You're Gonna Want to Book a Future Trip to See Zürich's Christmas Markets After Reading This

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I admit it: I'm a sucker for Christmas traditions. I get giddy over the cheesy holiday romcoms, million-and-one gift exchanges, and Santa-themed eve-ry-thing. Heck, I'll even throw up a (full-sized) tree in my teeny-tiny NYC apartment. But this year, folks, I topped all my celebrations of Christmas past with a week in one of Europe's most magical holiday destinations: Zürich, Switzerland. That's right, I immersed myself in the festive charm of the city known for its Christmas markets—an experience that was nothing short of stepping into a real-life fairytale.

The Zürich Christmas markets run from late November to late December, so if you're not, like, already there, you're probably gonna miss them this year. But that's okay! Let this guide serve as your inspiration—and motivation—to plan ahead for a gorge trip in 2024 (you can never be too prepared!). Can't wait that long? Good news: Zürich's winter wonderland peaks in January and extends through the end of February. Translation? You still have ample time to immerse yourself in Swiss winter, with its postcard-perfect landscapes, seasonal traditions, comforting eats, and luxe pastimes. Here's a sneak peek at what you'll find in store...

Full disclosure: The writer received comped travel, hotel accommodations, meals, and experiences in order to write this story.

Stay

Ambassador Hotel Zürich

The Ambassador is where I posted up during my stay and I can't recommend it enough. It's located right in the city center—only a short walk from the lake promenade, the Zürich Opera House, and the famous Bahnhofstrasse (a bustlin' street downtown). It also may have the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in.

My favorite little touch? There are an assortment of pillows at your disposal, each designed for different needs. Make your selection when you leave for the day, and voilà, when you get back to your room for the night, a new pillow will be awaiting you. For testing purposes, I had to try them all, ofc.

BOOK THE AMBASSADOR HOTEL ZÜRICH

Christmas Markets

I embraced the holiday season at a few of Zürich's many Christmas markets, wandering through snow-dusted stalls filled with artisanal gifts ranging from handcrafted trinkets to designer goods. Here's a breakdown of a few of the best:

• Sechseläutenplatz: Located directly in front of the Opera House, and a thirty-second walk from the Ambassador Hotel, Sechseläutenplatz is one of the largest Christmas markets in the city of Zürich.

• Old Town: The city's oldest Christmas market—and my favorite part of Zürich—is filled with twinkling lights and lotsss of mulled wine. The market is located in the middle of the Niederdorf quarter of Old Town.

• Werdmühleplatz: This is where you'll find the famous Singing Christmas Tree, aka various regional choir members singing Christmas carols in a tree formation.

• Münsterhof: If you want local products and goods, this market is the place to be. Lots of surrounding stores and boutiques set up shop here!
  

• Main Station: This is the largest indoor Christmas market, so head here if it gets chilly! It's beside Zürcher Weihnachtsallee, the market where you'll find a domed mulled wine bar.

Play

• Visit Uetliberg Mountain: If you have time to visit this iconic mountain, you absolutely should. This was my favorite—and the most beautiful, imho—part of my trip. The twenty-minute train ride from Zürich's main station is full of wintery scenes, and then you walk less than ten minutes to reach the top of Uetliberg. From there, at 2,850 feet above sea level, you'll experience some of the most breathtaking views of the city, lake, and, if you're lucky, the Alps.

• Take a scenic tour: Zürich is one of the most sustainable cities in the world, so it's no surprise they offer eco-friendly tours aboard an eTukTuk (an electric-powered tuk-tuk). I took one to get familiar with the city before later enjoying a guided walking Christmas tour where I learned all about the history of Zürich during the holidays.

• Stuff your face at Lindt Home of Chocolate: Switzerland is obviously known for its chocolate, so it's only right to hit up one of the most famous chocolate houses in the world, Lindt, while visiting. Can confirm it's the smoothest and creamiest chocolate I've ever had.

• Get artsy at Illuminarium: If you want to feel like you're in the middle of a legit fairytale, wander on over to the Illuminarium, a light show located in the inner courtyard of the National Museum. Visitors can enjoy a bar, fondue chalet, and various food stands along with the sights.

Eat

• Fondue Chalet: Obviously, I had to try the fondue at the Illuminarium. I mean, when in Zürich, right?! I tried a blend of gruyère and Fribourg vacherin and was in cheesy heaven.

• Haus Hiltl: Near the Bahnhofstrasse, aka the heart of Zürich, lies the world's first vegetarian restaurant. You can enjoy the food à la carte (there are over 100 dishes from a variety of different cuisines!), or go for the buffet to try a little bit of everything (definitely my preference!). No matter what, don't sleep on the beet "steak."

Sherpa Ear Muffs

Big Effing Clip in Sugar Cookie

Hybrid Ribbed Calf Sock 4-Pack

Cara Winter Boots

Italian Wool Double-Breasted Slouch Coat

Ribbed Scarf

Boxy Cotton Blend Sweater

Cotton Rib Legging

Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves

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