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!
• Geneva has 6 traditional Christmas markets, each with its own atmosphere, from the magical to the authentic.
• Noël au Jardin, set by the lake in the Jardin Anglais, charms visitors with festive decorations and raclette and fondue chalets.
• The Mont-Blanc Christmas market, near Cornavin station, brings together local producers and craftspeople in a central, convenient setting.
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 the city of Calvin. Each one holds its own surprises and offers a distinct atmosphere. Some dazzle us with their magical decorations – “Noël au Jardin” springs to mind. Others charm us precisely through their simplicity and authenticity, such as the Carouge Christmas market.
We can’t wait to wander the rows of little wooden houses, which give each market the feel of a mini village, perfect for strolling around, finishing off your Christmas shopping, or having a small glass of mulled wine to warm up.
Discover the six Christmas markets in Geneva and the surrounding area.
The idyllic Noël au Jardin
It held its first editions in the Parc des Bastions before eventually settling into the Jardin Anglais.
Could there possibly be a better setting? The Christmas lights illuminate the trees while reflecting in the lake… Magical!
This market is packed with little chalets that are sure to delight you: raclette stalls, all sorts of craftspeople, warming drinks and, above all, the fondue chalet is making its big comeback!
The bonus: 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, here you’ll find all the Christmas market classics: 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 for a quick outing 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 setting up in a brand-new venue: Place de Pont-Rouge. There you’ll find around thirty stalls run by local traders, artisans and designers.
As for activities, a programme is available on the town’s website. They run all day long and are completely free!
The bonus: a giant letterbox where children can drop off their letters to Father Christmas
Only from 1 to 5 December 2021
Place du Pont-Rouge – 1212 Lancy
Carouge Christmas Market: THE reference 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. Plenty of activities are also planned for the little ones.
The bonus: a wishing tree where young and old alike can make a wish
From 10 to 12 December 2021
Rue Saint-Joseph, Place du Temple – 1227 Carouge
The delicious and colourful Aire-la-Ville Christmas Market
Unusual, as it’s held indoors, but not to be overlooked for that! The Aire-la-Ville market pulls out all the stops, with no fewer than 34 stalls of pure craftsmanship 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.
The bonus: proceeds from the refreshment stand and the pastry stall will go to the Graine d’affection association, whose aim is to support and promote other associations that care for young children, orphans or children abandoned by their families, by providing them with care, affection and attention suited to their needs.
5 December 2021
Multipurpose Hall – 1288 Aire-la-Ville
The ideal Christmas Market at Place de la Fusterie
A simple, no-fuss market! In the lower streets of La Fusterie, you’ll find stalls run by craftspeople where you can finish off your Christmas shopping.
For the occasion, little wooden huts, decorated Christmas trees and festive garlands will brighten up the town’s streets.
The bonus: the market is close to all the major department stores, so you’ll have no excuse and will simply have to give in to temptation!
From 12 to 24 December 2021
Place de la Fusterie – 1204 Geneva
Events are gradually starting up again after a very unusual year and a half. We therefore recommend checking your local council’s website to see what’s planned for the Christmas period. We know that markets will be taking place in the municipalities of Chêne-Bougeries, Cartigny, Cologny, Confignon…
This non-exhaustive list should help you find just what you’re looking for.
We felt it was important to highlight these local initiatives, which bring various trades from the Geneva region into the spotlight during the festive season. Among them are producers of gourmet food, jewellery designers, leather-goods makers and decoration artisans. There are also players from Geneva’s restaurant scene. After these two difficult years, all these businesses need our support more than ever, and for our part, we can’t wait to see them again.
Christmas markets are a genuine burst of happiness that would send any adult straight back to childhood!
