Our complete guide to exploring Zermatt and its must-see highlights!

Visiting Zermatt: Find out the best time to plan your trip, must-do activities, and other practical tips.

When one thinks of Zermatt, Switzerland’s iconic resort, it’s impossible to resist the sight of the Matterhorn’s perfect pyramid towering above. Visiting Zermatt means treating yourself to a breath of pure mountain air, a rejuvenating escape in the heart of awe-inspiring nature, and moments of breathtaking contemplation. Discover why Zermatt is so renowned, the best time to plan your trip, the must-do activities such as the panoramic Gornergrat railway and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable cars, the fantastic opportunities for skiing or hiking, and many other practical tips in this comprehensive guide.

Zermatt: a jewel of the Swiss Alps nestled at the foot of the Matterhorn

Before setting off to explore Zermatt, here are a few general facts to help you get acquainted with this remarkable destination.

Where is Zermatt in Switzerland?

Zermatt is a small mountain town located in the Swiss canton of Valais, in southwestern Switzerland, right on the Italian border. It lies 1 hour 30 minutes (100 km) from Martigny, 1 hour 25 minutes (70 km) from Crans-Montana, 2 hours 15 minutes (170 km) from Lausanne, 2 hours 25 minutes (145 km) from Chamonix, and 3 hours (230 km) from Geneva.

What is the altitude of Zermatt?

Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the Matterhorn, sits at an altitude of 1,620 meters (5,315 feet).

What is Zermatt Switzerland known for and is Zermatt worth visiting?

Zermatt is best known for its exceptional location at the foot of one of the Alps’ most iconic—and photogenic—peaks: the Matterhorn, rising to 4,478 meters (14,692 feet). And there’s no shortage of stunning viewpoints from which to admire it, whether in the streets of Zermatt or the surrounding area.

The town is especially loved for its outdoor activities. Often considered the second mountaineering capital of the Alps after Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Zermatt offers a spectacular playground, including the legendary Haute Route, which links these two iconic towns via a high-altitude trail. The region is home to no fewer than 38 of Switzerland’s 54 peaks that rise above 4,000 meters, including Monte Rosa (4,634 m / 15,203 ft), the Breithorn (4,165 m / 13,661 ft), and the Weisshorn (4,506 m / 14,783 ft).

Another major highlight: Zermatt is part of the fifth-largest ski area in the Alps, offering 360 kilometers (224 miles) of slopes in connection with the Italian resorts of Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche-Matterhorn. With its highest point reaching nearly 3,900 meters (12,795 feet), Zermatt also offers year-round skiing.

Mountaineering, hiking—thanks to its 400 kilometers (250 miles) of trails—climbing, mountain biking, and skiing are just a few of the must-do activities during your stay in Zermatt!

Best time of year to visit Zermatt, Switzerland

It all depends, of course, on the activities you’re planning to do. Thanks to its alpine climate, Zermatt enjoys excellent snow conditions in winter, along with consistently cold temperatures that can remain cool well into the summer. During the peak of summer, however, it's not uncommon for temperatures to reach between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F), often accompanied by beautiful sunny days.

Visiting Zermatt in winter

Are you passionate about skiing and snow sports? Let yourself be enchanted by the magical winter atmosphere of Zermatt and its surroundings, and enjoy the idyllic setting for downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, sledding, ski touring, and snowshoeing adventures.

Dreaming of a Christmas in the mountains? This picturesque village takes on a truly enchanting charm, with its narrow streets, wooden rooftops dusted with snow, twinkling lights, and cozy Christmas market... Get ready to feel the holiday magic come to life!

Visiting Zermatt in summer

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts won’t want to miss a summer getaway to Zermatt! During this season, the region transforms into a true paradise for hiking, mountaineering, and mountain biking, among other activities. Exploring the area with a local guide becomes a fascinating experience, offering deeper insight into the environment, wildlife, and alpine flora—all under sunny skies and comfortably warm temperatures.

The nearest airport to Zermatt and transfer options

The closest airports to reach Zermatt are Sion (40 km), Milan (170 km), and Geneva (230 km).
Planning a tailor-made trip through the French and Swiss Alps? Our team can take care of all your private transfers to and from airports, train stations, or any Alpine destination. Contact us for a quote or to learn more!

Getting to Zermatt from Täsch

Did you know that Zermatt is almost entirely car-free? The only vehicles allowed in the village are electric hotel shuttles, local electric taxis, and service or maintenance vehicles.
To reach Zermatt, you'll first travel to Täsch—by car, train, or private transfer—where a shuttle train will take you to Zermatt’s station in just about 12 minutes. Trains depart every 20 minutes.

Best things and activities to do and best places to visit in Zermatt, Switzerland

Between panoramic mountains, exceptional viewpoints, and outdoor activities, visiting Zermatt promises to surprise and delight you at every turn!

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Rothorn, and Gornergrat: Zermatt’s iconic cable cars and trains

If there’s one thing you absolutely must do in Zermatt, it’s to take a ride on one of its famous cable cars. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, with its peak at 3,883 meters (12,746 feet), is the highest station in Europe and the perfect starting point for year-round skiing right at the Italian border. It’s also the gateway for mountaineering on the Breithorn or simply admiring the panoramic views around you, including the Matterhorn, Weisshorn, impressive glaciers, and even Mont Blanc on the Italian side. Keep your eyes peeled from the cable car—you might catch a glimpse of marmots, ibex, or chamois!

The Gornergrat is a train that climbs up to 3,089 meters (10,138 feet), offering one of the most legendary views of the Matterhorn from its summit. Along the way, you can hop off for superb hikes, walking amid breathtaking panoramas of peaks soaring over 4,000 meters and the vast glaciers at their feet, such as the Gorner Glacier. Mountain-top restaurants with terraces and an interactive museum make your visit even more memorable.

Finally, the Rothorn cable car offers yet another spectacular vantage point over the Matterhorn and its surrounding peaks from 3,103 meters (10,180 feet). It serves as the ideal starting point for a variety of hikes as well as fantastic ski descents.

Visit Matterhorn from Zermatt

Want to make the most of your stay in Zermatt by enjoying the best views of the Matterhorn? We highly recommend taking the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car, from which you can embark on extraordinary hikes such as the Matterhorn Glacier Trail. This trail allows you to get up close to the foot of the legendary Matterhorn. Along the way, you’ll even see the start of the route and the suspension bridge leading to the Matterhorn Hut before the final ascent—a truly breathtaking path!

Of course, the Rothorn, Gornergrat, and Zermatt itself, as well as the Five Lakes Trail, the hamlet of Findeln, Schwarzsee, Blauherd, and Riffelberg, are other fantastic spots to admire the Matterhorn’s perfect pyramid during your visit.

To learn more about this iconic peak, don’t miss the Zermatlantis Museum in Zermatt, which also tells the story of the village and the tragic first ascent of the Matterhorn on July 14, 1865.

Zermatt: a true paradise for hiking and mountaineering

With 400 kilometers (250 miles) of trails, endless possibilities await you! Agence 1786 organizes outings with local guides who are true experts of their land, environment, and the nature they deeply cherish. During an exceptional hike, immerse yourself in stories about the village and its wildlife, and experience a pure moment of connection with the elements. The expertise of the guides we work with is so longstanding that they are the ones who officially kick off the Matterhorn climbing season every year!

Looking to try mountaineering for the first time? Join a rope team with a high mountain guide to tackle the Breithorn route, which peaks at 4,160 meters (13,648 feet). This accessible introduction is a magnificent first glacier hike suitable for all skill levels.

Mountain biking and via ferrata enthusiasts will also find plenty to love here!

Things to do in Zermatt in winter for skiers and non skiers

The Zermatt ski area, Matterhorn Ski Paradise, is a dream come true for skiers with its 360 kilometers (224 miles) of slopes! As the fifth-largest ski area in the Alps and the highest in Europe, with its peak reaching nearly 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), it offers year-round skiing.

Ski with the Matterhorn as your backdrop no matter where you are! To fully enjoy the panorama, don’t miss the runs from Rothorn-Sunnegga (slopes 11 and 7), Tufternkumme (slope 15), and Gebiet Hirli (slopes 52 and 54). Have you ever skied in such a breathtaking setting?

Thrill-seekers will love that Matterhorn Ski Paradise is an incredible playground for heli-skiing! And of course, discovering Zermatt’s stunning landscapes continues with cross-country skiing or ski touring sessions for those who want to mix up their skiing experiences.

Kids have plenty of fun too, with ski lessons, a dedicated Kids Ski Area, and a Teens Camp during your visit.

Another perk for American travelers: Zermatt is part of the Ikon Pass network, alongside Chamonix and St. Moritz.

Non-skiers won’t be left out either! Zermatt offers the perfect setting for exhilarating sled runs, dog sledding adventures, and superb snowshoe hikes with a guide. And don’t forget to relax and enjoy a delicious hot chocolate on one of the many sunny terraces in Zermatt or the ski area.

Geneva to Zermatt day trip and other excursions

Want to make the most of your trip to Zermatt by discovering other gems of Switzerland or the French Alps? Agence 1786 offers full-day excursions to Geneva, where we invite you on an exciting guided tour of the city center, followed by an immersion into the world of Swiss watchmaking or a private cruise on Lake Geneva.

Just two hours from Zermatt, don’t miss exploring Montreux, a charming town on the shores of Lake Geneva, and its surrounding region. Highlights include a guided tour of Montreux, a visit to Chillon Castle, followed by wine tasting in the Lavaux vineyards, a trip up to Rochers-de-Naye for breathtaking views, panoramic hiking, and, a bit further afield, a visit to the delightful town of Gruyères, steeped in history, cheese, and chocolate.

Other resort experiences await you as well, such as those in Crans-Montana or Chamonix, France.

Your tailor-made stay in Zermatt

Looking to discover Zermatt on a tailor-made trip through the Alps? Share your destination wishes in the heart of the Swiss and French Alps, and we will take care of crafting the trip of your dreams—from accommodation and activities to private transfers and dining. Based on your travel dates and budget, we organize everything from A to Z so all you have to do is enjoy your stay. Don’t hesitate to request your personalized quote!

For inspiration, explore all the Alpine destinations we offer and browse our suggested itineraries for Zermatt in winter and summer, as well as our Alpine Luxury itinerary, combining Zermatt with Crans-Montana, Megève, and Courchevel.

Your corporate events, team buildings, and incentive or executive committee retreats in Zermatt

Agence 1786 also takes care of organizing your corporate events in Zermatt. As an ideal destination for incentive trips or executive committee retreats, we create a personalized program tailored to your needs—handling accommodation bookings, transfers, restaurants, and activities. From outdoor excursions to engaging talks by local guides, we offer a fresh approach to major themes such as risk management or pushing personal limits.

The 1786 team is here to answer all your questions about visiting Zermatt or to help design the trip of your dreams. Don’t hesitate to get in touch! And to learn more, discover all the services offered by our travel agency specializing in the Alps.