Things To Do in Zermatt Switzerland
Car-Free Resort Mt. Gornergrat Blacknose Sheep Valais Matterhorn Alpine Crossing Glacier Express Year-round Skiing
Things to do in Zermatt, Switzerland
Nestled in the Valais region of Switzerland, Zermatt is a mountain resort at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. It can only be reached by train and is also part of the famous Glacier Express route. The village’s electric transportation system makes the exploration of Zermatt easy for any traveler. This charming, car-free town offers not only world-class opportunities for winter and summer outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking, but also scenic mountain train rides to the best Matterhorn viewpoints. A ride on the Gornergrat Railway or the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, connecting Zermatt by cable car with Italy, are unique Zermatt attractions. Other things to do in Zermatt, Switzerland, include winter hiking, mountain biking, and meeting the blacknose sheep.
Explore Zermatt with our Tours & Travel guide, and discover traditional chalets that capture the authentic charm of this Swiss mountain village.
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Travel Guide for Zermatt Attractions & Activities
Visit Zermatt
As you wander through Zermatt, you will discover beautifully preserved wooden chalets that embody the authentic charm of a Swiss mountain village. Stroll through Zermatt’s lanes with our travel guide to discover traditional Swiss architecture and mountain-inspired details. The village stretches along the Mattervispa River, formed by the confluence of four large glacial rivers. Charming cafés and restaurants with sun terraces invite you to linger and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Zermatt, Switzerland is small enough to explore on foot, and its unique features make every step special. One attraction is the historic Hinterdorf quarter, home to over 30 ancient larch‑wood houses and granaries dating back 300-500 years. These houses are built on stone stilts to withstand the unpredictable alpine weather conditions — each one a piece of living history. A Zermatt thing to do is to pause at the Inderbinen Fountain to taste the fresh spring water and learn about Ulrich Inderbinen, the legendary mountain guide who climbed the Matterhorn 371 times.
Hiking
Zermatt offers plenty of hiking opportunities with over 400 km of well-marked trails suitable for all levels, including theme trails for families. Hikers can enjoy stretches through beautiful pine forests while passing numerous alpine lakes and glaciers. Many restaurants and mountain cabins along the way make extended hiking excursions possible.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Although winter (December to April) is considered the prime ski season, Zermatt is a popular year-round travel destination for skiing. Zermatt boasts 394 km of slopes across the linked Zermatt-Cervinia ski area, catering to all levels. An extensive network of 74 transportation facilities ensures quick access to slopes in both Zermatt Switzerland and Italy. Zermatt’s Glacier Paradise high altitudes and cold climate sustain glacial snow, making skiing possible in summer as well. While there are fewer slopes, summer skiing is less crowded and still offers spectacular mountain scenery.
Visit the Blacknose Sheep
The blacknose sheep are a famous and beloved attraction in Zermatt, Switzerland. They have distinctive black faces, ears, knees, ankles, and tails, which contrast with their thick, white wool and spiral horns. The best time to see them is during the summer (July to September), when they graze in the alpine meadows on the Gornergrat mountain with the stunning backdrop of the Matterhorn. Typically about 125 sheep can be found there, some wearing GPS collars to track their current location via a dedicated GPS map. During winter (December to April), you can visit them in their barn on the outskirts of Zermatt.
When you’re out and about in our Valais Alps, you’ll want to keep this Zermatt, Switzerland vacation guide close by.
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Best Zermatt Tours & Day Trips
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
The Matterhorn is the world's most photographed mountain, and certainly one of the Zermatt things to do. At 3,883 m/12,739 ft, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is the highest point in Europe that can be reached by cableway. As the highest cable car station in Europe, which is open 365 days a year, it has become a gateway to Europe’s largest summer ski area. The 360° panorama includes 38 peaks (among them Mont Blanc) and 14 glaciers in the Swiss, French, and Italian Alps. Visitors can explore the Glacier Palace, an intricate ice cave featuring fascinating ice sculptures. Another highlight is the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing for a journey between two countries and cultures (Switzerland and Italy), offering the highest crossing over the Alps by cable car.
Gornergrat
The historic Gornergrat Railway is the highest open-air cogwheel railway in Europe and the first electric one in Switzerland. Climbing to a viewing platform at 3,089 m/10,134 ft the journey offers unparalleled views of the famous Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and the impressive Gorner Glacier. Look out for the stunning reflection of the Matterhorn in Lake Riffelsee, just a short hike from Rotenboden station (the second-to-last stop before the Gornergrat summit). From the summit, various hiking options are available, including a descent all the way back to Zermatt. A hiking tour might also be booked with a Travel Guide.
Rothorn
At an elevation of 3,103 m/10,180 ft, the Rothorn offers fantastic views of the Matterhorn and is one of the highest peaks in the Valais Alps. Reaching the Rothorn from Zermatt involves taking a funicular to Sunnegga followed by a gondola to Blauherd. A panoramic cable car then brings passengers to the Rothorn's peak, a great starting point for hikes. Sunnegga offers various attractions for families.
Husky Sledding
Zermatt’s husky sledding routes cover numerous scenic trails, providing a unique and magical way to explore the snowy landscape. Each tour is led by an expert guide, sharing fascinating stories and pointing out breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains to ensure an unforgettable winter experience.
Conquer the Iconic Swiss Peaks
Experience Switzerland from the top. This 5-day journey takes you by cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch and Gornergrat, two of the country’s most breathtaking summits. Stunning views, alpine adventures, and unforgettable memories guaranteed.
Where is Zermatt Located? + Map
Zermatt is located in the southern part of Switzerland, in Valais, with the closest city being Geneva, about 233 km/145 mi away. Zermatt’s nearest airport is in Zurich, about 225 km/140 mi north. The most memorable route when visiting Zermatt is with the Glacier Express. The St Moritz to Zermatt train brings travelers across the Alps and in its entirety, lasts eight hours. Explore southern Switzerland’s attractions with our Zermatt, Switzerland travel guide. We’re here to assist you planning things to do in Zermatt and designing your vacation package, so that you have more time creating new memories!
Zermatt Switzerland
Southern Switzerland
Population: 5,710
Elevation: 1,620 m/5,310 ft
FAQs About Visiting Zermatt
Is Zermatt, Switzerland worth visiting?
Sure, Zermatt offers some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking scenery. A short 10-minute walk to the Matterhorn photo point in the village reveals a stunning, snow-covered landscape that leaves visitors speechless.
What to do in Zermatt if you are not skiing?
Zermatt is more than just stunning views — it's packed with adventure. Take the cable car for the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing to Italy, ride the Gornergrat train, or explore Zermatt on the well-marked hiking or biking trails. Winter fun abounds with ice skating, sledding, curling, cross-country skiing, and winter hikes, all capped off with cozy mountain restaurants and spa hotels.
Can you walk anywhere in Zermatt?
Zermatt’s car-free charm makes it easy to explore on foot, with most attractions just a short walk away. Multiple gondola and mountain railway stations connect to hiking routes, so knowing your starting point is key to a smooth adventure.
What is the best month for skiing in Zermatt?
The best months for skiing in Zermatt are January and February for the best snow conditions and cold temperatures, or March and April for more sunshine and longer days.
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