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  4. Top Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland

Top Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland

View of paragliding in Matterhorn zermatt

Zermatt in Switzerland seamlessly blends thrilling outdoor adventure with serene mountain charm. From world-class skiing in the shadow of the Matterhorn to riding the iconic Gornergrat Railway and exploring the car-free village centre, this alpine gem promises an unforgettable experience. Here are the top things to do in Zermatt that no traveller should miss.

Switzerland Travel Quick Guide for Visitors

Travel Information

Details

Recommended Trip Duration

7–10 days (add 1-2 days for Zermatt trip)

Average Travel Budget

INR 4,00,000 – 7,00,000 per person (~CHF 3,350 – 5,800)

Best Months to Visit

May – September (18-28°C, hiking/lakes/scenic journeys) or Dec – March (Snow/Skiing/Xmas markets)

Top Places to Visit

Zermatt (Matterhorn), Lucerne (Chapel Bridge), Interlaken, Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen, Zurich, Rhine Falls

Top Experiences

Glacier Express Train, Mount Titlis Revolving Gondola, Chocolate Tasting at Lindt, Gornergrat Railway

Plan your perfect Swiss escape with our Switzerland tour package, to seamlessly combine all the top things to do in Zermatt for your exciting Swiss experiences.

Why Things to Do in Zermatt are Unmissable?

  • Highest Alpine Heights: Home to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest cable car station in Europe (3,883m), offering views of 38 alpine giants.
  • Car-Free Serenity: With no combustion engines allowed, the village offers the world’s cleanest air and a peaceful, fairytale atmosphere of historic wooden chalets.
  • Year-Round Glaciers: It is the only resort in Switzerland where you can ski 365 days a year, even in the height of summer.
  • Gourmet Mountain Dining: Boasting the highest density of restaurants in the Alps, often paired with direct Matterhorn views.
Zermatt 4 Nights 5 Days Luxury Itinerary
4 nights:

Zermatt (4N)

4
Hotels
5 activities
Shared transfer
24x7 concierge
₹343,368
4 nights / person
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, highest cable car in Europe - Best combined with Swiss Pass
+ 4 more

Top Things to Do in Zermatt

1. Capture Iconic Matterhorn Views

2. Ride the Iconic Gornergrat Railway

3. Take the Alpine Crossing from Zermatt for Lunch in Italy

4. Year-Round Skiing & Snowboarding

5. Hike the Five Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg)

6. Tandem Paragliding over the Swiss Alps

7. Ride the Glacier Express

8. Hike the Matterhorn Trail (Schwarzsee to Zermatt)

9. Indulge in Mountaintop Dining

10. Shop at the Exclusive Bahnhofstrasse

1. Capture Iconic Matterhorn Views

view of ascending cable car in Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Witnessing the Matterhorn's legendary silhouette is Zermatt's definitive highlight. The best panoramas are from the Gornergrat Railway (3,089m) and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe's highest cable car station. For a classic postcard shot, catch the sunrise at the village Church Bridge or hike to Stellisee to see the peak’s famous mirror reflection in the still glacial water.

2. Ride the Iconic Gornergrat Railway

View of Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt and The alpine ranges at the background

The 33-minute climb on this historic Gornergrat Railway cogwheel train is a must. It offers a front-row seat to the Matterhorn and 29 other 4,000-meter peaks.

  • Top Highlights: 360° views at 3,089m and the famous Riffelsee lake reflection.
  • Tip: Sit on the right side of the train while going up for the best Matterhorn views.

3. Take the Alpine Crossing from Zermatt for Lunch in Italy

View of alpine crossing in Zermatt

One of the coolest things to do in Zermatt is to start your morning in Switzerland and have lunch in Italy. Thanks to the world’s highest continuous cable car, you can commute to the Italian Alps for a few hours.

  • The Adventure: Glide over the border in the Crystal Ride cabins to enjoy authentic Italian pasta for lunch.
  • Note: Indian travelers with a valid Schengen Visa can cross the border and return without any additional checks, don't forget to carry your valid passport.

4. Year-Round Skiing & Snowboarding

View of Beginners Skiing in Zermatt

Zermatt is one of the premier ski resorts in Switzerland and in the whole world From gentle beginner slopes to thrilling off-piste descents, Zermatt offers year-round skiing opportunities on the Theodul Glacier.

  • Best Spots: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Sunnegga–Rothorn, Gornergrat, Cervinia (Italy)
  • Tip: Book passes online in advance for the best dynamic pricing discounts.

5. Hike the Five Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg)

View Five Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg) in Zermatt

It is the most famous day hike in Switzerland. This 9.3km trail passes five lakes that act as mirrors for the Matterhorn. This moderate 9.3 km hike is suitable for active walkers and families with basic hiking fitness.

  • Highlight: Lake Stellisee is the ultimate spot for the "perfect reflection" photo.
  • Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 hours. Best from June to October.

6. Tandem Paragliding over the Swiss Alps

View of Tandem Paragliding in Zermatt

Launch from the mountain tops for a bird’s-eye view of the Matterhorn and the emerald valleys below.

  • Best Time: June - September for optimal flying conditions

7. Ride the Glacier Express

View of Glacier Express

Glacier Express is the World’s Slowest Express Train. While most trains are just about getting from point A to point B, this express is all about the journey. This legendary 8-hour ride connects Zermatt to St. Moritz, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels.

  • The Experience: You sit in panoramic glass-topped carriages, watching the Swiss Alps unfold like a movie. For 2026, the Excellence Class remains the ultimate luxury, featuring a 7-course meal and a private concierge.
  • Tip: If you don't have 8 hours, you can take the train just to Brig or Chur for a shorter scenic fix.

8. Hike the Matterhorn Trail (Schwarzsee to Zermatt)

View of people indulging in Matterhorn Trail

If you want to feel the true scale of the mountain, you have to walk it. The Matterhorn Trail takes you from the high-alpine world of rock and ice down into the lush larch forests. It’s a downhill hike, so it’s easier on the lungs, but it offers the most intimate views of the Matterhorn's North Face.

  • Highlights: Take the cable car up to Schwarzsee (2,583m) and hike back down to Zermatt. Stop at the Hamlet of Zmutt for a coffee, this tiny historic village features 500-year-old wooden houses.
  • Duration: ~3 hours (9.7km).

9. Indulge in Mountaintop Dining

View of Chez vrony Mountain top restaurant with the swiss alps and trees behind

Eating is an activity here! Whether at a mountain hut or a village restaurant, you must try local specialties.

  • The Classics: Cheese Fondue, Raclette, Rösti  and regional Zermatt Lamb.
  • Top Spot: Chez Vrony (Sunnegga) for gourmet food with a view.

10. Shop at the Exclusive Bahnhofstrasse

View of people at Bahnhofstrasse in Zermatt

This Zermatt’s main street filled with traditional chalets is a 1.4 km stretch of pure shopping vibe.

  • Swiss Watches: Find world-class boutiques for Rolex, Hublot, and more.
  • Souvenirs: Visit the Victorinox shop for an engraved Swiss Army Knife.
  • Chocolate: Don't miss the Matterhorn-shaped treats at Läderach.

Practical Information & Travel Tips for Visiting Zermatt

  • Use the Swiss Travel Pass: It slashes ticket prices by 50%.
  • Schengen Visa Check: For Indian travelers, ensure your visa is multiple-entry or valid for the Schengen area to cross into Italy for lunch and return.
  • Download the Matterhorn App: Access live trail maps and GPS without needing constant data; it tracks the last cable car times so you don't get stranded.
  • Free Hotel Shuttles: Most hotels provide free electric taxi pickups, saving you in local fares.
  • The Fountain Rule: Fill your bottle at any of the 100+ village fountains. The water is free, pure alpine spring water.

Conclusion: Why You'll Love All the Things to Do in Zermatt

Zermatt is a charming mountain village that offers unforgettable experiences in every season, from world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter to scenic hiking trails and breathtaking alpine views in summer, this alpine resort village promises a spectacular and memorable experience.

Explore More of Zermatt

Book our completely customizable Zermatt Tour Packages, for your hassle-free Zermatt Trip!

To help you plan the perfect trip, dive deeper into our specific guides:

Zermatt Travel Guide | Best Places to Visit in Zermatt | Best Time to Visit Zermatt

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the top things to do in Zermatt?

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Gornergrat Railway, Five Lakes Walk, skiing/snowboarding, village exploration, luxury spa experiences, and fine dining with mountain views.

2. Is there any free things to do in Zermatt?

Yes, village walks, Matterhorn viewpoints from streets and bridges, hiking trails, alpine fountain water, and exploring the car-free town centre are free activities.

3. Can you see the Matterhorn from Zermatt village?

Yes, the Matterhorn is visible from many spots throughout Zermatt village, including the church square, church bridge, and Hinterdorf area.

4. Are things to do in Zermatt suitable for families?

Yes, Zermatt is an excellent, highly recommended destination for families, offering a car-free, safe environment with year-round activities like, gentle hiking trails, summer sledging, and beginner-friendly ski areas like Wolli Park.

5. Are things to do in Zermatt suitable for couples and honeymooners?

Yes, romantic experiences include Glacier Express journeys, mountaintop dining with Matterhorn views, luxury spa retreats, private mountain tours, and five-star hotels with unforgettable alpine panoramas.

Get in touchWe’ll start with some questions and get you to the right place.
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10000+ itineraries curated and counting
Dwaraka
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10000+ itineraries curated and counting
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