What will the Advent markets be like in Basel? Program and important information in one place 

Basel is a unique city that lies on the border of three countries.

In addition, it is also a beautiful place with a rich cultural scene.

This means that besides visiting the Christmas markets in Basel, you can experience many other events here.

What are they planning this year?

Advent Markets Basel

The Basel Christmas market is known as one of the largest and most beautiful in Switzerland. This fair was first held more than 40 years ago and has grown considerably over the years. In the first year, only 35 stands were hosted, which is approximately a fifth of today’s number.

Over time, Christmas markets in Basel have been held in several different squares in the city center, such as Claraplatz, Theaterplatz, Münsterplatz and Barfüsserplatz. The last two named events are also hosted this year.

Christmas markets at Münsterplatz and Barfüsserplatz

When and where will it all take place?

Christmas Market Program

During the entire holiday season, more than 150 cottages of local merchants are located in the historic city center, and a variety of holiday events and activities are planned.

You can find everything from handmade products to waffles, gingerbread, sausages, and, of course, the Swiss specialty raclette. Part of the Münsterplatz will be transformed into a children’s fairytale forest with many activities, from candle making and decorating to gingerbread baking and metal forging.

One of Basel’s tourist attractions is the 500-year-old town hall, a beautiful red sandstone building. In its courtyard is the Basler Wunschbuch, or Basel Book of Wishes. This is a giant book in which everyone can write their wishes for the coming year. This interesting tradition has been going on for more than 30 years.

The second place you must visit at the Basel Christmas markets is the Barfüsserplatz, a busy traffic hub with even more stalls. Local classics are especially chäsbängel, baguettes filled with fondue and glühwein.

On December 23, 2024, the Christmas market on Barfüsserplatz will close at 8:00 p.m. and the market on Münsterplatz at 6:00 p.m.

You can better understand ​​the Christmas markets in Basel through the following video.

BASEL CHRISTMAS MARKETS - Switzerland for the Holidays (European Christmas Markets Tour 1 of 6)

Interesting places in Basel

Basel, a city with ancient origins, was founded in 44 BC when Munatius Plancus established the oldest Roman colony on the Rhine, Augusta Raurica. This colony is now an important archaeological site located close to Basel.

Walking through the streets and alleys of its historic center means traveling through different eras, from antiquity to the Middle Ages to modern times. The Christmas markets in Basel offer a magical opportunity to get to know this beautiful city.

Basel Cathedral

Basler Münster is characterized by two towers with high Gothic spires, which stand out against the backdrop of the city’s panorama. Construction took place between 1019 and 1500.

From an architectural point of view, it was rebuilt over the centuries in Romanesque, Gothic and Neo-Gothic styles. Its current appearance is characterized by impressive red sandstone walls and a colorful roof. In the interior is a crypt in which the remains of Erasmus of Rotterdam are kept.

Town Hall

The monumental building of the town hall impresses above all with its bright red facade, all decorated with a trompe l’oeil painting from the year 1609, the author of which is the German painter Hans Bock.

The building has a very important role for the inhabitants of Basel. It was built between 1504 and 1514 by a craftsman’s guild to demonstrate its independence from episcopal power. On the battlements are the coats of arms of the 12 cantons, which, together with Basel, formed the confederation.

Spalentor

When walking through the old town of Basel, you will easily come across one of the city’s most imposing and majestic gates—the Spalentor Gate, which was part of the city walls. The massive square tower flanked by two round turrets is decorated with colorful majolica tiles, statues, and reliefs.

The first city walls of Basel were built in the 12th century and extended over the following centuries. However, in the 19th century, to expand the city, the walls were destroyed, leaving only three towers and three entrances to the ancient city.