Wondering if it’s possible to visit Zermatt in 2 days? It is!
If you’re looking to pack in as much as possible during a 2-day visit to Zermatt, you’ll want to make sure you hit all the city’s main attractions.
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This itinerary will take you on a whirlwind tour of the best that Zermatt has to offer.
Our Zermatt itinerary includes the best things to do in the city, tips for getting around, including tips on where to stay.
Keep reading to start planning an epic two days in Zermatt.
Zermatt 2-Day Itinerary Overview
Are There Enough Things To Do In Zermatt To Stay Longer
How To Get Around Zermatt
Final Thoughts On Visiting Zermatt In 2 Days
Zermatt 2-Day Itinerary Overview
The best things to do in Zermatt include seeing the famous Matterhorn, taking a gondola ride up the mountain, and hiking in the surrounding area.
Zermatt is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and biking in the summer.
Without further ado, let’s see how you can plan your trip to Zermatt.
Day 1
On day one, start by exploring the city on foot. Zermatt is small and incredibly picturesque, with a pedestrian-only center and plenty of photo-worthy spots.
In the afternoon, take a gondola ride up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. From here, you’ll have incredible views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike to one of the nearby peaks.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Swiss dinner at one of Zermatt’s many restaurants.
Day 2
On day two, you can either spend more time exploring Zermatt or venture on the mountain.
There are so many hiking trails around Zermatt, that it’s impossible to list them all. But some of the most popular include the Five Lakes Walk and the Gornergrat hike. Learn more about the best hikes in Zermatt.
If you’re interested in seeing more of the Matterhorn, take the gondola back up to the peak for another round of stunning views.
You can also go up the Klein Matterhorn, which is the highest mountain in Switzerland that you can reach by cable car.
No matter how you spend your 2 days in Zermatt, you’re sure to have an incredible time.
This lovely city is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors, learn about Swiss culture, and take in some of the most breathtaking views in the world.
Alternatively, get a different perspective by experiencing something different like paragliding, or a helicopter tour.
During our trip to Zermatt, we booked a 20-minute helicopter tour, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. The views are absolutely worth it!
So, if you’re looking for fun things to do in Zermatt, consider trying a helicopter tour.
Are There Enough Things To Do In Zermatt To Stay Longer
Absolutely! If you have more time, we recommend adding another day or two to your itinerary.
This will give you more time to explore the mountains and hiking trails, as well as enjoy some of the other activities that Zermatt has to offer.
Outdoor lovers are going to love exploring the mountain!
If you need help figuring out the length of your stay, read our guide to find how exactly how many days in Zermatt is enough.
How To Get Around Zermatt
The best way to get around Zermatt is on foot. As mentioned above, the city center is pedestrian-only, so you won’t be able to drive there.
However, there are plenty of other ways to get around.
There are electric taxis and minibusses available if you need them – especially to carry your luggage to your accommodation.
You can also rent a bike if you want to explore the area outside of the city center.
Gondolas and cable cars are the easiest way to get up the mountain.
The Gornergrat Bahn is a popular gondola that takes you up to the Gornergrat viewing platform, and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is the highest gondola station in Europe.
There are also a few different trains that run around Zermatt, including the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn and the Glacier Express. These are great options if you’re looking to explore the surrounding area.
Where To Stay In Zermatt
There are plenty of accommodation options in Zermatt, from camping and hostels to luxury hotels.
No matter what your budget is, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in Zermatt.
What To Eat In Zermatt
Zermatt is known for its delicious chocolate, so be sure to try some while you’re in town.
If you’re looking for a quick snack, grab a slice of Zermatter Nusstorte – it’s a local favorite.
For something more substantial, order the Raclette. This traditional Swiss dish is made with melted cheese and potatoes.
And of course, no trip to Switzerland would be complete without trying some Swiss cheese fondue.
No matter what you eat, you’re sure to find plenty of delicious food in Zermatt.
There are plenty of restaurants all around the town. You’ll find grocery stores, bakeries, and cafes easily.
Zermatt Travel Tips
Zermatt is a popular travel destination for a reason – there’s so much to see and do in this mountain village!
To help you make the most of your trip to Zermatt, we’ve put together a list of travel tips.
- Zermatt is a car-free city, so if you’re driving, you’ll need to park your car in Tash and take the train to Zermatt.
- Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
- The best season for Zermatt is during the summer months (or winter if you’re into winter sports).
- Zermatt can be quite crowded during peak season. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try visiting during shoulder season (May or September).
- Zermatt is an expensive city, so be prepared to spend a lot of money on food and accommodation.
- Zermatt is a family-friendly city, so don’t hesitate to bring your kids along!
- Keep in mind that Zermatt is a mountain village, so the altitude can be tough for some people. If you’re not used to high altitudes, take it easy and drink plenty of water.
- Many of the attractions in Zermatt are only accessible by cable car or gondola.
- Zermatt is a great place for adventure seekers! There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from hiking and biking to paragliding and skiing.
- Zermatt is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. If you’re planning to hit the slopes, be sure to pack your gear.
- Zermatt is home to the Matterhorn – one of the most iconic mountains in the world!
- Zermatt is a safe destination, but like any travel destination, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
- Zermatt is a small town, so there isn’t a lot of crime. However, you should still take basic safety precautions, like carrying your bag in front of you and not leaving your belongings unguarded in public.
Final Thoughts On Visiting Zermatt In 2 Days
So, if you’re looking for an amazing Swiss mountain village to visit, Zermatt is definitely worth visiting.
You won’t regret spending a few days here with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy.
Just be prepared to spend a lot of money on food and accommodation – Zermatt is not a cheap town! But trust us, it’s worth it.
Read our guide to learn how to get to Zermatt easily.
Visiting Switzerland soon? Read one of the following guides:
- Best cities to live in Switzerland
- How many days in Zurich
- How many days in Luzern
FAQs
The short, easy answer would be to spend as much time as you can in Zermatt. With its spectacular alpine scenery, thrilling hiking trails, multiple cable cars and lifts that take you up into the mountains, charming town, and ski slopes, you could spend a week here and never run out of things to do.
How many days in Zermatt is enough? ›
So if you can adjust your itinerary, we highly recommend spending at least one or two nights in Zermatt. As already mentioned, even if you can stay just 1 night, it will already be more relaxed. But ideally, you spend at least 2-3 nights in Zermatt, so that you have 1 or 2 full days to explore.
Why is Zermatt so expensive? ›
Zermatt: High price tag – High quality
However, this is partly attributable to the currently high exchange rate for Swiss francs, as well as the fact that in Zermatt visitors get a lot for their money.
Is Zermatt worth visiting if you don t ski? ›
There are plenty of great things to do in Zermatt in winter (even if you don't ski!) including visiting the town's relaxing spas, top restaurants, hiking to snap pics of stunning views and visiting places like the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
Which month is best for Zermatt? ›
June to September: Situated at a height of 1,600 metres, the climate in Zermatt is very pleasant until autumn. The best time to visit Zermatt is during summers, between June and September. The temperature ranges from 12 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.
Is Zermatt worth the money? ›
Zermatt is a charming town located in the Swiss Alps at the foot of the Matterhorn. It's a must-visit destination for anyone who loves outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural heritage.
Can you walk everywhere in Zermatt? ›
EXPLORE ZERMATT VILLAGE
The village of Zermatt is so charming and picturesque with old traditional homes and buildings. The town has always been a car free zone with only electric cars for hotels. So you will walk everywhere! When exploring and getting lost you will find the Matterhorn peeking through various areas.
How difficult is Zermatt? ›
The ski runs in Zermatt are classified as follows. Blue (easy), Red (intermediate), Black (difficult) or Yellow (marked but neither groomed nor checked – so equivalent to Double Black). Out of 200km of runs on the Zermatt side, 9km are black runs and 38km are yellow.
Is the Zermatt Peak Pass worth it? ›
The Zermatt Peak Pass is definitely worth it if you plan on visiting all of the highlights above Zermatt like the Klein Matterhorn, the Gornergrat and the Rothorn. If you are mostly staying in the valley or skiing in Zermatt, then this is not the pass for you.
Is Zermatt more expensive than Chamonix? ›
I've compared a few mid-range restaurants in both resorts, and I can tell you that Chamonix is generally more affordable than Zermatt.
Cost of Living in Zermatt
| Restaurants | Edit |
|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 25.00Fr. |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 77.50Fr. |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 17.00Fr. |
| Domestic Beer (1 pint draught) | 7.50Fr. |
62 more rowsMost people in Zermatt speak German, but many also speak French, Italian, and English. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional Swiss chalets and historic buildings lining the streets.
What should I wear in Zermatt? ›
Layering is Key: Layer your clothing to better regulate your body temperature. Thermal underwear, woolen sweaters, or fleece mid-layers are great for retaining warmth. Remember, it's always easier to remove a layer if you're too warm. Cold-Weather Accessories: Don't forget to pack a warm hat, gloves, and a thick scarf.
Is Zermatt walkable? ›
With its car-free streets, Swiss-style chalets, and small shops and restaurants, the town of Zermatt is perfect for wandering. Bahnhofstrasse is the main road that runs through town.
Is Zermatt luxurious? ›
Zermatt is a haven for luxury hotels and chalets, with discerning visitors spoilt for choice. If you're planning a winter trip to this beautiful Swiss town, have a read of my Zermatt ski resort guide or find the most scenic train rides in Switzerland.
What time of day is best to see Matterhorn? ›
Morning and evening are when the Matterhorn shines
I recommend shooting the Matterhorn in the morning for the alpenglow, details, and depth to the mountain that you can't see clearly during any other time of the day.
Why is Zermatt so popular? ›
Zermatt is most famous for the Matterhorn and, in particular, its historic first summit by Edward Whymper on the 14th of July 1865. The race to become the first to climb the pyramidal peak gave the small farming town global recognition and slowly it developed into the town we know today.
Is Zermatt a must go? ›
One of the main reasons why people visit Zermatt is to see the Matterhorn. This iconic mountain is one of the most photographed peaks in the world, and it's definitely worth seeing in person. If you're lucky, you might even see the Matterhorn at sunset or sunrise, which is an experience you'll never forget.
Is Zermatt better than Grindelwald? ›
If we're talking pure visual value, I would give the edge to Zermatt over Grindelwald. It's simply undeniable that the Matterhorn is a sight you just have to see once in your lifetime.
Which is better Jungfrau or Matterhorn? ›
The Matterhorn is iconic (and it's also higher)
The Jungfrau is well known, but the Matterhorn is an iconic peak that is world famous. Toblerone elected to incorporate the Matterhorn into its famous design, not the Jungfrau.
Zermatt offers some of the Alps best nightlife and après-ski.
What is the famous street in Zermatt? ›
Zermatt is not only a winter wonderland but also a shopper's paradise, with the main shopping area called Bahnhofstrasse.
Which side of the train do you sit to Zermatt? ›
The best seats for the journey upwards are on the right-hand side (looking upwards) of the train and from here you get a splendid view of the Matterhorn for almost all of the journey.
How do you get around Zermatt without a car? ›
Trains run directly to car-free Zermatt. A trip to Zermatt by automobile ends 5 km away in Täsch. Then it continues by shuttle train or by taxi to the resort at the foot of the Matterhorn. Car-free Zermatt can be reached by train, taxi or helicopter.
Is Zermatt water drinkable? ›
Drinking water: outstanding quality
Thanks to its wealth of water, Zermatt has a 100 per cent, self-sufficient supply of pure spring water.
What is the drinking age in Zermatt? ›
Although the official drinking age is 16 years (for beer, cider and wine), you are required to be above 18 years for consumption of spirits.
Can you get altitude sickness in Zermatt? ›
Altitude sickness is rare but not impossible. Symptoms include headache, nausea and vomiting, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, notify a staff member and then take the next cable car back to Zermatt.
Should I do Gornergrat or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise first? ›
Tip: I recommend you do the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise earlier because it closes earlier than the Gornergrat railway. Tip: You can get down at any station on the route of the cable cars and the train but I recommend you to save more time for Gornergratbahn as there are more activities to do.
Where is the best view of the Matterhorn in Zermatt? ›
The Gornergrat is our favorite place to enjoy Matterhorn views. It's easy to access with a cogwheel mountain train, which takes you up to the viewpoint at 3089m. At the top, you have a clear view of the Matterhorn, as well the impressive Gorner glacier and dozens of other tall peaks.
How much time do you need at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise? ›
Details: Duration of visit: 30 to 45 minutes. Recommended wear: warm clothing and closed-toe shoes. How to get to the Glacier Palace: on the Matterhorn Express from Zermatt to Trockener Steg mountain station; continue by cable car or the new Matterhorn Glacier Ride up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
If you are an experienced skier, Zermatt wins hands down. The slopes are better, the vibe is more fun, the range of activities in summer and winter is excellent, plus it is more affordable. But, if you love luxury, are traveling as a family, or are a true ski beginner, you will probably get more out of St Moritz.
Which is harder Matterhorn or Mont Blanc? ›
The second peak is usually the Matterhorn, the level of stamina needed is similar to Mont Blanc, but the mountain is more technically demanding, and ranks as a 'climbers peak' rather than a walkers peak.
What is the most expensive place in the Alps? ›
Moritz and Gstaad in Switzerland: the highest prices for real estate in Europe are achieved here. With prices per square metre of up to 60,000 euros, the Swiss ski resorts are the most expensive regions for ski real estate in the entire Alps.
Why is Zermatt car free? ›
Niklaus and Zermatt was closed to automobiles in 1931. Thirty years later, citizens voted to uphold the ban. Instead, there's something like a park and ride facility. Visitors to Zermatt have to leave their cars in Täsch, five kilometers downhill, and transfer to a train that runs every twenty minutes.
What time is breakfast served at Zermatt Hotel? ›
We serve breakfast from 07:15 till 10:30 a.m.
How much is Mcdonald's food in Zermatt? ›
In Zermatt, a typical fast food meal costs: 19 USD (17 CHF) for a McMeal at McDonalds or BurgerKing (or similar combo meal), and 5.70 USD (5.10 CHF) for a cheeseburger. For coffee lovers: cappuccino coffee 6.40 USD (5.80 CHF) and espresso 4.50 USD (4.00 CHF).
What is hello in Swiss German? ›
Is Zermatt close to Geneva or Zurich? ›
The village of Zermatt is 235km east of Geneva & 230km south of Zurich. The nearest major town is Visp, 31km north. Zermatt is only accessible by train on the Matterhorn Gotthard railway via the towns of Visp or Brig.
What town is closest to the Matterhorn? ›
Zermatt. Situated at an elevation of over 5,000 feet and located just under the famed peak the Matterhorn, the alpine town of Zermatt is known for its winter sports offerings as well as classy hotels and shops.
Is 2 days enough in Zermatt? ›
The short, easy answer would be to spend as much time as you can in Zermatt. With its spectacular alpine scenery, thrilling hiking trails, multiple cable cars and lifts that take you up into the mountains, charming town, and ski slopes, you could spend a week here and never run out of things to do.
All-day clothing – Exploring cities
If you are for example going to visit Zurich or Lucerne a good pair of jeans, with a hoodie, dresses combined with leggings, and a pair of shoes/trainers are perfect.
What shoes to wear to Matterhorn? ›
IMG The Matterhorn Gear List
| [ ] | Boots: Single, lined, technical leather/synthetic climbing boots. A flexible boot is best, one best adapted to alpine rock climbing. Examples: La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX or Scarpa Ribelle. |
|---|
| [ ] | Pack rain cover — great for protecting your pack on those soggy approaches to the climbing hut |
35 more rowsTransportation in car-free Zermatt
There are no automobiles in Zermatt. Walking – going by foot – is our common form of transportation. There are alternatives: bicycle, eTaxi, or eBus. Go about Zermatt relaxed and unstressed.
What celebrity is in Zermatt? ›
Renowned people who ski in Zermatt include Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Nicole Kidman, Angela Merkel, Thierry Henry, and Robbie Williams.
Does Zermatt have good shopping? ›
Zermatt Shopping
Zermatt is not only a winter wonderland but also a shopper's paradise, with the main shopping area called Bahnhofstrasse.
Is a day trip to Zermatt worth it? ›
Zermatt is an amazing destination in Switzerland and there's so much to do! In a day, you can see all highlights of the town. You can ride the Gornergrat Railway, see a mountain, visit a museum, go skiing and do so much more! If you're spending 24 hours in Zermatt, you will definitely have a wonderful time.
How long do you need at Matterhorn? ›
The minimum time to visit Klein Matterhorn is 4 hours including getting up there and back from Zermatt. The set of cable car takes approximately 45 minutes from Zermatt to the viewing platform at Klein Matterhorn. The return journey, via the same route, takes about the same amount of time.
Can you see Glacier National Park in 2 days? ›
How Many Days Do You Need in Glacier National Park? Ideally, plan on spending at least two to three days in Glacier National Park. This gives you enough time to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road, hike one or two trails, and visit the Many Glacier or Two Medicine areas.
Can a beginner climb Matterhorn? ›
All said the Matterhorn is not an exceptionally difficult alpine climb if attempting with a guide (route finding can be tricky if attempting on your own). It just requires excellent physical shape and a skill set that allows you to move fast and efficiently on exposed rock.
Which is better Matterhorn or Jungfrau? ›
The Matterhorn is iconic (and it's also higher)
The Jungfrau is well known, but the Matterhorn is an iconic peak that is world famous. Toblerone elected to incorporate the Matterhorn into its famous design, not the Jungfrau.
Frida Lyngstad of the music group Abba lives in Zermatt with her partner, while Phil Collins is a chalet owner in the town. Renowned people who ski in Zermatt include Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Nicole Kidman, Angela Merkel, Thierry Henry, and Robbie Williams.
Which is better Zermatt or Grindelwald? ›
If we're talking pure visual value, I would give the edge to Zermatt over Grindelwald. It's simply undeniable that the Matterhorn is a sight you just have to see once in your lifetime.
Can you walk inside a Glacier? ›
A person should never walk on a glacier alone. The risk of slipping on the ice and sliding into an open crevasse, or of breaking through and falling into a hidden crevasse is too great.
When should you avoid crowds in Glacier National Park? ›
The best time to visit Glacier National Park is late June to mid-September. All park lodges, visitor centers, campgrounds, roads, and hiking trails are open during the summer months. However, summer can be crowded. To avoid crowds, visit in early-to-mid September after Labor Day.
What time of year is best to visit Glacier? ›
For most people, late June through mid-September is the best time to visit Glacier, because they want to drive the Going to the Sun Road, raft and fish the rivers, hike the trails, visit the backcountry Chalets, and explore several areas of the park, on both sides of the Continental Divide.
