Event Dates
From: Thursday, November 20, 2025
To: Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Gay Christmas Markets &
New Years in Zurich 2025
When winter comes to Zürich, the city sheds its everyday suit and wraps itself in lanterns, wool-wrapped shoppers and mulled wine.
Gay Christmas Markets & New Years in Zurich 2025
When winter comes to Zürich, the city sheds its everyday suit and wraps itself in lanterns, wool-wrapped shoppers and mulled wine.
- Stay close to the gay bars and the city’s busiest Christmas Markets at the Marktgasse Hotel, a “Travel Proud” certified hotel rated “Excellent” by guests, set in a restored 15th-century building, 39 unique rooms blending historic character and modern design.
The Event
- Next Edition: Thursday 20th November 2025 – Wednesday 31st December 2025
- Christmas in Zurich is a unique experience. Enjoy lakeside markets, mulled wine and winter lights across the old town.
- Take a break for the cold in the big indoor station market with giant Christmas tree.
- Enjoy flirtatious cocktails in the cosy gay bars steps from the markets in Niederdorf and Langstrasse.
- Celebrate the arrival of the new year with fireworks by the lake and midnight grapes on New Year’s Eve.
- And partake in seasonal traditions including fondue nights, ice skating and choir shows through December.
- Average daytime highs in December hover around 3-5 °C (37-41 °F), nights dropping to around 0 °C or below.
- Snow is possible on ~5 days and daylight is brief. Pack layers, especially for walks, ice-skating at market rinks and cosy café breaks by the Limmat or Zürichsee.
Wienachtsdorf – Sechseläutenplatz (by the Opera House)
- Next Edition: 20th November to 23rd December 2025.
- Zürcher Wienachtsdorf : Featuring food stalls selling a wide range of local and international gourmet dishes and artisan gifts in a relaxed lakeside setting just beyond the old town.
- Great for an evening wander after bars in the city centre – perfect to start a gay-friendly night out.
- Check out the latest prices and hotels close to the Market.
Christkindlimarkt – Zürich Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)
- Next Edition: 20th November to 24th December 2025
- Zürich Hauptbahnhof : Large and popular Christmas market held within Zurich’s main station concourse.
- Features over 100 stalls and a towering Christmas tree studded with lights – ideal for a drop-in between hotels and bars.
Dörfli Market – Niederdorf / Old Town
- Next Edition: 20th November to 23rd December 2025
- Dorfli Market: Charming and authentic Christmas Market stretching between Central and Bellevue.
- More local feel, around 70 stalls, ice-rink for children in Rosenhof – ideal for a relaxed afternoon before the night begins.
- Enjoy a unique festival atmosphere in the Old Town with a stay at the Hotel Felix, rated “Excellent” by guests with spacious modern rooms and superb location.
Gay Christmas in Zurich
- The heart of the gay scene lives around the Old Town (Niederdorf), Langstrasse and the quarter around Spitalgasse.
- Bars & clubs worth noting: Cranberry Bar (Spitalgasse 3 – downtown), Predigerhof Bistro Bar (Mühlegasse 15 – friendly men’s pub).
- Mix your market strolls with a pre-drink in Cranberry , then head out for a late-evening DJ or drag-show night in Langstrasse. The scene remains lively in winter and is welcoming for visitors.
- For a gay-friendly stay, book the 25hours Hotel Zürich Langstrasse, a design-forward, busy boutique hotel in the Langstrasse district (which overlaps with Zürich’s gay nightlife hub), and host of many themed gay nights.
Popular Gay Christmas events
- The Queer Christmas Cruise (Lake Zürich) – A three-hour DJ + drag + karaoke party aboard a boat leaving from Bürkliplatz, followed by free access to after-parties at major gay clubs.
- BOYAHKASHA! QUEER CHRISTMAS – Hosted at the club Mascotte near Bellevue, drag-show and two-floor party on 25th December with DJs and boylesque.
Other Festive things to see and do
- Look out for the “Singende Weihnachtsbaum” (Singing Christmas Tree) located at Hauptbahnhof.
- Enjoy Swiss seasonal dishes: raclette, fondue, warm waffles with chocolate, mulled wine (“Glühwein”) and special Christmas pastries.
- Take the tram to Uetliberg for “Winterzauber https://utokulm.ch/winterzauber” high above the city, with candle-making and snow-tipped views.
New Years Eve
- Big fireworks over Lake Zürich and the Quay around Bellevue and Bürkliplatz at midnight.
- Many bars in the gay district stay open late – a slow walk from market lights to cocktail lounges then to dancing.
- Traditions: Swiss love outdoor drinks, fireworks, and the atmosphere on lakeside promenades.
- From a gay perspective: Wrap your market day early, have dinner near Niederdorf, then flow into the bars around Langstrasse until late.
- KIKi x Klaus: New Year’s Ride – New Year’s Eve party (31st Dec into 1 Jan) at club Klaus, hard techno/queer venue; expect late-hours and strong local crowd.
Zurich Hotels
Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action:
Hotel Storchen, Marktgasse Hotel, Hotel St. Josef, Sorell Hotel Rütli.
Save on Hotels
The Old town is close to the gay bars
Book now and pay on arrival
Where we stay!
The Hotel Storchen, is our editors
choice in the Old town right on the lake
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Gay Christmas Zurich visit Website
Gay Map of Zurich
Most of the gay bars in Zurich are in the old Town, we have chosen Hotels close to all the bars that have high reviews on booking.com our hotel partner
Weinpl. 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Renowned for warm hospitality for over 650 years, the Hotel Storchen enjoys a unique position in the heart of . It has its own boat pier directly at the Limmat River, and is within walking distance of all cultural attractions.
The rooms and suites offer unique views of the river and of the picturesque Old Town. They combine classic furnishings with warm colours and modern facilities and feature high-speed wired and wireless internet access and air-conditioning.
Niederdorfstrasse 108001 Zürich, Switzerland
In the heart of Zürich‘s historical centre. the Boutique Hotel Wellenberg offers a shared lounge, library, an idyllic courtyard and free WiFi. The property is around 650 m from Paradeplatz and Bahnhofstrasse, as well as 400 m from Grossmünster.
All rooms come with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom, A rich breakfast buffet is included in all prices.
Hirschengraben 648001 Zürich, Switzerland
This 3-star hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Zurich . It offers a restaurant and free in-room Wi-Fi. The Bahnhofstrasse shopping street is just a away.
All rooms at Hotel have a TV, a refrigerator, and a tea/coffee maker.
The restaurant features a summer terrace and serves Swiss and international cuisine.
Rosengasse 108001 Zürich, Switzerland
Dating back from the 16th century, Hotel Adler is a charming property in the heart of the "Niederdorf" area, Zurich´s lively and charming with its unique atmosphere.
The hotel's décor conveys a sense of style, from the private baths to the generous wall decorations portraying different views of the city. The minibar in the rooms is stocked with free soft drinks. Free WiFi is available in all rooms and public areas.
Zähringerstrasse 218001 Zürich, Switzerland
This hotel is just a 6-minute walk from the and shopping areas of Zürich. The well-known restaurant Walliser Keller serves Swiss specialities such as cheese fondue, meat fondue, raclette and more.
Free WiFi is available in the entire building. The non-smoking rooms have a with satellite channels, a minibar with free drinks, an electric kettle, and a private bathroom.
Zähringerstrasse 438001 Zürich, Zurich Switzerland
The completely renovated Sorell Hotel Rütli is located in the heart of Zurich's , next to the funiculars and the ETH Zurich university. All rooms are equipped with an air cooling system and feature a flat-screen TV.
Via the TVs in every room you can also surf the web, watch the newest films and listen to the radio.
Brauerstrasse 16, Zurich 8004
● A vibrant gay sauna located in the heart of the Langstrasse quarter, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
● Mixed clientele on Tuesdays and Fridays, creating a diverse atmosphere.
● Admission includes 3 towels to enhance your experience.
Monday-Thursday 12:00 – 22:00; Friday, Saturday 12:00 – 04:00 Sunday 12:00 – 22:00
Seilergraben 41, Zurich 8001
● A charming, older gay sauna situated in central Zurich, known for its friendly atmosphere.
● Primarily attracts a mature clientele, providing a more relaxed vibe.
● Enjoy a cost-effective admission fee for a cozy retreat.
Daily 12:00 – 20:00
Mühlegasse 11, Zurich 8001
● A bustling gay sauna in downtown Zurich, often frequented by young rent boys and their older companions.
● Offers a unique experience for those seeking something different in the nightlife scene.
● Admission price allows access to an engaging environment.
Monday-Wednesday 11:30 – 19:00; Thursday-Saturday 11:30 – 21:00;
Sunday 11:30 – 19:00
Metzgergasse 3, Zurich 8001
● A charming gay cocktail bar nestled in a quaint lane of Zurich's Old Town.
● Popular among locals and visitors, especially during weekends.
● Hosts RuPaul's Drag Race Viewing parties on specific evenings.
Daily 17:00 – 24:00; Friday, Saturday till 02:00
Limmatquai 61, Zurich 8001
● A welcoming gay-friendly café located in the heart of Zurich.
● Offers a spacious street terrace lounge along the scenic Limmat river, perfect for sunny days.
Monday-Friday 08:00 – 22:00; Saturday 11:00 – 23:00 Sunday 11:00 – 20:00
Spitalgasse 14, Zurich 8001
● A trendy LGBT-oriented café-bar located in the heart of the Old Town.
● Housed in the former premises of Bar Barfüsser, it offers a vibrant atmosphere.
Tuesday, Wednesday 17:00 – 23:30; Thursday 17:00 – 24:00 Friday, Saturday 17:00 – 02:00
Mühlegasse 15, Zurich 8001
● An inviting gay bar located in the bustling Old Town of Zurich.
● A great place to unwind and socialize with friends or make new connections.
Daily 14:00 – 02:00
Seilergraben 13, Zurich 8001
● A cozy gay bar featuring lively Schlager music, attracting a diverse crowd of different ages.
● Perfect for those looking to enjoy a laid-back evening in a friendly setting.
Tuesday-Thursday 18:30 – 02:00; Friday, Saturday 18:30 – 04:00
Zollhaus, Haus A, Zollstrasse 121, Zurich 8005
● A vibrant LGBTQ-friendly cultural bar featuring readings, exhibitions, and live performances.
● Enjoy a covered outdoor terrace with stunning sunset views by the tracks.
Monday-Thursday 11:00 – 24:00; Friday, Saturday 11:00 – 01:00; Sunday 11:00 – 18:00
Spitalgasse 5, Zurich 8001
● A vibrant LGBTIQ+ club nestled in the heart of Zurich's Old Town.
● Dance the night away to a mix of House, Pop, Charts, and Urban tunes, tailored to each party's vibe.
● Enjoy an admission fee ranging from 15 to 20 CHF for an unforgettable experience.
Friday, Saturday 22:45 – 05:00
Recommended Hotels in Zurich By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Zurich that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Storchen Zürich
5 Star, Luxury
- 5-star, boat pier on Limmat River
- Close to the gay district
- Unique views, classic furnishings
- Experience historic charm with modern luxury on the river in the heart of Zurich.
Marktgasse Hotel
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4-star, Old Town location
- Close to the gay district
- Air-conditioned, private bathroom
- Blend of historical architecture and modern facilities in Zurich’s vibrant Old Town.
Hotel St. Josef
3 Star, Great Value
- 3-star, near Main Train Station
- Close to the gay district
- Comfortable, tea/coffee
- Convenient location with cozy rooms, perfect for exploring Zurich and its gay scene.
Sorell Hotel Rütli
3 Star, Location
- 3-star, heart of Old Town
- Close to the gay district
- Stylish bar, flat-screen TV
- Modern elegance in Zurich’s artistic quarter, with easy access to gay nightlife.
Video – Christmas Markets in Zurich
Highlights of the best Zurich Christmas Markets.
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