Zermatt and the Matterhorn at dawn
The iconic Matterhorn attracts visitors to Zermatt.

The alpine resort of Zermatt attracts thousands of visitors every year who come to see the Matterhorn, the iconic Swiss symbol that overlooks that village.

A popular ski resort in winter, Zermatt is a favourite amongst travellers year-round and even offers skiing on the glacier in summer.

When the snow has melted, the stunning landscape is perfect for hiking and mountain biking but whatever time of year you visit, a mountain excursion to take in the best Matterhorn views is a must.

Be sure to allow time to stroll around the pretty village where you can see the traditional 16th and 17th century houses built on stone. You might also catch the twice-daily parade of black-haired goats through the town or spy the black-nosed sheep in a nearby field.

If shopping’s your thing, there are plenty of options in Zermatt, from high-end luxury brands to souvenir shops, or just sit down at a cafe or bar and enjoy a drink or a meal and people watch.

Arriving in Zermatt

Zermatt has a โ€˜car-freeโ€™ status, meaning all visitors must arrive by train. Zermatt is serviced by regular trains from all over Switzerland, including the famous panoramic train, the Glacier Express.

Read more about the Glacier Express in this article.

If you are travelling by car in Switzerland, you’ll need to leave your car at a designated car park in the village of Tasch. The are numerous car parks, including one right beside the train station. Parking costs CHF 16 per 24 hours.

From Tasch, thereโ€™s a shuttle train service to Zermatt which operates every 20 minutes with a journey time of 12 minutes.ย  Tickets cost around CHF 17 return per adult. BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE.

Most hotels in Zermatt provide transport from the Zermatt train station in their electric buses.  If your accommodation doesnโ€™t provide transfers, thereโ€™s a taxi stop (electric taxis) outside the station.

Cable car in Zermatt

Where is Zermatt

Zermatt is located in southern Switzerland in the Canton of Valais.

Zermatt Info

Population: 5,800

Canton: Valais

Language spoken: German and Italian

Average high temperatures: January – 0.2C / 32F; April – 7C / 45F; July – 19C / 66F; October – 11C / 52F

Read all our Zermatt travel guides by clicking the links below

Listen to our podcast episodes about Zermatt below …