After being closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most Christmas markets in Switzerland are coming back this year for the first time since the crisis began. However, those that have announced their return have mostly stuck to the COVID certificate requirement, with the exception of Basel.

Christmas market in Basel will not need a COVID certificate

The Christmas market in Basel is considered to be one of the most beautiful in all of Europe, taking place in the centre of the old town. In the shadow of the Minster at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, the market will run in 2021 from November 25 to December 23, offering countless stalls, entertainment and plenty of mulled wine.

According to Telebasel, because the event is officially designated as a traditional market, it can be visited without a COVID certificate. This is one of the only markets in Switzerland to do this and indoor catering venues will still require the pass.

Top Christmas markets in Zurich, St. Gallen and Bern need COVID-19 certificates 

Other Christmas markets in Switzerland have also announced that they will be returning this year, but most have decided to implement the COVID certificate. At St. Gallen's Christmas market, for instance, you will be able to visit the stalls but will need a certificate to get any food or drink This includes the famous Waaghaus and Glühwein stands. The event in St. Gallen runs from November 25 to December 24.

The other two markets in major Swiss cities that are going ahead have both emphasised the need for a COVID certificate to enter. The Christmas market in Zurich, which includes over 100 stalls that line Sechseläutenplatz, and in Bern, where a 200-capacity fondue chalet is planned, will both require a COVID certificate.

Of the most famous Christmas markets in Switzerland, only Lucerne is yet to decide whether it will hold the market this year. In a statement made to 20 minuten, they said, “If the strict corona measures are not relaxed by December, opening the market would be impossible."