Zermatt village in Switzerland

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Zermatt is a picturesque alpine village renowned for its stunning views of the Matterhorn, world-class skiing, and charming car-free streets lined with traditional chalets.​

Additional Information

Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The village's commitment to sustainability is evident in its car-free policy and use of electric vehicles. Visitors can explore the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the region's mountaineering history or take the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic mountain views.

Reasons to Visit

  • Experience the iconic Matterhorn up close.

  • Enjoy year-round skiing and snowboarding.

  • Explore scenic hiking trails suitable for all levels.

  • Relax in luxurious spas and wellness centers.

  • Savor Swiss cuisine in gourmet restaurants.

Things to Avoid

  • Visiting in May and November when many establishments are closed.

  • Underestimating the altitude; acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness.

  • Assuming all outlets accept Type C plugs; carry a Type J adapter.

Did You Know?

Zermatt is home to the world's highest 3S cableway, the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, connecting it to Cervinia, Italy, in just 90 minutes.

Cool Zermatt Stats:

  • Elevation: 1,620 meters (5,315 feet) above sea level.

  • Ski Slopes: Over 360 km of pistes, including year-round skiing on the glacier.

  • Population: Approximately 5,800 residents.

 

Accessibility Level: High

Zermatt is a car-free village with electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages. The Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn offers wheelchair-accessible trains with low-floor entrances, and many attractions are equipped for visitors with limited mobility.

Recommended Age Group

Zermatt is most suitable for Adults and Seniors due to its serene environment, accessibility, and range of activities.

  • Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended; high altitude and limited facilities for infants.

  • Kids (3-12 years): Recommended; family-friendly activities like sledding and easy hikes.

  • Teens (13-19 years): Recommended; opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and adventure sports.

  • Adults (20-64 years): Highly recommended; diverse activities ranging from hiking to fine dining.

  • Seniors (65+ years): Highly recommended; accessible transportation and leisurely activities available.

Address:

Zermatt, Switzerland​

Find Nearby Accommodations

Basic Info

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COUNTRY & Region

Switzerland,
Europe
High
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LOCAL CURRENCY​

Swiss Franc (CHF)
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High
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Recommended Duration

• 1-7 days

Electricity

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Electricity

220-240V,
50Hz
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Plug Type

• Type C (Round pin)
• Type J (Three round pins)
Plug types
Click To View Plug Types

Activities To Do In Zermatt

Best Time To Visit

The best months to visit Zermatt are July to September for hiking and December to April for skiing.

  • Spring (March-May): Snow begins to melt; ideal for witnessing blooming alpine flora.

  • Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures and clear skies; perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

  • Autumn (September-November): Fewer crowds and vibrant fall colors; some facilities may close in November.

  • Winter (December-February): Peak ski season with snow-covered landscapes and festive atmosphere.

Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.

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SAFETY Level

Safe. Zermatt is a peaceful alpine town known for its car-free environment and low crime rates. While the area is generally safe, visitors engaging in mountain activities should be aware of potential natural hazards like avalanches. It's advisable to check local weather and trail conditions before embarking on hikes or skiing.

The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.

Spoken Languages

The official language is German (specifically the Swiss German dialect), but English, French, and Italian are commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Learn The Language

  • Hallo! – Hello!

  • Danke schön – Thank you very much

  • Entschuldigung – Excuse me

  • Sprechen Sie Englisch? – Do you speak English?

  • Wie komme ich zum Bahnhof? – How do I get to the train station?

  • Wo ist das nächste Restaurant? – Where is the nearest restaurant?

  • Wie viel kostet das? – How much does this cost?

  • Hilfe! – Help!

  • Ich hätte gern… – I would like…

  • Einen schönen Tag noch! – Have a nice day!

Deals, Money-Saving & Best Value Tips

Price level is Premium: Zermatt is a luxurious destination but offers ways to save smartly.

  • Book accommodations and ski passes early for discounts.

  • Use the Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited public transport (trains, buses) across Switzerland, including discounted mountain excursions.

  • Eat at local bakeries or self-cater from supermarkets like Coop or Migros to save on meals.

  • Visit free attractions like village walking tours and scenic hiking trails.

  • Rent ski equipment online in advance for better prices.

High

Price levels are estimates based on multi‑year averages. Actual prices can change with season, exchange rates, and special events. Always confirm current rates and deals before booking.

Check out our traveling coupons and make your trip more affordable

What To Pack

We couldn't find specific tips for Zermatt

Food & Drink Highlights

Local Food Overview

Zermatt’s culinary scene beautifully reflects the hearty and rich traditions of Swiss mountain cuisine. Expect generous use of local cheeses, potatoes, cured meats, and seasonal produce. Influenced by German, French, and Italian cultures, meals in Zermatt are flavorful, comforting, and often centered around communal experiences like fondue and raclette. Slow-cooked stews, oven-baked dishes, and open-flame cooking methods are common, with an emphasis on fresh Alpine ingredients. Dining customs favor a leisurely pace, perfect for savoring every bite amidst breathtaking alpine scenery.

Must Try Dish

Raclette is the ultimate Swiss alpine comfort food and a must-try while visiting Zermatt. Traditionally, a half-wheel of raclette cheese is melted and scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats. Originating in the Valais region (where Zermatt is located), Raclette is not just a meal but a social ritual, often enjoyed during gatherings and special occasions. In Zermatt, travelers can savor authentic Raclette at cozy traditional restaurants like Restaurant Schäferstube or Whymper-Stube, where the cheese is melted the old-fashioned way by the fire.
Raclette cheese wheel being melted and scraped onto a plate

Food Experiences

Farm-to-Table Experience | Local Dining Experience (e.g., with a family)

Zermatt Backstage Dining Adventure

Embark on a "Kitchen Around" backstage dining tour in Zermatt, where travelers journey through five different restaurants, enjoying a carefully curated course at each stop. This experience blends gourmet Alpine cuisine with the unique opportunity to glimpse behind the scenes of Zermatt’s best kitchens, all while surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. It's a delicious and immersive way to sample the finest flavors the region has to offer in one unforgettable evening.

Relevant dietary needs:

Allergen-Aware | Gluten-Free | Vegetarian
Various locations across Zermatt village
Local Dining Experience (e.g., with a family) | Wine Tasting or Winery Tour

Zermatt Tapas & Wine Tour

Discover a unique Alpine twist on tapas during this gourmet walking tour through Zermatt. Savor creatively crafted small plates paired with premium Swiss wines, all while strolling the charming car-free streets of this picturesque mountain town. It's a relaxed yet sophisticated way to experience Zermatt's evolving culinary scene and local hospitality.

Relevant dietary needs:

Gluten-Free | Vegetarian
Central Zermatt

GetReady

Plan your trip seamlessly with our trusted partners and expert guidance. Follow these steps to book everything you need or connect with a local tour guide for personalized support

Step 1: Find the Perfect Accommodation

Explore a wide range of hotels, boutique stays, and vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxury options to cozy family stays, find the best place for your trip.

Step 2: Book Your Flights

Secure the best flight deals for your destination. With our trusted partners, booking flights is quick and hassle-free.

Step 3: Let a Tour Guide Help

Not sure where to start? A professional local tour guide can create a customized itinerary or assist you in planning your trip. Make your journey seamless and stress-free.

Step 4: Rent a Car

Travel at your own pace by renting a car. Whether you’re exploring cities or embarking on a road trip, find reliable and convenient car rental options.

Step 5: Get Travel Insurance

Protect yourself and your loved ones with comprehensive travel insurance. Our partners offer plans to cover every aspect of your journey.

Step 6: Need a Visa?

Check visa requirements for your destination and apply quickly with trusted services. Simplify the process and ensure you’re ready to travel without delays.

FAQs

You can reach Zermatt by taking a train from major Swiss cities like Zurich or Geneva; the village itself is car-free.
Yes, Zermatt is entirely car-free. Only electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages are allowed within the village.
Top activities include skiing, hiking, visiting the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and taking the Gornergrat railway.
The prime skiing season in Zermatt is from December through April.
Yes, on clear days, the Matterhorn can be seen year-round from Zermatt.
Yes, Zermatt offers over 400 km of hiking trails, with options ranging from easy walks to challenging alpine hikes.
Zermatt is a premium destination, known for its luxury accommodations, fine dining, and higher overall costs.

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