Zermatt is one of the most iconic mountain destinations in Switzerland, known for its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, charming car-free village, and incredible alpine scenery. Nestled in the Swiss Alps near the Italian border, this picturesque town is a gateway to world-class hiking, scenic train rides, and unforgettable mountain viewpoints.

Whether you want to ride the famous Gornergrat Railway, hike scenic alpine trails, visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, or simply stroll through the cozy streets of the village, there are countless unforgettable things to do in Zermatt.

***trip photos are from march 2026

Things To Do in Zermatt

Zermatt is one of the most iconic destinations in the Swiss Alps, famous for its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and incredible mountain experiences. From scenic train rides to alpine lakes and panoramic viewpoints, here are the best things to do in Zermatt.

One of the most popular things to do in Zermatt is ride the Gornergrat Railway, a scenic cogwheel train that climbs high into the mountains for some of the best views of the Matterhorn. The railway departs directly from Zermatt village and travels up to the summit of Gornergrat at 3,089 meters (10,134 feet), making it one of the highest open-air railways in Europe.

The ride itself is an unforgettable experience, with panoramic views of the surrounding Swiss Alps, glaciers, and alpine landscapes along the way. As the train climbs higher, the Matterhorn becomes more prominent in the distance, creating incredible photo opportunities throughout the journey.

At the top of Gornergrat, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of 29 surrounding peaks and several glaciers, including the massive Gorner Glacier. There are also viewing platforms, restaurants, and access to hiking trails that lead down into the mountains. Whether you’re visiting for the scenery, hiking, or simply to experience one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain railways, the Gornergrat Railway is one of the highlights of a trip to Zermatt.

Zermatt is one of the best places in the Swiss Alps for outdoor adventure, offering exciting mountain activities in every season. Whether you’re visiting during snowy winter months or warm summer days, there are plenty of ways to experience the dramatic alpine landscape surrounding the Matterhorn.

In winter, Zermatt becomes a world-famous ski destination. The Matterhorn Ski Paradise is one of the largest ski areas in the Alps, offering hundreds of kilometers of ski and snowboard runs with incredible mountain views. Visitors can also try sledging (tobogganing) on dedicated runs throughout the region, which is a fun and scenic alternative to skiing.

I will go more into seasonal activities below!

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Zermatt is visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest cable car station in Europe at 3,883 meters (12,740 feet) above sea level. From Zermatt village, visitors take a series of gondolas and cable cars up the mountain to reach this incredible viewpoint high in the Alps.

At the top, you’ll find panoramic viewing platforms with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers stretching across Switzerland, Italy, and France. On clear days, you can see dozens of 4,000-meter peaks, making it one of the most impressive viewpoints in the region.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is also home to the Matterhorn Ski Paradise, one of the largest ski areas in the Alps. Skiers and snowboarders can ride lifts across the glacier and even ski across the border into Cervinia, Italy. Because of the high elevation and glacier terrain, skiing is often possible here even in the summer months.

Visitors who aren’t skiing can still enjoy the experience by riding the Matterhorn Glacier Ride gondola, a modern cable car with panoramic windows that climbs high above the alpine landscape. At the summit, attractions like the Glacier Palace ice tunnels and outdoor viewing decks make it an incredible place to explore while taking in the dramatic scenery of the Swiss Alps.

While the mountain views and outdoor adventures are the main draw, spending time exploring the village of Zermatt is one of the most enjoyable parts of visiting. The town is completely car-free, which gives it a peaceful alpine atmosphere with quiet streets, electric taxis, and traditional wooden chalets set against the dramatic backdrop of the Matterhorn.

Walking through the village, you’ll find charming boutiques, bakeries, restaurants, and cozy cafés tucked along the main streets. The hockey rink in the middle of downtown is super cool, too! It’s the perfect place to relax between mountain excursions, grab a coffee, or browse local Swiss shops. Many streets also offer incredible views of the Matterhorn towering above town, making even a simple stroll through the village feel scenic.

Because Zermatt is compact and easy to walk around, exploring the village on foot is one of the best ways to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the unique character of this iconic Swiss mountain town.

For one of the best views of the Matterhorn right from town, take a short walk up to the Mürini Hill Overlook. This small viewpoint sits just above the village of Zermatt and offers a beautiful panoramic perspective of the town with the Matterhorn rising dramatically in the background.

The walk to Mürini Hill only takes about 10–15 minutes from the center of Zermatt, making it an easy stop between exploring the village and heading out for other activities. From the overlook, you’ll get sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, traditional chalets, and the valley below.

It’s a particularly great spot for sunrise or sunset photos, when the light hits the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Because it’s less crowded than some of the larger viewpoints in the area, Mürini Hill can also be a peaceful place to take in the scenery and enjoy a quiet moment above the village. PS- it’s a lot of steps up there, haha.

Zermatt is one of the best destinations in Switzerland for hiking, with an extensive network of trails offering incredible views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, and surrounding alpine landscapes. Many of the area’s best hikes are easily accessible by mountain railways and gondolas, allowing visitors to start high in the mountains and enjoy scenic trails without a long uphill climb.

Here are a few of the most popular hikes near Zermatt:

• The Five Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg)
  One of the most famous hikes in Zermatt, the Five Lakes Walk leads past a series of beautiful alpine lakes, several of which reflect the Matterhorn on clear days. The trail runs between Blauherd and Sunnegga and is a relatively easy hike with incredible scenery along the way.

• Gornergrat Panorama Trail
  This scenic trail runs between Gornergrat and Riffelberg and offers stunning views of the Matterhorn, surrounding peaks, and the massive Gorner Glacier. It’s a great option for visitors who want dramatic alpine scenery with a manageable hiking route.

• Hörnli Hut Trail
  For a more challenging hike, the trail to Hörnli Hut brings you closer to the base of the Matterhorn. The hut serves as the starting point for climbers attempting to summit the mountain, and the hike offers impressive views of the iconic peak.

• Sunnegga to Blauherd Trail
  This easy alpine walk offers beautiful views of the Matterhorn and connects two popular mountain stations. It’s a great option if you want a shorter hike with incredible scenery.

No matter which trail you choose, hiking in Zermatt offers some of the most spectacular alpine views in Switzerland. I didn’t hike on my visit during winter, but this hike below by a fellow creator looks awesome!

One of the easiest ways to experience the incredible scenery around Zermatt is by riding the Sunnegga Funicular. In just a few minutes, you’ll travel from the village to the sunny mountainside of Sunnegga, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

Sunnegga is a fantastic destination year-round. During the summer, it’s the starting point for several scenic hikes, including the famous Five Lakes Trail, while families can enjoy Leisee Lake with its swimming area and playground. In the winter, Sunnegga transforms into a popular base for skiing and snowboarding with access to the Matterhorn Ski Paradise.

If you only have one or two days in Zermatt, I recommend riding the Sunnegga Funicular for some of the best views without committing to a long hike. It’s an easy addition to any itinerary and pairs perfectly with a visit to Gornergrat or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise on another day.

Tip: Purchase a combined mountain railway pass if you plan to visit multiple viewpoints during your stay, as it can save money compared to buying individual tickets.

If you’ve ever seen a photo of the Matterhorn reflected in a perfectly still alpine lake, chances are it was taken at Riffelsee. This small mountain lake is one of the most photographed spots in Switzerland and offers one of the most iconic views in Zermatt.

Riffelsee is located just below Rotenboden Station on the Gornergrat Railway (this was such a gorgeous train ride), making it an easy stop during your visit. From the station, it’s only a 5–10 minute walk to the lake, making it accessible for most visitors without a strenuous hike.

On calm mornings, the lake creates a stunning mirror reflection of the Matterhorn, making sunrise one of the best times to visit for photographers. Even if you don’t make it for sunrise, the surrounding alpine scenery and mountain backdrop are well worth the short walk.

Tip: If you’re visiting during the summer or early fall, combine Riffelsee with a hike back toward Zermatt or continue along part of the scenic Five Lakes Trail for even more incredible Matterhorn viewpoints.

Step back in time with a stroll through Hinterdorf, Zermatt’s oldest neighborhood. Tucked away just a few minutes from the main shopping streets, this historic district is home to beautifully preserved wooden chalets, traditional barns, and centuries-old granaries that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

Walking through Hinterdorf offers a glimpse into what life in Zermatt looked like long before it became one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain destinations. The narrow lanes, weathered timber buildings, and colorful flower boxes make it one of the most charming places to explore and photograph.

It’s an easy stop while wandering through the village and doesn’t require much time, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary between mountain excursions or while exploring the local shops and cafés. If you’re looking for a quieter side of Zermatt away from the busiest streets, Hinterdorf is well worth a visit.

For one of the most unforgettable experiences in Zermatt, consider paragliding over the Swiss Alps. Tandem flights take off from the surrounding mountains, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the Matterhorn, snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and the charming village below.

No previous experience is needed, as you’ll fly with a certified instructor who handles the takeoff, flight, and landing. Flights typically last 20–30 minutes, depending on weather conditions, making it an incredible adventure for both first-time flyers and experienced thrill-seekers.

Paragliding is available year-round, though the scenery changes dramatically with the seasons—from lush green valleys in the summer to a winter wonderland blanketed in snow. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Zermatt beyond hiking and mountain railways, this is one activity you’ll never forget.

Tip: Book your flight in advance, especially during the busy summer and winter travel seasons, as weather windows and tour availability can fill up quickly.

Where to Stay in Zermatt, Switzerland

Hotel Ambiance is a beautiful boutique hotel perched slightly above the village, offering incredible views of the Matterhorn from many of its rooms and terraces. The hotel features cozy alpine-style rooms with wood accents and balconies overlooking the mountains. Because of its elevated location, it’s also one of the best places in town to wake up to clear views of the Matterhorn right outside your window. I stayed here and really enjoyed it. It’s family-owned by a husband and wife and I got to meet the wife while checking in. They also left me a really sweet note in my room!

Bergwelt Grindelwald is one of the most beautiful luxury hotels in the village, known for its modern alpine design and incredible mountain views. Located close to the Grindelwald First Gondola, the hotel features stylish rooms with warm wood interiors, cozy fireplaces, and balconies overlooking the Alps. Guests can also enjoy an on-site spa, multiple restaurants, and a heated outdoor pool with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. I loved staying here SOOO much.

One of the most stylish hotels in Zermatt, CERVO Mountain Resort sits on a hillside just above the village and offers incredible views of the Matterhorn. The boutique resort is made up of several chalet-style buildings with modern alpine interiors, combining natural materials with contemporary design. Guests can enjoy multiple restaurants and bars, as well as the Ātman Mountain Spa, which includes saunas, relaxation rooms, and wellness treatments. With ski-in/ski-out access in winter and hiking trails nearby in summer, CERVO is a popular luxury stay for travelers looking for a design-forward mountain retreat.

For a truly unique experience, visitors can stay at Iglu-Dorf Zermatt, an igloo village built entirely from snow high in the mountains near the Gornergrat area. Located at about 2,727 meters (8,950 feet) above sea level, the village is rebuilt every winter using hand-crafted snow structures and ice sculptures. Guests can spend the night inside real igloos and enjoy experiences like cheese fondue dinners, snowshoe walks under the stars, and outdoor hot tubs with Matterhorn views. It’s one of the most unusual and memorable overnight experiences in the Swiss Alps. I considered staying here, and saw it when I was on the Gornergrat! Looked super cool. You can visit just for snacks/drinks too!