Official Interlaken Christmas Market Dates 2025-2026

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You should plan your visit during the first three weeks of December to experience the market at its peak. The market often features special events and musical performances on the weekends leading up to the Christmas holiday. Please verify the exact Christmas market opening hours before you depart for your daily Swiss adventures.

The market remains open during the transition into 2026, though some smaller stalls may close after the main holiday. Larger attractions like the ice skating rink and major food vendors usually continue operating well into the new year. This allows travelers arriving in January to still enjoy a portion of the wonderful winter festivities in town.

• Opening Date: Late November 2025
• Closing Date: Late December 2025
• Daily Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Extended Hours: Weekends until 9:00 PM

The town of Interlaken transforms into a winter wonderland during these specific dates to welcome thousands of international guests. You will notice the festive spirit through the decorated shop windows and the giant Christmas tree in the center. Make sure to check the Interlaken Tourism website for any last-minute schedule changes or weather updates.

Where is the Interlaken Christmas Market Located

Finding the exact location of the Interlaken Christmas Market is very easy for most travelers staying in the city. The main festivities take place on the Hoehematte, which is the large open green space in the center. You can easily walk to this central park from both the Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost train stations.

Wooden chalets line the streets surrounding the park and create a charming path for shoppers to explore at leisure. Most of the artisanal craft stalls are clustered near the famous Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel for easy tourist access. This central location provides stunning views of the snow-capped Jungfrau mountains while you browse the various market stalls.

The market area is fully pedestrianized, making it a safe and enjoyable environment for families traveling with young children. You will find clear signage throughout the town directing you toward the different zones of the festive holiday market. The proximity to local cafes and restaurants allows you to take breaks from the cold weather whenever necessary.

If you are arriving by train, the Interlaken West station is the closest entry point to the market grounds. You can use the SBB CFF FFS website to check train schedules from other major Swiss cities like Zurich. The walk from the station to the first row of market stalls takes less than five minutes.

Best Food to Try at Interlaken Christmas Market

Sampling the local food at the Interlaken market is a highlight for many food lovers visiting Switzerland in 2026. You must try the traditional Swiss raclette, which consists of melted cheese scraped over boiled potatoes and pickles. This warm and savory dish is the perfect meal to enjoy while standing in the crisp winter air.

Sweet treats are also a major part of the culinary experience at the various wooden stalls across the market. Look for freshly made crepes filled with chocolate or local jams that provide a quick boost of sugary energy. Traditional Swiss gingerbread, known locally as Lebkuchen, is often decorated with beautiful festive designs and makes a great gift.

Warm beverages are essential for staying comfortable while you explore the Interlaken Christmas Market dates 2025-2026 in the cold. Most visitors carry a mug of Gluhwein, which is a hot spiced wine that warms you from the inside. Non-alcoholic options like hot apple punch or rich Swiss hot chocolate are also widely available at every beverage stall.

• Swiss Raclette: 12-15 CHF
• Bratwurst with Bread: 8-10 CHF
• Gluhwein (Spiced Wine): 6-8 CHF
• Roasted Chestnuts: 5-7 CHF

Many stalls offer communal standing tables where you can enjoy your food while chatting with other friendly holiday travelers. These social areas often feature small heaters or open fire pits to keep guests warm during the chilly evenings. Be sure to carry some cash in Swiss Francs, as some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.

Ice Magic Interlaken Tickets and Activities 2026

The Ice Magic experience is a massive outdoor skating rink that becomes the centerpiece of Interlaken during the winter. You can purchase Ice Magic Interlaken tickets online or at the entrance booth located right next to the park. This attraction features several connected ice runways that allow skaters to glide through the beautiful winter scenery.

The rink is typically open from mid-December until the end of February, extending well past the traditional Christmas market dates. You do not need to bring your own equipment because high-quality skates are available for rent at the venue. Beginners can also use helpful skating aids shaped like penguins to maintain their balance on the slippery ice surface.

Evening sessions at Ice Magic are particularly popular because the entire rink is illuminated with colorful and festive holiday lights. You can enjoy upbeat music while you skate under the stars with the dark mountains looming in the background. After your skating session, visit the nearby winter lounge for a warm drink and some cozy relaxation time.

Prices for entry usually vary depending on the time of day and the age of the individual visitor. Expect to pay slightly more for weekend sessions when the rink is most crowded with locals and international tourists. Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended if you plan to visit during the busy Christmas week.

Hotel Packages for Interlaken Christmas Market

Finding the right hotel packages in Interlaken is vital for a stress-free winter vacation in the Swiss Alps. Many local hotels offer special deals that include breakfast, market vouchers, and even passes for the local public transport. You should look for accommodation within walking distance of the Hoehematte to maximize your time at the festivities.

Luxury hotels often decorate their lobbies with massive trees and host special holiday dinners for their guests during December. Mid-range options provide comfortable rooms with mountain views and easy access to the train stations for regional day trips. Booking at least three to four months in advance is necessary to secure the best rates for 2025.

Budget travelers can find hostels and guesthouses located slightly further from the center that still offer excellent winter amenities. These properties often have communal kitchens where you can prepare your own meals to save money for market shopping. Most hotels will provide you with an Interlaken Guest Card for free local bus travel during your stay.

Always check if your chosen hotel package includes entry to the Ice Magic rink or other local winter attractions. Some premium packages might even offer a guided tour of the market or a private cheese fondue dinner. Staying in the heart of the city allows you to enjoy the evening lights without worrying about transport.

Interlaken Winter Travel Tips for 2026

Following a few simple winter travel tips will ensure you have a comfortable and safe trip to Switzerland. The weather in Interlaken during December can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night. You must pack high-quality thermal layers, a waterproof winter jacket, and sturdy boots with good grip for icy paths.

Daylight hours are short during the winter months, so you should plan your outdoor sightseeing for the morning hours. The sun usually sets around 4:30 PM, which is when the Christmas market lights truly begin to shine. This is the best time to transition from mountain excursions to the festive atmosphere of the town center.

If you have extra time, consider attending the New Year's Eve in Interlaken celebrations which feature spectacular fireworks over the park. The city remains very lively during the first week of January with various traditional parades and local folklore events. These cultural experiences provide a deeper look into the unique heritage of the Bernese Oberland region.

• Wear wool socks and thermal gloves
• Carry a portable power bank for phones
• Use the free local guest bus card
• Keep some small change for public toilets

Switzerland is an expensive destination, so it is wise to set a daily budget for food and souvenir shopping. Many market stalls accept cards, but having cash is helpful for smaller purchases like roasted chestnuts or hot cocoa. Always keep your passport and travel documents in a secure place while navigating through the busy holiday crowds.