Sitting resplendently on the edge of the Rhine, Basel is a place of soaring Medieval spires, world-class art galleries and a cornucopia of cultures; thanks to the fact the Swiss city sits across borders with France and Germany. As the temperature drops and red and green trimmings start filling the shops, this pretty riverside spot turns into an epicentre of Yuletide magic.
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Basel Christmas Market / Image: Basel Tourismus
In fact, Basel’s Christmas market is the largest and loveliest in the Alpine country. Voted the best Christmas market in Europe in 2021 by the ‘European Best Destinations’ ranking, it packs in over 150 enchantingly decorated wooden chalets. In 2022 they’ll be setting up shop in the city from 24 November to 23 December 2022, offering everything needed to get you tingling with festive feels; from the city’s famous spiced biscuits – Basel Lackerli – and mulled wine to exquisite decorations and charming wooden toys.
Mulled wine at the Basel Christmas Market / Image: Basel Tourismus
But, the festive vibes don’t stop there. As advent approaches even the most Grinch-like of souls would be hard-pressed not to get swept up in the festive fervour as Basel’s pretty market streets come alive with Christmas performances, IRL advent calendars, light shows and immersive wintery forests. This is, after all, the home of Johann Wanner’s Basel bauble shop, which is open all year around and one of the best destinations in the world for fir tree filigree. If you’re looking for a magical spot oozing with Christmas charm, you’d be hard-pressed to beat Basel.
How to have a perfect visit to Basel Christmas Market