The Christmas atmosphere is ready to captivate the Swiss cities, with illuminated squares, wooden chalets, the scent of cinnamon and gastronomic specialties to taste while strolling. And this year there’s an extra reason to plan a cross-border escape: traveling for two paying a single train ticket. The 2×1 Mercatini Promo returns, the initiative by Trenitalia (FS Group) and Swiss Federal Railways that allows reaching some of the most evocative destinations in Switzerland aboard Eurocity trains, saving on the journey.
Promo 2×1 Mercatini
The promotion allows two travelers to ride at the price of a single Eurocity ticket, choosing between first and second class. The offer is valid for departures from 20 November to 20 December 2026 from Milan, Venice, Bologna and other Italian cities to numerous Swiss destinations, including Zurich, Basel, Lucerne, Bern, Lugano, Montreux, Lausanne, Brig and Geneva.
To take advantage of the Promo 2×1 Mercatini you must purchase the ticket by 30 November 2026, at least three days before departure. Availability is subject to a limited number of seats and purchases can be made on Trenitalia’s website, via the Trenitalia App, at station ticket offices and self-service machines in Italy, at eligible travel agencies, or by contacting the Trenitalia Call Center.
However, pay attention to the terms: tickets purchased with this promotional fare are not refundable or transferable. It is therefore advisable to plan your itinerary in advance, choosing dates and destinations carefully. Once there, visiting city centers is easy: many markets are located near railway stations and several hotels provide free cards to use public transport, starting from at least one overnight stay.
Which Christmas markets to reach with the Promo 2×1
Among the most interesting destinations is Zurich, where Christmas transforms the historic center into a grand festive stage. The Christkindlimarkt (19 November – 24 December 2026), set up at the main station, is one of the largest covered markets in Europe, while the Münsterhof market (19 November – 24 December 2026) unfolds in a striking historical setting.
Basel also deserves a visit: its market winds mainly between Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, in the heart of the old town. The wooden stalls, lights and decorations create a particularly evocative atmosphere, while the stalls invite you to discover artisanal items and local delicacies. In 2026 the event runs from 26 November to 23 December.
Those dreaming of a Christmas by the water can choose Montreux, on the shores of Lake Geneva. Here Montreux Noël, scheduled from 20 November to 24 December 2026, offers a fairy-tale setting, with illuminated chalets, artisanal products, a panoramic wheel, Santa’s House, a flying Santa cruise and specialties to enjoy strolling along the lakeside promenade.
Among other destinations to note is Bern, with its Sternenmarkt (from 19 November to 27 December) and the stalls that animate the UNESCO-listed historic center.
In Lucerne, on the other hand, the Christmas market at Franziskanerplatz allows you to immerse yourself in Advent traditions, among decorations, scents and typical flavors. The events are scheduled from 3 to 21 December 2026.
Finally, Lugano is also a destination to consider for those who want to breathe in the Christmas atmosphere without wandering too far from Italy. With Natale in Piazza, from 26 November to 10 January 2027, the city center comes alive with stalls, lights and initiatives.
