Top Zermatt Tours & Vacations 2024/2025 [reviews & photos]

Zermatt Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

60 Zermatt trips. Compare tour itineraries from 33 tour companies. 161 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

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Top Zermatt Attractions & Experiences

Zermatt Tours & Travel Guide

Zermatt Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Situated in Valais canton in southern Switzerland, Zermatt is a well-known mountain resort that is a world-famous hub for hiking, climbing, and skiing. At an elevation of 1,600 m, the town lies at the foot of the pyramid-shaped iconic peak Matterhorn.

This little village is one of the swankiest resorts of Switzerland since the 19th century. In 1865, Edwards Whymper climbed up the Matterhorn's summit and hiking enthusiasts from all over the world come here to climb the mountain top. The skiers ride along the perfect pistes, enjoy the stunning scenery around them and then spend the evening in the swish lounge bars in the town. The main street of the town, Bahnhofstrasse if full of boutique shops, restaurants, and hotels.

This famous vacation destination is a car-free zone and hence, has preserved its original beauty and character for years. Located in the middle of the huge ski and hiking region, Zermatt is one of the world's most beautiful vacation destinations.

Zermatt is most popular for its long ski runs that provide terrain for all skill levels. People from all over the world come for skiing in Zermatt. There are other outdoor sports like hiking, cycling, etc. In the past, the town used to be an agricultural community but today the local economy is based on tourism, and half of the jobs in town are related to restaurants or hotels.

Only one-third of the Zermatt Switzerland population consists of local-born, while the remaining two-thirds came from outside Switzerland.

How to get to the Matterhorn from Zermatt

To have a perfect Matterhorn view the first step involves reaching Zermatt Switzerland. There are various ways to enjoy the beauty of the highest mountain in Europe. There are mountain lifts in Zermatt that take you up to a height of 3,883 m, passing through Gornergrat, Rothorn and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

If you want to reach the summit you will require the services of some experienced guided as climbing to the top of this mountain is not as easy as might seem. Many people have lost their lives in the process and you will require advanced planning and excellent fitness.

The best way to take in the beauty of the stunning mountain is to ride on the mountain train, Gornergrat Bahn, which picks you up from the Zermatt village center and takes you up the steep slopes of Gornergrat offering panoramic views of the huge Matterhorn. At a height of 10,290 feet, there is a stunning viewing platform where you can enjoy the unparalleled views of the mountain as well as the surrounding beauty.

The Sunnegga funicular is another fabulous way to experience the beauty of the region. At a 10 minute walk from Zermatt Bahnhof along the river, you will find the funicular that goes soaring up through the mountain taking you out at Sunnegga in just 5 minutes. Here you will find various indoor as well as outdoor restaurants that provide gorgeous views of the Matterhorn.

Another fun but expensive way to experience the beauty if by taking a helicopter ride over the area which will give you the closest view of the mountain. Or get a cable car ride taking you to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest cable car station in Europe.

Skiing in Zermatt - top planning tips    

Skiing in Zermatt is one of the most adventurous and delightful experiences that every skiing lover dream of. Walking around the town on foot is a delightful experience but not the most practical option. Instead, choose the electric taxis or the frequent, cheaper, and punctual electric bus service.

If you have the lift pass, you can travel in these buses free of cost. If you are not a skiing fan and don't have a ski pass, you can always get a weekly bus pass during your stay. The Green buses follow the route through the river, linking to the Matterhorn Express gondola, Gornergrat rail station, and Sunnegga funicular. While the red slopes take you through a large circuit providing you with the opportunity to take in and breathe the beauty of the village.

Zermatt Switzerland has about 200 km of skiing slopes that have various regions for different difficulty levels. Beginners should go for Wolli park at Sunnegga, Beginner park at Schwarzsees, or Beginner park at Riffelberg. Sunnegga and Gornergrat has the most suitable slopes for intermediate skiers.

If you are an advanced level skier than you can go anywhere around the mountain. The red slopes at Rothorn and Sunnegga are a must try.

If you do not have advanced level expertise it is better to take a lesson or two for skiing in Zermatt that will make a huge difference in your skiing experience. Choose Sunnegga as your starting point. The nice and comfy blue slopes through Blauherd to Findeln will give you a smooth start and boost your confidence.

Turn to the red run of Tuftern if you are looking for slightly deeper slopes, enjoying through the trees. The Rothorn cable car takes you to a couple of long and straight red runs with few steeper and trickier sections. Hotelli cable car will take you the 1100 m vertical slopes of White Hare piste that are easy, sunning and not too busy.

There are certain things that you should know and keep in mind before setting out to your skiing in Zermatt Switzerland:

  • It is better to get your lift tickets from your hotel as you arrive and you will get a discount, and also get a refund if you return the pass at the end of your trip.
  • Don't rent a car as you cannot take it in the car-free region of Zermatt.
  • Go for advance booking in all aspects as the popular Zermatt region is always tourist-packed. Make advance booking for your flights and get the pre-booked shuttle from the airport to reach your destination.
  • Don't forget to bring your helmet and ski boats in your carry-on luggage if you are up for some winter fun. Do your homework before arriving to know skiing charges around the region.
  • Rent the skis on the first day of your trip and avail them till the last day to fly on the slopes in the breeze.
  • Various schools with English speaking ski instructors are present to give lessons to small groups.
  • Prepare a small lightweight backpack when going skiing on the slopes. You should be self-sufficient and completely prepared for the adventure out there. Keep some first aid, snacks, lunch, water and other essential things like that.
  • Euros won't work here so you will be needing Swiss Francs, especially for small purchases and taxis who do not accept the credit card.

Best ski lodges in Zermatt      

When skiing in Zermatt, the second most important thing after the slopes is a comfortable accommodation. When you return after an entertaining but tiring skiing trip you are just looking for a comfortable bed, warm room and delicious dinner to get cozy and relax.

There are various hotels and lodges throughout the Zermatt but here is a list of the top ones that are most loved by the people.

1. The Omnia

The 5-star luxury hotel, perched above the man street on just a rock, provides amazing views of Matterhorn and surroundings. The cozy library, gourmet cuisine, luxurious spa with Turkish bath and the classy bar has everything that you would want for a relaxing evening. The comfortable and traditional suites have Jacuzzis and log fires to keep you warm and relaxed.

2. Monte Rosa Hotel

Located in the heart of the village, this luxurious hotel is not only the perfect place to stay with your family but also holds some historical significance. The hotel started providing services in 1879 and is the first hotel built in Zermatt. Today the 4-star hotel provides a wide variety of about 41 elegantly furnished and individually styled rooms that combine the classic historical charm with modern luxuries to give you a comfortable and unique experience.

3. Hotel Alex

The 4-star hotel consists of 84 luxurious rooms and a warm and friendly atmosphere providing you an extravagant mountain style. The hotel has a gourmet cuisine grill and restaurant and a fine wine cellar. Relax in the wellness area after a tiring skiing day that contains a spacious swimming pool, bio saunas, indoor squash, and tennis courts, a gym room and much more. There is a conference center that can hold up to 200 people and four small seminar rooms with TV communication as well as modern gadgets.

4. Hotel Bellerive Superior

The 3-star charming hotel has 26 comfortable suites and rooms with all facilities as well as private balconies so that you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The hotel has a luxurious lounge, a breakfast restaurant, a stylish bar area, and a wellness area with Jacuzzi, a steam bath, a relaxation area and a wide variety of massage treatments. The hotel lies very close to the ski bus stop as well as the village square.

5. Hotel Aristella Swissflair

The modern and stylish hotel has 28 well-furnished and decorated double rooms with modern furniture and wooden floors. The hotel has a traditional restaurant that offers Swiss as well as international cuisine and fine wine collection. You can also avail of the spacious lounge, lobby, and the wellness area with a steam room, hot tubs, and saunas. The ski bus stop and cable cars to Sunnegga and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise are within walking distance.

Can you drive to Zermatt?      

Zermatt Switzerland is a car-free zone so you cannot bring private cars inside the resort town and have to park at Tasch, last stop 7 km before Zermatt. From Tasch, you can get a cog railway, electric taxis or horse-driven carts to reach the resort. However, the road from Tash to Zermatt is closed for private vehicles for a long time.

Winter travel in Zermatt (top activities, attractions, and tips)

The beautiful Zermatt is most stunning during winter with lots of activities for adventure lovers. If you want to have some winter fun with numerous entertaining activities then Zermatt is the best palace. Winter is the most suitable and popular time as you will get to have the real side of the region with snow-filled mountains and stunning views.

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

There is no better place for skiing and snowboarding than the beautiful Swiss slopes. At 8,338 meter altitude, the ski paradise of Matterhorn has amazing slopes for the beginner as well as experienced skiers.

The 360 km runs have slopes for every level; red, blue, black and yellow. Reach the top through the cable cars or chair lifts enjoy the stunning surroundings. There are also nine ski schools where multilingual trainers are available to learn or improve your skiing skills.

2. Hiking and Snowshoeing

If you are not up to skiing then the best alternative is to hike or go for snowshoeing to explore the gorgeous Zermatt views. Hiking is not only for summers but the vast mountain slopes of Zermatt invite you to climb up them through the magnificent snowy slopes.

There are self-guided trails so your cane goes on your own or can also get a guided tour. Explore the beautiful natural region through the overhanging terraces to have a perfect view of the region.

3. Ice Sports

In the Zermatt center, you will find some perfect ice rinks made for family and group fun for people of all ages. Enjoy a variety of ice sports like curling, ice hockey, skating, icefalls and much more.

There are gorgeous ice falls just outside the village where you can climb up the huge icicles enjoy the stunning natural beauty. There are multiple sports stores in the surrounding that can lend you the necessary sports equipment so that you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

4. Tobogganing

Another way to explore the magnificent mountain slopes and enjoy your time in Zermatt is to go tobogganing or sledding down the steep slopes. The region offers three difficulty levels, between easy to medium from which you can choose as per your convenience. If you want to have a little thrill then this is the best winter activity in Zermatt. Easy slopes are perfect for families and beginners and you can enjoy the stunning Matterhorn views while sledding down the trails.

5. Paragliding

To add some more fun to your tour and have more adrenaline rush you can always go for paragliding. Two flying schools in the town offer lessons to help you go for the thrill. Experience the glory of huge Matterhorn in many different ways, admiring the beauty and enjoying it from all sides. If you are an adventurous soul and not afraid of flying then this can be the best activity for you in Zermatt.

6. Stroll Through the Town

When you are done with the adrenaline fun, set out to explore the town. Walking the snow-filled streets of the beautiful town under the bright sun is a winter round activity. As it is a car-free region you will find only electric buses and taxis but if you don't mind walking you won't be needing them.

The village is so small that you can easily go through it on foot. Stroll through the streets, window shopping from boutiques, admiring the charming houses, stunning scenery, and stop by the restaurants to enjoy delicious foods and drinks.

7. Hinterdorf

The significant site contains old wooden chalets, stables, barns, storehouses and narrow lanes that many people love to witness during their Zermatt trip. You will find old and well-preserved village buildings where most of the buildings date back to the 16th century and are built with larch wood and stone slab roofs. You can also take a guided tour to explore the area in more detail and know about the complete history.

8. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

One of the most beautiful destinations in the world is this three thousand high station. This is the best place to witness the stunning panorama of about four thousand miles. There is a summit lift to take you to the top to amaze you with the breathtaking beauty from the 3,900-meter elevation.

Take a circle round through the 38 peaks of the mountains of France, Italy, and Switzerland. Dine-in and relax in the restaurant at the top while enjoying the view. Nearby is the Glacier Palace, the cool museum that offers various amazing things like ice sculptures, ice crystals, etc.

9. Gornergrat Bahn

Take a break from all the activities and get on the winter train ride through the magnificent mountains of Zermatt. The rail track picks you up from Zermatt, taking you to the heights of Gornergrat. The cool train ride is one of the best ways to explore the stunning surrounding, watching the magnificent mountains soaring through the sky. No need to make some effort. Just sit back and relax on the comfortable train enjoying the scene. Do take plenty of pictures to make this trip a memorable one.

10. Zermatlantis - The Museum

This historical museum is an important stop during your town tour. It will enlighten you with a detailed history of the famous Alpine resort from its origin, the early farming village days, to the present status. the original houses and old interior help you to picture what Zermatt was like centuries ago.

You can see a short film related to the first ascent and will also find various stone ax exhibit that dates back to the Neolithic period. Not only the exhibits are worth visiting but the interior of the museum is also which will make you astonished with its beautiful architecture.

11. English Church

Made by Alpine Club in 1870, this St. Peter Church was built for the English guests who often visit Zermatt. Many of the climbers who lost their lives in the ascent are buried in the churchyard and numerous plaques are present inside in the memory of these climbers.

Getting to Zermatt

You can reach Zermatt through one of the three ways; by a helicopter, by train, or by taxi. As Zermatt is a car-free region so every private car has to be parked 7 km before your destination, at Tasch, where you can find plenty of parking space. You can cog railway from here to take you to your destination.

Sion is the nearest airport to Zermatt but due to being smaller in size it cannot accommodate many airlines. Most of the people opt for Geneva, Milan or Zurich airport. All these international airports have rail connections via Visp or Brig to reach Tasch. You have to change trains at Tasch and get the cog railway to reach Zermatt. If you want you can also switch to the cog railway at Visp or Brig. Enjoy the beautiful train journey while enjoying the stunning landscape.

Local taxis are also available to reach the town from airports but they will also drop you at Tasch. They will quote a price for the journey that is usually quite expensive compared to the railway or the transport provided by the ski resort.

The mountain bog railway train runs frequently between Zermatt and Tasch, leaving every 15 minutes throughout the day, starting early morning till late at night. Electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages are also an option that you can order from your hotel by calling through the free phone booth at the station.

Zermatt in the Spring

Spring, March through May, in Zermatt Switzerland accompanies low temperatures combined with humidity, making this time moderately cold. Though winter has left by this time you can still feel its aftereffects. Being the second busiest time for tourism in Zermatt spring offers various activities for the travelers.

Have a delightful skiing experience on miles of fantastic slopes in the perfect combination of sun and snow. Zermatt Switzerland also has indoor and outdoor tennis courts open from spring to fall for tennis lovers.

Explore the explicit beauty of Gorner gorge, fly like a bird while paragliding, enjoy the forest fun park, visit the Vernissage cinema or have a competitive experience of clay pigeon shooting. Various hiking trails are open before summertime so you can have an enjoyable hiking tour as well.

Some of the significant trails include Pensioners' Trail, Furi Trail, Täsch Circular Trail, Täsch Panorama Trail, and many more.

Zermatt Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
161  Reviews
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Laura J

Jan 2023

Written on

Nice itinerary

Nice itinerary, seeing the swiss alps was always on by bucket list and to learn about the swiss culture was a good complement, the food was great, the hotels were we...

M

Michael B

Dec 2022

Written on

Thank you to lina she was exceptional during our trip in Switzerland.

Thank you to lina she was exceptional during our trip in Switzerland. Guided us through beautiful valleys and rail journeys. Hotel were well located and breakfast we...

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Linda B

Sep 2022

Written on

The Switzerlands alps and heritage holiday was a great way to explore Switzerland and its different states

The Switzerlands alps and heritage holiday was a grea...

A

Angela S

Jul 2022

Written on

Jonas was great he guide such throught the different small towns

Jonas was great he guide such throught the different small towns such as Bern, the hotel were nice, but not always with AC especially in Switzerland, the excursion w...

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Barbara J

Feb 2022

Written on

The jungfrau region was such a beautoful place

The jungfrau region was such a beautoful place, but extremly crowded with groups that made it less special, overal with did have a nice trip to Switzerland, a confor...

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