Chur Christmas Market 2026 Dates and Times

You can find the latest updates on Rhätische Bahn (RhB).

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Stadt Chur.

Most stalls open around 11:00 AM and stay active until at least 8:00 PM each night. Weekend hours are often extended to accommodate the larger crowds that travel from across Switzerland. The atmosphere becomes truly magical after sunset when thousands of fairy lights illuminate the historic buildings. Plan to spend at least four hours exploring the different zones of the festive market.

The Christkindlimarkt is the largest section and is located primarily around the Postplatz and the Bahnhofstrasse. Smaller and more intimate markets can be found tucked away in the Arcas and Kornplatz squares. These smaller locations offer a quieter experience for those who want to avoid the busiest crowds. Each area has its own unique decorations and specialized vendors for visitors to enjoy.

Special ceremonies often mark the beginning of the Advent season in late November for all residents. Local choirs perform traditional carols near the large Christmas tree located in the center of town. These performances typically happen on Friday and Saturday evenings during the peak of the market season. Make sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for these musical events.

The market remains open during light snowfall which adds to the romantic and cozy Swiss atmosphere. Most vendors accept credit cards but carrying some Swiss Francs is helpful for smaller food purchases. Many shops in the surrounding area also offer extended shopping hours during the busy Advent weekends. This allows you to combine market browsing with traditional retail shopping in the city center.

Best Food Stalls and Swiss Treats

Food is a central part of the experience and the local specialties are truly delicious. You will find many vendors serving hot raclette scraped directly onto fresh bread or boiled potatoes. The smell of melting cheese fills the air and draws hungry visitors to the best food stalls at chur christmas market 2026. These savory snacks are perfect for staying warm while walking through the chilly winter air.

Another local favorite is the Grisons barley soup which is a hearty and traditional mountain dish. This thick soup is made with vegetables and smoked meat to provide plenty of winter energy. You can find it served in large bread bowls at several stalls near the Arcas square. It is a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic taste of the Graubünden region.

Staying hydrated and warm is easy with the wide variety of hot beverages available for sale. You can find many places where to find mulled wine in chur during the festive season. This spiced wine is often served in souvenir mugs that you can keep for a small deposit. Non-alcoholic options like hot apple punch and rich Swiss chocolate are also very popular choices.

Sweet treats are abundant and include traditional gingerbread cookies known locally as Magenbrot or Tirggel. These cookies are often intricately decorated with scenes of the city or classic Swiss mountain landscapes. Roasted chestnuts are another staple snack that you will find sold from small green wooden huts. They are served hot in paper bags and make a great hand warmer while you walk.

Expect to pay between 10 and 18 Swiss Francs for a substantial meal at the market. Smaller snacks like sausages or crepes usually cost between 6 and 10 Swiss Francs per serving. Most food stalls operate from late morning until the market closes in the late evening hours. Sharing different dishes with friends is the best way to sample all the local flavors.

Shopping for Traditional Swiss Gifts

The market is the perfect place to find unique and high-quality gifts for your family. Many local artisans travel from the surrounding valleys to sell their handcrafted goods at the stalls. You can find a wide selection of traditional swiss gifts at chur christmas market each year. These items range from delicate glass ornaments to sturdy hand-carved wooden toys for children.

Textiles made from local wool are very popular and include warm hats, gloves, and cozy blankets. These items are often made using traditional patterns that have been passed down through many generations. You might even see some artisans demonstrating their weaving or knitting techniques at their market stalls. These high-quality products are designed to last for many years and provide excellent winter warmth.

Regional food products also make wonderful gifts for friends and family back home in your country. Look for local honey, dried meats, and specialized Alpine cheeses that are packaged for easy travel. Some vendors also sell artisanal spirits and liqueurs made from mountain herbs and local forest berries. These edible gifts allow you to bring a taste of Switzerland back to your own kitchen.

Jewelry makers often showcase unique pieces made from silver, stones, and even recycled materials from the mountains. You will find many designs that incorporate the famous Edelweiss flower or other iconic Swiss symbols. These items are usually one-of-a-kind and offer a more personal alternative to mass-produced souvenir shop goods. Prices for jewelry vary significantly depending on the materials used and the complexity of the design.

Family Activities and Winter Fun

Families will find plenty of entertainment options that are specifically designed for younger visitors and children. The city ensures that the chur christmas market is family friendly with various dedicated zones. One of the main highlights is the fairy tale forest located near the center of the market. Here, children can listen to stories and see magical displays among the decorated pine trees.

A traditional carousel is usually set up to provide classic fun for toddlers and young kids. The brightly painted horses and festive music create a nostalgic atmosphere that parents will also enjoy. Pony rides are sometimes available on specific weekends in the pedestrian zones of the Old Town. These activities are very popular, so expect a short wait during the busy afternoon hours.

Craft workshops allow children to create their own Christmas decorations or dip their own beeswax candles. These hands-on experiences are supervised by local volunteers and usually require a small fee for materials. It is a great way for kids to take a break from walking and be creative. Most workshops are located in heated tents to keep everyone warm while they work on crafts.

Santa Claus makes regular appearances throughout the market to greet children and hand out small treats. He is often accompanied by his traditional Swiss companion, Schmutzli, who helps carry the heavy sacks. Children can take photos with Santa and share their holiday wish lists with him in person. Check the local event schedule for the exact times and locations of these special visits.

Travel Tips and Parking in Chur

Chur is very well connected to the rest of Switzerland by the efficient national rail network. Arriving by train is the most convenient option as the station is very close to the market. You can use the Rhätische Bahn to reach the city from many mountain resorts. The walk from the main station to the first market stalls takes less than five minutes.

If you prefer to drive, you should research parking near chur christmas market locations before you depart. The multi-story car parks at the City West or the Quader area are usually the best options. These garages fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving before noon is highly recommended for drivers. Street parking is very limited in the historic center and is often reserved for local residents.

The city is quite compact and most of the market areas are within easy walking distance. Wear sturdy and warm shoes as the cobblestone streets can become slippery when it snows or freezes. You can find more information about the city at the official Chur Tourismus website. They provide maps and detailed guides for all visitors during the busy winter season.

Public buses run frequently and connect the outer districts with the main festivities in the Old Town. This is a good option if you are staying in a hotel outside of the center. You should also consider visiting other chur winter events 2026 while you are in the area. The city offers many indoor activities like museums and galleries for those very cold winter days.