Medieval Christmas Market at the Rhine Falls
Medieval Christmas Market at the Rhine Falls
To mark the start of the Advent season, experience a Christmas spectacle like no other in Switzerland.
For the first time, two historic castles, two cantons, and two medieval Christmas markets come together to create one extraordinary event at Europe’s largest waterfall. Around the mighty Rhine Falls, Castle Laufen and the Schlössli Wörth open their gates to traders, craftsmen, musicians, jesters, and wandering performers.
A special highlight: for this occasion, the Rhine Falls boat service is brought back into operation for the weekend. While the boats usually rest during the winter months, they will connect the two market worlds across the water. Alternatively, visitors can cross the famous SBB railway bridge, offering spectacular views of the Rhine Falls.
Two castles. Two cantons. Two medieval Christmas markets. One unforgettable festive experience at Europe’s largest waterfall.
Free Entry
Admission to both medieval Christmas markets is free of charge.
Opening hours
- Friday, 20 November: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Saturday, 21 November: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Sunday, 22 November: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Medieval Market life as in Times Gone by
A Market Full of Wonders
At these magical markets, nothing is missing! Traders, craftsmen, and merchants from near and far offer their finest treasures:
💎 Precious stones and exquisite jewellery
🏹 Weapons, armour, and adventurers’ gear
👜 Leather goods and splendid garments
🍶 Mead, spirits, and enchanting fragrances
Here you will find gifts for everyone – from finely crafted one-of-a-kind pieces to rare treasures from times long past.
🍖 Food & Drink in Abundance
No shortage of mulled wine or warm mead awaits you! Let yourself be tempted by delicious treats such as:
🍞 Wood-fired baked goods and hearty specialities
🧀 Dinede, Chäsfüess, and Spätzle
🍯 Baumstriezel, Langosch, and Quarkinis
For full stomachs, warm hands, and happy hearts – everything is well taken care of.
Experience and marvel
Let yourselves be carried away into another time by wandering jesters, musicians, and storytellers. There is plenty to enjoy:
🪓 Axe throwing and archery for young and old adventurers
🎠 The beloved hand-crank carousel for our youngest guests
📜 Fairy tales, stories, and legends from times long past
🎁 The Wichtel tree for gift exchange for both children and adults
Between the two castles, you will find festively decorated market lanes, the scent of spices and fir branches, the sound of the Rhine Falls, and countless discoveries on both sides of the water.
🎅 Come, noble souls, and immerse yourselves in a world full of magic, music, and mystery. Explore both market worlds, enjoy the unique setting of the Rhine Falls, and experience a Christmas market like no other in Switzerland.
Further
- The site is accessible for prams and wheelchairs. Accessible toilets are available on site.
- Dogs on a leash are allowed.
- The Rhine ferry operates during the opening hours of the medieval market.
- The pedestrian bridge (SBB bridge) is accessible 24 hours a day. Please allow around 15 minutes for a brisk walk or 30 minutes for a leisurely stroll between the two castles, and enjoy the spectacular natural experience of the Rhine Falls along the way.
