idea to double-check before you go, just in case.
Don’t forget about Adväntsgass im Glaibasel! This market sometimes has different hours than the others, so make sure you look those up, too.
Exploring the Main Christmas Market Locations
Basel takes its Christmas markets seriously, and you’ll find festive cheer spread across several locations. Each market has its own unique vibe, so it’s worth exploring them all!
Barfüsserplatz
Barfüsserplatz is the big kahuna of Basel’s Christmas markets. Boasting over 140 stalls, it’s the largest in the city and was even named the “Best Christmas Market in Europe” in 2021! Here, you’ll find a huge range of traders and artisans selling everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to traditional Swiss treats and warming Glühwein. There’s always something festive happening at Barfüsserplatz, whether it’s live music, demonstrations, or other seasonal activities.
Münsterplatz
Münsterplatz offers a more picturesque setting, nestled close to the iconic Basel Minster (cathedral) and overlooking the Rhine River. The market here is smaller than Barfüsserplatz but still packed with charm. A highlight is the magnificent Christmas tree, decked out in stunning ornaments from the renowned Johann Wanner Christmas House.
Fairytale Forest in Münsterplatz
Münsterplatz also features a “Fairytale Forest,” specifically designed to enchant younger visitors. Here, kids can participate in hands-on crafts like candle making, decorating gingerbread, and even blacksmithing! It’s a magical place where children’s imaginations can run wild.
Adväntsgass im Glaibasel
For a more intimate and foodie-focused experience, head to Adväntsgass im Glaibasel. This smaller market is all about local food and drink. It’s the perfect place to sample traditional Swiss specialties and warm up with a mug (or two!) of Glühwein. Keep in mind that Adväntsgass has slightly different opening hours compared to the main markets, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
Other Notable Locations
Beyond the main markets, there are a couple of other spots worth checking out:
The Johann Wanner Christmas House
Even if you don’t visit the markets, a trip to the Johann Wanner Christmas House is a must for any Christmas enthusiast. This sprawling store (over 5,000 square feet!) is a wonderland of unique ornaments and Christmas decor. It’s open year-round, so you can get your festive fix any time!
Theater Basel Advent Calendar
Throughout Advent, the Theater Basel transforms its facade into a giant Advent calendar. Each day, a new “door” is opened, revealing a performance or activity. It’s a fun and festive way to experience the city’s cultural scene.
Festive Activities and Events
Beyond the markets themselves, Basel offers a range of Christmas activities to enhance your holiday spirit.
The Basel Christmas Ferry
For a truly unique experience, hop aboard the Basel Christmas Ferry. For a small fee, this charming ferry transports you across the Rhine River, offering stunning views of the city’s illuminated skyline. It’s a quick trip, but the experience of gliding across the water with the Christmas lights twinkling around you is pure magic.
The Basel Wiehnachts-Drämmli (Christmas Tram)
The festive Christmas Tram, or “Drämmli” as the locals call it, is another delightful way to see Basel during the holiday season. Decorated with twinkling lights and festive adornments, this tram winds its way through the city, even crossing borders, offering a unique perspective on Basel’s Christmas charm.
Other Events
Basel’s Christmas spirit extends beyond the markets and transportation. Consider these events to round out your visit:
- Cirque Noël de Bâle: Enjoy a captivating circus performance with a festive twist.
- Basel City Run: Participate in a fun and festive run through the city’s Christmas-lit streets.
- Harley Niggi-Näggi: Witness a unique spectacle as Harley-Davidson riders dressed as Santa Claus parade through the city.
- Shopping Sundays: Take advantage of extended shopping hours on Sundays during the Advent season.
Indulging in Basel: Food and Drink at the Christmas Markets
One of the best parts of visiting any Christmas market is the food! Basel’s markets are no exception, offering a delightful array of treats to warm you from the inside out.
Must-Try Foods
- Chäsbängel (Fondue Baguette): This is a must-try Basel Christmas Market food! Imagine a crusty baguette, hollowed out and filled with warm, gooey fondue. It’s cheesy, portable, and perfect for wandering through the market.
- Raclette: No trip to Switzerland is complete without trying Raclette. This traditional dish features a half-wheel of cheese melted under a heat lamp, then scraped onto your plate. You can find it served with potatoes, pickles, and onions. If you’re looking for a sit-down experience, try Wacker Fonduestübli restaurant.
- Basler Läckerli: These traditional Basel cookies are a local specialty. They’re made with honey, almonds, candied peel, and Kirsch (cherry liqueur). They’re chewy, spicy, and utterly addictive!
- Grättimaa: These brioche figures are a Swiss tradition, and you’ll find them all over the Basel Christmas markets. They’re usually shaped like little men or women, and they’re soft, sweet, and perfect for dipping in your Glühwein. Konditorei Gilgen, a local bakery, produces over 5,500 of these in a single day during the Christmas season!
Beverages
- Glühwein: No Christmas market is complete without Glühwein! This mulled wine is a staple, and you’ll find different variations at almost every stall. Some are sweeter, some are spicier, and some even have a shot of rum or brandy added. Be aware that most stalls use a mug deposit system; you’ll pay a few francs extra for the mug, which you’ll get back when you return it.
- Feuerzangenbowle: For a truly spectacular experience, try Feuerzangenbowle. This German mulled wine is served with a sugarloaf soaked in rum, which is then set on fire and allowed to caramelize into the drink. It’s warm, boozy, and a real showstopper!
- Glühbier: If you’re feeling adventurous, try Glühbier, a mulled beer. It’s less common than Glühwein, but it’s a surprisingly tasty option for beer lovers.
Other Options
Beyond the must-try items, keep an eye out for other Swiss specialties like:
- Fondue (of course!)
- Rösti (crispy potato pancakes)
- Flammkuchen (a thin, pizza-like tart with various toppings)
Shopping for Souvenirs and Gifts
The Basel Christmas markets are a treasure trove for finding unique gifts and souvenirs. Forget the mass-produced trinkets – here, you’ll discover handcrafted items that tell a story.
One of the most popular finds is the incredible variety of handmade Christmas ornaments. You can find everything from intricately painted glass baubles to charming wooden figures. These artisanal creations are perfect for adding a touch of Swiss magic to your Christmas tree.
If you’re a baker (or know someone who is), keep an eye out for traditional cookie molds. These beautifully carved molds can be used to create stunning gingerbread cookies and other festive treats.
You’ll also find handicrafts and products from around the world, adding an international flair to the markets. And of course, no Christmas market is complete without candles. Basel’s markets offer a wide selection of candles in various shapes, sizes, and scents, perfect for creating a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Where to stay in Basel
If you want to maximize your time at the Christmas markets, staying nearby is ideal. Basel offers hotels for every budget. For a budget-friendly option, the B&B Hotel Basel gets solid reviews. If you’re looking for something mid-range, check out Motel One Basel. And for a truly luxurious experience, consider the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois.
Motel One has a great perk: they provide a free Basel transport card, which gives you unlimited access to public transit. This makes getting around the city a breeze.
No matter where you choose to stay, book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. You might even find “Winter Special” package deals that include accommodations and other perks.
To Conclude
Basel’s Christmas markets offer a truly magical holiday experience, with their twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and delicious seasonal treats. From the Barfüsserplatz market in the heart of the Old Town to the Münsterplatz market nestled in the shadow of the magnificent Basel Minster, each location offers a unique and enchanting atmosphere.
As a tri-national city, Basel boasts a unique blend of Swiss tradition and international influences, making its Christmas markets a truly special destination. You can wander through the stalls admiring the craftsmanship of local artisans, sample traditional Swiss delicacies like raclette and gingerbread, and soak in the festive atmosphere that fills the air.
If you’re looking for a memorable holiday getaway, I encourage you to visit the Basel Christmas markets. Just remember to check the official event website before you go so you’ll know the exact dates, times, and special events taking place. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season and create lasting memories with loved ones. Don’t miss out on this enchanting Christmas experience!