Here are 10 Best Things to Do in Zermatt Year-round
Zermatt – home of one of the most famous mountains in the world, the Matterhorn. Its allure is undeniable: its solitary silhouette towering over the plains and distant peaks and its characteristic crooked peak has inspired the imagination of generations of artists, musicians, and mountaineers.
But Zermatt is so much more: a birthplace of European mountaineering, a hotspot for passionate hikers, a top-class ski resort, and a charming city full of history and traditions. Zermatt has a lot to offer.
If you’re planning a trip to Zermatt, this short guide with the 10 best things to do in Zermatt should come in handy.
From skiing and hiking to historical encounters and exhilarating train rides, Zermatt has plenty in store for those who know where to look.
We’re starting from number 10 and working our way up to the ultimate #1 experience. So make sure to read until the end .
#10. Go Shopping in Zermatt
What kind of shops can I find in Zermatt?
Zermatt offers everything from luxury Swiss watches (hello Rolex and Omega!) to handmade Alpine crafts, sportswear, chocolate, and stylish ski fashion.
Is shopping in Zermatt expensive?
It can be, especially with premium Swiss brands, but quality is top-notch. There are also local artisans and mid-range shops worth exploring.
Where is the best place to shop in Zermatt?
Bahnhofstrasse is the main shopping street in Zermatt, lined with everything from chic boutiques to gourmet delis and souvenir stores.
Are shops open all year round in Zermatt?
Yes! Most shops stay open throughout the year, with slightly reduced hours in shoulder seasons.
#9. Explore the Village of Zermatt
What's special about Zermatt village?
Zermatt is truly one of a kind. Tucked beneath the mighty Matterhorn, it’s a car-free Alpine haven where the air is crisp, the scenery is dramatic, and every corner feels like a postcard.
The charm lies in its blend of old and new: think centuries-old wooden chalets in the historic Hinterdorf next to cozy cafés, stylish boutiques, and gourmet restaurants.
It’s a world-class mountaineering and ski destination, but also a peaceful retreat where you can slow down, soak in the views, and enjoy the rhythm of Alpine life, all without the noise of traffic.
What can I see in the village of Zermatt?
A stroll through Zermatt feels like walking through an open-air museum. You’ll pass well-preserved 16th-century wooden chalets, traditional Valais-style barns raised on stone stilts, and the Parish Church of St. Mauritius, which anchors the village with its beautiful tower and alpine charm. Look up and you’ll often catch a glimpse of the Matterhorn peeking dramatically between rooftops, a photographer’s dream.
What are the must-visit spots in the village of Zermatt?
Hinterdorf, the oldest part of the village, is a must-see with its narrow lanes and authentic alpine architecture. For something quieter, follow the riverside path along the Vispa River, a peaceful walk with stunning views and benches for quiet reflection. Don’t miss the Mountaineers’ Cemetery, a poignant tribute to climbers who lost their lives on the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
#8. Discover the Gorner Gorge
Where is Gorner Gorge located?
The Gorner Gorge is located just a 15-minute walk from Zermatt village. It’s a short and sweet detour into raw Alpine beauty.
What makes the Gorner Gorge worth visit?
The Gorge was carved over thousands of years through vivid green serpentinite rock, creating dramatic cliffs and deep crevices. Narrow wooden walkways and footbridges let you walk directly above the thundering glacial waters—up close, raw, and unforgettable.
When is the best time to visit the Gorner Gorge?
The best time to explore is from late spring through autumn. The paths are typically open from May to October, depending on the weather. In winter, the gorge is closed due to safety concerns from ice and snow buildup.
#7. Hike the Five Lakes Trail (5-Seenweg)
Which lakes are on the 5-Seenweg trail?
The route leads you past five stunning mountain lakes: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee. Each one has its own personality—from deep emerald waters to peaceful alpine meadows—and together, they make this hike a feast for the senses.
How long is the 5 lakes hike in Zermatt?
The full loop is about 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) and takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for a half-day outing with plenty of time for photos, picnic breaks, and soaking in the Alpine scenery.
Is the 5 lakes hike in Zermatt difficult?
Not at all. It’s considered easy to moderate, with well-marked trails and gentle inclines. Families, casual hikers, and even beginners can enjoy it, especially with cable cars available to skip tougher sections if needed.
#6. Visit the Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis
What's inside the Matterhorn Museum?
Inside, you’ll walk through life-size reconstructions of traditional homes, granaries, and workshops that show how Zermatt’s residents once lived.
You’ll also see original equipment used during the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865, including ropes, ice axes, and clothing.
The highlight? A dramatic multimedia presentation recounting the triumph and tragedy of that first daring climb, which forever changed Zermatt’s destiny.
Why the Matterhorn Museum is it called "Zermatlantis"?
The name is a playful nod to “Atlantis,” the lost city beneath the sea, because this museum is hidden beneath Zermatt’s village square. It’s designed to feel like a secret Alpine world, preserving the stories of the past just beneath the surface of modern life.
How long does a visit to the Matterhorn Museum take?
Most visitors spend around 45 minutes to an hour. It’s a compact museum, but every exhibit is immersive and packed with detail—you could easily stay longer if you love diving into local history.
#5. Ride the Gornergrat Bahn
Where does the Gornergrat Bahn take you?
The train starts in Zermatt and ascends to Gornergrat, a spectacular ridge offering 360° views of over 29 peaks above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), including the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and the Gorner Glacier, the second-largest glacier in the Alps. At the top, you’ll find a panoramic viewing platform, a restaurant, and even an observatory.
What’s the best season to ride the Gornergrat Bahn?
It depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
In summer, you’ll enjoy lush alpine meadows, flower-covered trails, and crystal-clear views of glaciers and towering peaks. It’s perfect for hiking, photography, and soaking in dramatic landscapes.
In winter, the ride turns into a magical journey through snow-blanketed forests, with skiers zipping below and the Matterhorn framed in a frosty wonderland. It’s ideal for those who love a cozy, snowy Alpine vibe.
Either way, the views are spectacular year-round, it’s just a matter of your travel style.
#4. Hike the Gornergrat Trail
How difficult is the Gornergrat hike?
The Gornergrat hike is rated moderate, with well-maintained trails and gentle descents if you start from the top. Many visitors take the Gornergrat Bahn up and hike down, making it much easier on the knees and lungs. If you’re reasonably fit and love nature, it’s a must-do.
Can I do a guided hike on the Gornergrat Trail?
Absolutely, and it’s one of the best ways to experience the trail! With MyMountains’ curated hiking day trip to Gornergrat, you’ll be led by a local, English-speaking guide who knows the landscape, history, and hidden gems along the route. It’s perfect if you want deeper insight, stress-free navigation, and stories that bring the Alps to life.
How far is the full Gornergrat hike?
From Gornergrat to Zermatt, the full trail is around 11 km (6.8 miles).
How long does it take to hike the Gornergrat?
The Gornergrat hike takes about 3 to 4 hours at a comfortable pace. You can customize the distance by stopping at intermediate stations like Riffelalp or Riffelberg and hopping back on the train.
#3. Matterhorn Glacier Trail – Up Close with Ice Giants
What is the Matterhorn Glacier Trail?
The Matterhorn Glacier Trail
is a spectacular high-altitude trail that runs along the foot of the Matterhorn Glacier, offering incredible views of ice fields, glacial rock formations, and surrounding peaks. You’ll walk past information panels, exposed bedrock, and meltwater streams carved by centuries of shifting ice.
How difficult is the Matterhorn Glacier Trail?
The Matterhorn Glacier Hike it’s rated moderate due to the altitude (over 2,800 m/9,200 ft). You’ll descend gently as you walk from Trockener Steg to Schwarzsee, or vice versa.
How far is the full Matterhorn Glacier hike?
The full Matterhorn Glacier trail is about 6.5 km (4 miles).
How long does the Matterhorn Glacier hike take?
The Matterhorn Glacier Trail hike takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
#2. Visit Sunnegga – The Family Paradise
What makes Sunnegga so special?
Sunnega offers unobstructed Matterhorn views from the moment you step off the funicular. The whole area feels like a natural amphitheater built to spotlight Switzerland’s most iconic peak. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — perfect for both peaceful nature days and active adventures.
Can I ski in Sunnegga?
Oh yes. In winter, Sunnegga becomes a sunny ski haven with wide, well-groomed slopes and gentle terrain that’s ideal for families and intermediate skiers. Imagine carving down pristine snow with the Matterhorn literally at your side — it’s the kind of view you’ll never get tired of.
How to get to Sunnega from Zermatt?
To reach Sunnega form Zermatt, just hop on the Sunnega Express, an underground funicular that departs right from the village. In less than 5 minutes, you’ll emerge into a world of sunshine, mountains, and fresh air — no effort required.
#1. Ski in Matterhorn Ski Paradise – The Pinnacle of Alpine Thrills
What makes Matterhorn Ski Paradise world-famous?
It’s the highest-altitude ski resort in the Alps, topping out at 3,883 meters (12,739 feet), with breathtaking views of 38 towering peaks over 4,000 meters (13,123 ft). The ski area seamlessly connects Zermatt in Switzerland with Cervinia in Italy, giving you access to one of the world’s largest and most scenic cross-border ski domains.
Can I really ski in Zermatt year-round?
Yes! Thanks to the Theodul Glacier, skiing in Zermatt offers Europe’s best summer ski adventure, even in July. In winter, the resort transforms into a snowy paradise with snow-sure conditions from late November through early May. It’s one of the very few places on Earth where skiing is a 12-month affair.
Is Zermatt ski resort suitable for beginners?
Zermatt ski resort is for everyone. Beginners can enjoy gentle learning slopes at Sunnegga, while intermediate skiers cruise along wide blue and red runs with Matterhorn panoramas. Experts? You’ll find steep blacks, freeride zones, and long vertical descents.
Ready to Discover Zermatt?
We hope this insider’s guide to the 10 best things to do in Zermatt has sparked your wanderlust and painted a vivid picture of the magic waiting in this alpine jewel.
Whether you’re craving adrenaline on the slopes, peaceful hikes with jaw-dropping views, or simply soaking up the unique charm of this car-free village, Zermatt has something unforgettable for everyone.
Need help turning these dreams into reality? Whether it’s Zermatt or another stunning corner of the Alps, MyMountains is here to craft your perfect, hassle-free getaway, tailored just for you, with local expertise and Swiss precision.
Reach out to us anytime, share this guide with your fellow travelers, and most importantly, get ready for an unforgettable journey in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Your adventure starts here, let’s make it extraordinary!
