What to Expect from Zermatt: 10 Epic Highlights of This Town

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Ever wondered about the majestic mountain that graces the Toblerone box? It’s none other than the iconic Matterhorn, nestled in the heart of Zermatt. This is scenic mountain town, beckons travelers from around the globe for different reasons.

Not only is Zermatt one of the world’s premier destinations for skiing and hiking, but it also offers alpine adventures that are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences. If you’re a globetrotter seeking unforgettable journeys, a trip to Zermatt will let you check off three major items from your bucket list in one go!

In Zermatt, most importantly, you’ll encounter the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world; the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway, which holds the title for being Europe’s highest cable car; and the Gornergrat Bahn, renowned as one of Switzerland’s most picturesque train rides. And yes, they’re all amazing!!!

However, Zermatt isn’t just for those seeking the extraordinary.

If you’re someone who appreciates the beauty of nature and has a keen interest in historical and cultural exploration, Zermatt won’t disappoint. You can take a leisurely stroll down Hinterdorf Street in the heart of the village or pay a visit to the Matterhorn Museum for a dose of local history. I must not forget Zermatt’s charming hamlets of Zmutt and Herbrigg — they’re quite the discovery!

You’re probably wondering about the intriguing places and activities I’ve just mentioned. To put it simply, they’re the very reasons why Zermatt is unique and is such a compelling destination. And it’s not just for those who love the great outdoors. As we explore further, you’ll see how these aspects can create a truly memorable journey in Zermatt.

Zermatt Switzerland, View of Matterhorn from the village of Zermatt
View of Matterhorn from the Zermatt (village)

If you decide to visit Zermatt, below are some informative articles for you. These will surely enhance your travel experience:

Let’s kick off the list with the main reason why you should be in Zermatt: the Matterhorn.

1. Matterhorn and The Scenic Hikes

Without the Matterhorn, Zermatt might just be like any other ski resort or hiking spot in the world. The Matterhorn makes Zermatt special, offering a unique view that’s hard to find anywhere else.

The Matterhorn, the 6th highest peak in the Alps, soars to a height of 4478 meters or 14692 feet. Its distinctive pyramidal shape is a beacon for all in Zermatt, captivating hikers and photographers from around the globe.

Have a look at Matterhorn here:

Zermatt Switzerland, View of Matterhorn from the hiking trails
View of Matterhorn from the hiking trails in Zermatt

The sight of the Matterhorn from Zermatt is undeniably a natural wonder, wouldn’t you agree? Its distinctive shape can leave you marveling at the artistic hand of nature, even though it’s simply a product of geological happenstance.

What makes Zermatt truly special in relation to the Matterhorn is that this towering mountain is visible from almost everywhere in Zermatt. You don’t have to undertake a rigorous hike or hop on a cable car to soak in the splendor of the Matterhorn. An incredible view of this iconic mountain can be enjoyed right from the heart of the village, at Kirchbrücke. It’s a scene that perfectly blends the village’s enchanting charm with the majestic alpine landscape.

Zermatt Switzerland, View of Matterhorn from Kirchbrücke Zermatt village
View of Matterhorn from Kirchbrücke

Should you find yourself in planning to visit Zermatt, I highly recommend more than just a day trip – it’s a place that truly warrants an overnight stay!

There are countless reasons why but let me begin with the most awe-inspiring: the golden hour view of the Matterhorn. As dawn or dusk approaches, the sun casts a warm, gentle light on the Matterhorn’s peak, painting it in hues of soft pink. It’s a sight to behold and a dream come true for any photographer.

So, do yourself a favor and spend at least one night in Zermatt to experience and immortalize this enchanting spectacle.

Zermatt Switzerland, Golden hour view of the Matterhorn
Golden hour view of the Matterhorn

The best places where you can witness a golden hour in Zermatt are in my list of 10 scenic spots in Zermatt.

An extended stay in Zermatt could be a great idea, particularly with its amazing hiking trails. To make the most of your visit, consider spending at least two or three days. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Zermatt’s best attractions like Gornergrat + Riffelsee
  • Day 2: Hiking and outdoor activities
  • Day 3: Relaxation in a spa + village tour

In my opinion, hiking is an essential experience, especially when you’re in Zermatt. Here are my reasons:

  1. It’s a fantastic way to boost your wellbeing! I’ve trekked up mountains myself and can attest to the invigorating effect it has.
  2. The vistas from Zermatt’s hiking trails are simply breathtaking, featuring the iconic Matterhorn and other impressive 4000-meter mountains.
  3. Zermatt boasts more than 400 kilometers of hiking trails, ensuring there’s a path suitable for every level of hiker or climber. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil hike to rejuvenate your spirit or an adventurous climb to get your adrenaline pumping, Zermatt has something for everyone.
Zermatt Switzerland, Hiking trails in Zermatt
Hiking trails in Zermatt

Here’s a map that outlines all the hiking trails in Zermatt, complete with their classification and live status.

Regardless of the trail you embark on, you’re assured of immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the alpine landscape. And with a bit of luck, you might even encounter some charming alpine creatures along your journey, including black-nosed sheep, ibex, and Capricorns.

Click here to get a guided hike in Zermatt.

By the way, if you are looking for beautiful places in the Alps to have the most unforgettable hikes of your life, the places below can be an alternative to Zermatt:

  1. Chamonix — is a village in the French Alps, sitting just below Mont Blanc, the tallest peak in the alps.
  2. Cortina d’Ampezzo — is a village surrounded by multiple spectacular mountain peaks and lakes in the Italian Dolomite mountains.
  3. Bavarian Alps — the southernmost portion of Germany, where you can find hiking trails with a view of a magical castle, Neuschwanstein Castle.

2. All-Year Destination

Another compelling reason to visit Zermatt is its year-round beauty. Regardless of the season, there’s always an abundance of activities to enjoy. Zermatt is a unique destination that doubles as a popular hiking spot and a bustling ski resort town.

Zermatt Switzerland, View from Kleine Matterhorn
View from Kleine Matterhorn

And here’s a fun fact: you can even ski in Zermatt during the summer! You can find kilometers of pistes if you go to Klein Matterhorn

Some ski slopes in Zermatt, like those on Klein Matterhorn, are located at an elevation of 3883 meters or 12739 feet above sea level. This high altitude keeps them frozen throughout the year. Remember, the higher you go, the colder it gets!

Even in the winter, you can still enjoy hiking in Zermatt. Wondering how I know? Follow these steps:

  1. Open the map of the hiking trails in Zermatt. (I suggest you open it on a PC so you can see the entire map of Zermatt without zooming)
  2. Click any of the lines on the map indicating a hiking trail. (Yellow Orange—hiking trail, Red—mountain hiking, Blue Green—alpine hiking)
  3. After you click, you should see the details of the trail:
    1. Distance
    2. Hike duration (one way)
    3. Elevation gain (Höhenunterschied)
    4. Access (months) and other information (current condition).

After hiking, you will surely need rest and some relaxation. And in Zermatt, you can find many hotels, spas, and wellness centers to help you soothe your feet and tired legs (regardless of the season). Relaxing in Zermatt can be extraordinary. What do you think of waking up with the view of Matterhorn or having a jacuzzi while watching Matterhorn’s appearance during the golden hour? 

After a day of hiking, you’ll undoubtedly be in need of some rest and rejuvenation. Zermatt offers many hotels, spas, and wellness centers where you can pamper your weary feet and legs, no matter the season.

Can you imagine starting your day with a view of the Matterhorn, or soaking in a jacuzzi while witnessing the golden hour light up the mountain?

Zermatt Switzerland, A hotel in Zermatt with the views of Matterhorn
View of Matterhorn from the hotel

Although paragliding in Zermatt can be pretty expensive, it’s another one of the bucket list activities you can do in Zermatt, whether it is summer or winter.

You should try at least once

  1. To see Zermatt’s stunning mountain panorama from a whole new different perspective.
  2. To feel like a bird while adrenaline rushes into your bloodstream—it’s a fantastic feeling you won’t forget!
  3. Paragliding can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and in Zermatt, with the views of the Matterhorn, it can be more special!
Zermatt Switzerland, Paragliding in Zermatt
Paragliding in Zermatt

Zermatt is also an all-year destination for people who want to uncover pieces of history in the alps and are curious to learn about the culture in the region.

3. Alpine culture

As a person interested in learning history and, at the same time, a mountain lover, I consider Zermatt one of the best places to visit in the world. Let me tell you why.

Zermatt Switzerland, Alpine Architecture, a culture in Zermatt
Zermatt Switzerland, Colorful chalets, a culture in Zermatt
Zermatt Switzerland, Horse carriage ride in Zermatt, learning Zermatt's culture
Zermatt Switzerland, Traditional houses, a preserved culture in Zermatt
Traditional houses in Zermatt

Zermatt is a picturesque alpine village that still retains its charm with preserved chalets, offering a glimpse into the past. Hinterdorf Street, akin to an open-air museum, showcases these centuries-old chalets.

It’s worth noting that these Zermatt homes weren’t constructed decades ago, but centuries! The oldest chalet you can find in Zermatt is Haus Salzgeber. This house, with the year 1607 etched into its wooden facade, is over 400 years old!

However, Haus Salzgeber isn’t located on Hinterdorf Street. It’s nestled on the outskirts, a 10 to 15-minute walk from the village center along Winkelmattenweg, amidst other chalets, barns, and wooden houses.

Here’s what Haus Salzgeber looks like:

Before you hop on the cable car to Furi, Schwarzsee, or Klein Matterhorn, you can consider taking a brief stroll here. It’s just a 5-minute walk to Haus Salzgeber from the valley station.

As you wander in the village, you may encounter locals performing in the streets, often in groups playing local instruments and singing. This can be quite amusing, especially if you’re like me and come from a completely different background!

During the summer, you can witness a fascinating alpine tradition known as the goat procession. This event involves around 50 goats, guided by adorable children, moving from Zen Stecken to their pasture by the heliport. As they pass by, the tinkling of their bells creates an idyllic atmosphere that transports you away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

This procession takes place every summer for six weeks. Be sure to secure a good spot on Bahnhofstrasse or Bahnhofplatz at 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, as these are the parts of the village where the procession passes through.

Here’s a sample video from Rick Steves.

Zermatt Switzerland, Matterhorn Museum

If it is not summer, you can still find interesting things in Zermatt about its history and alpine culture. Where? It is in the Matterhorn Museum, located at the heart of the village. 

The Matterhorn Museum is a surprising contrast between its modern exterior and its historical interior. The entrance is made of glass, but once you step inside, you’ll see Zermatt as it was in the 19th century. The museum displays scenes from the medieval mountain life, such as the cobblestone village square, the houses, barns, stables, and farm animals.

You’ll also learn about the first climbers who reached the summit of the Matterhorn in the late 1800s. The museum has some fascinating artifacts, such as a stone ax from the Stone Age and the remains of a 16th-century mercenary.

See what it is like inside the Matterhorn Museum.

swipe the 360° image below to see more views

You can find the visiting information (admission price and opening hours) of the Matterhorn Museum here.

If alpine towns with fascinating discoveries pique your interest, then Mittenwald and Garmisch-Partenkirchen in southern Germany should be on your list. Strolling through the streets of Mittenwald and Garmisch-Partenkirchen is like reading an open book. The houses in these towns boast facades adorned with murals known as “Lüftlmalerei.” These murals employ the Trompe-l’œil technique, creating 3D optical illusions that are sure to captivate your gaze.

4. Picturesque Lakes

Zermatt Switzerland, Grindjisee
Grindjisee

Zermatt’s alpine lakes are another compelling reason to visit, especially if you’re a photography enthusiast. The lakes offer a magical experience, particularly when their surfaces are calm and still. From certain angles, they reflect the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Matterhorn.

While Zermatt is home to several lakes, Riffelsee and Schwarzsee are two you simply can’t miss. They’re arguably the most beautiful in the area. Riffelsee, in particular, offers the perfect vantage point for viewing the Matterhorn’s reflection when the weather is favorable. You’ll be able to see the west face of the Matterhorn mirrored on its surface.

Take a look at the view in Riffelsee:

Zermatt Switzerland, Golden hour in Riffelsee
Golden hour in Riffelsee

Schwarzsee is another picturesque lake in Zermatt, but instead of Matterhorn, it’s the peaks of Zinalrothorn, Wellenkuppe, and Ober Gabelhorn that you’ll see reflected on its surface.  Schwarzsee has a small chapel beside it which can trigger you to photograph the lake many times.

Have a look at Schwarzsee here:

Switzerland, The chapel in Schwarzsee
The chapel in Schwarzsee

Schwarzsee is less crowded than Riffelsee, with fewer hikers and photographers swarming around. This makes it a more tranquil and relaxing place to visit.

The view is so breathtaking that it feels like you’ve stepped into your own adventure film, on a journey to uncover something magical or legendary. It’s reminiscent of the epic landscapes from Lord of the Rings. I believe there are few places on earth where you can encounter lakes of such extraordinary beauty, making them a compelling reason to visit Zermatt.

Before you visit Zermatt for these lakes, make sure you check other beautiful lakes in the Alps. They are more spectacular than Riffelsee and Schwarzsee in some ways. These lakes are:

  1. Oeschinensee in Kandersteg— to some people, it’s the most beautiful mountain lake in the Alps. Its turquoise water, surrounded by spectacular cliffs and mountains, will surely take your breath away.
  2. Bachalpsee in Grindelwald — Bachalpsee is the version of Riffelsee and Schwarzsee in the Jungfrau Region. It’s so beautiful that Google decided to make it a background of one of its Gmail themes.
  3. Konigssee and Obersee in Berchtesgaden — These two lakes are the most beautiful in Germany. They are located in the Bavarian Alps, and you can visit them from Berchtesgaden.

5. Beautiful Swiss Countryside

Another reason to visit Zermatt is that it is located in the beautiful Swiss countryside. Zermatt has definitely evolved into a major tourist destination, with its village center swarmed by tourists, especially during the peak season. But Zermatt still has many idyllic and rustic places that are easy to visit.

And if you are looking for a place where you can have some peace and quiet away from all the stress in the world, Zermatt won’t let you down! Look at the countryside scenery you’ll find in Zermatt:

Zermatt Switzerland, Swiss Countryside in Zermatt
Zermatt Switzerland, Swiss Countryside in Zermatt
Zermatt Switzerland, Swiss Countryside in Zermatt

Can you imagine more? 

Especially during the late spring and summer months, you’ll be greeted by lush meadows with towering snow-capped mountains in the distance. On a leisurely stroll, you’ll spot edelweiss and gentian flowers blooming at your feet. It’s nothing short of a paradise, fulfilling all your yearnings for a tranquil retreat.

To uncover more gems in the Swiss countryside near Zermatt, consider venturing to the quaint villages of Herbrigg and Zmutt. Their charm is so captivating, it’s as if they’ve been lifted straight from a film! You can easily picture yourself as a wanderer from the Middle Ages, happily lost in the mountains while stumbling upon these lovely hamlets.

Fun fact: Zmutt’s history dates back 500 years, and when you see its appearance, you’ll immediately recognize its ancient charm.

Zermatt Switzerland, Hamlet of Zmutt
Hamlet of Zmutt
Zermatt Switzerland, Hamlet of Zmutt
Hiking to the hamlet of Zmutt

Zmutt, a hamlet with around 40 structures, is a charming blend of traditional dark wooden houses, barns, quaint shops, and inviting beer gardens. It serves as an ideal spot for a restful break post-hike. Speaking of which, reaching Zmutt does require a bit of a trek – the one-way hike from Zermatt to Zmutt takes just over an hour.

On the other hand, Herbrigg is much closer to Zermatt.

Nestled just above the valley where Zermatt lies, Herbrigg can be reached from the heart of Zermatt village in under 30 minutes. Here too, you’ll find delightful traditional dark wooden houses and barns. What’s notable about the hamlet of Herbrigg? It’s where you can find the oldest barn in Europe. Believe it or not, that barn in the Hamlet of Herbrigg dates back to 1261!

Zermatt Switzerland, Hamlet of Herbrigg
Barn in the hamlet of Herbrigg
Zermatt Switzerland, Hamlet of Herbrigg
View of Zermatt from Herbrigg

6. Engineering Marvels

Zermatt plays host to some of the world’s most astounding feats of human ingenuity, providing truly remarkable experiences. From my perspective, there exist two marvels of engineering that are absolutely unmissable, solidifying Zermatt’s status as a must-visit destination.

  1. Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway: This is the highest cable car in Europe.
  2. Charles Kuonen Bridge: It holds the distinction of being the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge.
Zermatt Switzerland, Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway
Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway
Zermatt Switzerland, Charles Kuonen Bridge
Charles Kuonen Bridge

Ascending to a dizzying altitude of 3,883 meters (12,740 feet), the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway is a true engineering attraction in Zermatt. It’s not just because of its incredible engineering design and the monumental effort that went into its construction, but also because of the breathtaking scenery you’ll witness during the journey.

Inside the cable car, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Matterhorn from various angles. You can admire the north and west faces of this iconic mountain, and as you progress further along the journey, the south face of the Matterhorn becomes visible, especially near the final stop, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

But there’s an extra dose of excitement if you opt for the Crystal cabins. These cabins feature glass floors, allowing you to peer down and spot several glaciers below the tramway, such as the Theodul glacier.

The adventure doesn’t conclude with the cable car ride, though. The Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway is just the beginning! At Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you can also indulge in the following experiences:

  1. Glacier Palace that is full of man-made ice tunnels and ice sculptures.
  2. Cinema Lounge
  3. Observation Platform overlooking Switzerland and Italy

And more.

Taking a ride on the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway and exploring Matterhorn Glacier Paradise can be quite pricey, to be frank. However, the second engineering wonder in Zermatt, the Charles Kuonen Bridge, offers a cost-free experience.

While accessing and walking on the Charles Kuonen Bridge won’t cost you a dime, it’s worth noting that visiting it may not be as straightforward as the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway. The bridge is part of an 8.6-kilometer hiking trail that typically takes around 4 hours to complete.

This trail calls for intermediate hiking skills, and it can be particularly challenging, especially due to the presence of the Charles Kuonen Bridge. This is especially true if you have a fear of heights. Stretching over 494 meters in length, the Charles Kuonen Bridge might make your knees wobble for the approximately 10 minutes it takes to cross it.

But don’t let that discourage you. Instead, imagine the exhilaration you’ll feel once you reach the other side of the bridge – that sense of accomplishment will be truly gratifying.

You can learn everything you need to know about Charles Kuonen Bridge from europaweg.ch.

If you want to see more marvelous works of engineering in Switzerland, I suggest you visit Lucerne and take a day trip to Mount Pilatus. Pilatus Railway is the steepest train in the world; you can also see some breathtaking views during the ride. 

7. Breathtaking Train Rides

Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking train journeys that transport travelers to what feels like paradise. If you’re in search of an extraordinary train adventure in Switzerland, the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt is an absolute must.

Zermatt Switzerland, View of Zermatt from Gornergrat Bahn
Zermatt Switzerland, View of Zermatt from Gornergrat Bahn
Zermatt Switzerland, Gornergrat Bahn crossing the bridge
Gornergrat Bahn crossing the bridge

Gornergrat Railway makes a visit to Zermatt more worth it because:

  1. Riding Gornergrat trains lets you have a nearly constant view of the Matterhorn.
  2. The tracks where Gornergrat trains run showcase the most beautiful nature and most dramatic infrastructure of Switzerland. You’ll be brought into the pristine forests, beside alpine lakes (Riffelsee) & ravines, through arched bridges & tunnels, and more!
  3. Gornergrat railway is the highest open-air cog railway. It’ll immerse you in Switzerland’s stunning beauty all throughout your ride!

The train journey spans approximately 30 minutes, commencing in the village of Zermatt and culminating at Gornergrat. Interestingly, this means that the Gornergrat Railway serves as just the beginning of a series of incredible experiences awaiting you in Zermatt!

Following your train adventure, you can linger at the Gornergrat observation deck, where you’ll discover a delightful beer garden and restaurant offering an uninterrupted panoramic vista of the majestic Matterhorn and the surrounding 29 peaks that soar to 4,000 meters above sea level.

Here’s the link where you can book train tickets to Gornergrat.

8. Glacier Experience

If you’ve never laid eyes on a glacier before, Zermatt offers you another compelling reason to visit. The region boasts several glaciers, and one of them is truly awe-inspiring. Zermatt’s most renowned glacier is the Gorner Glacier, ranking as the third-largest glacier in the Alps.

Zermatt Switzerland, Gorner Glacier
Gorner Glacier

The largest glacier in the Alps is called the Aletsch Glacier, located in the Jungfrau Region (Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen). The second is Mer de Glace in Chamonix, France.

You’re correct if you believe you can get up close to the Gorner Glacier in Zermatt. True to its name, the Gorner Glacier is situated in the Gornergrat area. When you visit the observation deck at Gornergrat, you’ll enjoy a breathtakingly close view of the Gorner Glacier.

Moreover, from this vantage point, you can also spot several other smaller glaciers, including Grenz, Zwilling, Schwärz, Breithorn, Unterer Theodul, and Oberer Theodul. For your convenience, there are informative panel boards that indicate the precise locations of these glaciers.

9. More Natural Beauty

Travelers are in for an immersive natural experience in Zermatt.

Zermatt, with its lush forests, scenic meadows, majestic glaciers, expansive snow-capped peaks, and the iconic Matterhorn, is a testament to undeniable natural beauty. Yet, there’s more to Zermatt’s repertoire of natural marvels. The area is also home to a stunning gorge and a serene waterfall, enhancing the allure of any nature adventure in Zermatt.

For a unique twist to your Zermatt adventure, make sure to explore the Gorner Gorge. It’s a must-see to add an extra layer of wonder to your overall Zermatt experience.

Here’s a sample view:

Zermatt Switzerland, Gorner Gorge
Gorner Gorge

swipe the 360° image below to see more views

Gorner Gorge is the only tourist attraction in Zermatt that does not offer wide-open scenery. However, it is also the only attraction that bears witness to 220 million years of nature’s creativity and immense power. The rock formations you will see as you stroll along the 200-meter (650 feet) wooden walkways are proof of this.

The gorge is relatively small, and you can explore it in about 30 minutes.

If you are visiting Zermatt in mid-October, be sure to see Gorner Gorge between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm. This is when the sun creates spectacular light effects inside the gorge. Of course, the weather will affect this, but if the skies are clear, you will see the sunlight transform Gorner Gorge into a magical place. The turquoise water and moss-covered rocks will look even more vibrant!

You can find the visiting information on Gorner gorge from Zermatt’s official website.

Gorner Gorge also has small waterfalls inside. However, if you want to see Zermatt’s most beautiful waterfall, head to Arbenbachfall.

In my opinion, Arbenbachfall is the most beautiful waterfall in Zermatt. You can view this 60-meter waterfall at an angle with the Matterhorn in the background, which creates a stunning image. It also looks graceful when you see it from below, though.

Here’s how it looks:

Zermatt Switzerland, Arbenbachfalls and the Matterhorn
Arbenbachfalls and the Matterhorn

10. Unique Accommodations

For some, including me, Zermatt is the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime destination. But after looking for a place to stay, I learned that Zermatt is also a destination for once-in-a-lifetime hotel experiences!

There are many beautiful hotels in Zermatt, but if you are planning a luxury trip in the mountains, these two hotels can give you the premium experience you are looking for: Iglu-Dorf and Riffelwalp Resort.

Iglu-Dorf is a unique hotel is made entirely of snow and ice, and it is rebuilt every winter. It offers a variety of accommodations, including igloo rooms, igloo suites, and even a fondue igloo. Guests can also enjoy a variety of activities, such as snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating.

Choose Iglu-Dorf if you like:

  • View the Matterhorn straight from a whirlpool inside a real igloo.
  • Sleep in simply yet beautifully decorated igloo rooms (isn’t it an adventure?!)
  • Relax on a sunny terrace with a view of Matterhorn
  • Enjoy a fondue from Iglu-Dorf restaurant 
  • Cheers and drink beer from Iglu-Dorf snow bar

Here’s the official website of Iglu-Dorf.

swipe the 360° image below to see more views

Riffelalp Resort is a luxury hotel located at the foot of the Matterhorn, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants. Guests can also enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Try Riffelalp Resort if you want:

  • To relax in an outdoor pool (heated at 35 degrees Celsius) with views of the Matterhorn. (Absolutely Instagrammable!)
  • Complete wellness facility, from massage chairs to Solarium to Hot tub/Jacuzzi to Hammam!
  • A hotel in an idyllic location (outside you can meet alpine animals grazing in the lush green meadows)
  • A hotel with quick access to some of the best attractions/outdoor activities in Zermatt

Learn more about Riffelalp Resort here.

swipe the 360° image below to see more views

Do you want to see more hotels in Zermatt? You can start browsing for a hotel here.

How to visit Zermatt?

So, there you have it – my top 10 reasons to visit Zermatt. I hope I’ve provided you with a wealth of ideas for what you can expect when you visit this stunning destination.

If Zermatt is now on your travel radar, I’ve got another article that will help you plan your trip and ensure you make the most of your visit: ‘10 Scenic Spots in Zermatt (With the Views of Matterhorn)’. This guide will assist you in exploring the best attractions in Zermatt, including some spots that offer the most spectacular views of the Matterhorn.

However, if you’ve already got your own plans for visiting Zermatt, the information below will still prove useful. Let’s delve into ‘How to visit Zermatt?’.

Even though Zermatt is tucked deep in one of the valleys of the Pennine Alps, visiting Zermatt is pretty simple. Switzerland’s immaculate train system connects Zermatt to the country’s primary cities with airports linked to many countries. With all information posted online, you can reach Zermatt even without trying to acquire local knowledge.

You may find all of Zermatt’s visiting information here. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Trains run directly to Zermatt.
  • You can find the trains going to Zermatt at Visp or Brig.
  • Zermatt is car-free. 
  • You may leave your cars in Täsch and ride the shuttle/train from it.
  • Download the Zermatt App (Available on iOS or Android) to check the weather, availability of public transportation, and other things that may help you visit Zermatt.
Zermatt Switzerland, How to go to Zermatt (Tasch Terminal)

If you’re from abroad, and Zermatt is one of the first places on your itinerary, you may choose to arrive in the following cities: Geneva, Bern, Zurich, Basel and Milan.

Let’s say you’re currently in one of these cities now. Then, you’re now only hours away from Zermatt:

These are only approximations.

If you need a place to stay in Zermatt, you can find the best hotel deals in Zermatt here. You can get tours, guides, and skip-the-line tickets in Zermatt here.

The arranged group tours and skip-the-line tickets can help you save time and reduce the effort of figuring out how to go to a tourist attraction in Zermatt.

Zermatt Alternatives

Okay, Zermatt is worth visiting and simple to reach.

But we all know that although Switzerland is a small country, it has many beautiful places. Zermatt is only one of them. This is why you need to compare Zermatt with other places in Switzerland, especially if you only plan to visit Switzerland for only a few days.

You know, we always aim for the best experience—the one that can satisfy our innermost travel desires! If you like visiting tranquil mountainous villages with fascinating attractions and breathtaking scenery, you may begin comparing Zermatt to other beautiful villages in the Swiss Alps

You may find some of Zermatt’s tourist attractions giving similar experiences to the ones in the Jungfrau Region. Mountain top experiences in Zermatt have similarities to Jungfraujoch and Schiltorn.

You can use this article to compare Zermatt with other top tourist destinations in Switzerland, like Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen.

You may also find my other Switzerland posts helpful in visiting Zermatt and comparing Zermatt with other destinations:

  1. Switzerland Itinerary 3 to 14 days
  2. Jungfrau Region Itinerary 1 to 7 days
  3. Lauterbrunnen Itinerary 1 to 3 days

In my opinion, the Jungfrau region is better than Zermatt. You can have various activities and see more extraordinary views from the Jungfrau Region. But that does not mean you should not skip Zermatt, especially with the 10 reasons we’re about to discuss now.

Discover: 10 Villages in The South of France: Quaint, Scenic, Romantic

You may also want to go to one of the cities near the Swiss Alps (Sion, Brig, Thun, Montreux, and Lucerne) for a mix of mountain-lake-city experiences. These cities can also be strategic home bases for visiting villages in the Swiss Alps, including Zermatt. 

Out of these 5 cities, the closest to Zermatt is Brig. It is also linked to Milan with a 2-hour train ride; thus, it can be a strategic home base for exploring both Switzerland and northern Italy, including Milan, Lake Como, and Bergamo.

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10 reasons why you should visit Zermatt
10 reasons why you should visit Zermatt

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