Geneva and its Christmas markets
With COVID-19 cases on the rise again, various Christmas markets are gradually opening their doors, albeit subject to strict health measures: face masks, health passes, and sometimes both… Be sure to check in advance!
But this year, there’s no way we’re going to miss out on the magical atmosphere they create. You can almost smell the mulled wine, fondue and gingerbread from here…
No need to travel all over Switzerland – Geneva already has some lovely Christmas markets!
In total, there are no fewer than six traditional markets in the heart of Geneva. Each one offers its own unique surprises and a distinct atmosphere. Some dazzle us with their magical decorations – *Noël au Jardin* springs to mind. Others charm us precisely because of their simplicity and authenticity, such as the Carouge Christmas market.
We can’t wait to wander through the rows of wooden stalls, which give each market the feel of a little village where it’s lovely to stroll around, finish off your Christmas shopping or enjoy a glass of mulled wine to warm up.
Discover the six Christmas markets in Geneva and the surrounding area.
An idyllic Christmas in the Garden
It was first held in the Parc des Bastions before eventually moving to the Jardin Anglais.
Could there possibly be a better setting? The Christmas lights illuminate the trees whilst reflecting off the lake… Magical!
This market is brimming with little chalets that are sure to delight you: raclette stalls, all sorts of craftspeople, warming drinks and, best of all, the fondue chalet is back!
The highlight: the truly magical décor and the little campfires to warm up by
From 18 November to 26 December 2021
Jardin Anglais – Quai du Général-Guisan – 1204 Geneva
The classic Mont Blanc Christmas Market
Ideally located, just a stone’s throw from Cornavin station, you’ll find all the Christmas market classics here: mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and dozens of little gifts for your loved ones. Indeed, many local producers and craftspeople gather here.
The bonus: the super-central location, perfect for a quick night out after work!
From 26 November to 26 December 2021
22 Rue du Mont-Blanc – 1201 Geneva
The enchanting Lancy Christmas Market
If you’re not sure what to do this weekend, that’s the place to be!
This year, the Lancy Christmas market is being held at a brand-new venue: Place de Pont-Rouge. There you’ll find around thirty stalls run by local traders, craftspeople and designers.
As for the events, a programme is available on the town’s website. They take place throughout the day and are completely free!
The highlight: a giant postbox where children can pop their letters to Father Christmas
From 1 December to 5 December 2021 only
Place du Pont-Rouge – 1212 Lancy
Carouge Christmas Market: THE go-to place for designers
If you’re looking for an original and, above all, handmade gift, this is THE place to be! The Carouge neighbourhood is already very charming and unique outside the Christmas season, so you can just imagine what it’s like when the streets are lined with little wooden huts, fairy lights and the scent of gingerbread. There are also plenty of activities planned for the little ones.
The highlight: a wishing tree where young and old alike can make a wish
10–12 December 2021
Rue Saint-Joseph, Place du Temple – 1227 Carouge
The delicious and colourful Aire-la-Ville Christmas Market
It may be a bit unusual as it’s held indoors, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit! The Aire-la-Ville market pulls out all the stops, with no fewer than 34 stalls offering authentic crafts and a wide variety of gourmet products waiting for you there.
One thing’s for sure: you won’t be short of treats or Christmas magic.
Bonus: all proceeds from the refreshment stand and the cake stall will be donated to the Graine d’affection charity, which aims to support and promote other organisations working with young children, orphans or those abandoned by their families, by providing them with care, affection and attention tailored to their needs.
5 December 2021
Multipurpose Hall – 1288 Aire-la-Ville
The Ideal Christmas Market at Place de la Fusterie
A simple and efficient market! In the lower streets of La Fusterie, you’ll find stalls run by craftspeople where you can pick up the finishing touches for your Christmas shopping.
To mark the occasion, little wooden huts, decorated Christmas trees and festive garlands will brighten up the town’s streets.
The bonus: the market is right next to all the major department stores, so you’ll have no excuse and will simply have to give in to temptation!
12–24 December 2021
Place de la Fusterie – 1204 Geneva
Events are gradually resuming after a very unusual year and a half. We therefore recommend that you check your local council’s website to see what’s on for the Christmas period. We know that markets will be taking place in the towns of Chêne-Bougerie, Cartigny, Cologny, Confignon…
This non-exhaustive list is sure to have something to suit your tastes.
We felt it was important to highlight these local initiatives, which bring various trades in the Geneva region to the fore during the festive season. They include producers of gourmet foods, as well as designers of jewellery, leather goods and decorations. We also find representatives from the city of Geneva’s restaurant sector. After these two difficult years, all these businesses need our support more than ever, and for our part, we are absolutely keen to support them.
Christmas markets are a real treat that would make any adult feel like a child again!
