The Singing Christmas Tree

Halfway down Bahnhofstrasse, Werdmühleplatz turns into Zürich's most musical Christmas market. Its centrepiece is a giant tree with stages built into it, and every evening a choir climbs in and sings from the branches. More than 40 choirs take turns over the season, children's choirs of at least 35 and adult choirs of 25 or more, with gospel a favourite. Each performance lasts about half an hour, and it's free to watch.

Choirs sing at 17:30 and 18:30 on weekdays, with an extra set at 19:30 on Fridays, and from 14:30 on weekends. On Saturday nights the square turns into a Christmas party from 20:00.

Around the tree, the Wiehnachtsmärt serves mulled wine and punch, crêpes, churros, raclette, flammkuchen and grilled food, much of it from Zürich and the region, with vegetarian and vegan choices. The Fondue Chalet seats about 35 for cheese fondue (vegan on request), so book ahead. Children can ride the carousel, with proceeds going to Kiwanis children's projects.

Getting there: five minutes' walk from Zürich HB, or the tram to Bahnhofstrasse/HB. It runs in all weather.