Europe's highest Christmas market
One nightOpens early
Last updated · How we compile this guide
Lucerne has 5 Christmas markets in our directory. Last season most opened around 23 Nov and the last one closed on 23 Dec 2025; none stayed open after Christmas. All are free to enter.
Lucerne's Christmas markets fill the squares of its old town by the lake, with crafts on the Franziskanerplatz and the Weinmarkt. For a mountain-top twist, head up Mount Pilatus for its seasonal market.
Sorted by opening date. Dates shown are from the 2025–26 season unless 2026 dates are marked — check the official website before you go.
One nightOpens early
Opens early
Weekends only + Monday 12/8
We list 5 Christmas markets in Lucerne, including Europe's highest Christmas market, Rudolfs Weihnacht, Schweizerhof Christmas Market and Lozärner Wiehnachtsmärt auf dem Franziskanerplatz. Some are small one-day or weekend events, so check the dates on each card.
In 2025 the first market, Europe's highest Christmas market, opened on 14 Nov 2025, and most were open by 23 Nov 2025. Expect similar timing in 2026: the first Sunday of Advent falls on 29 Nov 2026. Confirm on the official website before you book.
Not usually. Last season every market in Lucerne with published dates had closed by 23 Dec 2025, so plan your visit before Christmas Day.
Yes, entry to the markets we list is free — you only pay for food, drinks and gifts. Many stalls serve mulled wine in a mug with a small deposit that you get back when you return it.