Open all year round, Zermatt is the crème de la crème of ski resorts. This pedestrian-friendly Swiss town at an altitude of 1600m is dominated by the mythical Matterhorn. The surrounding area boasts 29 peaks over 4000m, making it the ideal playground for sports enthusiasts. The resort is part of the Matterhorn Ski Paradise, which stretches between Italy and Switzerland. During your stay, discover this mythical resort through the best things to do in Zermatt.
1- Downhill skiing or snowboarding
Zermatt is part of the Matterhorn Ski Paradise, Europe's highest ski area. Between Switzerland andItaly, 322 kilometers of slopes of varying levels stretch across the mountains, at altitudes of up to 3899m. In fact, the resort is one of the best in Italy. You'll find pistes for all levels, but experienced skiers can enjoy 220 km of red runs and 27 km of black runs.
Good to know book your ski equipment today. Use the code petitfuteski for a 10% discount on our partner's website.
2- Admire the Matterhorn
It's impossible to visit Zermatt without admiring the majestic Matterhorn. Standing at 4478m, this distinctive mountain is a true emblem of Switzerland. What the Swiss also call the Matterhorn is featured on the logo of a famous brand of triangular chocolates. To find out more, you can also visit Zermatlantis, the Matterhorn Museum.
The activity to book 2- Take a bird's eye view of the Matterhorn and its surroundings from the air by booking a paragliding flight from Zermatt .
3- Snowshoeing
If Zermatt is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland, it's not for nothing. The region is magnificent and well worth exploring on foot. Around Zermatt, you'll find numerous hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty, either on foot or on snowshoes. Most of these pass close to mountain restaurants, perfect for spending the day exploring the surrounding area. If you're heading out without a guide, don't forget to bring a safety kit, essential in case of emergency.
4- Ski touring
Ski touring is an ideal way to enjoy the Alpine scenery, and is particularly well suited to Zermatt. With its 38 four-thousand-meter peaks, the region boasts a number of immaculately groomed hiking trails. To enjoy the peace and quiet of nature while ski touring, turn to ZERMATTERS' mountain guides. They'll take you safely through these spectacular landscapes .
5- What to do in Zermatt Introduction to mountaineering
Zermatt is one of the best places to go in the mountains, not least for its spectacular panoramas. To make the most of it, you can learn to mountaineer with experienced local guides. They'll teach you how to use the equipment and the best practices of this sport, before taking you to climb the high alpine peaks around the resort.
Activities to book you can also try your hand at via ferrata in the Gorner Gorge, just a stone's throw from Zermatt.
6- Matterhorn Alpine Crossing
One of the best ways to see the Matterhorn is to take the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, the highest gondola ride in the Alps. On arrival, you'll find the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the world's highest ice palace, and a panoramic platform offering views of 38 peaks over 4000m and 14 glaciers in three different countries.
Activities to book here you'll find tickets for the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing departing from Zermatt.
7- Cross-country skiing
For cross-country skiing in Zermatt, head for Täsch. The trail between Täsch and Randa is very popular with cross-country skiers. Perfect for both beginners and more relaxed skiers, you can practice skating or classic cross-country skiing. What's more, beginners can work with an instructor to learn the technique that suits them best.
8- Go tobogganing
Zermatt is home to the highest toboggan run in the Alps. Fall back into your high-altitude childhood on the Täsch or Rotenboden slopes. The latter is not only the highest, but also one of the most beautiful runs in the massif. You'll be able to enjoy an incredible panoramic view of the Matterhorn. The 1.5km descent takes around ten minutes and reaches its highest point at 2813m.
9- Treat yourself to a moment of well-being
When packing your suitcase for Zermatt, don't forget your swimsuit. You'll find plenty of places in the resort dedicated to well-being, whether you're into fitness or relaxation. Swimming pools, spas, hammams and jacuzzis are available in many private establishments and hotels. You'll also find gyms on the resort.
10- Visit the village
While in Zermatt, be sure to visit the village, one of Switzerland's most beautiful. The pedestrianized downtown area lets you explore the narrow streets overlooking the Matterhorn. This charming village combines authentic Alpine charm with the state-of-the-art facilities of one of Switzerland's most renowned ski resorts. Zermatt is also home to the Glacier Express, the famous Swiss red train offering an unforgettable journey with panoramic views of the Alps.
11- Enjoy the local gastronomy
Food lovers also know Zermatt for its culinary delights. You'll find several Michelin and Gault et Millau awarded addresses, which are a must for a good meal with a view. Raclette and fondue lovers will not be outdone. The resort also has its share of traditional Swiss restaurants, where a profusion of cheeses awaits you.
You can also find out more about the trendiest things to do in Zermatt below :
What to do in Zermatt when you're not skiing?
While you're in Zermatt, you'll also find plenty of non-skiing activities. Here are just a few of them:
- Admire the Matterhorn. It's impossible to miss the Matterhorn. Don't hesitate to take the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing.
- Hike around the resort. Discover Zermatt's surroundings on foot or on snowshoes, using one of the many signposted trails.
- Take advantage of the resort's best addresses. You don't have to ski all day to enjoy a hot meal at the top of the slopes.
- Relax with a day at the spa. The resort is full of spa facilities.
Where to stay in Zermatt?
Zermatt offers a wide range of accommodation options. Here is our selection of the best-rated:
- Hotel Astoria. This three-star hotel, just a stone's throw from the Gornera River, offers well-equipped, warmly decorated rooms. More information and booking here.
- Hotel Holiday. This 3-star chalet-style establishment offers simple, well-equipped rooms, some with mountain views. You can book your stay here.
- Hotel Weisshorn. This small, charming and affordable hotel offers a more authentic way to enjoy Zermatt, with views of the Matterhorn. Information and booking via this link.
Family activities in Zermatt
Zermatt's mascot for the little ones is a black-nosed sheep named Wolli. Many activities are reserved for children and accessible with the Wollicard, such as Wolli Wonderland, a large playground full of puzzles.
If you'd like to get active with your children, don't hesitate to take to the toboggan runs. Or organize a family outing to the Matterhorn via the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing.
What to do in Zermatt in summer
To make the most of Zermatt in summer, there are many activities available around the resort, in addition to the ski slopes, which are open all year round.
- Golf. The Matterhorn Golf Club is located in the St. Nicolas valley, surrounded by some of Switzerland's most beautiful mountains.
- Hiking and biking. Numerous hiking trails and mountain bike paths criss-cross the resort and allow you to discover the region.
- Discover the Gornergrat Alpine Garden. This protected nature park is the highest Alpine garden in Europe. It's well worth a visit in summer, when the flora can finally get their heads out of the snow.
- Outdoor sporting activities. In Zermatt, you'll find tennis courts, beach volleyball courts and even a tree-climbing course.
