Discover the Best of Zermatt: A Guide to Amazing Experiences

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As someone who loves mountains but comes from the other side of the world, I can’t stress enough how incredible it is to visit Zermatt. Home to the famous Matterhorn—the mountain on the Toblerone logo—this place offers some of the best experiences you can find. For me, it’s the ultimate travel destination.

But there’s one major downside: the cost. Everything here is expensive, from hotels and food to train and cable car tickets. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to brace your bank account. That’s why making the most of your trip is a no-brainer. Want to experience the best of Zermatt? Of course, you do. This guide will help you discover the top attractions and activities so you won’t miss a thing. Grab a coffee or tea—we’ve got a lot to cover.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable adventure. Let’s start with the main reason to visit Zermatt: the Matterhorn.

Zermatt isn’t just a top destination for skiing and hiking—it’s a place where alpine adventures become lifelong memories.

Different experiences in Zermatt in one picture — Matterhorn, nature, alpine culture, Zermatt, Switzerland

If you love traveling and chasing unforgettable experiences, a trip here lets you cross off three major bucket list items at once. You’ll come face-to-face with the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most famous mountains; ride the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway, the highest cable car in Europe; and take in breathtaking views aboard the Gornergrat Bahn, one of Switzerland’s most scenic train rides. And yes, they’re all incredible!

But Zermatt isn’t only for thrill-seekers. If you enjoy nature, history, or culture, there’s plenty to explore. Wander through the historic Hinterdorf Street in the heart of the village or visit the Matterhorn Museum for a glimpse into the region’s past. And don’t miss the charming hamlets of Zmutt and Herbrigg—they’re hidden gems waiting to be explored.

Matterhorn

Let’s be real—without the Matterhorn, Zermatt would be like any other ski or hiking destination. But this iconic peak sets it apart, offering a view you won’t easily find elsewhere.

View of Matterhorn from the village center of Zermatt, Switzerland

Charming trails with the view of Matterhorn from Zermatt, Switzerland

Alpen glow of Matterhorn from Zermatt, Switzerland

The Matterhorn, the sixth-highest peak in the Alps, rises to an impressive 4,478 meters (14,692 feet).

Its sharp, pyramid-like shape makes it impossible to miss in Zermatt, drawing hikers and photographers from all over the world. Seeing it up close feels almost surreal—like nature showing off its artistry, even though its unique form is purely the result of geological forces. Wouldn’t you agree?

What makes Zermatt unique is that the Matterhorn is visible from almost anywhere in town. You don’t need to take a tough hike or ride a cable car to appreciate its beauty.

One of the best views is right in the village at Kirchbrücke, where the mountain towers over the rooftops, creating a picture-perfect blend of alpine scenery and village life.

If you’re planning a trip to Zermatt, I highly recommend staying at least one night instead of just visiting for the day.

There are plenty of reasons why, but the most breathtaking has to be the golden hour view of the Matterhorn. The sun casts soft pink hues on its peak at sunrise or sunset, which creates a scene straight out of a postcard.

Weather permitting, it’s a must-see for photographers and anyone who loves incredible landscapes. So, give yourself the chance to witness and capture this unforgettable moment by staying overnight.

In addition, staying in Zermatt for a few days is a great idea, especially with all the incredible hiking trails. To get the most out of your trip, plan to stay 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

I believe hiking is a must when visiting Zermatt, and here’s why:

It’s great for your well-being. I’ve hiked up mountains myself, and I can say firsthand how refreshing and energizing it feels.
The views are incredible. Zermatt’s trails offer breathtaking sights of the Matterhorn and other towering 4,000-meter peaks.
There’s a trail for everyone. With over 400 kilometers of hiking paths, you can choose anything from a peaceful walk to a challenging climb that gets your adrenaline going.

And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife along the way, like black-nosed sheep, ibex, or Capricorn goats.

Here’s a map with all the hiking trails in Zermatt, complete with difficulty levels and live status. For a safer and more enriching experience, you might want to join a guided hike. It’s a great way to explore the mountains while learning more about the landscape, wildlife, and local history from an expert.

Discover: Breathtaking Viewpoints to See the Matterhorn

Zermatt, No Matter the Season

Aside from Matterhorn, another great reason to visit Zermatt is that it offers something special in every season. Zermatt is a rare mix of a top-tier hiking destination and a lively ski resort! And here’s something cool: you can even ski here in the summer! If you head to Klein Matterhorn, you’ll find kilometers of ski runs. Some slopes, like those on Klein Matterhorn, sit at 3,883 meters (12,739 feet) above sea level. At that height, the snow stays frozen all year.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Zermatt, Switzerland — Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

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

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)
Click any of the lines on the map indicating a hiking trail. (Yellow Orange—hiking trail, Red—mountain hiking, Blue Green—alpine hiking)
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).

To unforgettable year-round activities in Zermatt

After a long day of hiking, you’ll definitely need some rest. Zermatt has plenty of hotels, spas, and wellness centers where you can relax and recharge any time of the year. Imagine waking up to a view of the Matterhorn or unwinding in a jacuzzi while the sunset casts a golden glow over the mountain.

View of Matterhorn from a hotel in Zermatt, Switzerland

Learn more about the wellness & fitness activities in Zermatt.

Paragliding in Zermatt can be pricey, but it’s one of those bucket list experiences worth trying, no matter the season. Here’s why you should do it at least once:

You’ll get to see Zermatt’s incredible mountain views from a whole new angle.
You’ll feel like you’re flying as the adrenaline kicks in—it’s an unforgettable rush!
Paragliding anywhere is special, but soaring over Zermatt with the Matterhorn in the background makes it even more amazing.

Paragliding near the peak of Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland

Learn more about the paragliding activities in Zermatt.

Alpine Culture

Zermatt is a great place to visit year-round for anyone interested in exploring Alpine history and learning about the local culture. And as someone who loves history and mountains, I think Zermatt is one of the best places to visit. Let me tell you why.

Beautiful chalets in Zermatt, Switzerland

Quaint alpine scenery in the middle of the village of Zermatt, Switzerland

Carriage ride to see different alpine sights in Zermatt, Switzerland

Centuries old chalets and wooden houses in Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is a scenic alpine village with well-preserved chalets that offer a glimpse into its history. One place to see these traditional homes is Hinterdorf Street, which feels like an open-air museum with its old wooden chalets. What’s remarkable is that many of these houses aren’t just decades old—they date back centuries. The oldest chalet in Zermatt is Haus Salzgeber, built in 1607, making it over 400 years old.

The oldest chalet in Zermatt from 1607, Zermatt, Switzerland — The oldest chalet in Zermatt from 1607

However, it’s not on Hinterdorf Street. Instead, it sits on the outskirts of the village along Winkelmattenweg, surrounded by other chalets, barns, and wooden houses. If you’re heading to the cable car for Furi, Schwarzsee, or Klein Matterhorn, consider taking a short detour—it’s only about a five-minute walk from the valley station to Haus Salzgeber.

As you explore the village, you might come across locals performing in the streets, often playing traditional instruments and singing in groups. It’s a fun experience, especially if you come from a completely different culture like I do!

In the summer, you can also catch a unique alpine tradition—the goat procession. Around 50 goats, led by children, make their way from Zen Stecken to their pasture near the heliport. As they pass, the sound of their bells creates a peaceful, almost storybook-like atmosphere, offering a break from the rush of city life. This procession happens every summer for six weeks. If you want a good view, head to Bahnhofstrasse or Bahnhofplatz at 9:00 am or 5:00 pm, as these are the best spots to watch them go by.

If it’s not summer, there’s still plenty to discover about Zermatt’s history and alpine culture. A great place to start is the Matterhorn Museum, right in the center of the village. From the outside, it looks modern with its glass entrance, but once you step inside, you’ll find yourself in a recreated 19th-century Zermatt.

Matterhorn Museum, Zermatt, Switzerland — Matterhorn Museum

The museum features scenes of traditional mountain life, including a cobblestone village square, houses, barns, stables, and even farm animals. It also tells the story of the first climbers who reached the Matterhorn’s summit in the late 1800s. Some of the most interesting artifacts include a Stone Age ax and the remains of a 16th-century mercenary.

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

Picturesque Lakes

Zermatt’s alpine lakes are perfect for anyone who loves photography. When the water is still, the lakes create a mirror-like reflection of the mountains, including the famous Matterhorn. The view is especially breathtaking from certain angles, making it a memorable experience.

Stellisee, Zermatt, Switzerland — Stellisee

Riffelsee, Zermatt, Switzerland — Riffelsee

Schwarzsee, Zermatt, Switzerland — Schwarzsee

Zermatt has several lakes, but Riffelsee and Schwarzsee are two you shouldn’t skip. They’re often considered the most beautiful in the area. Riffelsee is the best spot to see the Matterhorn’s reflection when the weather is clear, with its west face mirrored perfectly on the water. Schwarzsee offers a different but equally stunning view, reflecting the peaks of Zinalrothorn, Wellenkuppe, and Ober Gabelhorn instead.

Next to Schwarzsee, there’s a small chapel that makes the scene even more photogenic. Compared to Riffelsee, it’s much quieter, with fewer hikers and photographers, making it a peaceful place to take in the scenery. The view is so surreal that it feels like something out of an adventure film, almost like stepping into the world of The Lord of the Rings. There aren’t many places on earth with lakes this beautiful, which is why they’re such a great reason to visit Zermatt.

Swiss Countryside

One of the simplest yet most beautiful sights in Zermatt is the Swiss countryside. While the village center is often packed with tourists, especially during peak season, there are still plenty of peaceful and scenic spots to explore. If you’re looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle, Zermatt has exactly what you need.

Matterhorn, quaint chalets, and stunning Swiss Countryside in Zermatt, Switzerland

More Swiss countryside scenes in Zermatt, Switzerland

During late spring and summer, you’ll find lush meadows with towering, snow-capped mountains in the distance. As you take a leisurely stroll, edelweiss and gentian flowers bloom right at your feet. It feels like a peaceful escape, perfect for anyone craving a quiet retreat.

For more beautiful countryside views near Zermatt, visit the charming villages of Herbrigg and Zmutt. They’re so picturesque that they almost seem like something out of a movie. Walking through them, you might even feel like a traveler from the Middle Ages, wandering through the mountains and stumbling upon these hidden gems.

Fun fact: Zmutt has a history that goes back 500 years, and you can see it in its well-preserved architecture. This small hamlet, with around 40 buildings, is a mix of dark wooden houses, barns, small shops, and cozy beer gardens—perfect for a relaxing break after a hike. Getting there does take some effort, though. The hike from Zermatt to Zmutt takes just over an hour each way which makes it a great short adventure.

Click or tap the images below to enlarge

Herbrigg, on the other hand, is much closer to Zermatt. Sitting just above the valley, it’s only a 30-minute walk from the village center. Like Zmutt, it features traditional dark wooden houses and barns, giving it a timeless feel. But what makes Herbrigg special? It’s home to the oldest barn in Europe. Hard to believe, but this barn has been standing since 1261!

Click or tap the images below to enlarge

Engineering Marvels

Zermatt is home to some incredible engineering achievements that offer unforgettable experiences. In my opinion, two of them are worth seeing. First is the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway, the highest cable car in Europe. The second is the Charles Kuonen Bridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world.

Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway near Zermatt, Switzerland — Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway

Charles Kuonen Bridge near Zermatt, Switzerland — Charles Kuonen Bridge

Rising to an impressive 3,883 meters (12,740 feet), the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway is a remarkable feat of engineering in Zermatt. What makes it special isn’t just the effort behind its construction but also the incredible views along the way. From the cable car, you get different perspectives of the Matterhorn, including its north and west faces. As the ride continues, the south face comes into view, especially as you approach the final stop at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

For an added thrill, you can choose the Crystal cabins, which have glass floors that let you look straight down at glaciers like the Theodul Glacier. But the adventure doesn’t end with the cable car ride. The Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway is just the start! At Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you can explore the Glacier Palace with its ice tunnels and sculptures, relax in the Cinema Lounge, take in the views from the Observation Platform overlooking Switzerland and Italy, and more.

Riding the Klein Matterhorn Aerial Tramway and visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise can be expensive, but Zermatt has another impressive attraction that won’t cost you anything—the Charles Kuonen Bridge. Walking across the bridge is free, but getting there isn’t as simple as taking a cable car. It’s part of an 8.6-kilometer hiking trail that takes about four hours to complete.

This trail requires intermediate hiking skills and can be quite challenging, especially because of the Charles Kuonen Bridge. If you’re afraid of heights, crossing its 494-meter span might make your knees shake for the ten minutes it takes to get across. But don’t let that stop you. The rush of excitement and sense of accomplishment on the other side make it all worthwhile. For more details about the bridge, visit europaweg.ch.

Breathtaking Train Rides

Switzerland is famous for its incredible train rides that make you feel like you’re traveling through a dream. If you’re looking for an unforgettable rail journey, the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt is a top choice.

Gornergrat Bahn and the view of Matterhorn near Zermatt, Switzerland — Gornergrat Bahn and the view of Matterhorn

View of Matterhorn from Gornergrat Train near Zermatt, Switzerland — View of Matterhorn from Gornergrat Train

The Gornergrat Railway makes a trip to Zermatt even more rewarding for several reasons.

First, you’ll get almost nonstop views of the Matterhorn as you ride.
Second, the route takes you through some of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes and impressive engineering. You’ll pass through pristine forests, alongside alpine lakes like Riffelsee, across arched bridges, and through tunnels.
Third, as the highest open-air cog railway, it offers an unforgettable way to experience Switzerland’s breathtaking scenery from start to finish.

The train ride lasts about 30 minutes, starting in the village of Zermatt and ending at Gornergrat. But the journey doesn’t stop there—it’s the start of another unforgettable experience in Zermatt! After the ride, you can spend time at the Gornergrat observation deck, where a beer garden and restaurant offer incredible panoramic views of the Matterhorn and 29 other peaks towering over 4,000 meters.

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

Glacier Experience

Gorner Glacier, Zermatt, Switzerland — Gorner Glacier

Another view of Gorner Glacier in Zermatt, Switzerland — Another view of Gorner Glacier

If you’ve never seen a glacier before, Zermatt is the perfect place to experience one. The area is home to several glaciers, and one of them is especially impressive. The Gorner Glacier is the most famous in Zermatt and the third-largest in the Alps. For reference, the largest is the Aletsch Glacier in the Jungfrau Region (Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen), and the second-largest is Mer de Glace in Chamonix, France.

You’re right if you think you can get up close to the Gorner Glacier in Zermatt. As its name suggests, the glacier is located in the Gornergrat area. From the Gornergrat observation deck, you’ll get an incredible close-up view of it. You can also spot several smaller glaciers, including Grenz, Zwilling, Schwärz, Breithorn, Unterer Theodul, and Oberer Theodul. For easy reference, informational panels mark their exact locations.

More Natural Beauty in Zermatt

Travelers can fully immerse themselves in nature in Zermatt. With its dense forests, scenic meadows, towering glaciers, and snow-covered peaks—including the famous Matterhorn—Zermatt is a place of breathtaking beauty. But there’s more to discover beyond its well-known landscapes. The area also features a dramatic gorge and a peaceful waterfall, making any nature trip even more rewarding.

Gorner Gorge

For something different, be sure to visit the Gorner Gorge. It is the only tourist attraction in Zermatt that doesn’t offer wide-open views, but it’s also the only place where you can see 220 million years of nature’s work up close. As you walk along the 200-meter (650-foot) wooden pathways, the unique rock formations prove just how powerful and creative nature can be. The gorge is fairly small, and you can explore it in about 30 minutes. You can find visiting details on Zermatt’s official website.

Arbenbachfalls

Gorner Gorge has a few small waterfalls, but if you want to see the most beautiful one in Zermatt, visit Arbenbachfall. This 60-meter waterfall looks incredible with the Matterhorn in the background, creating a picture-perfect view. It also has a graceful appearance when viewed from below. You’ll come across this waterfall after passing the Hamlet of Zmutt on your way from Zermatt.

Tip: If you’re in Zermatt in mid-October, try to visit Gorner Gorge between 3:00 and 4:00 pm. That’s when the sun creates incredible light effects inside the gorge. Of course, this depends on the weather, but if the skies are clear, the sunlight will make the turquoise water and moss-covered rocks look even more vibrant.

Unique Stays

For me and many others, Zermatt is a dream destination. But while searching for a place to stay, I realized that the town isn’t just about the scenery—it’s also home to some incredible hotels. If you’re planning a luxury getaway in the mountains, two places that offer a top-tier experience are Iglu-Dorf and Riffelalp Resort.

Iglu-Dorf

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.

Riffelalp Resort

Riffelalp Resort is a luxury hotel located at the foot of the Matterhorn that offers 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 more.

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

Here’s the official website of Riffelalp Resort.

More For Your Zermatt Trip

For an unforgettable trip to Zermatt, explore its lesser-known treasures and key travel tips—click the links below to uncover them!

Zermatt Travel Guide and Checklist for Mild-Weather Months

10 Lesser-Known Experiences in Zermatt for a Unique Trip

If you’re looking for ideas on exploring Switzerland, including Zermatt, my 2-week Swiss Alps itinerary will be a great help.

14-Day Switzerland Itinerary

Discover the Best of Zermatt_ A Guide to Amazing Experiences, Pinterest Pin

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Where to Go Next?

From Zermatt, you can travel to other parts of Switzerland or head to Northern Italy, as the town borders Italy to the south. If you’re looking for ideas in Switzerland, I suggest the Jungfrau Region, where you can easily spend four days to a week with plenty of activities to enjoy. In Northern Italy, you can check out my bucket list destinations, but the closest places I recommend visiting are Milan, Lake Como, or Bergamo.

Jungfrau Region 4-Day Detailed Itinerary

North Italy Bucket List Destinations

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