Einsiedeln Christmas Market is a hidden gem in central Switzerland, set against the backdrop of the Benedictine Abbey and its expansive monastery square. The Christmas market stretches from the abbey courtyard down the main street, sparkling with twinkling lights and dominated by a large Christmas tree. This is one of our family’s favorite Swiss Christmas markets, and we recommend planning at least 2–3 hours to soak in the atmosphere, shop, and enjoy the food.
Market Stalls and Shopping
With over 140 stalls, this is one of the best Christmas markets for shopping, especially if you love unique, handmade items. You will find everything from handcrafted candles and wooden toys to jewelry, hats, and beautiful Christmas decorations. Several village shops along the roadside also join in with festive window displays and gift ideas. In addition to the outdoor stands, there is a small indoor Christmas market at the Kultur- und Kongresszentrum Zwei Raben Einsiedeln—perfect for warming up and browsing local products. Most vendors accept cash only. On evenings and weekends, the market can get crowded, especially in the town center, making it difficult to navigate with a stroller. The market is calmer in the early afternoon on weekdays.
Food and Drinks We Loved
The Einsiedeln Christmas Market is a food lover’s paradise, and sampling the local specialties was a highlight for our family. Our must-try treat is Apfelchuechli—crispy fried apple rings dusted with cinnamon and sugar—sold at a stall in the main square in front of the church. My son’s top pick is the Fondue Brötli, a baguette filled with hot, melted cheese from the local Milchmanufaktur, available near the Kultur- und Kongresszentrum Zwei Raben Einsiedeln. Another favorite was Raclette Rösti (hash browns with raclette cheese), also from the Milchmanufaktur stand in the main square. For adults, it is especially cozy to walk the market with a cup of warm Glühwein (we prefer the white version), while kids can choose between non-alcoholic Kinderpunsch or hot chocolate from several stalls. Note that drinks cannot be brought inside the shops.
Events and Festive Program
The Einsiedeln Christmas Market usually runs for a little over a week, featuring a full program of events that liven up the village in the evenings. Highlights include live music, lantern parades, and visits from Samichlaus (Swiss Santa Claus). One of our favorite memories was listening to the Einsiedeln orchestra and choir perform in the abbey, which felt magical. Our kids also enjoyed the Salvation Army brass band playing Christmas classics in the courtyard next to the large tree. Most special events take place on weekend evenings, so it is worth checking the official program before your visit to time your trip.
Family-Friendly Activities
This market is ideal for families. Our young daughter enjoyed the small carousel in the market area—a simple but lovely stop for little ones. On weekends, we visited the Model Railway Club in the Kultur- und Kongresszentrum Zwei Raben Einsiedeln: enter next to the indoor market door, ride the elevator to the 4th floor, then climb a narrow staircase into the attic. The number of trains, tracks, and detailed layouts was amazing. There is also a tent for Kerzenziehen (candle dipping), a traditional Swiss activity where kids and adults make their own candles. Our family loved this last year. Every day, fairy tales are told in the courtyard (in German). In snowy years, many children play in the small playground next to the courtyard; checking the weather and bringing snow gear is a good idea. Behind the monastery, near Parkplatz Friedhof, there is a small ski and sledding hill that adds extra winter fun to your visit.
Getting to the Market
If arriving by car, use the underground Parkhaus Brüel, but it fills quickly—even on weekdays during the market. Parking attendants are stationed throughout the town and will direct you to available spots, so allow extra time before your planned arrival. For a more relaxed experience, consider taking the train to Einsiedeln; from the station, it’s only about a 5-minute walk to the market and abbey square. Consider combing your trip with a visit to the Milchmanufaktur Einsiedeln to have a quiet sit down meal or purchase some cheese to bring home. They also sell select products at the Christmas Market. For more information, click here.
Why This Market Is Worth a Visit
The Einsiedeln Christmas Market offers an authentic Swiss holiday experience in a compact, walkable setting that feels both festive and intimate. The combination of beautiful abbey views, cozy decorations, quality shopping, and outstanding food makes it special. With live music, kid-friendly activities, and plenty of chances to warm up with Glühwein or hot chocolate, it’s a place where everyone finds something to enjoy. After visiting many Swiss Christmas markets, Einsiedeln remains one of our absolute favorites and a place we’re always happy to return to. For more Christmas Markets and winter activities in Switzerland, visit our blog.