As the year winds down, Switzerland is still buzzing with festive activities and winter magic. For expats living here or just settling in, this is a wonderful time to explore local traditions and enjoy the unique holiday charm. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Christmas Markets for Last-Minute Cheer
While some markets have wrapped up, you can still soak in the festive atmosphere at:
- Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt (until Dec 24): Conveniently located at Zurich Hauptbahnhof, this market offers holiday treats, decorations, and one of the most beautiful Christmas trees adorned with Swarovski crystals.
- Montreux Noël (until Dec 24): Near Lake Geneva, this market features cozy chalets, local crafts, and the enchanting Santa Claus train to Rochers-de-Naye.
Local Festive Traditions to Embrace
- Swiss Christmas Lights: Cities like Bern, Lucerne, and Geneva are beautifully illuminated. Take a walk through decorated streets or visit iconic spots like Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse or the Old Town in Bern.
- Winter Comfort Food: Experience traditional dishes like fondue and raclette with friends or family. Many restaurants and outdoor pop-ups offer these dishes alongside mulled wine or hot chocolate.
- Epiphany Bread (Dreikönigskuchen): A fun tradition on January 6th—buy this sweet bread at any bakery and see who finds the hidden figurine to be crowned the “king” or “queen” for the day!
Explore Winter Activities
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Plan a day or weekend at nearby resorts like Engelberg, Verbier, or Davos. Most ski areas offer lessons and rentals for beginners.
- Ice Skating: Check out seasonal outdoor ice rinks in cities like Zurich (Dolder Ice Rink), Lausanne, or Interlaken. These are family-friendly and often surrounded by beautiful views.
- Snowshoeing and Winter Hikes: A peaceful way to explore the Alps or Jura Mountains. Trails are marked, and equipment is easy to rent locally.
Plan for New Year’s Celebrations
Switzerland knows how to ring in the New Year in style! Don’t miss:
- Zurich’s Silvesterzauber: A spectacular midnight fireworks display over Lake Zurich.
- Local Gatherings: Many Swiss towns organize smaller celebrations—check with your local community for events like concerts or parades.
- Mountain Escapes: Celebrate in a mountain lodge or ski resort for a truly Swiss experience.
Winter Essentials for Expats
- Dress for the Cold: Invest in good winter boots and a warm coat, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in mountain areas.
- Public Transport: The Swiss train and bus network operates reliably even in winter, making it easy to explore without driving.
- Shops Closed on Holidays: Many stores close early on December 24th and remain closed on December 25th, 26th, and January 1st. Stock up in advance !
As a relocation agency in Switzerland, we not only make the relocation process seamless for expats but also provide various services to ensure smooth integration into Swiss life.
