Place du Marché Montreux
Experience the magic of Montreux's Christmas market, famed for its iconic flying Santa and enchanting lakeside setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Extra Santa show!
Place du Marché Montreux
Best Time
Extra Santa show!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the magic of Montreux's Christmas market, famed for its iconic flying Santa and enchanting lakeside setting.
"The flying Santa is a magical and unforgettable experience!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Santa
Secure a prime viewing spot for the flying Santa show by arriving at least 30 minutes before showtime.
💸 Budget for Treats
Indulge in delicious local food and drinks; prices can add up, so budget accordingly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flying Santa Claus
From CGN landing stage to Place du Marché
Witness the iconic Santa Claus soar through the sky on his sleigh – a truly magical and unforgettable spectacle for all ages.
Christmas Market Chalets
Place du Marché
Explore charming wooden chalets offering festive treats, local crafts, and warm beverages. A true winter wonderland experience.
Lakeside Views
Along Lake Geneva
Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains, especially enchanting when illuminated by festive lights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Flying Santa
Embrace the Festive Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Santa
Secure a prime viewing spot for the flying Santa show by arriving at least 30 minutes before showtime.
💸 Budget for Treats
Indulge in delicious local food and drinks; prices can add up, so budget accordingly.
🚆 Easy Train Access
Take a train from Geneva to Montreux for a scenic and convenient journey.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera to capture the festive lights and the unique flying Santa spectacle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Santa
Secure a prime viewing spot for the flying Santa show by arriving at least 30 minutes before showtime.
💸 Budget for Treats
Indulge in delicious local food and drinks; prices can add up, so budget accordingly.
🚆 Easy Train Access
Take a train from Geneva to Montreux for a scenic and convenient journey.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera to capture the festive lights and the unique flying Santa spectacle.
🧥 Dress Warmly
It's an outdoor event, so layer up to stay comfortable in the winter chill.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical atmosphere of the Montreux Christmas market, particularly the unique flying Santa Claus spectacle. The beautiful lakeside setting and the variety of festive food and drinks are also highly praised. Some find the market can get very crowded, and prices for food and goods can be a bit high.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Montreux is by train from Geneva Airport (GVA), which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours with a transfer in Lausanne. 
While driving is an option, parking can be limited and expensive during the Christmas market season. Taking the train is highly recommended for a stress-free experience.
Yes, Montreux is on the shores of Lake Geneva, offering beautiful views. You can also combine your visit with a trip to Rochers de Naye to see Santa's home.
The market typically runs from late November to December 24th each year. Specific dates can be found on the official Montreux Noël website.
Montreux is a walkable city, especially the area around the lake and the Place du Marché. Public transport, including buses and trains, is also efficient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Place du Marché and the Christmas market itself is free.
The market generally opens daily from late November until December 24th. Showtimes for the flying Santa are typically at 5 PM, 6 PM, and 7 PM, with an extra show at 4 PM on weekends.
The flying Santa performance is a free attraction for all visitors.
The highlight is the flying Santa Claus. The market also features various chalets with food, drinks, and crafts, creating a festive atmosphere.
While the market and Santa show are free, individual vendors will sell their goods and food. There might be a Ferris wheel on the Place du Marché for which a separate ticket is required.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The undisputed star is Santa Claus flying in his sleigh, a magical show that happens daily.
You can find a variety of festive treats, including fondue, mulled wine, sandwiches (like the famous foie gras sandwich), hot chocolate, and more. +3
Absolutely! The flying Santa is a huge hit with children, and the festive atmosphere is magical for all ages.
Given it's an outdoor winter event, warm layers are essential. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended as you'll be on your feet exploring.
Yes, the market is very picturesque, especially with the Christmas lights and lakeside views. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and vendors when taking photos.
📸 📸 Photography
The flying Santa in action is a must-capture moment. The illuminated chalets, the lake, and the festive decorations also make for stunning photos.
Dusk or early evening is ideal, as the Christmas lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical ambiance. The flying Santa show is also a prime photography subject.
Try shooting from the lakeside for a wider view incorporating the lake and mountains. For the Santa show, find a spot with a clear line of sight to his flight path.
For low-light conditions, use a wider aperture and a higher ISO. A tripod can be helpful for sharper images, especially during the evening shows.
Drone usage is typically restricted in crowded public areas and near events. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The daily shows provide multiple opportunities to witness this magical event. The market itself offers a festive and engaging environment with charming chalets, delicious treats, and a general atmosphere of joy. Practical tips for families include arriving early to get a good viewing spot for Santa's flight, dressing children in warm layers, and budgeting for snacks and small souvenirs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for dusk or early evening to photograph the market when the festive lights illuminate the chalets and the lake, creating a magical ambiance. +1Key photographic opportunities include the illuminated market stalls, the panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains, and candid shots of visitors enjoying the festive atmosphere.
+1 Consider using a tripod for sharper images in low light and experimenting with different angles to capture the scale and magic of the event. Remember to be mindful of crowds and other visitors when composing your shots. ✈️ Travelers Arriving by Air
The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, often with a change at Lausanne. This avoids the complexities of car rentals and parking in Montreux, especially during the busy Christmas market season. Upon arrival at Montreux station, the Place du Marché is a short and easy walk away, making it a seamless transition from travel to experiencing the market.
This train travel advice is frequently shared by travelers looking for efficient ways to reach the destination. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Flying Santa
+1 The flight path typically goes from the CGN landing stage to the market square, offering a magical view for onlookers. Performances are scheduled daily, usually at 5 PM, 6 PM, and 7 PM, with an additional show at 4 PM on weekends.
+2 It's a free attraction, making it accessible to everyone. To get the best view, it's advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show, especially on busy weekend evenings. This iconic event has become a signature of the Montreux Christmas market, contributing significantly to its reputation as one of Europe's most beautiful festive destinations.
Culinary Delights at the Market
Beyond these popular choices, the market boasts numerous chalets serving everything from hearty pasta dishes to sweet treats. Hot chocolate bars are also a popular stop for a comforting beverage.
For those looking for unique souvenirs, keep an eye out for local products like honey, though be prepared for potentially premium pricing.
Navigating Montreux and the Market
This is often the preferred method of travel, as it avoids the hassle of parking, which can be scarce and costly during the busy market season. Once in Montreux, the Place du Marché is easily accessible on foot from the train station, making it a convenient destination. The city itself is quite walkable, particularly the lakeside promenade and the market area.
For those who prefer to drive, there are parking facilities available, but it's advisable to check their availability and cost in advance, especially during peak times. During the Christmas market, the Place du Marché transforms into a vibrant hub of activity. It's recommended to dress warmly in layers, as it's an outdoor event, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the various stalls and attractions.
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Social
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