Weihnachtsmarkt Münsterhof is a charming Christmas market in the old town of Zurich, set on Münsterhof square next to the iconic Fraumünster church. This small Zurich Christmas market is perfectly located between several other festive spots in the city, making it an easy stop to add to any holiday-themed itinerary in Zurich. Families will appreciate the beautiful Christmas tree and the relaxed pace compared to the busier markets elsewhere in the city.
What to expect
Weihnachtsmarkt Münsterhof usually begins in late November and runs until Christmas Eve. Visitors can browse roughly 25 stalls selling unique gifts such as locally designed jewelry, colorful socks, candles, and other Zurich-made products that fit the market’s “from Zurich for Zurich” focus. Around 20 food stalls serve a mix of international cuisine, including Greek dishes alongside traditional Swiss favorites like raclette. Note that there are no child-friendly amenities like carousels, play stations, or trains, as can be found at the larger markets in Zurich.
Two large covered tents with seating and a bar make this market a great place to enjoy a drink and gather with friends or family. In the middle of the square, the large Christmas tree decorated with silver swan ornaments creates a beautiful backdrop for photos. Families can also enjoy live entertainment and concerts; the market hosts a cultural program with music and events, so it is worth checking the schedule online before your visit. It is also a good idea to bring cash, as not every stall accepts card payments.
Other Zurich holiday activities
Weihnachtsmarkt Münsterhof sits between Zurich Main Station (Hauptbahnhof) and Sechseläutenplatz, making it an ideal stop on a Christmas walking route through the city. At Zurich Main Station, you will find a large indoor Christmas market area (currently branded Polarzauber, formerly Christkindlimarkt), which is especially convenient in bad weather and popular with families (dance parties, light shows, and a Santa post station). On the lake side of the city, Sechseläutenplatz in front of the Zurich Opera House hosts Wienachtsdorf, a large and very family-friendly Christmas market with many stalls, food options, and activities for children (carousel, train, and play stations). Note that due to their popularity, these markets tend to be very crowded which can make it more difficult for families to navigate. For more information on these Christmas markets and other family-friendly activities in Switzerland, check out our blog.
Münsterhof is a great in-between stop when walking from the station markets to the lakeside markets, offering a quieter, more local feel. If your family needs a warm indoor break, St. Jakob Beck & Kafi Münsterhof on the square is a welcoming bakery for snacks, hot chocolate, or coffee. A visit to Fraumünster Church next to the square is another highlight, where you can admire Marc Chagall’s famous stained glass windows installed in 1970. These Christmas markets, Lucy lights along Bahnhofstrasse, the Singing Christmas Tree, and nearby attractions all combine into an easy, walkable Zurich Christmas-themed day trip.
Arrival and accessibility
Weihnachtsmarkt Münsterhof is located in a pedestrian-only square, which is ideal for families with strollers or young children who need space to wander safely. It is easily reached by public transport; tram lines stop at nearby Paradeplatz, from which it is just a short walk to the market, and the area is roughly 15 minutes on foot from Zurich Main Station. For those arriving by car, a central option is Parkhaus Urania, which is within walking distance of many of Zurich’s main holiday sights. However, public transport is usually the more relaxed choice for visiting Zurich during the busy Advent period, as driving in the city center can be challenging due to trams, cyclists, pedestrians, and delivery vehicles. Trams and trains run frequently and connect easily to other Christmas markets and family activities across the city, making it simple to plan a car-free Christmas outing.
Why include Münsterhof in your trip
Weihnachtsmarkt Münsterhof is a small Zurich Christmas market in a historic setting, framed by the charming square, the large illuminated tree, and the elegant Fraumünster church. The stylishly decorated tents with seating offer a cozy place to pause and warm up between visits to the larger, busier markets at the main station and Sechseläutenplatz. Because this market tends to feel calmer and less crowded, it can be easier to navigate with children.