Christmas market on Sechseläutenplatz

Every Advent, Sechseläutenplatz, the big square between the Opera House and the lake, becomes a Christmas market. Bellevue Noël has more than 100 market and food stalls, free to wander, and at its heart a walk-in Advent wreath built from Swiss wood. On clear days the view from the top reaches the mountains; the climb works with free timed tickets, and a lift in one of the candles takes you up if you'd rather not climb.

Expect raclette, mulled wine and roasted almonds, and head upstairs to the Fondue Chalet, which also has a bar open until midnight (book ahead). Families get their own corner with crafts, a carousel, a kids' bar and a Teddy Atelier where children make their own plush toy. On each of the four Advent Sundays, choirs and cultural acts celebrate one of the wreath's candles.

Entry to the market is free, and dogs on a lead are welcome, even on the wreath. Food stalls, bars and the chalet are cashless.

Getting there: tram to Bellevue, right on the square (lines 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 15), or to Opernhaus. Parkhaus Opéra is underneath, but in Advent the tram is faster.