Things to Do in Zermatt 2026: Activities & Tips

Visit the highest cable car station in Europe (3,883m). This is a snow-filled wonderland even in the middle of summer.

• Top Highlights: The Glacier Palace ice tunnels (15m below the surface) and the 360° viewing platform.
• Cost: ~₹11,500 – ₹15,000 (CHF 99–128).
• Tip: Visit early in the morning for the clearest skies and fewer crowds.

The 33-minute climb on this historic 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.
• Cost: ~₹11,000 – ₹13,500 (CHF 96–114). 50% discount with Swiss Travel Pass.
• Tip: Sit on the right side of the train while going up for the best Matterhorn views.

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.
• The Food Reward: Enjoy authentic Italian pasta or Neapolitan pizza at a much lower price than in Switzerland.
• Cost: ~₹21,000 – ₹31,000 (CHF 180–264) round trip.
• Tip: Be sure to check the last cable car return time! If you miss it, it’s a very long (and expensive) taxi ride back around the mountains.

Zermatt is one of the premier ski destinations in the 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)
• Cost: Ski pass from ~₹10,300 (CHF 88) per day.
• Tip: Book passes online in advance for the best "dynamic pricing" discounts.

It is the most famous day hike in Switzerland. This 9.3km trail passes five lakes that act as mirrors for the Matterhorn.

• Starting Point: Sunnegga (accessible via funicular from Zermatt)
• Ideal For: 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.

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

• Cost: ~₹18,500 – ₹25,000 (CHF 160–215).
• Best Time: June–September for optimal flying conditions

While most trains are about getting from A to B, the Glacier Express is 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.
• Pro Tip: If you don't have 8 hours, you can take the train just to Brig or Chur for a shorter scenic fix.
• Cost: Requires a seat reservation (~₹4,500/CHF 49) plus a ticket. The ticket is free if you have a Swiss Travel Pass! Book seats 90 days in advance as they sell out fast!

In the summer, Zermatt transforms into a premier mountain biking destination. With over 200km of trails, there is something for everyone, from pros to families.

• Top Trail: The Sunnegga Flow Trail is perfect for beginners and intermediate riders. It's a 4.6km smooth rollercoaster descent back toward the village.
• The Challenge: For experts, the Riffelberg-Trail offers technical rocky sections with the Matterhorn staring you in the face the whole way down.
• Bike Hire: Plenty of shops on the Bahnhofstrasse switch from ski gear to high-end E-bikes in the summer.

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.

• The Route: 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.
• The Vibe: 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.
• Duration: ~3 hours (9.7km).

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.

This Zermatt’s main street is a 1.4km stretch of luxury.

• 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.

Go underground to see how Zermatt transformed from a poor farming village to a global resort.

Cost: ~₹1,400 (CHF 12). Free with Swiss Travel Pass.

Explore the "Old Village," a collection of 30+ sun-blackened wooden barns built between the 15th and 19th centuries.

Cost: Free to explore. It’s like a living museum in the heart of the village.