Christmas in Zurich

Ramsey Qubein is Travelin' Light's on-the-road correspondent.

Christmas in Zurich is in full swing. And it’s not just the abundant snowfall and ever-present chocolate displays in nearly every window that indicate Kris Kringle’s impending arrival. The infamous Christmas markets have set up shop to encourage everyone to embrace the holiday spirit.

The Swarovski-decked Christmas tree plucked from the surrounding forests is a sight to behold in the main train station (the site of the largest market). Although it lacks the charm of Nuremberg’s outdoor festivities and Strasbourg’s winding streets, there is shelter from the cold and ample diversion to keep guests happy. The Old Town provides al fresco entertainment in a secondary market that offers the same cinnamon-spiced cookies, gingerbread cakes, rosti platters, oozing Raclette, and steaming gluhwein to appease eager shoppers.

Homemade arts and crafts are the main showpiece, but the people watching and stall decorations are equally enticing. And the proximity to the Bahnhofstrasse’s fusion of high-end and bargain-priced shopping is in stark contrast to the markets of smaller cities. Be sure to stop by Sprungli’s flagship store for beautifully packaged macaroons or handmade pralines. And round out the day with an Alpenzeller fondue at Alden restaurant in the Old Town to make the experience perfect. Zurich is a Christmas-time treasure meant to savor in the mind and devour in the palate making the perfect complement to the bevy of Old World European Christmas markets.