After 5 days in the Jungfrau Region (Grindelwald, Interlaken, and Lauterbrunnen), we headed to Zermatt, Switzerland. Zermatt is one of the most picturesque destinations in the country, with breathtaking landscapes, incredible hiking trails, and unforgettable Matterhorn views. Whether you’re here for adventure at one of the country’s premier skiing destinations (with over 360 kilometers of ski slopes, making it one of the largest ski areas in Europe) or a relaxing getaway, this 3-day itinerary ensures you experience the best of this alpine paradise.
Best Time To Visit Zermatt, Switzerland
The best time to visit Zermatt depends on where your interests lie as this town has different offerings during the various seasons.
Winter (December to March) – Perfect for winter activities and sports, including skiing and snowboarding where the ski slopes are in full operation and you can enjoy the town’s festive atmosphere. However, it is peak season and you will expect higher prices and more tourists.
Summer (June to September) – This time is optimal for hiking, climbing, and general sightseeing without the cold temperatures. The weather is mild and comfortable for exploring this small town. It’s also less crowded compared to winter. I visited in the second week of September and the temperature was perfect, although remember to bring layers as you may experience an occasional shower, and I didn’t feel like it was too busy with tourists either.
Shoulder Seasons (April to May, October to November) – These months are quieter and are usually more affordable, but some attractions, cable cars, or trails might be closed due to inaccessible conditions, and certain hotels and restaurants may not be fully operational. While the weather can be more mild than the peak winter or summer months, it can also be unpredictable as you can experience some snow, rain, or chilly winds, especially in higher altitudes.
How To Get To Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a car-free town, just like Mürren and Wengen, so you’ll need to take a train to get there. The Zermatt railway station is well-connected to major Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Bern.
The closest major airport is Geneva Airport, which is about 3 hours away by train, or Zurich Airport, which is about 3.5 hours by train). From the airport, you can easily catch a train to Zermatt.
If you’re getting to Zermatt by car, the closest you can drive to is Täsch and once in Täsch, you’ll need to park and take a shuttle train to Zermatt.
For more information on transportation around Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass is a great option, offering unlimited train, bus, and boat rides across the country. I opted for the Swiss Half Fare Card, and I explain more about what your best option may be in A Complete Guide To Exploring Geneva And Tips For Visiting Switzerland.
Where To Stay in Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels with Matterhorn views to cozy boutique stays and budget-friendly options. Sine Zermatt is a car-free village, location plays an important role in convenience and accessibility.
The best area to stay in Zermatt is near Bahnhofstrasse, the town’s main street. This central location offers easy access to restaurants and shops, as well as proximity to the train station for smooth arrivals and departures. There are also convenient connections to the Gornergrat Railway, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and ski lifts, making it an ideal choice for sightseeing and skiing.
If you’re looking for unbeatable views of the Matterhorn, consider staying in the southern part of Zermatt, where many hotels and chalets offer direct mountain-facing balconies. Waking up to the sight of Switzerland’s most iconic peak is truly an unforgettable experience – or even catching a glimpse of it throughout the day is pretty awesome too.
I stayed at the Hotel Garni Testa Grigia, a centrally-located hotel with spacious rooms, a wraparound balcony, and decent Matterhorn views. It was the perfect base for exploring the town, and the included breakfast was a great way to start each day. Plus, its location made it easy to get around on foot, whether heading to the train station or venturing out farther.
If you’re looking for a 5-star, luxury modern hotel with panoramic views of Zermatt and top-tier service, consider staying at The Omnia. Perched on an elevation above the town, this exclusive mountain lodge offers elegant design, a world-class spa, and exceptional dining, making it one of the most luxurious stays in Zermatt.
Where To Eat In Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt has a great mix of cuisines, from traditional Swiss dishes to international flavors, along with several Michelin-recommended restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a cozy mountain hut, fine dining, or something in between, here are some standout options that I enjoyed, as well as highly rated spots by other visitors.
Restaurant Vieux-Valais Da Nico
This rustic spot is known for its authentic, traditional Italian cuisine and the kitchen staff and service team are from Campania in Southern Italy. These freshly prepared dishes include meat variations and various fish specialties, along with homemade pasta, and wood-fired pizza are a must-try. I enjoyed every single dish we ordered and would definitely visit again!
Shogun Japan Restaurant
This authentic Japanese restaurant offers high-quality sushi, ramen/udon bowls perfect for a cold day, and other Japanese food that is prepared by Japanese chefs. They also import their rice directly from Japan. The intimate setting makes it a hidden gem in Zermatt, and I was surprised by how authentic the food tasted.
After Seven
Located in the Backstage Hotel, After Seven is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering an unforgettable fine dining experience. The innovative tasting menu changes regularly, ensuring a fresh and creative approach to each dish. Guests can choose between a 5 or 6-course menu, designed to engage all the senses with beautifully plated dishes and bold, refined flavors. For the perfect pairing, opt for the Valais wine selection, which highlights the best of the alpine terroir, or go for the international pairing, featuring exceptional wines from around the world.
Chez Vrony
Perched at 2,100 meters with breathtaking Matterhorn views, this iconic mountain restaurant has been a cherished family tradition for over 100 years. A must-visit for an authentic Swiss alpine dining experience, it combines time-honored recipes with a touch of international flair. The restaurant prides itself on using organic ingredients, sourced from animals that graze on pristine alpine meadows. Signature specialties include dry-cured meats, homemade sausages, and rich alpine cheeses, all crafted using traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Potato Fine Food Restaurant
This Michelin-recommended restaurant is dedicated to high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, crafting a seasonal menu that reimagines Swiss and European cuisine with a modern twist. With a refined, yet down-to-earth dining experience, the set menu highlights the best of Valais and French cuisine, using top-tier regional ingredients – sourced within a 99-kilometer radius – to create fresh, naturally homemade dishes. Their carefully curated wine list also showcases exclusively Valais wines, including rare finds.
For a complete list of Zermatt’s top dining experiences, here is the full list of the 20 Michelin-starred and Michelin-recommended restaurants.
Tip – Many popular restaurants in Zermatt require reservations, especially during peak seasons, so be sure to book in advance!
Tips For Visiting Zermatt, Switzerland
Before your trip to Zermatt, Switzerland, here are some tips that will ensure you have a smoother experience:
Car-Free Town – Zermatt is car-free, so get ready to explore on foot or by electric taxis, horse-drawn carriages, or buses and shuttle trains.
Pack Layers – The weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Bring warm layers, even in summer, and always have a rain jacket or windbreaker
Altitude – Zermatt is located at a high altitude, and some areas like the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, are even higher. Drink plenty of water, take it easy on your first day to adjust, and be mindful of altitude sickness just in case. (I will mention that both my mom and I were fine and weren’t affected in any way, but it is still good to know.)
Book In Advance – Zermatt is a smaller town and it can get busy, especially during the ski season and summer months, so it’s wise to book your accommodations, restaurants, ski passes, and other popular attractions and activities in advance to secure your spot.
Travel Insurance – If you’re planning on skiing or doing any mountain sports, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers accidents, medical emergencies, and mountain rescue services. Switzerland’s healthcare and rescue services can be expensive, so having coverage gives you peace of mind while exploring Zermatt. SafetyWing is a popular choice for travelers and digital nomads and offers 2 flexible plans: Essential (travel medical insurance) and Complete (full health insurance with extra travel protections).
Itinerary For 3 Days In Zermatt, Switzerland
Day 1 – Exploring The Heart Of Zermatt
Bahnhofstrasse
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – Zermatt’s lively main street is a pedestrian-only zone filled with unique and luxury boutiques, Swiss watch shops, local artisans selling handcrafted goods as well as many cozy cafés and restaurants. Zermatt has been car-free since the 1960s, only allowing small electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages. With a blend of modern elegance and traditional Swiss alpine culture, this historic street has many historic hotels where famous mountaineers once gathered to plan their expeditions.
Hinterdorfstrasse
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Step back in time as you stroll through the oldest part of Zermatt. This area is home to well-preserved wooden chalets dating back to the 16th century and over 500 years old and passed down through generations of farming families, built using larch wood, which naturally resists insects and decay. They were also built on elevated stone slabs called “mushroom stones” to prevent mice and other small animals from getting inside, as it also helps protect food supplies. These traditional Valais-style houses, barns, and stables give you a glimpse into Zermatt’s past as a remote farming village before it became a world-famous ski resort.
Matterhorn Museum
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This museum showcases artifacts from early mountaineering expeditions and original climbing equipment, as well as a reconstruction of an old Zermatt village, complete with original mountain huts. You can also learn about the dramatic history of the Matterhorn’s first ascent in 1865, which ended in tragedy when 4 of the 7 climbers fell to their deaths – not just focusing on the mountain’s history, but also honoring local guides who were instrumental in assisting climbers during the early expeditions. If you love history and adventure, this is a must-visit spot to understand Zermatt’s transformation from a humble village to a top alpine destination.
Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Before sunset, head to one of the many viewpoints in town to get your first breathtaking glimpse of the Matterhorn (if you don’t have views from your hotel). Popular spots include:
- Kirchbrücke Bridge – a classic postcard-perfect Matterhorn view
- Mountaineers Cemetery – a peaceful place to reflect on the courage of climbers who attempted the Matterhorn
- Riedweg or Sunnegga Funicular Area – for elevated panoramic views over Zermatt
Gornerschlucht (Gorner Gorge)
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – Just a 15 to 20-minute walk from Zermatt’s center, Gorner Gorge is a hidden natural wonder carved by the Gornervispe River and glacial meltwater after the last Ice Age over ten thousand years ago. To enter, you will need a short hike upwards to enter the gorge, so be sure to wear good shoes. The water flow is strongest in late spring and summer, and the turquoise waters, towering rock walls, and wooden walkways make this an unforgettable spot to explore. Built as a tourist path between 1886 to 1887, the gorge was carefully constructed only using natural materials – with no explosives or tunnels – to preserve its raw beauty. Over 120 years later, it remains one of the few publicly accessible canyons in such a pristine state. Here is an Instagram reel walkthrough of Gorner Gorge as well as 5 tips for visiting before you go.
Day 2 – Matterhorn Views & Alpine Adventures
Gornergrat Railway
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – When you’re in Zermatt, you can’t miss visiting one of the most panoramic views of the Matterhorn, surrounding peaks, and one of Europe’s largest glaciers, Gorner Glacier, with the scenic train ride up to Gornergrat at 3,089 meters. The Gornergrat Railway is one of the oldest and most scenic cogwheel trains in the world, and as the train chugs up the mountainside, you’ll pass through many alpine meadows, rocky terrains, and glacial rivers. The Gornergrat Observatory is also the highest research observatory in the Alps and dates back to 1907. It has been a hub for astronomy and meteorological research and has been instrumental in studying the skies and weather patterns. If you’re hungry, you can also head to the mountaintop restaurant, where you can enjoy local Swiss cuisine with unmatched views of the Matterhorn (when it’s not cloudy like it was for me when I visited, unfortunately.) Here’s an Instagram reel of my experience and tips to know before visiting.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Time Spent – 3 to 4 hours
Why You Should Visit – Take the highest cable car in Europe up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise at 3,883 meters for unbelievable glacier views and surrounding snow-capped peaks (when it’s a good day), an ice palace, and a chance to see Matterhorn from above. The cable car journey itself is a thrilling experience, as you’ll need 4 to get to the top, and you’ll be soaring above snowfields, glaciers, and rocky landscapes before reaching the summit. Inside the Matterhorn Glacier Palace, you’ll be exploring the intricate ice tunnels and see stunning ice sculptures. The palace was carved directly into the glacier and visitors can even try an exhilarating slide down the ice. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, don’t miss out on a scenic glacier walk or take a moment to appreciate the world’s largest glacier skiing area. The Matterhorn Glacier is one of the oldest ski areas in the world and the lift infrastructure has been expanded since the 1950s to accommodate year-round skiing.
Day 3 – Hiking, Scenic Walks & Relaxation
5 Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg)
Time Spent – 2.5 to 4 hours
Why You Should Visit – One of the most famous hikes in Zermatt, this trail takes you past 5 crystal-clear alpine lakes, each offering unique reflections of the iconic Matterhorn peak. Stellisee, in particular, is famous for its perfect mirror reflection of the mountain, making it a favorite among photographers. Grindjisee is unique for its surrounding larch trees which turn golden in the fall; Grünsee has a more rugged backdrop, offering a wilder feel; Moosjisee is an artificial reservoir that stands out against turquoise waters created by glacial minerals; and Leisee is perfect for a quick dip in the summer and one of the few swimmable lakes in the area. The 9.8-kilometer trail is considered easy to moderate, making it accessible for most hikers. Along the way, you’ll pass lush meadows, diverse alpine flora and fauna, and peaceful areas that really allow you to experience the nature that Zermatt has to offer. Historically, these alpine lakes and trails have been used for centuries by local shepherds and mountaineers.
Relax And Enjoy Zermatt
To wrap up your time in Zermatt, Switzerland and after day sof adventure, spend your final afternoon unwinding in a cozy café, indulging in a fine dining restaurant and some Swiss Chocolate, or visiting a local spa after some well-deserved relaxation before heading home. Luxurious spas like Matterhorn Focus Hotel Spa or the Mont Cervin Palace spa will let you enjoy a soothing massage, sauna, or an outdoor thermal bath with a view of the mountains.
Before heading home, take one last leisurely stroll through Bahnhofstrasse, picking up last-minute souvenirs or local Valais wines and ensure your trip ends on a high note!
Want to explore more of Switzerland? Check out my other blog posts for expert tips, breathtaking destinations, and hidden gems that will make your trip truly unforgettable!